Penang is a popular destination for food, leisure activities for families given its proximity to Singapore. With plenty to offer from historic towns, sumptuous food and beach escapades, Penang is a wonderful destination for families looking for a quick holiday. After visiting George Town, we decided to rock on to Hard Rock Hotel Penang at Batu Ferringhi for a beachside getaway.
My first worry about Hard Rock Hotel was that it would be noisy, with the impression that rock music would be perpetually played in all corners of the premises. After a weekend stay for two nights, I was pleased that there are plenty of quiet corners and definitely got peaceful nights during our holiday.
Hard Rock Hotel Penang in Batu Ferringhi
Hard Rock Hotel Penang is sited along the Batu Ferringhi coast, which also sees other popular properties like Shangri-La Golden Sands, Parkroyal Penang, Doubletree Hilton and more. It is a 40-minute drive from George Town and presents a different side of Penang.
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The northern part of Penang has beaches, sea sports, beachside cafes and restaurants to offer. It is also near where popular tourist spots ESCAPE park and Entopia are sited. For the durian lovers and adventure seekers, Batu Ferringhi is also relatively closer to Balik Pulau – home to durian plantations and a more rural part of Penang Island.
Our Family Adventure at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
After spending some time in George Town, we decided on a change of scenery at Batu Ferringhi. Hard Rock Hotel Penang seemed like an ideal choice with kids club and teens club access, plus it offered music-centric amenities that are unique to the hotel.
We were warmly welcomed by the Hard Rock Hotel Penang hospitality team with welcome drinks and VIP-check in at Rock Royalty Lounge. Guests that booked suites can also gain access to Rock Royalty Lounge at Level 6. Rock Royalty Lounge privileges include breakfasts, tea and cocktails in a more private and exclusive setting, and a bird’s eye view of the surrounds.
Other guests can pay an additional fee for Rock Royalty Lounge access.
Our choice of room was the Lagoon Deluxe Room (from USD 108.80 per night) which offers direct pool access. This was perfect for our tween and teen who are confident in the water and love pool-time.
I was glad on the choice of the room because the pool was fully utilised daily.
Tribute to Rock & Pop Legends
The themed hotel offers a closer look at rock and pop legends. It was fun pointing out legends like The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson whom the younger ones may not identify. The Beatles featured quite prominently throughout the space – with statues, figurines, pictures all around.
Costumes of stars like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Christina Aquilera were also seen on display. The hotel has over 500 pieces of memorabilia from local and international artists.
The Pool at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Largest of its kind in Northern Malaysia, the pool at Hard Rock Hotel Penang has many unique elements families will love.
The highlight is of course the three water slides – one that spirals and two that run parallel to each other. These get really popular during peak periods. Even adults can have fun on them which is ideal for family bonding since some water slides prohibit adult access.
Right next to the water slides is a water playground where water spouts and water sprays abound. This spot is great for the younger ones who prefer less intimidating splashes.
What we really liked was the beach volleyball area where much of the time was spent just playing with other guests. It was a communal hotspot to make friends over a fun game of volleyball. There is also a basketball hoop on the other side of the pool where families and friends can enjoy throwing hoops.
If you prefer to get away from all the activity, there is a quieter side where guests can retreat to for some peace. Alternatively, rent a private cabana by the pool.
There is an option to rent single and double floats for the day. Floating around the pool all day could be the game plan!
Parts of the pool had sand both in and around the pool mimicking the actual beach just a few metres away from the pool. I can’t decide if I like the sand around though since there was a real threat of sandy feet in our rooms.
Certain spots in the pool also had underwater music playing. My sons were very intrigued by this and kept beckoning us to listen to the music underground.
The pool is open from 7 am to 9 pm – obviously night swims are a must!
Roxity Kids’ Club & Tabu Teens Club, Plus Infants Club!
Want some alone time with your spouse? The kids can head to Roxity Kids’ Club or Tabu Teens Club! We didn’t check out the kids club activities for 4 to 12 year olds since we have older kids. The boys were happy to head to Tabu Teens Club for a game of pool, table foosball, PS4 games and more.
Dads and sons might enjoy a family game of pool too. My husband enjoyed coaching the boys on pool strategies. Passing on lifeskills was timely especially in this season of teenhood.
Even the tiniest ones have their own playspace at Hard Rock Hotel Penang! There is a small play space right next to the teens’ space.
Sound of Your Stay – Music Amenities
Want a chance to play on an electric guitar? Guests at Hard Rock Hotel Penang can borrow a Fender guitar during their stay and try jamming in their own rooms. My husband the guitarist was thrilled to try a telecaster. He even taught the kids some chords and rock tunes.
We also had a Crosley turntable in our room and showed the kids what vinyl records looked like. Unfortunately we did not have time to try out the turntable.
One big perk was the live music available in the evenings at the lobby. Guests will be entertained by the bands playing nightly, even kids cannot resist dancing to the tunes. The band plays till about 9.45 pm, just in time for bedtime.
Dining Options and Rock Royalty Perks
As with the Hard Rock experience, there is a variety of dining options.
Starz Diner was where we had an extensive buffet spread. We enjoyed the options for breakfast which had traditional options like Nasi Lemak, Fried Rice, Noodle Soup as well as pastries, bread, cereals generally well-liked by the kids.
Besides American fare at Hard Rock Café, diners can opt for Italian and Mediterranean food at LENA at Pizzeria. Since pizzas are the kids’ choice, this option was the crowd-pleaser for most.
We also spent time visiting the Rock Royalty Lounge that offered stunning views of the Andaman Sea and the resort. It served a la carte breakfast options, afternoon tea, evening canapes and cocktails in a more exclusive environment.
Besides the options onsite, we also ventured to the Batu Ferringhi beachfront where there were other options from seafood to western grills. It was a very lively hangout especially during the weekends and we were enthralled by fire-blowing performances.
What a wonderful way to unwind watching the sun set in the horizon on the beach.
A Quick Beachside Getaway in Penang
We had a wonderful weekend staycation at Hard Rock Hotel Penang, and the kids heartily agreed it was one of the best experiences of Penang. I loved how family-friendly it was and can see why it was a popular resort for many locals, expats and tourists.
If you’re looking for a resort that embraces fun, family and great music, rock on down to Hard Rock Hotel Penang at Batu Ferringhi! The only problem you might have is perpetually wet swimwear.
Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Where: Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Batu Ferringghi, Pulau Pinang
Reservation link
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