If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and days that move a little slower, the Perhentian Islands might be exactly what you’re looking for. Tucked off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia, these islands are a favorite among backpackers, snorkelers, and anyone who just wants to live in flip-flops for a while.
Even though the Perhentian Islands are one of Malaysia’s most famous beach destinations and I’d heard so much about them over the years, I never quite got around to visiting it until in my late twenties. And when I finally did, I understood why people from all over the country (and the world) keep coming back.
Perhentian Islands at a glance
Geography
The Perhentian Islands are a small group of islands off the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, in the state of Terengganu.
The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (the larger, quieter one) and Perhentian Kecil (smaller, livelier, and more budget-friendly). Surrounding them are a few uninhabited islets, perfect for day trips and snorkeling.
They sit in the South China Sea, about 20 km from the mainland, and are known for their turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and healthy coral reefs.
History
The name “Perhentian” means “stopping point” in Malay, as the islands were once a regular stopover for traders traveling between Bangkok and Malaysia. Fishing was the main livelihood here until tourism started to grow in the late 20th century.
Since then, the islands have become one of Malaysia’s most popular tropical getaways, especially during the dry season from March to October.
Population
The islands have a small local population, mostly living in the fishing village on Perhentian Kecil. Residents are predominantly Malay and Muslim. Malay is the main language spoken, but English is widely understood in tourist areas, especially by those working in resorts, dive shops, and restaurants.
Best time to go to Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands have a clear “on” and “off” season because of the East Coast monsoon. The islands are open to visitors roughly from March to October, while most accommodations and ferry services shut down between November and February due to heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas.
The best months for sunny weather and calm waters are generally April to early September. This is when you’ll get ideal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and boat trips, with visibility in the water often reaching up to 20 meters. You’ll also find more tour operators running, so you can easily arrange island-hopping or dive courses.
If you want to avoid the peak crowds and higher hotel rates, March, May, and September are sweet spots. These months still offer good weather but with fewer people around compared to the June–August high season.
It’s worth noting that weekends, school holidays, and public holidays can get extremely busy, with ferries and accommodations filling up fast, so booking in advance is essential. Check Malaysia’s public holiday calendar here.
How to get to Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are located off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu, and the gateway to the islands is Kuala Besut Jetty. Reaching Kuala Besut is straightforward.
By air
The closest airport is Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. It’s served by several Malaysian airlines from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and other major cities.
From the airport, it’s about a one-hour ride (by bus, taxi, or pre-arranged transfer) to Kuala Besut Jetty. Alternatively, you could fly into Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) in Kuala Terengganu, then take a taxi or bus for about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the jetty.
By bus
If you prefer overland travel, there are overnight buses from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and other cities heading directly to Kuala Besut. Overnight buses are a budget-friendly choice and save you a night’s accommodation.
By car
If you’re driving from Kuala Lumpur, the journey to Kuala Besut takes about 6–7 hours. From Penang, it’s roughly the same, depending on traffic and stops.
Parking spots are available near the jetty, with daily rates charged by local operators (around RM5 – RM10 per day, or slightly higher for MPVs). This is a good option if you want flexibility in your travel plans or are coming as a group.
Boat from Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands
Once you arrive at Kuala Besut Jetty, boat transfers are easy to arrange. Most resorts can book these for you in advance, or you can buy tickets on the spot. Boats typically run every hour from 8 am to 5 pm. The ride costs RM35 per person and takes 30–45 minutes.
💡 Tip: The boat ride can be bumpy, so keep valuables in waterproof bags and wear clothes you don’t mind getting splashed. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before the trip.
How to get around on Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are small and don’t have cars, buses, or even proper roads. Getting around is either by walking, taking a water taxi, or (for the more adventurous) kayaking along the coast.
💡 Tip: Since there’s no public transport, planning your activities around where you’re staying saves time and money. If you’re on Perhentian Kecil, you’ll likely spend most of your time on the east coast beaches, while those on Perhentian Besar will stick to the west coast spots.
Walking
On Perhentian Kecil, especially around Long Beach and Coral Bay, you can walk between beaches using jungle trails. The paths are often shaded but can be steep or uneven, so wearing sturdy shoes or sandals is a good idea.
