Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsShangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, is favorably situated on Batu Ferringhi beach, offering superb beachfront access and splendid sea views from several rooms with private balconies. Guests benefit from a variety of nearby dining options and the lively Batu Ferringhi night market. The hotel's tranquil ambiance, family-friendly facilities and easy transportation links make it an ideal retreat in Penang.
The breakfast experience is well-received with an extensive buffet catering to both local and Western tastes, complemented by friendly service. The broad selection and quality ensure a satisfying start to the day, although some guests desire more variety and less crowding during peak times. Dinner offerings receive mixed feedback with some praise for the lobby cafe and poolside food yet calls for more variety and fresher ingredients, especially for the dinner buffet.
Room reviews are mixed with appreciation for spaciousness, comfort and scenic views. However, many rooms are described as outdated, requiring refurbishment to meet higher standards. Cleanliness across the property is generally positive but is marred by inconsistent housekeeping and specific issues like dusty rooms and moldy tiles.
Hotel staff draw high praise for their friendliness, attentiveness and efficient service across various departments. The Wi-Fi service is mostly dependable and praised for its speed, though some improvements in signal strength and additional charging points are suggested.
The hotel lacks a dedicated spa but offers convenient and affordable massage services by the pool or beach. The gym is positively noted for its 24-hour accessibility, despite being small and moderately equipped.
Pool facilities stand out as a key feature, especially for families with multiple pools, a mini water park and child-friendly designs. The beach receives mixed reviews; it is largely praised for its scenic, clean sand and beautiful sunsets, but some concerns about water quality and occasional beach cleanliness issues are noted.
Tennis courts are in good condition and provide a positive experience for enthusiasts. Parking facilities are ample but the distance from the main building to the parking lot is a consistent inconvenience.
In summary, Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, offers an inviting beachfront location, family-friendly amenities and excellent staff service, making it a favorite for both relaxation and enjoyment, though some areas such as room updates, dinner options and parking convenience could benefit from improvements. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Resort with EV Charging Stations
Beachfront Resort
Resort near The Beach
Resort for Honeymoon
Resort with Spa
Family Friendly Resort
Romantic Resort
Resort near Nightlife Spots
Resort with Swimming Pool
Children's Pool Outdoor Pool
Business Resort
Resort with Parking
EV charging stations
Accessible Resort
Resort with Gym
Resort with Tennis Courts
4-Star Resort
Resort with Outdoor Pool
Resort with Children's Pool
Room Types
Superior Double RoomFeaturing traditional Malay decor, this air-conditioned room has a seating area fitted with a flat-screen TV. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Executive Double Room with Sea ViewLocated on a high floor, this air-conditioned executive room features a private balcony that opens up to views of the sea or the garden. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen TV. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Superior Twin RoomFeaturing traditional Malay decor, this air-conditioned superior twin room has a seating area fitted with a flat-screen TV. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Deluxe Twin RoomThis air-conditioned deluxe twin room features a private balcony that opens up to views of the garden and the resort's surrounding pool. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV and a safe. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Executive Twin Room with SeaviewLocated on a high floor, this air-conditioned executive room features a private balcony that opens up to views of the sea. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen TV. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Deluxe Double RoomThis air-conditioned deluxe double room features a private balcony that opens up to views of the garden and the resort's surrounding pool. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV and a safe. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Guest Reviews
8.2
Very Good
Location
Shangri-La Golden Sands in Penang boasts an exceptional beachfront location, perfect for those seeking direct access to the Batu Ferringhi beach. Its position provides splendid views of the sea, especially from rooms with private balconies. Guests appreciate the convenience of being near a variety of dining options, including food courts, local eateries and well-known fast food outlets, all within walking distance. The hotel is also strategically placed near the lively Batu Ferringhi night market, making it easy to explore and enjoy local crafts and foods.
Families find the location ideal, not just for its proximity to shops and restaurants, but also for the hotel's well-maintained grounds and extensive facilities. Children’s play areas, kid-friendly pools and family-oriented services ensure a comfortable stay for those traveling with little ones. The hotel’s tranquil ambiance offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, while still providing easy access to Georgetown via direct bus routes.
Overall, the hotel's strategic location, combining beach access, nearby amenities and a serene environment, makes it an attractive option for a restorative and enjoyable getaway in Penang.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang has generally received positive acclaim from guests with many highlighting the excellent quality and extensive variety available. The breakfast buffet offers a broad range of choices, catering to both local and Western palates and includes live cooking stations and dedicated sections for children.
