Pantai Sabak

As well as being a rendezvous for fishing boats, Sabak Beach boasts fine golden sands fringed by coconut palms. It is a perfect spot to picnic and relax while observing the return of the fishing boats. Gentle waves lap the shore while the water is warm and clear.

Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Beach Of Moonlight)

Formerly known as the Beach of Passionate Love, this is a picture post card beach. Tall casuarina trees fringe the beach providing shade and a grassy verge which gives way to tall swaying coconut palms. Comfortable chalets are available at the beach.

Pantai Bisikan Bayu (Beach Of The Whispering Breeze)

About 50km from Kota Bharu in the Pasir Puteh district, both north and south of the village of Semerak, the gentle breezes rustle the casuarina needles producing a hushed sound. Surfing can be good at certain times of the year, and wind surfers will find excellent sport.

Cultural Centre

Located on Jalan Mahmud ,the cultural centre is a veritable showcase of the living heritage of Kelantan. Demonstrations of popular folk arts and pastimes are held daily. Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) shows, Silat (the Malay art of self defence) performances, Gasing (top spinning) displays, Wau (kite flying) and Rebana (giant drum) playing can all be seen at the centre. Evenings see cultural performances featuring traditional Malay music and Wayang Kulit.

World War Two Memorial/Bank Kerapu

Originally constructed in 1911, Bank Kerapu is now a repository for documents, pictures and military paraphernalia of the Japanese Occupation from 1941 to 1945. During the war, the building served as the headquarters of the Japanese Kempetai, the feared secret police.

State Mosque

Construction of this mosque was completed during the reign of Sultan Ismail IV after almost a decade of work. Also known as the Al-Muhammadi Mosque or the 'Brick Mosque', it is the centre for Islamic missionary activities in the state.

Historical Zone

The main cultural and historical zone of Kota Bharu is situated along Jalan Hilir Kota and Jalan Sultan where many museums and heritage buildings are located.

Royal Museum/Istana Batu

The Istana Batu (Brick/ Stone Palace) was constructed in 1939 during the reign of Sultan Ismail. It houses the Royal Museum and was previously used as the venue for royal weddings and as a guest house for visiting royalty.

The Royal Museum now serves as a repository for the history of the Kelantan royal family and displays regalia, pictures, furniture, silverware and palace items of former Sultans. Opening times 8.30am to 4.45pm daily - except Fridays.

Handicraft Village and Craft Museum

While the Craft Museum houses many fine examples of Kelantanese craftsmanship, the adjacent Handicraft Village provides visitors the chance to see just how these crafts are made. Demonstrations of traditional embroidery, songket weaving, batik printing, silver work and wood carving are carried out by skilled artisans. Their products are also on sale at the centre.

Istana Balai Besar

Built by Sultan Muhammad II in 1840, the Istana Balai Besar was formerly the residence of past Sultans. However, it is now used solely as a venue for official state functions. The palace boasts a large audience hall, a throne room and a fine collection of royal regalia.

Islamic Museum

The Islamic Museum traces the history of Islam in Kelantan. Exhibits include Islamic Arts and Crafts and photographs of some of the personal belongings of Prophet Muhammad and Islamic historical sites. The museum reflects not only the importance of Islam in Kelantan but also the position of the state as a centre of Islamic learning.

Merdeka Square

Other interesting sites in Kota Bharu include Merdeka (Independence) Square, State Government offices and raft houses along the river banks.

Istana Jahar

Built in 1887 by Sultan Mohamad II for his grandson, Long Kundur, the Istana Jahar has been transformed into a museum featuring Kelantan's cultural heritage. Photographs and a great variety of artefacts bear testimony to the rich Kelantanese cultural legacy. The building itself is laced with intricate wood carvings, serving as an example of the fine craftsmanship of local artisans.