Water taxis
These are the main way to hop between beaches or to go from Kecil to Besar. Rates depend on the distance — for example, a short ride between Long Beach and Coral Bay might be around RM10–15 per person, while going to a more secluded beach can cost RM20–30. Always agree on the price before getting in. Water taxis usually run from morning until sunset.
Kayaking
Some resorts and dive shops rent out kayaks by the hour or for the day. It’s a fun way to explore smaller, quieter beaches that aren’t easily reached by foot. Just be mindful of currents and weather conditions, and bring water and sunscreen.
Which island to choose: Perhentian Kecil or Perhentian Besar?
The Perhentian Islands are made up of two main islands: Perhentian Besar (“Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Perhentian”). Both main islands are beautiful, with the same turquoise waters and white sand beaches, but they offer very different vibes.
Perhentian Besar
- Best for: Families, couples, and travelers looking for a quieter holiday (although it can still get busy during the peak seasons).
- Vibe: More relaxed and less crowded, with fewer party spots and a more laid-back pace.
- Dining: Resorts tend to have their own in-house dining, and there aren’t as many independent restaurants as on Kecil.
- Beaches: Calm waters and wide stretches of sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or paddling with kids.
Perhentian Kecil
- Best for: Backpackers, solo travellers, and younger crowds.
- Vibe: Livelier and more budget-friendly, with a backpacker scene and some nightlife around Long Beach.
- Dining: More local eateries and casual beachfront cafes where you can try cheap seafood BBQs.
- Beaches: Long Beach is popular for socializing and beach bars, while Coral Bay is more relaxed and great for sunsets.
You can also hop between the islands by water taxi during your stay, so even if you pick one as your base, you can still spend a day exploring the other.
Things to do on Perhentian Islands
1. Snorkeling
Snorkeling is the number one thing to do here, and for good reason. The water is incredibly clear, and you don’t have to swim far to see marine life. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, you can join a guided snorkeling trip where they’ll provide life jackets and take you to multiple spots such as:
- Shark Point – Where you might spot harmless blacktip reef sharks.
- Turtle Point – A popular spot to swim alongside green turtles grazing on seagrass.
- Coral Garden – A beautiful reef area with colorful corals and plenty of small fish.
💡 Tip: If you just want to snorkel casually, some beaches have house reefs right offshore. Perfect for lazy mornings without booking a trip.
2. Scuba diving
If you’re certified, the Perhentians are an affordable diving destination compared to many other tropical islands. Dive sites like Tokong Laut and Sugar Wreck are favorites.
Never dived before? Many dive centers offer affordable PADI lessons and even one-day “Discover Scuba Diving” programs for absolute beginners so you can try it without a license.
3. Beach-hopping
The beaches on each island have different personalities:
- Long Beach (Kecil) – Famous for its lively vibe and nightlife.
- Coral Bay (Kecil) – Quieter, with beautiful sunsets.
- Tuna Bay (Besar) – Relaxed, family-friendly, and great for snorkeling right off the shore.
- Teluk Keke (Besar) – More remote, with stunning water and fewer crowds.
Boat taxis between beaches are easy to arrange. Just check the prices before hopping on.
4. Kayaking
Rent a kayak and explore hidden coves and smaller beaches you can’t reach by foot. On calm days, you can paddle between the two islands, but always check weather conditions before you go.
5. Jungle trekking
Both islands have short jungle trails connecting beaches. These aren’t long hikes, but you’ll get a chance to see monitor lizards, monkeys, and plenty of tropical greenery. Wear proper footwear. The trails can get muddy and slippery after rain.
6. Sunset or sunrise viewing
The sunsets and sunrises in the Perhentian Islands can be absolutely breathtaking. In the early mornings, the beaches are usually quiet, so you can enjoy the sunrise almost entirely to yourself.
In the evenings, many resorts have small decks or piers that make great spots for watching the sun dip below the horizon, with sunset drinks. If you’re on Perhentian Kecil, Coral Bay is a popular place for sunset-watching, while Long Beach is better for early morning views.