Guests frequently praised the breakfast for its taste and quality, noting that it was consistently good, delightful and in some cases, superb. The generous spread and ample selection have been particularly appreciated, making it a satisfying start to the day for many visitors. The breakfast service has also received commendations for the friendly and helpful staff who contribute to an enjoyable dining experience.
However, there have been some concerns noted alongside the praise. A few guests mentioned that the breakfast can feel a bit repetitive if staying for multiple days and the need for more variety has been suggested. Additionally, there have been comments about the breakfast being crowded and noisy during peak times with some guests feeling that the food did not always live up to their expectations.
Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive. The breakfast at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang is widely regarded as a strong point of the hotel with its extensive selection, delicious options and excellent service making it a memorable part of the stay for many guests.
Dinner
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang has received a mix of feedback regarding its dining options. On the positive side, guests have appreciated the quality of food at the lobby cafe and by the pool, describing it as very good and reasonably priced. The buffets, particularly for breakfast, have been praised for their extensive spread and value for money, offering a range of dishes from Western to local cuisines. The Garden Cafe's buffet and Sigi's restaurant have also garnered commendations for their offerings and service.
Despite these highlights, some areas require improvement. Multiple guests have noted the need for more variety, particularly at night and reported that certain dishes and the overall taste could be better. The dinner buffet, including the seafood, has been described as not fresh and lacking in flavor on several occasions. Additionally, the food at some hotel restaurants has been found to be overpriced and disappointing in terms of quality and taste with limited vegetarian options and poor room service experiences also cited.
Overall, while there are positive aspects to the dining experience at Shangri-La Golden Sands, there are also significant areas where improvements could enhance guest satisfaction.
Rooms
The guest reviews for Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, reveal a mix of positive and critical observations regarding the hotel's rooms. On the bright side, many guests appreciated the spaciousness and comfort of the rooms with several mentioning the lovely views, especially those with sea or pool vistas. Cleanliness was generally noted positively and some appreciated the well-maintained bedding and generous room size. The rooms were often described as cozy, comfortable and providing good amenities. Additionally, some guests mentioned pleasant and helpful room service and maintenance staff.
However, there were consistent concerns about the outdated condition of the rooms. Reviewers frequently mentioned that the furniture and overall décor felt old and tired with many calling for refurbishment and upgrades, especially in the bathrooms. Specific issues such as dim lighting, minimal room cleaning and plumbing or air conditioning problems were also highlighted. Noise from neighboring rooms and insufficient soundproofing were further points of dissatisfaction. Some guests faced issues with smells in the room, like cigarette smoke, varnish and mustiness and there were complaints about ants and pests in certain rooms.
In summary, while the rooms at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, offer comfort, spaciousness and good views that many guests enjoyed, there is a clear need for renovation and better upkeep to match the expectations of a high-standard hotel.
Beds
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, offers a varied bed experience according to confirmed guest reviews. Many guests found the beds to be comfortable with mentions of comfy and super comfy beds spread throughout the comments. Large beds were frequently highlighted, including king-size beds and big twin beds, which were praised for their comfort and ability to accommodate more than one person easily.
Several visitors appreciated the quality of the pillows, considering them a nice bonus, though not everyone agreed on their firmness. Some guests found the pillows too soft, affecting their comfort. Instances of hinge noises and issues with pillow smells were noted, along with occasional gripes about the firmness of the beds themselves. A few reviews mentioned bedsheet cleanliness concerns, including stains and unchanged linens.
Despite these mixed opinions, the consensus leans towards a generally comfortable bed experience, emphasizing the large bed sizes and the overall comfort of the pillows and bedding when staying at Shangri-La Golden Sands.
Cleanliness
Shangri-La Golden Sands in Penang receives mixed feedback regarding its cleanliness. On the positive side, many guests find the rooms to be clean, spacious and comfortable, often mentioning well-maintained facilities and an inviting environment. Specific praise goes to the clean resort grounds, neat rooms and tidy pool areas. However, there are numerous areas where cleanliness could be improved. Complaints often mention dusty rooms, moldy bathroom tiles, dirty balconies and inconsistent housekeeping. Some guests encountered cleanliness issues such as sandy floors, stained linens and unclean furniture. Housekeeping response times were sometimes slow and some public areas, including the pool, were noted as needing more frequent cleaning. While the overall cleanliness can meet satisfactory standards, there are clear opportunities for improvement in maintaining higher consistency throughout the property.
