Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands lie approximately 10 nautical miles off the northeastern coast of West Malaysia in the state of Terengganu. The Perhentian Island are 2 islands named Pulau Perhentian Besar ( Large Perhentian Island) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island). The malay name Perhentian is translated as "place to stop" and this is exactly what these 2 islands were for traders travelling between Malaysia and Bangkok in years gone by. These islands are still a gorgeous place to stop and rest today.

The only access point to the Perhentian Islands is from the Kuala Besut, Jetty.

After less than an hour on a boat from the east coast of Malaysia, the laid-back atmosphere and the natural beauty of the Perhentian Islands immediately transport you to a different world. The white sand is dotted with sun-worshipping holiday makers, some retreating to the shade for a glass of freshly squeezed juice.

The islands remain relatively untouched and the only permanent inhabitants live in a small fishing village on Perhentian Kecil. Apart from footpaths that cut through the jungle, there are no roads on the islands. The only way to get around is by walking through the jungle or taking a sea taxi. If you tread carefully, you may even encounter some of the islands' shy wildlife on the way, such as monitor lizards, fruit bats, squirrels or even the elusive mouse deer. Simple chalets and some moderately luxurious resorts line the picturesque beaches along with restaurants, dive centres and boat operators advertising their services with hand-painted signs.

Perhaps it is the stretches of white beach or the crystal clear water and the superior scuba diving. Perhaps it is the untouched forests or the relaxed atmosphere and unspoiled charm. We like to think that is a little bit of all of this that makes the Perhentian Islands the perfect place to stop and take some time out.

Perhentian Kecil is a small and beautiful island consisting of Long Beach & Coral Bay, just a short 10-15 minute walk between the 2 main areas. There are a few budget accommodations, nice places to eat, and where all the nightlife occur.

Things to do in the Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are pretty small, and there actually isn't a lot of things to do here.

1) Beach Days: Read books, lounge on the beach, rent a beach umbrella, go for a swim, play beach volleyball, etc. This is definitely a "vacation" island, and it's a great place to unwind during your travels and just simply relax.

2) Snorkeling / Island Hopping Tours: You can't go to Perhentian Islands without diving or snorkeling at least once. One of the reason people choose to go to Perhentian Islands is because of they want to explore the underwater life there. Perhentian Islands offer the best snorkelling spots in Malaysia. The coral in Perhentian Islands is beautiful. You're will be guaranteed to see a couple of turtles, sharks and beautiful fish!

Nightlife On Perhentian Kecil

"Pirates of Perhentian", this is where the nightly fire-show is held every night at 10.30 p.m. Watching this every night is a lot of fun. You can sit down on the beach, order some beers and smoke some hookah ((I'm just kidding)) XD while watch some extremely talented people play with fire.