17 Best Things To Do In Perhentian Islands Guide

Okay, so, Perhentian Islands? You’ve probably seen the stunning pictures? Guess what, they’re even better in person.

These stunning Malaysian island beaches in Southeast Asia are a must-visit. With water so clear it looks like its been photoshopped.

And the marine life? It’s like swimming in a real-life aquarium. There’s something for every traveler, whether you prefer relaxation or adventure.

Like, you can literally swim with turtles! Or, if you’re into diving, there are some seriously cool spots and surprisingly inexpensive.

And if you’re more of a land person, the jungle treks are pretty awesome.

But here’s the thing: you absolutely can’t skip spending time on Long Beach and Coral Bay, these beaches are must visit.

Each one has its own vibe, you know? One’s lively, the other’s chill.

So, let’s dive into the best things to do in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia for an unforgettable adventure ! 🌴✨

Key Takeaways

• Perhentian Islands? Picture perfect, imagine tropical paradise.
  • Seriously, these Malaysian islands are the real deal, whether you want to relax on the beach or get your adventure on.
• When to go? March to October is ideal. That’s when you’ll get those sunny days perfect for all things outdoors.
  • Things you have to do:
    • Swim with turtles! Unreal.
    • Dive at some really amazing sites.
• Trek through the jungle – like out of a movie.
• Beach time? Long Beach and Coral Bay are a must. They’re totally different, so you can decide which one you prefer.
• Where to crash? You’ve got options. From super cheap hostels to high-end resorts, something for everyone.
• Heads up: bring cash, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof bag. Things are super laid-back on the islands, so you won’t find everything you’re used to.
• Let’s keep it beautiful! Do your part by being eco-friendly and pay that ocean park fee – it preserves the location.

Introduction to the Perhentian Islands

So, if you’re wondering about the Perhentian Islands?

They’re tucked away in Malaysia’s Terengganu area, chilling in the South China Sea.

Basically, you’ve got two main islands:

Perhentian Kecil, which is like, the backpacker hangout, and Perhentian Besar, which is more for families and couples looking for a bit of peace and quiet.

They’re in a protected marine park, so the water’s filled with colorful fish, coral, and even the occasional reef shark.

As mentioned earlier, its as if you’re swimming in an aquarium. Pretty cool, huh?

How to Get to the Perhentian Islands?

Now, if you’re wondering how do you get there? Of course you need to fly into either Kuala Terengganu or Kota Bharu.

The airports you’re looking for are Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) in Kuala Terengganu, or Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) in Kota Bharu.

From either of those airports, you’ll need to hop in a taxi or a bus and head to Kuala Besut Jetty. That’s the main departure point for boats heading to the islands.

Then, you’ll jump on a speedboat.

They run pretty regularly from Kuala Besut to both Kecil and Besar.

The boat ride’s about 30 to 45 minutes, and a round trip will set you back around 70 Malaysian Ringgit (approx. $15 US).

Best Time to Visit the Perhentian Islands

As for when to go, the sweet spot is definitely March through October. That’s when you’ll get the best weather and the calmest seas.

November to February? That’s monsoon season, and most places shut down because of the rough waves.

If you’re not a fan of crowds, try going between March and May, or September and October. You’ll still get great weather, but without the peak season madness.

Heads up: pack light, bring plenty of sunscreen, and get ready for an awesome island adventure.

Seriously, you won’t regret it!

17 Best Things To Do In Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands have some of the most beautiful shores in Malaysia. Whether you want an exciting vibe, a quiet escape, or a snorkeling dream, there’s a shore for you.

1. Unwind on Long Beach (Perhentian Kecil)

Running along the east coast of Perhentian Kecil, Long Beach is the islands’ pulsing heart with talcum-powder soft white sand that squeaks underfoot and water so blue it feels unreal.

• Location: East coast of Perhentian Kecil
• Best Time: Morning for swimming, late afternoon for games on the beach
• Activities: Snorkeling, beach volleyball, socializing, sunbathing
• Nearby: Several budget lodgings, restaurants, and dive shops

This colorful slice of heaven is alive with backpackers and travelers mingling on beach mats, impromptu volleyball games, and the constant hum of boat engines bringing visitors to and from the mainland.

The beach is lined with affordable chalets and hostels like Matahari and Oh La La, where a no-frills room goes for RM60-120 ($15 to $30) to per night.

Pro tip: Go out before 11 AM for the best swimming conditions when the water is calmest and clearest.

Afternoons tend to get crowded with boat traffic, so that’s the ideal time to get a fruit shake (about RM8-10 – $1.81 to $2.27 US) from one of the beach cafes and people-watch.

2. Witness the Sunset at Coral Bay

Just a 10-minute jungle trek from Long Beach, Coral Bay offers a completely different environment with romantic sunset views that color the sky with fiery oranges, pinks, and purples.