Staff
The staff at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, consistently get high marks for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guests frequently remarked on the team's attentiveness, politeness and accommodating nature. Many found the staff to be welcoming, efficient and proactive in addressing needs. Housekeeping, bellmen and the service at breakfast received specific praise for their pleasant and prompt assistance. Despite the occasional slow check-in process and a few less helpful interactions, the overall impression is one of a dedicated and cordial staff. Whether it's greeting guests warmly, managing busy environments efficiently or assisting with special requests, the staff's efforts contribute significantly to the positive experience at the hotel.
Wi-Fi
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, offers a generally positive Wi-Fi experience for its guests. Many reviews highlight the great Wi-Fi connection, praising its speed and ease of access. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel and many guests found the connection reliable enough for tasks like online Zoom meetings. However, the experience isn't universally flawless; some guests noted areas for improvement. Issues such as weak signals in rooms, occasional connection drops and slow internet speeds were mentioned. Additionally, more charging points would enhance the convenience for visitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Wi-Fi in public areas is manageable, making it a mostly dependable option for staying connected during a visit.
Spa
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang offers guests a variety of massage services, including foot massages and poolside treatments. While the hotel does not have a dedicated spa on its premises, guests can enjoy access to quality and affordable massages. Some reviews have noted disappointment with the spa services, but overall, the option to receive massages by the pool or beach is a convenient and relaxing feature of this resort.
Gym
The gym at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang has received generally positive feedback from guests. Multiple visitors appreciate the convenience of a gym that operates 24 hours a day, allowing them to fit in a workout at any time. The exercise room is described as nice and great, suggesting a satisfactory experience for many. Although a few guests noted that the gym is rather small and modestly equipped, the overall sentiment remains favorable, making it a reliable facility for a decent workout during the stay.
Pool
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, stands out for its impressive and varied pool facilities, highly praised by guests. The hotel features multiple pools, including specific zones for children, making it an ideal destination for families. The children's pools and mini water park are notable highlights with plenty of water rides and slides that keep the young ones entertained all day long.
Parents appreciate the child-friendly design and gradual depth of the pools, ensuring a safe environment for kids of all ages. Those seeking relaxation will find ample seating and sunbeds surrounding the large, well-maintained pool areas. Additionally, friendly poolside staff and clean, warm water add to the pleasant experience.
The pool scene offers great views with options for both adults and children, including a jacuzzi, making it a hit with all family members. However, it's worth noting that the pool areas can get quite crowded, especially during peak times like school holidays. Despite some occasional maintenance issues and higher prices for poolside drinks, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive with many guests highlighting the pool as one of the best aspects of their stay at the resort.
Beach
The beach near Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang offers an array of experiences, blending both the serene and the bustling. Guests frequently praise its proximity with the hotel providing direct access to the sandy shores, making it incredibly convenient for beach lovers. Many reviews highlight the beach’s cleanliness with terms like clean private beach, clean beach and well-maintained recurring throughout the feedback.
This beachfront area is noted for being picturesque with stunning beach vistas, beautiful sandy stretches and breathtaking sunsets and sunrises that create a relaxing atmosphere. The clean pools and beach area were described as awesome, contributing to an overall pleasant seaside experience.
However, there are some mixed reviews concerning water and beach conditions. While the sand is hailed as lovely and soft, certain parts of the waterfront have issues such as bumpy ground, occasional trash and brown-colored water, sometimes making it less ideal for swimming. Jellyfish presence and dirty seawater in some areas also discourage swimming at times.
Despite these concerns, the beach offers plenty of activities and services provided by vendors, great for those looking for a lively and engaging beach day. Kids appear to love the beachfront facilities and amenities, making the location a family-friendly destination. The private beach access coupled with amenities like beachfront restaurants and well-lit beach areas for night walks add to the overall retreat experience.
In summary, while there are a few drawbacks regarding water quality and occasional cleanliness issues, the beach near Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang is generally appreciated for its beauty, convenience and range of activities, making it a good spot for a fun and relaxing coastal getaway.
Tennis
Shangri-La Golden Sands in Penang features numerous tennis courts, providing ample opportunities for guests to enjoy a match. The courts are well-maintained and in good condition, reflecting a commitment to quality. While some guests noted that the surface could benefit from some improvement, the overall sentiment is positive regarding the facilities. Equipment necessary for play is also readily available, enhancing the convenience and experience for tennis enthusiasts.
