Perhentian Islands Travel Guide 2025: Malaysia’s Tropical Paradise

As your virtual tour guide, I’m delighted to introduce you to one of Malaysia’s most breathtaking treasures — the Perhentian Islands. Tucked away on the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu, this stunning archipelago offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, powdery white sand beaches, and a relaxed island lifestyle that draws backpackers, couples, and families alike.
 

The Perhentian Islands are a dream destination for snorkelers, scuba divers, and beach lovers. Whether you're seeking serenity or underwater thrills, this tropical paradise is the perfect escape.

What Are the Perhentian Islands?

The Perhentian Islands consist of two main islands:

Perhentian Besar – The larger island, popular with families and those looking for a slightly more comfortable stay.

Perhentian Kecil – The smaller, livelier island, favored by backpackers and solo travelers.

Both islands are part of the Pulau Redang Marine Park, which ensures marine life and coral reefs are protected — making it a snorkeling and diving paradise.

Top Things to Do in the Perhentian Islands

🐠 1. Snorkeling with Marine Life

The Perhentian Islands offer some of the best snorkeling spots in Southeast Asia. Clear, calm waters allow easy viewing of:

Sea turtles

Clownfish (yes, like Nemo!)

Reef sharks

Parrotfish

Giant clams and vibrant coral gardens

Best snorkeling spots:

Turtle Point

Shark Point

Romantic Beach

Teluk Pauh (near Perhentian Besar)

Many accommodations offer snorkeling tours, or you can rent equipment and explore the reefs just off the beach.

🤿 2. Scuba Diving

Certified divers (and beginners!) can explore underwater landscapes with shipwrecks, walls, and reef systems. Local dive centers offer:

Fun dives

PADI Open Water courses

Advanced dive certifications

Top dive sites:

Sugar Wreck

Tokong Laut (Temple of the Sea)

D’Lagoon

Batu Layar

Expect warm waters (28–30°C), good visibility, and a wide array of marine life.

🏖️ 3. Relax on the Beaches

Unwind on powdery white sands, sip a coconut under palm trees, and soak in the serene vibes.

Top beaches:

Long Beach (Perhentian Kecil) – Best for socializing and nightlife

Coral Bay – Quieter alternative, great sunsets

Teluk Pauh – Excellent for turtle sightings

Tuna Bay – Peaceful and perfect for families

🚶 4. Jungle Trekking

Take a break from the beach and explore the island’s lush rainforest trails. Hike from one bay to another, spot monitor lizards, monkeys, and tropical birds.

Popular jungle trails:

Long Beach to Coral Bay (15–20 mins)

Perhentian Kecil to D’Lagoon (1 hour)

Around Perhentian Besar’s western coast

Wear good shoes, bring water, and enjoy nature in its raw beauty.

🛶 5. Kayaking and Island Hopping

Rent a kayak and paddle to hidden coves and uninhabited islets. Or join an island hopping tour to visit:

Rawa Island

Susu Dara Islands

Lang Tengah Island (further out)

The views from the sea are absolutely stunning.

📷 6. Sunset Watching

Watch the sun dip into the sea at Coral Bay, or catch early evening magic at Romantic Beach on Perhentian Kecil. It’s the perfect time for photos and reflection.

Where to Stay on the Perhentian Islands

You’ll find accommodations for every budget — from rustic beach huts to comfortable resorts.

🏝️ Perhentian Besar (Larger Island)

Great for families and travelers seeking more comfort.

Popular options:

Perhentian Island Resort – Family-friendly with a great beach and turtle spotting

Coral View Island Resort – Budget-friendly and near snorkeling spots

Tuna Bay Island Resort – Mid-range with a private beach

The Barat Perhentian – Stylish rooms, dive center, and seafront restaurant

🎒 Perhentian Kecil (Smaller Island)

Popular with backpackers and those seeking nightlife.

Top picks:

Bubu Long Beach Resort – Comfortable and located on vibrant Long Beach

Senja Bay Resort – Great views and budget-friendly

Oh La La Diver’s Lodge – A social hub for divers and travelers

Mimpi Perhentian – A boutique-style stay right by the beach

Dining and Nightlife

🍽️ Local Eats

Most resorts have their own restaurants, and there are beachside cafes and BBQ spots.

Must-try:

Fresh seafood BBQ (fish, prawns, squid)

Nasi lemak (Malaysia’s national dish)

Grilled chicken with rice

Fruit smoothies and coconuts

On Long Beach, you’ll find the most variety, including Western, Malay, Thai, and vegetarian options.

🍹 Nightlife

While Perhentian is quieter than other island destinations, Long Beach on Kecil has:

Beach bars with fire shows

Cocktail specials and music

Casual backpacker parties

Don’t expect clubs, but there’s enough to enjoy a fun evening by the sea.

How to Get to the Perhentian Islands

🚍 Step 1: Travel to Kuala Besut Jetty

From Kuala Lumpur: 7–8 hours by bus or 1-hour flight to Kota Bharu Airport

From Kota Bharu: 1-hour taxi to the jetty

From Penang or Taman Negara: Long bus rides (9–10 hours)

🚤 Step 2: Boat from Kuala Besut Jetty

Speedboats depart between 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. The ride takes 30–45 minutes.

Round-trip fares range from RM 70–100, depending on boat type and time.

Best Time to Visit the Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands have a tropical monsoon climate and are seasonal.

Best time: March to October

Peak season: June to August

Closed season: November to February (heavy rains, boats do not operate)

To avoid crowds and high prices, consider visiting in May or September.

What to Pack for the Perhentian Islands

Swimwear, snorkeling gear (or rent on site)

Reef-safe sunscreen

Water shoes or sandals

Insect repellent (mosquitoes are common)

Light clothing and a dry bag for boat trips

A flashlight (power outages can happen)

Marine Conservation and Responsible Travel

As part of a marine park, it's essential to travel sustainably:

Don’t touch or step on coral

Avoid single-use plastics

Support eco-friendly accommodations

Never feed or chase sea life

Choose reef-safe sunscreen

Respect local culture and the environment to keep the Perhentian Islands beautiful for future generations.

Nearby Attractions

If you want to extend your trip, consider:

Redang Island – A luxurious island getaway, about 1–2 hours away

Lang Tengah Island – Quieter and less developed

Kuala Terengganu – Explore mosques, batik markets, and local food

Taman Negara – A detour for rainforest trekking and wildlife

Is It Worth Visiting the Perhentian Islands?

Without a doubt! Whether you're snorkeling with turtles, diving into shipwrecks, lounging on soft sand, or hiking through jungle trails, the Perhentian Islands offer something truly special. It’s an affordable, family-friendly, and breathtakingly beautiful escape — perfect for a few days or even a week.

Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Island Getaway Awaits

As your guide, I encourage you to visit the Perhentian Islands for a trip filled with adventure, tranquility, and tropical beauty. Easy to access yet far enough to feel like a true retreat, this gem of Malaysia is a must on any Southeast Asia travel itinerary.

Whether you're planning a romantic honeymoon, a fun family vacation, or a solo backpacking escape — the Perhentian Islands deliver unforgettable memories.