If you are in Penang, you may come across the new Gurney Bay Park. For families who are in the area looking for some fresh air and a place to cycle, for a jog or a playground romp, Gurney Bay Park and its playground is a choice pick. We were passing the park on a taxi when the kids were immediately drawn to the tall red tower that reminded us of the one at Singapore’s East Coast Park’s Coastal PlayGrove.
Gurney Bay Park along Gurney Drive, Penang, Malaysia
The 2.28-hectare park located along Gurney Drive is a recreational public space that is still undergoing some works. It has many walking paths, cycling paths, a skatepark, a beach and a huge playground.
It is a vibrant space with plenty to do for families. We saw visitors flying kites, cycling, jogging and playing at the playground on a Sunday evening.
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There are also bicycle rental kiosks, ice-cream kiosks and eventually an upcoming hawker space.
Gurney Bay Park Playground: The Sea Stack Tower
The four-level tower is definitely the highlight of the Gurney Bay Park playground.
Enter the tower either via a ramp with rope ladders or spiralling steps. Both of which are easily achievable by younger kids.
Then ascend a rope ladder on to the next level.
Do be careful at the next level as there are frayed ropes in a rope tunnel and bits that are broken. My tween and teen declared it unsafe as there seemed to be wires sticking out too.
Perhaps it would be safer with adult supervision on top.
Slide down through the second and fourth levels on spiral slides.
Do note that the slides are rough and sliding smoothly was near impossible. This was a disappointment to the kids who were looking forward to a quick descent.
Adventure seekers might climb right to the top. Due to broken ropes, however, it was deemed too unsafe by my teen to attempt further ascend.
Adults are discouraged from climbing the tower, but I would recommend parental supervision especially for the younger children.
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Pearl Island and Other Play Elements
Apart from the Sea Stack Tower Gurney Bay Park Playground, there are other play elements all around.
Pearl Island sits in the middle of the circular space. Little ones can bounce on the trampoline, scurry through the tunnels and play peekaboo with the see-through windows in the island.
There is a lot of space for caregivers and parents to sit at while watching their children play. This was a plus point since seating areas are right next to the play spaces all around the playground.
Children can climb on rope structures and also balance on mounds and steps.
The undulating terrain also makes it fun for a game of police and thief.
The varied elements are perfect for different age groups.
Skate Park for Fun on Wheels
The skate park right next to Sea Stack Tower is a popular hangout for skateboarders, rollerbladers and skaters.
Ramps, handrails, banks, ledges are some of the elements available for play on wheels.
Waterfront Hangout along Gurney Drive
After indulging in Penang’s fare at Gurney Drive, take a stroll to Gurney Waterfront Park to get some fresh air and clock in some steps.
The nearest drop off if you’re taking a cab to the park is Penang Mariott at Gurney Drive.
For other suggestions on what to do in Penang with kids, check out our list of 14 suggestions and off-the-beaten-path ideas!