Parking
While staying at the Shangri-La Golden Sands in Penang, visitors have mixed reactions about the hotel's parking facilities. Many guests appreciate that there is ample parking space available, including designated spots for pregnant women and they find the parking lot to be very big and accessible. For those seeking extra convenience, valet parking is available and complimentary parking is also a plus.
However, there are notable concerns about the parking location and accessibility. The car park is consistently described as being far from the main building and lobby, leading to inconvenience for guests who have to walk a considerable distance — sometimes even from an adjacent hotel's shared parking area. This distance often necessitates the use of buggy transport, which some guests found to be small, insufficient or not always operational.
Guests also noted that in front of the reception area, parking is either limited or sometimes unavailable altogether, leading to a crowded parking situation. Security for the parking area was mentioned as a point that could use improvement. Despite these drawbacks, having a large parking area and the availability of various parking options remains a positive aspect for many visitors.
Family
Nestled along the vibrant shores of Penang, Shangri-La Golden Sands proves to be an impeccable choice for families seeking a delightful getaway. The resort is heavily favored by families for its abundant kid-friendly amenities and activities. The highlights include an indoor play zone, children's pools and a splash area complete with slides, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. The numerous family-oriented facilities ensure there's something for everyone, from kids to adults.
Guests have noted the hotel's great value for money and commend the variety of activities available for children, making it a popular family resort. The spacious family rooms and courteous, helpful staff further enhance the family-friendly experience, offering comfort and hospitality in abundance.
The children often gravitate towards the adventure zone and various pool areas, particularly the kids' pool which is a big hit. The resort also features a plethora of family activities, ensuring that families can relax and enjoy quality time together. Good food options and the added convenience of amenities like baby cots and buggy transport add to the overall appeal.
Generally, the resort is praised for its cleanliness, although a few reviews mentioned some areas for improvement in housekeeping. Despite this, the friendly and attentive staff are frequently highlighted as a positive aspect, always contributing to a pleasant stay.
For families visiting Penang, Shangri-La Golden Sands emerges as a top contender, striking a balance between relaxation for parents and excitement for kids, making it a memorable family vacation destination.
Nightlife
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang offers visitors convenient access to a vibrant nightlife scene. Guests appreciate the hotel's proximity to local eateries and the lively night market, which is just a short walk away. The night market is a popular hub, bustling with activity and providing an array of entertainment options. Additionally, guests find the local bars to be enjoyable, contributing to a positive nighttime experience. Overall, the surrounding nightlife activities and facilities are described as entertaining and lively, ensuring that guests have a variety of options for evening excursions.
4 Star
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang is a four-star resort that has garnered mixed but predominantly positive feedback from its guests. While some reviewers feel that the hotel warrants a higher rating, others believe it doesn't quite meet the four-star standard. The resort is often praised for its exceptional hospitality, often mentioned in the same breath as the Shangri-La’s renowned service levels.
One of the standout features highlighted in guest reviews is the breakfast, which pleasantly surprises many and exceeds their expectations. Families find the resort particularly suitable, appreciating the combination of amenities and services that cater to both adults and children.
However, opinions on the room decor are divided; several reviewers note that the rooms feel outdated and more in line with a three-star setup rather than a four-star one. Despite this, the resort's overall ambiance and facilities earn it a reputation as a good four-star hotel, suitable for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Business
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang offers a range of facilities that cater well to business travelers. The business center, which is open 24 hours, provides excellent service, making it a reliable option for those needing to work at any hour. The hotel also features meeting rooms, contributing to a good business atmosphere and making business meetings feasible. While some reviews highlight that the hotel might be more suitable for families, the accommodations and overall environment remain fitting for business visits. Wi-Fi connectivity is reliable throughout the property, ensuring seamless access to online work. Overall, the hotel is convenient and suitable for business trips, though it incorporates a more family-friendly ambiance as well.
Accessible
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, is noted for its accessibility, making it a convenient choice for guests with disabilities. The hotel features accessible areas and plenty of ramps, ensuring smooth navigation. The location is also easily accessible, both via public transport and for wheelchair users. Facilities designed for accessibility are consistently highlighted and the staff is recognized for their helpfulness. Additionally, nearby grocery stores and the accessible beach further enhance the ease of stay. However, it's worth mentioning that wheelchair access rooms might not be very spacious and issues such as clogged shower drains have been noted. Overall, the accessibility features are impressive and cater well to the needs of disabled guests.