• Location: Western coast of Perhentian Kecil
• Best Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM for sunset
• Activities: Sunset viewing, beach dining, kayaking
• Duration: 2-3 hours for sunset and dinner experience

Late in the afternoon, this crescent bay is a perfect natural amphitheater for nature’s show in the evening.

The calm waters reflect the color shift above, the silhouette of fishing boats creating picture-postcard scenes.

Have dinner at Ombak Café where steaming fish grilled just out of the water (around RM25-35 – $4 to $6 US) is accompanied by your toes almost being in the sand.

Pro tip: Take a small torch along for the jungle trek back to Long Beach if you’re staying there.

The path gets dark quickly after sunset, and you’ll need to be careful for tree roots and uneven terrain.

3. Snorkeling with Sea Turtles at Turtle Beach

Experience a surreal encounter with serene sea turtles in their natural habitat at this idyllic Turtle Beach that can only be accessed by boat on Perhentian Besar.

• Location: Northern coast of Perhentian Besar
• Best Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM when water visibility is highest
• Price: RM40-60 ($7 to $12 US) for guided snorkeling tours that include equipment
• Duration: Typically as part of half-day snorkeling excursions

Unlike much turtle-watching elsewhere in the world.

Here you can expect to have these ancient creatures all to yourself as they swim elegantly through water so clear you can see every detail just a few meters off shore.

The beach is protected and has no development – no resorts, restaurants, or amenities – and is thus one of the least developed environments anywhere in Malaysia.

Pro tip: Don’t freak out and swim calmly when turtles approach. Make sudden movements, and they’ll be gone.

Keep a distance of at least 3 meters (10 FT) and never touch or follow them – they’re home, and we’re guests.

4. Swim with Reef Sharks at Shark Point

Watch your heart race as you observe the distinctive shape of blacktip reef sharks gliding beneath you in this thrilling but completely safe Shark Point snorkeling adventure.

• Location: Between Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar
• Best Time: Early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) for optimal visibility
• Price: Included in most snorkeling tours vary, but a half tour can run you $50.
• Duration: 30-45 minutes at the location

These slender predators, typically 1-1.5 meters long, are not interested in humans and are more scared of you than you are of them.

The site is fairly shallow water (3-5 meters deep) with excellent visibility, so it’s perfect even for novice snorkelers to observe these stunning creatures in their natural habitat.

Pro tip: Put on a rashguard or lightweight shirt even on cloudy days – the sun reflecting off water and excitement can lead to awful sunburns.

The sharks are busiest during morning feeding times, so early excursions offer you your best odds of seeing them multiple times.

5. Dive Colorful Coral Gardens

Be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of living colors while gliding above multi-colored coral reefs inhabited by thousands of tropical fish species.

• Location: Different places around both islands
• Best Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM when sunlight penetration shines light into the corals
• Price: Varies approx. $15 or less for equipment rental and included in package tours
• Duration: Can be explored individually for hours

The Coral Garden sites are home to stunning formations like giant brain corals (over 100 years old), delicate fan corals dancing in the flow, and table corals creating underwater plateaus.

The variety is staggering – from tiny bright-colored damselfish and parrotfish to the occasional ray or turtle gliding by.

Pro tip: Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before entering the water and use only reef-safe versions (look for “oxybenzone-free” on the label).

Most standard sunscreens are toxic to coral polyps when they come in contact and cause reef bleaching.

The most beachside stores have reef-safe versions for around RM45-60.

6. Get Your PADI Certification

Make your vacation more special by learning a life-changing skill in one of the world’s lowest-budget and most beautiful places to get certified by a team of Professional Association of Diving Instructors.

• Location: Different dive schools on both islands
• Time: 3-4 days to become Open Water certified
• Cost: RM1000-1200 (approx. $225 to $275) for complete PADI Open Water course
• Requirements: Ability to swim and general good health

The Perhentians are also well known among divers for offering fantastic value without compromise.

The course includes theory lessons held in outdoor classrooms, shallow bays confined water training, and four open water dives to 18 meters maximum depth.

By the time you’re done, you’ll be certified to dive anywhere in the world!

Pro tip: Ask for a comparison of several dive shops prior to enrolling.

Make sure there is new equipment, low student-instructor ratios (up to 4 students per instructor), and instructors who speak your native language.

Turtle Bay Divers and Bubble Divers always have excellent reviews from international students.

7. Dive the Sugar Wreck

Dive the Sugar Wreck and experience another world as you discover the spooky outline of a 90-meter cargo ship now repurposed as an artificial reef covered in marine life.

• Location: Off the coast of Redang Island, which is close by
• Depth: 18 meters
• Experience Level: Advanced Open Water recommended
• Price: RM120-150 per dive with equipment
• Duration: 45-minute bottom time plus boat ride

This enormous vessel, lost in 2000 with sugars aboard (hence the name), has spawned a nutrient-fueled state that attracts record biodiversity.