7. Nightlife & beach BBQs
If you’re staying on Long Beach in Kecil, expect fire shows, music, and casual bars right on the sand. On both islands, many beachfront restaurants host nightly BBQs where you can pick fresh seafood to be grilled.
8. Island-hopping to nearby islands
You can hire a boat for a half-day or full-day trip to explore nearby uninhabited islands, such as Rawa Island and Susu Dara, both surrounded by crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and vibrant coral gardens that are perfect for snorkeling. These islands are usually quiet, making them a great choice if you’re looking to escape the busier beaches of Perhentian.
If you have a bit more time, you can even arrange a trip to Redang Island, which is slightly further away but well worth the journey. Redang is famous for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and excellent marine life visibility, up to 20 meters on a clear day.
Many boat operators offer custom island-hopping routes, so you can mix and match these destinations to suit your pace and interests.
9. Watching sea turtles (and volunteering)
The Perhentians are one of Malaysia’s key nesting sites for green and hawksbill turtles. You can spot them year-round while snorkeling or diving, but during nesting season (June to September), you might see them laying eggs at night on secluded beaches.
If you want a more meaningful experience, consider joining the Perhentian Turtle Project, a paid volunteering program for sea turtle conservation. Volunteers help with beach patrols, nest protection, and data collection — a great way to contribute to conservation while experiencing the islands from a different perspective.
10. Climbing to the wind turbine viewpoint
On Perhentian Kecil, you can climb up to a windmill farm on top of a hill to get some of the best views of the island.
To get there, you can either take a boat to the coast where there’s a short but steep staircase to go up, or follow the hiking path from Long Beach to Teluk Kerma. If you choose the latter, you’ll come across the turbines roughly 20 minutes after leaving Long Beach.
Where to stay in Perhentian
Perhentian Besar
Budget
- Flora Bay – Basic but clean rooms on the quieter side of the island, with a wide sandy beach and an in-house dive center.
- Samudra Beach Chalet – A laid-back, beachfront option with simple but comfortable wooden chalets.
- Juita Glamping Perhentian Island — Tented glamping experience with air-conditioned tents, comfortable beds, and free breakfast.
Mid-Range
- Perhentian Island Resort – One of the oldest resorts here, with a private beach, lots of greenery, and family-friendly facilities.
- The Barat Perhentian – Modern rooms and a dive centre, with an excellent on-site restaurant and sunset-facing beach.
- Coral View Island Resort – Well-maintained chalets with sea or garden views, conveniently located near a good snorkeling spot.
Luxury
- Tuna Bay Island Resort – Comfortable beachfront chalets, clear waters right at your doorstep, and excellent service.
- Beach Box Perhentian – Cozy, container-style rooms just steps from the beach, with consistently great service.
Perhentian Kecil
Perhentian Kecil is popular with backpackers, solo travelers, and those looking for a more social scene. The main beach, Long Beach, is lively with plenty of cafés, dive shops, and nightlife, while Coral Bay on the opposite side offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Budget
- Perhentian AB Guest House — Budget-friendly guesthouse located in the village, with basic but clean rooms and friendly staff.
- Oceanboys Inn — A good choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for basic rooms on Long Beach.
- Perhentian Nemo Chalet — Colorful container chalets right by the water, at the end of the beach.
Mid-range
- Ombak Dive Resort – A popular dive resort with clean rooms and a social vibe. Enjoy movie nights, fire dance shows and live bands.
- Mimpi Perhentian — Beachfront boutique hotel on Long Beach with spacious rooms and a salt-water swimming pool.
Luxury
- Alunan Resort – Spacious suites with panoramic ocean views, eco-friendly touches, and a serene atmosphere. Room rates are inclusive of meals and return boat transfers.
- Bubu Villa – Spacious private villas with direct beach access.
- Bubu Resort – Beachfront rooms, fine dining, and welcome drinks on arrival.
- Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa — A new luxury resort with modern facilities, infinity pool, beachfront dining, and easy access to dive sites.
How long to stay on the Perhentian Islands
If you’re short on time, three days can give you a taste of the islands. There are many 3D2N all-inclusive tour packages on Perhentian Islands, which is what most local tourists take. However, if you’re coming from far away, it might feel a bit rushed.
