Perhentian Islands | Terengganu

The Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian) are a group of islands located off the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, in the South China Sea. These islands are renowned for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere, making them one of Malaysia’s most popular tropical getaways. The Perhentian Islands consist of two main islands: Perhentian Besar (Big Island) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Island), along with several smaller islets nearby.

Key Highlights of the Perhentian Islands

1. Beautiful Beaches

• Perhentian Besar: Known for its larger and more family-friendly beaches, including Teluk Pauh and Teluk Dalam, with soft white sands and clear waters. This island tends to have more upscale resorts and amenities.
• Perhentian Kecil: Famous for its smaller, more rustic beaches such as Long Beach, which is popular among backpackers and younger travelers. The beach is lively and ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports.

2. Vibrant Marine Life

• The Perhentian Islands are a marine paradise, offering incredible opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The waters are home to a rich variety of marine life, including:
  • Coral reefs: Diverse coral gardens that are easily accessible from the shore.
  • Sea Turtles: Visitors often spot sea turtles during snorkeling trips or dives.
  • Tropical Fish: The waters around the islands are teeming with colorful fish, including clownfish, parrotfish, and groupers.
  • Sharks: Reef sharks are also seen in the deeper dive sites.

3. Snorkeling and Diving

• The Perhentian Islands are considered some of the best places in Malaysia for snorkeling and scuba diving.
  • Snorkeling: The islands have several accessible snorkeling spots, including Shark Bay (Teluk Yu) on Perhentian Kecil, where you can swim with blacktip reef sharks and rays.
  • Scuba Diving: Several dive sites around the islands cater to both beginners and experienced divers. Popular dive sites include:
    • Turtle Reef: A shallow dive site where you can encounter sea turtles.
    • Romantic Beach Reef: A site with healthy coral reefs and abundant fish.
    • Sugar Wreck: A small wreck dive that's home to various marine species.

4. Clear, Warm Waters

• The islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters, which are ideal for both snorkeling and diving.
• The water is warm throughout the year, making it perfect for water activities.

5. Hiking and Nature Walks

• For nature lovers, the Perhentian Islands offer hiking trails through their lush jungles. Hikes can lead to secluded beaches, viewpoints with panoramic views of the islands, and encounters with wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds.
• Island Trekking: On Perhentian Kecil, you can hike to Pantai Teluk Keke or Pantai Keranji, where you'll find quieter, less-developed beaches.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season: The ideal time to visit the Perhentian Islands is during the dry season, typically from March to October. This period offers sunny weather and calm seas, perfect for water sports and enjoying the beaches.
• Monsoon Season: From November to February, the islands are closed due to the monsoon season, which brings heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas. During this time, most resorts and boats are not operational.

How to Get There

By Air:

• The closest airport to the Perhentian Islands is Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kota Bharu (about 90 minutes away by car or bus).
• From the airport, you can take a taxi or minibus to Kuala Besut Jetty (about 1 hour) and then take a speedboat to either Perhentian Besar or Perhentian Kecil (about 30 to 45 minutes by boat).

By Bus:

• You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur or other cities to Kuala Besut Jetty. The bus ride takes around 7-8 hours from Kuala Lumpur.

By Boat:

• Once at Kuala Besut Jetty, you can catch a public speedboat to the islands. Boats operate regularly from March to October.

Accommodation on the Perhentian Islands

• Perhentian Besar: This island is more developed with a wide range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, and eco-friendly chalets.
  • Examples: Perhentian Island Resort, The Barat Perhentian Beach Resort.
• Perhentian Kecil: This island has a more laid-back, budget-friendly atmosphere, with many hostels, beach bungalows, and backpacker accommodations.
  • Examples: Coral View Island Resort, Shari-La Island Resort.

Things to Do on the Perhentian Islands

1. Relax on the Beaches: Spend time on the pristine beaches, whether you prefer a peaceful, secluded spot or a lively, social atmosphere.
2. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life around the islands.
3. Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the coastline at your own pace.
4. Hiking: Trek through the jungle to discover hidden beaches and enjoy stunning views from elevated points.
5. Island Hopping: Take boat trips to nearby smaller islands, such as Pulau Rawa and Pulau Susu Dara, for more secluded beaches and snorkeling spots.

Nearby Attractions

1. Taman Negara National Park: A massive rainforest in Peninsular Malaysia, known for its wildlife, jungle treks, and canopy walks.
2. Kota Bharu: The capital of Kelantan state, offering cultural attractions, markets, and historic sites.
3. Kuala Besut: The small town from which boats to the Perhentian Islands depart, and a great place to experience local Malaysian life before heading to the islands.

Travel Tips

1. Bring Cash: The Perhentian Islands do not have many ATMs, so make sure to bring enough cash with you.
2. Pack Light: The islands are best explored with light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
3. Respect the Environment: Help preserve the delicate ecosystems by avoiding touching corals and following eco-friendly practices.

Why Visit the Perhentian Islands?

The Perhentian Islands are the ideal destination for travelers looking to experience tropical island life at its best. With beautiful beaches, abundant marine life, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a perfect place for relaxation, adventure, and nature exploration. Whether you're a diver, snorkeler, or simply looking to unwind by the sea, the Perhentian Islands offer an unforgettable experience.