Yellowtail barracudas school around laps on the decks, and in the cargo compartment, groupers, snappers, and intermittent reef sharks establish domicile.

Visibility is typically 10-20 meters variable.

Pro tip: The current in this spot is unpredictable, so try it as your second or third dive of the day when you are buoyancy confident.

Bring an underwater light to illuminate the dark nooks of the wreck where the most interesting critters hide.

8. Kayak Around the Islands

Make your own adventure by paddling along spectacular coastlines, discovering secluded coves and secret beaches not reachable on land.

• Location: Rentable Kayaks on both Long Beach and Coral Bay
• Best Time: Early morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM) before the winds get strong
• Price: RM30-50 an hour or RM80-120 for a whole day rental
• Duration: As long as your arms can take!

The 45-minute ride from Long Beach to Coral Bay is easy paddling with fantastic scenery looking down the hills of jungle falling into sparkling water.

You’ll paddle over peculiar rock formations shaped by waves over hundreds of years and get to see flying fish jump across the water beside your kayak.

Pro tip: Snorkeling gear should be carried in a dry bag and you should explore the hundreds of small coves along the way.

There are a lot with awesome coral formations only meters from shore and not too many that see a tour boat.

Bring a minimum of 1.5 liters of water per person – sun and paddling are thirstier than you’d think.

9. Hike To Windmill Point

Pulau Perhential Windhill Point: challenge yourself to this rewarding hike through dense tropical rainforest to discover stunning panoramic views that leave you breathless (and not just because of the ascent).

• Location: Northern end of Perhentian Kecil
• Trail Difficulty: Moderately challenging with steep sections
• Duration: 45-60 minutes each way
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat

The path begins quietly behind some of the chalets along Long Beach, steeply climbing into thick jungle where monitor lizards force their way through the underbrush and monkey calls echo above.

The path is at times marked by faded paint blazes on trees and requires careful step over roots and rock outcroppings visible in view.

Your payoff at the top is an absolutely wonderful 360-degree vista including both islands, the profoundly blue water that separates them, and the coastal mainland off to the west in the distance.

The stand-up windmill foundation (a failed alternative power effort) is fascinating to take photographs of with its dramatic skyline setting.

Pro tip: Where suitable footwear, not flip flops, and take a minimum of 1 liter of water per person.

Humidity offers more of a challenge than the length of the hike suggests.

Insect repellent is essential (I suggest try essential oils to avoid harmful chemical sprays) as mosquitoes along the route can be pesky.

12. Best Water activities in Perhentian: Island-Hop in a Water Taxi

Create your own island-hopping tour as a private water taxi takes you between secluded beaches and hidden snorkeling spots.

• Location: Depart from jetties on both islands
• Price: RM100-150 half-day private charter
• Duration: Typically 4-5 hours
• Capacity: Typically up to 6 passengers

This tailor-made experience takes you away from the busier beaches and onto the islands’ secret jewels.

D’Lagoon beach offers a raw Robinson Crusoe feel with a single small resort and excellent house reef.

Mira Beach beckons with bohemian charm and palm tree-adorned swings. Romantic Beach is aptly named with secluded patches of sand perfect for couples.

Pro tip: Negotiate the price and itinerary in advance, and confirm pickup times.

It’s also a good idea to pack extra snacks and drinks as some of these beaches have no or very limited facilities.

Ask your boat driver for their favorite snorkeling spots – they know the hidden places that are not on the standard tour itineraries.

13. Savor Fresh Seafood BBQ on the Beach

Indulging in BBQ Restaurants in Perhentian Islands is a treat for all your senses as freshly caught seafood is grilled to perfection on the beach itself while you witness the sunset with sand between your toes.

• Location: A number of restaurants on Long Beach and Coral Bay
• Price Range: RM25-45 for main courses
• Best Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
• Must-Try Dishes: Grilled red snapper, tiger prawns, squid

The ceremony begins late in the afternoon when restaurant staff arrange charcoal barbecues directly on the beach.

The day’s catches are spread out on ice, and you order your meal by pointing to your fish, prawn, or squid of preference.

The seafood is dressed in a simple marinade of lime, garlic, and local herbs and barbecued over open flames.

Pro tip: Mama’s Chalet on Perhentian Besar offers one of the most authentic experiences.

With tables set right on the beach and a secret family-recipe sambal (spicy sauce) that complements the smoky grilled seafood perfectly.

Arrive early (before 7 PM) to get a primo table by the water.

14. Go Checkout Monitor Lizards and Monkeys

Put on your wildlife photographer’s hat when you spot fascinating jungle creatures that have learned to live with humans on these small islands.

