Set amidst the radiant, turquoise waters that glisten under the sun, alongside a plethora of stunning beaches, the Perhentian Islands are a quintessential island paradise. Located off the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, these islands form a part of the Pulau Redang National Marine Park. Their waters are a haven for a diverse array of marine life.
The islands are an ideal destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea kayaking enthusiasts. Beyond these marine adventures, visitors can relax on idyllic beaches, engage in turtle conservation efforts, or soak in the sublime natural beauty.
The primary islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, serve as hubs from which visitors can explore other stunning, uninhabited islands scattered in the South China Sea.
Arriving at the Perhentian Islands is an adventure in itself. The journey typically starts with a flight to Kuala Lumpur or the closer Kota Bharu. From Kota Bharu, travelers can take a taxi or bus to the Kuala Besut jetty, the gateway to the islands. Here, frequent speedboats and ferries provide a swift and picturesque transfer across the waters. It’s wise to arrange these connections ahead of time, particularly in the bustling peak season, ensuring a smooth continuation of the journey to this tropical haven.
Best Times to Visit the Perhentian Islands
The climate of the Perhentian Islands is least favorable from November to March due to the monsoon season. During this period, most islands are inaccessible to tourists, with halted ferry services and closed resorts due to rough seas and inclement weather.
The dry season, beginning post-monsoon, welcomes visitors seeking to bask in the sun, swim, and snorkel at pristine beaches. April to June offers a quieter, more affordable, and less crowded experience, despite the hot and humid conditions, ideal for hiking or jungle trekking.
The peak season spans July to September, attracting a surge of holidaymakers. This period is marked by busy hotels and resorts, vibrant nightlife, and optimal conditions for scuba diving and marine life exploration.
In October, the onset of rains can disrupt ferry services and hinder beach activities. Some guesthouses remain open during the monsoon, but opportunities to enjoy the beaches or scenic views are limited due to frequent rainfall.
1 Snorkeling in Long Beach
Exploring the aquatic marvels is a key draw for visitors to the Perhentian Islands, which are home to some of Malaysia’s most exquisite snorkeling locales. The opportunity to swim amidst a diverse marine ecosystem, observing turtles, sharks, and a myriad of colorful fish in their natural coral habitats, is a highlight for many. Snorkeling in these islands is more than a leisure activity; it’s a quintessential part of the Perhentian experience. Additionally, the islands offer splendid opportunities for scuba diving, further enriching the underwater exploration possibilities.
2 Trekking in the jungle from Long Beach to Coral Bay
For adventure enthusiasts, the Perhentian Islands also offer captivating trekking experiences. The islands feature a network of small trails connecting various beaches, allowing trekkers to start at one point and emerge at another. These paths wind through lush forests, providing an opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including monitor lizards, spiders, and geckos. The trekking routes not only offer physical challenge but also a chance to explore the islands’ rich natural ecosystems up close.
3 Visit Turtle Sanctuay Beach
The Turtle Sanctuary Beach, a haven for the nesting Hawksbill and Green turtles, stands as a premier destination in Malaysia for observing these enchanting creatures. This picturesque beach, backed by dense jungle, offers not only a stunning view but also a serene spot for sunbathing. Its offshore coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, where one might spot turtles swimming gracefully. Additionally, the Perhentian Turtle Project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to turtle conservation, ensuring the continued nesting of these species on the beach.
4 Walk the trail to Kincir Angin
Beginning at Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil, a remarkable trail leads through stunning natural landscapes, culminating at the island’s highest point. This vantage point offers breathtaking views over the island and Perhentian Besar in the distance. Hikers have the option to return to Long Beach or continue towards Windmill Point, another scenic lookout. The trail to this viewpoint involves navigating a weathered wooden boardwalk and staircase. Despite its wear, the journey rewards with spectacular sea views. The hike, taking about forty minutes, is enriched by sightings of vibrant birds and, occasionally, monitor lizards.
5 Enjoy Main Beach
Main Beach, located on the west coast of Perhentian Besar, is the island’s primary beach and a hub of activity. This beach is distinguished by its upscale bars, restaurants, and hotels, offering a more refined experience compared to Perhentian Kecil. Its stunning white sands are complemented by a backdrop of dense rainforest. The beach provides excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs. While rocky outcrops occasionally interrupt the shoreline, they can be easily bypassed via short forest trails. Main Beach also serves as a convenient location for booking scuba diving and snorkeling tours, allowing visitors to explore the islands’ underwater wonders.
6 Sea Kayaking
For an exhilarating experience, consider renting a sea kayak. Typically priced below RM100, these rentals offer adventure seekers the chance to navigate the calm waters of the Perhentians. Sea kayaking opens up access to hidden lagoons and remote beaches, unreachable by land. Fit kayakers might even attempt to circumnavigate the 14 kilometers of Kecil, a journey that could take approximately 3 to 5 hours. This activity provides a unique perspective of the islands, offering views and experiences distinct from those on land.
7 Visit the Mosque A R Rahman Pulau Perhentian
Among the Perhentian Islands’ unique attractions is a captivating mosque, elegantly situated over the water. This architectural marvel greets visitors as they arrive at the island’s main village, offering a striking visual. To enter and appreciate the mosque’s interior, visitors are reminded to dress respectfully, adhering to local customs and traditions. This site not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural landmark, blending seamlessly with the scenic beauty of the islands and providing a serene space for reflection and appreciation of local architecture and religious
8 Enjoy the sunset at Coral Bay
The Perhentian Islands in Malaysia are a haven for those who cherish the beauty of sunrises and sunsets. Renowned for their breathtaking views, the islands offer numerous secluded spots and private resorts perfect for witnessing the captivating spectacle of the sun dipping into the sea. The orange and pink hues create a mesmerizing skyline, particularly at Coral Bay on Perhentian Kecil, which is acclaimed as the prime location for sunset viewing. These moments provide a serene and awe-inspiring experience, reflecting the natural beauty and tranquility of the islands.
9 Swim with the sharks at Shark Point
Shark Point, a renowned snorkeling destination on the Perhentian Islands, is situated on the west coast of Perhentian Kecil and is accessible by a brief 20-minute boat ride from Long Beach. This spot is celebrated for its encounters with a large school of reef sharks, known for being harmless to humans. The snorkeling experience at Shark Point is enriched by the visibility of diverse marine life, including turtles, clownfish, and barracudas, making it a must-visit location for marine enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure.
10 Scuba diving
The Perhentian Islands are a magnet for scuba divers, thanks to the remarkable diversity of marine life in the surrounding waters. Numerous dive shops have emerged, especially on Perhentian Kecil, offering services for both novices and experienced divers. Scuba diving here is an optimal way to explore the Pulau Redang National Marine Park’s underwater wonders, with competitive prices compared to other Asian destinations. The marine park boasts exceptional dive sites like Pinnacle, the Sugar Wreck, and T3, where divers can encounter stunning rock formations, coral reefs, reef sharks, sea turtles, and clownfish. Scuba diving in these waters is often the highlight of visitors’ trips, providing an unparalleled underwater experience.
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