If you want to truly relax, explore multiple beaches, and enjoy activities like diving, hiking to viewpoints, or visiting both islands, aim for at least four to five days. This gives you time to adjust to the slower pace, enjoy lazy mornings, and not feel pressured to pack your days.
For travelers who want to unplug from the world, staying a week or more isn’t overkill. Many repeat visitors say that once you get into “island time,” you’ll wish you had more days.
One thing to remember: there are no airports on the Perhentians, so you’ll need to factor in the travel time to and from the mainland. This means that on your first and last days, you’ll likely spend part of the day in transit, not on the beach.
How much cash to bring to Perhentian Islands
Your budget for the Perhentian Islands will depend on your travel style, how long you stay, and the activities you want to do. Since the islands don’t have ATMs and many places only accept cash, it’s important to plan ahead and bring enough money for your entire trip. Some resorts may accept bank transfers if you run short, but it’s not guaranteed.
Withdraw in Kuala Besut or Kota Bharu before heading to the jetty, and keep some small notes for water taxis and small cafés.
What to budget for
For your reference, 1 USD is equivalent to RM4.25 at the time of writing.
- Accommodation: This will likely be your biggest expense, especially in peak season (July–August). Book in advance for better rates.
- Food: Meals range from RM10–RM20 at local cafés to RM40+ at hotel restaurants.
- Transport:
- Boat transfer from Kuala Besut Jetty: RM70 return
- Water taxis around the islands: RM5–RM30 depending on distance
- Activities:
- Snorkeling trips: RM40–RM60 half day, RM70–RM100 full day (usually cheaper when you buy a package)
- Intro scuba dive: RM250–RM300
- Kayak rental: RM20–RM30 per hour
- Miscellaneous – Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, park fees (Marine Park Conservation Fee: RM5 for Malaysians, RM30 for non-Malaysians).
Daily budget estimates
- Budget travelers: RM150–RM250 per person
- Mid-range travelers: RM250–RM500 per person
- Luxury travelers: RM500+ per person
Additional tips for visiting Perhentian Islands
Pack light but smart — You’ll likely be arriving by speedboat, which means your bags will be carried (and possibly splashed) along the way. A waterproof dry bag is handy for electronics and valuables. Essentials to bring include reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a power bank.
Manage your expectations on internet and electricity — Wi-Fi can be slow and unreliable, especially on Perhentian Kecil. Electricity supply is stable in most resorts, but budget places may still have limited hours of power. It’s a great excuse to disconnect and enjoy the islands.
Respect the marine environment — The Perhentians are part of a marine park, and conservation is important. Avoid touching coral, don’t litter, and use eco-friendly sunscreen. If you join snorkeling or diving trips, follow the guides’ instructions to protect marine life.
Prepare for basic medical situations — There are no hospitals on the islands, just small clinics with limited supplies. Bring your own first aid kit and any prescription medication you might need.
Bring your own snacks and drinks — Food and alcohol on the islands are a lot pricier than the mainland, and the selection is limited. It’s not that much cheaper in Kuala Besut either, so if you’re particular about prices, bring some from your departure point before heading over.
Dress modestly in the village — Terengganu is a conservative Muslim state, so while swimwear is fine on the beach and for water activities, it’s best to dress modestly in public areas. T-shirts, loose tops, sarongs, or sundresses are great choices. Lightweight long sleeves and pants help in the evenings against mosquitoes.
Plan your boat transfers wisely — The last speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty to the Perhentians usually leaves in the late afternoon (around 5pm). If your flight arrives in the evening, you’ll need to spend the night on the mainland before heading over the next day.
Final thoughts
If you need to slow down, breathe, and just enjoy being by the sea, the Perhentian Islands may just be what you’re looking for.
Between the calm turquoise bays of Perhentian Besar and the lively backpacker vibe of Perhentian Kecil, there’s something for every type of beach lover. Once you’ve had your fill of snorkeling, diving, and lazy beach days, you might just find yourself planning your return before you even leave.
If you enjoyed this guide, explore the rest of my blog for more Malaysia destination tips, hidden food gems, and honest travel advice to help you plan your next trip.
