bustling town
If you want a active holiday with jet skis, parasailing, good food, dirt cheap shopping, crowds...then Batu Ferringhi is the place.
Been there thrice, each time found out something new.
You want a quiet and hassle free sea front, go further down to Teluk bahang.
Somebody wrote a review that BF is a result of Crass commercial tourisim. But then if you want a beach all for yourself, there are thousands of hidden coves all along the penang. Why target BF? :)
When i wanted a private beach, I picked up a map, rented a motorcycle and camping gear, explored the country side, spoke to fisherman (Sign language) and found some really wonderful places. And no, I dont want to publish the hidden coves :)