However, one beach stands out in terms of accessibility, cleanliness and facilities available. About 10 minutes drive from the Kuantan town centre, Teluk Chempedak,  is the most visited beach in these parts, by both locals and foreigners.

The beach facing the glorious South China Sea is visited throughout the year, even during the South West monsoon between November and February. After all, not everyone comes to swim in the sea. Visitors often come to simply enjoy the view.

In bad weather, a red flag is put up to warn swimmers that it is not safe to go into the water. There have been cases of careless bathers who ignored the flag and were simply swept away by the strong undercurrent. There is also a watch tower for lifeguards on duty.

A long boardwalk that that ends at Pantai Tanjung Pelindung nearby, allows visitors to skirt the forest reserve and hang out at a several 'rumah wakaf' (wooden huts) on stilts. The more adventurous can try jungle trekking in the forest reserve.

Those “too lazy” to prepare a picnic basket need not worry. There are several eateries here including a Thai restaurant and a fast food outlet as well as a convenient store. There is also a children’s playground, a spacious car park and shops selling all kinds of items from bathing suits, swimming goggles and all shapes of floats to sun block lotions. You can even go for a “banana boat” ride, pulled by a jet ski operating from the beach in front of the Hyatt Kuantan Hotel.

The beach saw some action during World War II. Some 60 nautical miles away the two British Royal Navy ships – the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse – were sunk by Japanese bombers following a fierce sea battle on December 10, 1941. Families of the some of the dead sailors come here every year to pay their respects.

A mute ‘witness’ to the tragic incident is a pillbox  guarding the sea approach. Built before the war, it has now now been ‘decorated’ (or desecrated) by the Kuantan Municipal Council by placing park benches on it. It is not the only one though. There are several pillboxes in Kuantan – one behind the Giant supermarket and several further up the road towards Cherating at Pantai Balok.

Nearby Teluk Chempedak is the less crowded Pantai Gelora with its more secluded beach. Those who cannot find parking space at Teluk Chempedak, especially during weekends and public holidays can try to make their way there.