Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
The Perhentian Islands are two main islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, lying about 20 km off the Terengganu coast in the South China Sea. The name means "stopping point" in Malay, as the islands were historically a waypoint for traders sailing between Bangkok and Malaya. They sit within the Pulau Redang Marine Park zone, and the surrounding reefs shelter green and hawksbill turtles, blacktip reef sharks and clownfish colonies. Because there are no roads or cars, the islands remain one of Malaysia's least developed beach destinations, reached only by boat.
Last updated: 19 Aug 2026
Places to visit
- Long Beach (Pasir Panjang) on Perhentian Kecil for sunsets and beach cafes
- Coral Bay for snorkelling straight off the sand
- Shark Point and Sugar Wreck dive sites
- Turtle Beach and Teluk Pauh on Perhentian Besar
- Windmill viewpoint hike on Perhentian Kecil
Unique Aspects
- No cars, roads or ATMs on the islands; water taxis are the only transport
- Visibility of 15-25 metres at dive sites during the dry season
- Bioluminescent plankton visible on some night swims
- Most resorts shut completely during the northeast monsoon
Things to do
- Snorkelling trips covering 6-8 sites including Shark Point and Fish Point
- PADI Open Water certification courses, among the cheapest in Southeast Asia
- Kayaking between Kecil and Besar
- Jungle trekking between beaches through the island interior
- Night snorkelling to see plankton
Best Time to Visit
March to October; peak conditions in May, June and September
Weather Conditions
Warm and humid year round, 26-33 degrees Celsius. The northeast monsoon from November to February brings heavy rain and rough seas, and most resorts and boat services close during this period.
Entry Fees & Permits
Marine park conservation fee around MYR 30 for adults (approx INR 600), MYR 15 for children, collected at the jetty. Return speedboat from Kuala Besut jetty costs about MYR 70 (approx INR 1,400). Boats operate roughly 8 am to 4 pm.
Accessibility
Fly Kuala Lumpur to Sultan Mahmud Airport, Kuala Terengganu (about 55 minutes), then drive 1.5 hours to Kuala Besut jetty. Alternatively fly to Kota Bharu and drive about 1 hour. Speedboat crossing takes 30-40 minutes.
Recommended Duration
3 to 4 days
Clothing & Gear Tips
Swimwear, rash guard for snorkelling, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, torch for unlit paths at night, and cash in Malaysian ringgit since card facilities are minimal
Local Food & Souvenirs
Grilled fish and squid at beach barbecues, nasi kerabu and keropok lekor from nearby Terengganu, roti canai breakfasts. Souvenirs include batik sarongs, shell jewellery and dive shop T-shirts. Vegetarian and Jain travellers should inform kitchens in advance as shrimp paste is widely used.