Children's Pool
Shangri-La Golden Sands in Penang boasts an array of delightful amenities for families, especially focusing on their children's pool facilities which have garnered significant praise. The hotel features multiple dedicated kiddie pool areas, including a mini water park and splash zones, designed to offer endless fun for youngsters. These pools, separated from the adult swimming areas, come complete with exciting slides and adventure zones that keep children entertained for hours on end.
Parents appreciate the well-maintained and supervised environment, ensuring safety with features like lifeguards and canopies providing shade for their little ones. Children’s enjoyment is evident as they spend the entire day engaged in pool activities, making use of the clean and well-equipped facilities. Reviews highlight that these child-friendly pools not only offer fun but also provide a safe and comfortable experience, making it a great spot for family vacations.
Meanwhile, the pools are not only ideal for kids but also cater to adults, creating a family-friendly environment that everyone can enjoy. With excellent pool areas, a separate section for children and thoughtful safety measures, Shangri-La Golden Sands truly excels in providing a memorable and enjoyable stay for families with young children.
Outdoor Pool
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, offers an exceptional outdoor pool experience that has garnered numerous positive remarks from its guests. The well-maintained and clean outdoor pool area is appreciated for its neatness and beautiful setup. Visitors often highlight the multiple pool options that cater to both adults and children, making it a perfect spot for family relaxation. The large, spotless pools and the lovely double pool design are frequently praised, ensuring that guests of all ages find enjoyment.
With features like great slides and a mini water park, children are particularly delighted, while adults find the soothing ambiance ideal for unwinding. The poolside arrangement allows for the enjoyment of drinks and food, further enhancing the relaxing atmosphere. The poolside service receives commendations for its efficiency and friendliness, adding to the overall positive poolside experience.
However, to enhance comfort, some guests suggest providing more towels at the pool. Additionally, while the setup is largely tranquil, occasional disturbances from nearby crows are noted. Despite these minor points, the fantastic view of the pool and the sea from the balcony, coupled with the thoughtfully designed outdoor facilities, contribute significantly to guest satisfaction.
The facility is described as safe, well-managed and suitable for both kids and adults, providing an ideal blend of fun and relaxation. Overall, the outdoor pool at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang stands out as one of the highlights for guests, ensuring a delightful and memorable stay.
Honeymoon
Shangri-La Golden Sands in Penang is celebrated as an ideal destination for honeymooners. The resort offers dedicated honeymoon packages, making it a prime choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Guests have endorsed the location as very romantic and a great honeymoon destination with many noting their intent to return. The views provided by the resort are often described as honeymoon-worthy, enhancing the overall experience for couples. While the general sentiment towards the resort’s ambiance and amenities is positive, some guests observed that honeymoon decorations were not provided. Despite this, the resort remains a top recommendation for honeymooners who enjoy a picturesque and romantic setting.
Romantic
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang offers a romantic experience, ideal for both couples and families. Guests have enjoyed the romantic ambiance and the relaxing walks the resort provides. The romantic atmosphere and feel of the resort are well appreciated with many highlighting the picturesque sunsets viewed directly from their rooms, adding a special touch to their stay.
Beachfront
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang offers a stunning beachfront location that is highly praised by guests. Sitting right next to the beach, the resort provides convenient beach access with decimated security at the entrance points, ensuring a secure and private experience. The resort’s beachfront setting allows guests to enjoy relaxing views of the sea from their rooms and balconies, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
The clean and pleasant sands and waters of the beach are a highlight, creating an inviting environment suitable for both children and adults. Families in particular will find it perfect due to the excellent facilities available, including a children’s pool, adventure zone and spacious rooms with huge beds that can comfortably fit up to four people.
Guests also commend the hotel for its excellent pool area with direct front access to the beach, where beach activities are plentiful. The beachfront acres are well-kept and the area is not overly crowded, providing a peaceful retreat. The on-site spa and water sports options enhance the relaxing experience, making it an attractive beachfront resort for all kinds of travelers.
Moreover, the hotel’s strategic location offers easy access to a direct bus route into Georgetown and the airport, combining convenience with the comfort of a beachfront stay. Overall, Shangri-La Golden Sands in Batu Feringgi, Penang is lauded for its pristine beachfront, family-friendly amenities and serene ocean views.
Yes, Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Children's Pool, Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang.
No, Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang.