Search no further, here’s your ultimate guide to the Perhentian Islands!
Perhentian Islands is one of the many islands on the east coast of Malaysia. It is known as the best paradise island and home to a myriad of sea creatures and coral reefs. When you are there, you will be amazed at the great marine diversity that it has to offer.
Perhentian Islands comprises of two islands – Perhentian Besar (“Big Island”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Island”). Perhentian Kecil is the busier of the two as it offers cheaper accommodation, more things to do and more restaurants. On the other hand, Perhentian Besar caters to family and upscale travellers.
Why Perhentian Islands?
Visiting the Perhentian Islands is a great opportunity to enjoy the laid back island life, while enjoying the best sunrises and sunsets.
Perhentian is a Malay word, which translates to “stopping point”. Many travellers from all over the world have visited the islands and had only left after staying longer than planned. Some travellers are even visiting Perhentian Islands on their second backpacking trip in South East Asia!
Be amazed at the myriad of sea creatures and coral reefs
Whether you are snorkelling or scuba diving, you will be able to witness the many schools of fish and corals. Perhentian Islands is home to various fishes such as porcupine fish, blue spotted rays, bumphead parrotfishes and schools of barracudas.
Crystal clear waters and soft sand
While waiting at the jetty, you will be able to see the many schools of fish. Enough said.
There are no roads on the island, just sand. You can enjoy walking on the soft sand, barefooted. Don’t worry if you are keen to visit the other islands. There are water taxis that you can get at an affordable price of USD2-5 per pax (MYR 10-20).
The cheapest island on the East Coast
There are other islands on the east coast of Malaysia such as Redang Island, Tioman Island and Tenggol Island.
If you’re travelling on a budget, Perhentian Islands is the best island to be on for scuba diving and snorkelling. The Perhentian Islands offer comparable high visibility water for scuba diving and snorkel experiences. You will be spending up to 40% less compared to the other islands.
When is the best time to go?
Perhentian Islands are closed during the monsoon season due to the heavy rain, large waves and wind.
The best time to visit Perhentian Islands is between mid-March to late October. The crowd picks up significantly in July and August.
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cheaper deals, head over to Perhentian Islands from April to June. The water is clear and you will definitely still be enjoying yourself.
How to get Perhentian Islands?
While it is slightly tricky to get to the Perhentian Islands, it is not impossible! There are two parts to your journey to Perhentian Islands: (1) from your location to Kuala Besut jetty; (2) Kuala Besut jetty to Perhentian Islands.
Boats to Perhentian Islands depart from Kuala Besut jetty and is a 40 minutes boat ride. Boats to Perhentian Islands depart every hour. Return boats to Kuala Besut depart every 2 hours. A return ticket will cost USD 17 (MYR 70) and you can easily purchase it at the jetty.
At the jetty, you will need to pay the Marine Park fees.
- Malaysian adults are charged USD 2 (MYR 5). Children and individuals older than the age of 56 years are charged USD 0.60 (MYR 2.50).
- Non-Malaysian adults are charged USD 8 (MYR 30). Children and individuals older than 56 years old are charged USD 4 (MYR 15).
Here are some of the best options on how to get to Kuala Besut:
- From Kota Bharu: if you are on a budget, you can take bus 639 from Kota Bharu bus station for USD1.50 (MYR 6). This bus service is provided by Mutiara Rentas Desa. Alternatively, you can opt for a minivan shuttle for USD 8 (MYR 30) or a taxi for USD 20-25 (MYR 80-90).
- From Kuala Lumpur: either (1) take a flight to Kota Bharu for USD 10-25 (MYR 40-100); or (2) bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan for USD 8-12 (MYR 35 – 50).
- From Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands: either (1) take an 8-10 hour bus journey from Tanah Rata to Kuala Besut for USD 16-20 (MYR 65 – 75); or (2) travel 8-10 hours by bus to Kuala Lipis (2 hours) and “jungle train” to Kota Bharu (6 hours) for USD 10 – 15 (MYR 40 – 60)
- From Kuala Tahan, Taman Negara: either (1) take an 8-10 hour bus journey from Kuala Tahan to Kuala Besut for USD30 (MYR 120); or (2) travel 8-10 hours by bus to Kuala Lipis (2 hours) and “jungle train” to Kota Bharu (6 hours) for USD 10 – 15 (MYR 40 – 60)
Where to stay?
Accommodation on Perhentian Islands are basic. Do not set too high expectations to avoid getting disappointed. While the accommodations are not the best, the beach views make up for it!
There aren’t any hostels on the Perhentian Islands, though they do have guesthouses and resorts. Be prepared to walk into one of the guesthouses and book on arrival.
Money-saving tip: If you are taking a scuba diving or PADI course or doing some fun dives with a dive school, try checking with them if they include accommodation in the package.
For a dorm room with a shared bathroom, it costs about USD 10-13 per night (MYR 40-50).
For a private room at a guest house, it will cost about USD20-25 (MYR 80-100).
For a deluxe room for 2 at a resort, it will cost USD100 and up for a night (> MYR 400).
If you are up for a unique experience, there are some campsites on Perhentian Islands. Renting a tent costs USD17-25 (MYR 60-100). However, sleeping bags are not provided.
What to do?
Scuba dive
Clear waters with beautiful coral reefs and a myriad of sea creatures are the key reason to scuba dive. Imagine witnessing the little clown fishes swimming in between the corals, seeing the large blue spotted rays shying away and the school of fishes swimming past you right in front of your eyes!
If you do not have a diving license, this is the best time to get it! There are many good dive schools and they emphasize greatly on your safety. On average, a PADI Open Water diving course costs around USD 250-300 (MYR 1000-1200). Each fun dive costs USD 20-25 (MYR 80-100).
Snorkelling
If you’re afraid of deep waters, you can opt for snorkelling. You will still be able to see the beautiful corals, schools of fish, rays and sea turtles.
Snorkelling gear rental is reasonably priced at Perhentian Islands. Opt for a snorkelling tour where the local tour guide will bring you to various beautiful snorkelling spots such as Batu Nisan, Shark Point, Tanjung Basi and Turtle Point. For the tours, snorkelling gear rental is included. Depending on the number of snorkelling sites, a snorkelling tour price ranges from USD 10-20 (MYR 40-80).
Watch the sunrise and sunset
Wake up early and enjoy the sunrise. On Perhentian Kecil, enjoy the sunrise from Long Beach and sunset from Coral Bay. These two beaches give you the best Instaworthy shots!
Jungle hike
Whilst on the beach, you can go for a jungle hike, either to head to the next quiet beach or to witness the picturesque view from the top.
On Perhentian Kecil, there are three hikes that you can easily visit without a guide. These hiking trails are quite clearly path, so if you are travelling solo, hiking on this path is safe.
- Long Beach to D’Lagoon Windmill: This hike brings you to a higher elevation and you’d be able to witness the pretty beaches and skies.
- Long Beach to Adam & Eve Beach: This hike brings you to a quiet, private-like beach, where you can sunbathe and relax.
- Long Beach to Coral Bay: This hike brings you to the Coral Bay beach, on the other side of the island
On Perhentian Besar, the hiking trail is a bit of an adventure. I would recommend going in a group as the path is not as clearly marked as the ones on Perhentian Kecil.
The hike starts at Tuna Bay Island Resort. Walk along the beach to Teluk Keke and through the jungle to Perhentian Island Resort (PIR). On your trek, you will pass by Arwana Perhentian Resort. At the end of your hike, enjoy a swim and snorkel at PIR Beach!
Volunteer and watch the sea turtles
Perhentian Island is home to sea turtles. If you are on the island and love sea turtles, join the local team to volunteer with Perhentian Turtle Project. The team is working hard to protect and conserve these sea creatures.
The turtle hatching season is between July to September. If you are visiting Perhentian Islands during these months, head over to Turtle Beach on Perhentian Besar at night. If you are lucky, you could catch a glimpse of them laying their eggs and baby sea turtles making their way back to sea.
This is an absolutely phenomenal sight to see!
Suntan and journal on the beach
Lay your towel on the sand and enjoy the sun while you get some tan! With the great calmness by the beach, it also gives you a great opportunity for you to journal your Perhentian Islands experience.
On Perhentian Kecil, check out Coral Bay and Adam & Eve beaches for a quieter beach. However, if you’re on Long Beach, walk over to the end of the beach and you will definitely find yourself a cozy spot.
On Perhentian Besar, enjoy your suntan and journaling at Teluk Dalam for a quieter beach or Love Beach for a livelier beach.
How many days do you need at Perhentian Islands?
This is the golden question when one is planning a travel itinerary.
While the number of days you need is dependent on individuals, I recommend you spend at least 3 days on the island. Take the time to enjoy and relax.
Despite Perhentian Islands being a small island, you will be mesmerized by the beauty and not want to leave any sooner.
If you are visiting Perhentian Islands for diving, I would recommend you space out the number of fun dives you do per day. This ensures that you are fully rested before you head out for your next dive. A good estimate for planning will be 2 dives per day.
Useful tips for the best stay in Perhentian Islands
- Perhentian Islands is safe for solo travellers.
- Go during the non-peak months (April, May, June) for the best beach paradise experience with less crowd
- Internet may be spotty in some areas and wifi is not easily available. Don’t fight it! Enjoy your no screen time.
- Shop around at the various dive school and snorkeling packages to get the best deal.
- If you enjoy fun dives, I recommend signing up for a dive package rather than paying for each individual dive. The more dives you sign up for, the cheaper each dive gets.
- If you are seeking new experiences, go for a night dive. You will be able to spot incredible night sea creatures!
Things to bring
- Cash. There are no ATMs on Perhentian Islands. Card payments are accepted at some places, with an extra charge.
- Sunglasses. The sun is rather strong and you’ll definitely need one to protect your eyes.
- Mosquite repellent and mosquito coil. Mosquitoes on Perhentian Islands are very fierce and will constantly get to you as soon as the sunsets.
- Natural or reef-safe sunscreen. Some sunscreens have ingredients that destroy coral reefs.
- An underwater camera.
- Snacks. If you get hungry easily, I’d recommend bringing some snacks to the island. There are snacks sold on Perhentian Islands at a higher price as they need to be shipped in.
And there you go, here’s the ultimate guide for you to Perhentian Islands. Get packing!