• Location: Jungle paths and beach-jungle interfaces
• Best Time: Early morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM) or late afternoon
• Equipment: Camera with telephoto lens, binoculars if available
• Species to Look Out For: Water monitors, dusky leaf monkeys, macaques

The beautiful water monitor lizards reach lengths of up to 1.5 meters and are commonly seen basking on rocks or running across tiny coves with the use of their strong tails.

The timid dusky leaf monkeys, spectacled langurs, are easy to spot with their conspicuous white eye rings and mischievous habit of jumping from tree to tree.

Pro tip: The jungle trail between Coral Bay and Long Beach on the islands is one of the best wildlife corridors.

Walk slowly and quietly, and scan the ground and canopy.

A monitor lizard watering hole is located behind the generator shed on Perhentian Kecil.

Its best not to the feed animals – human food disrupts their diet and habits.

15. Enjoy the Relaxed Nightlife

Experience the islands’ unique combination of beach party and relaxed tropical atmosphere when the sun dips and the sky is filled with stars at night.

• Location: Primarily Long Beach with some on Coral Bay
• Peak Hours: 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Price Range: RM10-25 for adult beverages
• Dress Code: Extremely casual – patrons come straight from the beach

Unlike the thrumming clubs of Thailand’s islands, nightlife here is low-key.

Black Tip Beach Bar on Long Beach provides the most action, with fire dancers on the beach most evenings and fairly priced bucket cocktails.

For a more relaxed experience, Ombak Café on Coral Bay has acoustic guitar and comfortable cushions on the beach.

Pro tip: The power plants on most islands shut down at midnight, so the party naturally dies down.

Carry a pocket flashlight to find your way home on dark beach roads. Some establishments don’t take credit cards, so have cash ready.

16. Photograph the Milky Way

Capture breathtaking images of our galaxy stretching across some of the darkest skies in Southeast Asia in this perfect location for astrophotography.

• Location: Quieter beaches away from resort lights
• Best Time: New moon nights, 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
• Equipment: Camera with manual settings, tripod, wide-angle lens
• Weather Conditions: Clear skies are essential

With minimal light pollution, the Perhentian Islands offer incredible opportunities to photograph the night sky.

On clear, moonless nights, the Milky Way’s galactic core appears as a bright band stretching across the heavens, with countless stars visible to the naked eye.

The silhouettes of palm trees and island landscapes create dramatic foregrounds for your cosmic shots.

Pro tip: The small beach near Turtle Bay Divers on Perhentian Kecil offers excellent dark sky conditions.

Basic camera settings to start with: ISO 3200-6400, aperture f/2.8 (or widest available), shutter speed 15-25 seconds.

Allow your eyes at least 20 minutes to fully adjust to the darkness for the best viewing experience.

17. Do Absolutely Nothing

Master the art of tropical island relaxation as you surrender to the rhythm of nature and discover the profound joy of simply being present in paradise.

• Location: Any quiet stretch of beach away from boat traffic
• Best Time: Whenever you feel the need to reset
• Equipment Needed: A good book, perhaps a hammock
• Duration: Hours, or days – you’re on island time now

In our constantly connected world, the ability to disconnect completely and embrace idleness is becoming a rare luxury.

The Perhentians offer the perfect environment to practice this vanishing art.

Just think, swaying palms creating natural shade, gentle waves providing the soundtrack, and endless shades of blue stretching to the horizon.

Pro tip: For maximum relaxation, find a spot between Coral Bay and Long Beach where the beaches are less developed.

Bring a sarong to sit on (doubles as emergency sun protection) and plenty of water.

The small beach adjacent to Mohsin Chalet offers the perfect balance of convenience and tranquility, with enough passing boats to provide people-watching entertainment but not so many as to disturb your peace.

Remember to bring enough cash (there are no ATMs on the islands), reef-safe sunscreen, and a spirit of adventure.

The Perhentian Islands are one of Southeast Asia’s true gems, and these experiences will stay with you long after your tan fades.

Final Thoughts

The Perhentian Islands are a real island paradise, with everything from picturesque beaches & lively sea creatures to adrenaline-pumping sea sports and peaceful forest hikes.

From turtle swimming, diving into incredibly clear waters, or merely soaking up the sun on Long Beach, there are loads of amazing experiences in store for you.

If you’re organizing your journey, keep in mind to go in the dry months (March till October) for the nicest climate, bring light but useful items, and honor the island’s nature by using green habits.

Whether you’re a traveler searching for excitement or a pair wanting a lovely escape, the Perhentians offer something for all.

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So, what are you waiting for. Grab your bags, purchase that ferry ticket, & prepare yourself to enjoy the magic of the Perhentian Islands.

If you want more ideas or useful tips, be sure to visit Nomadic Southeast Asia for all the information you’ll need to make your trip great!

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