Sometimes, the best trips are the ones that aren’t planned. One of my friends was suffering from cabin fever and said she needed some Vitamin D. A seasoned traveller who loves the sea, she just told us that she wanted to go to the beach and soak in some sun.
So, my other friend suggested Port Dickson as it’s the nearest place from KL where they can head to the sea. After more texting in the group chat, my friend said it’s really nice to walk up to Cape Rachado’s Lighthouse. It’s a spot known for its historic charm and panoramic sea views. So when both of them have set a date, I was eager to join too because I feel like running going away for a day. I took an emergency leave 2 days later to join my friends.
Our impromptu trip turned into an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, nature, and much-needed soul-soothing. After walking up to Cape Rachado, we thought of driving to a beach but Elaine, our explorer told us about a beautiful beach nearby. She discovered the secluded beach when she came a few months earlier for a hike. The beach required a bit of hiking to reach. We followed her through a trail that was downhill all the way. The hike was short and manageable, mostly shaded by tall trees that filtered the sunlight.
Lookout Point near the lighthouse
As we stepped out of the woods, the view opened up to something straight out of a postcard. Lo and behold, we saw the pristine beach that’s hidden from the usual crowds. The sand was soft and warm beneath our feet, the water calm and impossibly clear. Port Dickson is not known for beautiful beaches, thanks to the sewage and urban pollution. However, we were awestruck, not just by the beauty of the place, but by how untouched and serene it felt. There were distractions, just waves lapping gently. The water so clear that Elaine saw some fishes swimming around her.
We spent about an hour soaking it all in. Both my friends and PL’s son waded into the water, while I sat back on the sand, letting the breeze and sunshine wash over me.
Of course, what goes downhill must eventually go uphill. The hike back was a different story. Gruelling, to say the least. Elaine powered ahead like a seasoned hiker while PL and I, trying to keep up and laughing at our own misery. It was a challenge, but it also left us feeling accomplished once we reached the top.
Hungry and a little sweaty, PL drove us to Lukut town for lunch. We found a local eatery that served hearty, delicious food at affordable prices. After that we went looking for Family Mart to have our coffee.
This trip may have been short and spontaneous, but it meant a lot more than just a fun day out. The hike, the sun, the sea, and the trees worked their quiet magic. Nature has this incredible way of healing, reminding you of the beauty that exists just outside the daily grind. I left Port Dickson feeling lighter, happier, and so grateful for my amazing friends and the rejuvenating power of the outdoors.
Sometimes, all you need is a trail, a hidden beach, and good company to remind you how beautiful life can be.
