Are you heading to Malaysia and thinking of visiting the Perhentian Islands? Well, I’m here to tell you, you should! A little slice of paradise, this guide has all you need for your visit.
The Perhentian Islands are a tropical paradise located off the northeastern coast of Malaysia, known for their crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and rich marine life. I’d seen the photos, but seeing it for myself was something else.
As a budget backpacker, it didn’t feel real that I could enjoy such beautiful scenery with such little money. But that’s what is so great about the Perhentian Islands, every budget is welcome, from the backpacker to the bougie traveller.
I loved how easy it was to move between the lively beach and the secluded spots. I spent my days snorkelling with turtles and baby sharks, hiking through jungle trails and relaxing on the quietest, most beautiful beaches.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about planning your trip. On my most recent trip in September 2024, I did everything I could to find you the most up-to-date information, from where to stay to the best activities and the must-visit, secluded spots.
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Why Visit Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands
I feel my photos of the Perhentian Islands will be enough to convince you to put this on your Malaysian bucket list but, if not, here are a few reasons why: the absolutely clear waters, secluded beaches, marine life, and laid-back vibes.
Now, the Perhentians are not the same as the islands you’ll find in Thailand. The pace is slower, with fewer crowds, giving you more time to soak in the serene atmosphere. Malaysia is also not a huge drinking place so whilst there are a few places you can get a drink, it’s not a party island.
You can spend your days snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, spotting turtles and baby sharks. Make sure to have a good book to relax on the beaches, and you will have a brilliant time.
Read Also: The Perfect Malaysia Itinerary from 7 days to 3 weeks.
Perhentian Kecil or Perhentian Besar? Choosing the Best Island for you
Choosing between Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Both islands have their own unique charm, so here’s a quick rundown to help you decide:
Perhentian Kecil (Small Island): Best for Backpackers and Friends
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly, social vibe, Perhentian Kecil is the way to go. It’s popular among backpackers, solo travellers, and anyone looking to make new friends. Long Beach is the island’s main hub, with lively beach bars, fire shows, and a more energetic atmosphere.
Kecil also has great snorkelling spots and secluded beaches. Plus, it’s super easy to arrange diving trips if you want to explore marine life.
Perfect for:
- Backpackers
- Budget-conscious travellers
- Nightlife and socialising
- Easy access to activities like snorkelling and diving
Perhentian Besar (Big Island): Best for Families and Romantic Getaways
On the other hand, if you’re after a more laid-back, quiet getaway, Perhentian Besar is your spot. This island caters to couples, families, or those seeking a peaceful retreat. It has more upscale accommodations, though still affordable, and the beaches are just as stunning but far less crowded.
It’s a great place to unwind, soak in the natural beauty, and enjoy the calm waters. The diving and snorkelling are equally impressive, and the slower pace of life is perfect for relaxation.
Perfect for:
- Couples and families
- Those seeking a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
- Mid-range or luxury travellers
- Peaceful, serene beach time
Read Also: Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in Penang
Best Time to Visit the Perhentian Islands
The best time to visit the Perhentian Islands is from March to September (with early October at the latest!). During this period, the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for beach activities. The calm seas make it ideal for snorkelling, diving, and boat trips. Temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C, and you can expect mostly clear skies throughout your stay.
The monsoon season runs from November to February and brings heavy rains, rough seas, and the closure of many businesses on the islands. Transport options also become limited, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
That said, the islands start to wind down as early as October 1st. I visited during the last week of September/ first week of October and there was a noticeable shift – restaurants began closing, the fire shows stopped, and some hostels stopped accepting new guests. But on the flip side, the crowds thinned out, the beaches were quieter, and booking tours on the day was easy. It created an even more relaxed atmosphere than before if you can believe it!
If you’re looking for fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder months of March-April or September to mid-October. You’ll still enjoy great weather but with fewer tourists around.
Read Also: Best Things to Do in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
How to Get to the Perhentian Islands
To reach the Perhentian Islands, will need to make your way to Kuala Besut Jetty. Here, you can purchase a return boat ticket for around RM70, which is valid for any return trip. Boats to the islands run four times a day, typically between 8 AM and 4 PM.
For your return journey, you’ll usually need to inform the boat company the day before about your preferred return time. On the day of departure, simply show your ticket at the jetty, and the staff will direct you to the correct boat. It’s a straightforward process, and the flexibility of the return ticket gives you some freedom in planning your exit.
Just don’t lose your ticket (like I may have done…) as you will have to pay an extra RM25 fee to the boat driver.
Here are some of the easiest ways to get to Kuala Besut Jetty:
From Kuala Lumpur (KL)
You have several options for getting to the Kuala Besut Ketty from Kuala Lumpur:
Flying
The fastest option is to fly from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) or Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang) to Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Kota Bharu). It’s also pretty cheap, and you can find tickets for around RM95 (approx. £17) on Skyscanner and takes about 1 hour.
From Kota Bharu, you can take a 1-hour mini bus to Khala Besut. You can get your tickets for this on 12Go for around £5, which is the cheapest option I found.
Bus
If you prefer the budget option, overnight buses are available from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) in KL to Kuala Besut. The bus ride takes around 8-9 hours. Eesh I know, but worth it for the budget as tickets cost around £7 for the whole journey.
From Kuala Besut Bus Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the jetty.
Car: For those who want more flexibility and comfort, driving takes about 7-8 hours from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut. Plus you can visit some of the lesser travelled parts of Malaysia on the way to break up your journey.
You can park at designated lots near the jetty, which typically charge a daily fee.
Read Also: Ultimate 3 Day Itinerary for Kuala Lumpur
From Penang
Getting from Penang to the Perhentians takes a bit longer, but I know lots of people who do it so here’s how:
Flight
The fastest route is to fly from Penang International Airport to Kota Bharu (via Kuala Lumpur or direct, depending on availability). It does cost a lot more, at around RM 218 for a ticket. That is still only around £40 which isn’t a lot in European standards, but is for Southeast Asia.
After landing, take a 1-hour mini bus to Kuala Besut Jetty. Grab your ticket on 2Go for around £5.
Bus
You can also take a bus from Penang’s Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal to Kuala Besut, which takes around 7.5 hours. There are two options: the day bus (10 AM) or the night bus (9 PM). Keep in mind, that the day bus will arrive too late for the last boat to the islands, so you’ll need to stay overnight in Kuala Besut. The night bus arrives around 4:30 AM. While Kuala Besut Jetty isn’t the most comfortable place to wait, it’s manageable for a few hours if you’re looking to save on accommodation.
From Taman Negara
As far as I am aware, there is only one simple way to get from Taman Negara to the Perhentian Islands. If you want to use public transport, you’ll be looking at a pretty convoluted trip…
Private Transfer
The easiest option is booking a direct shuttle or private transfer that takes you from Taman Negara (Kuala Tahan) to Kuala Besut Jetty. Personally, this is what I went for and whilst it was interesting (think little to no communication from the driver and random vehicle changes) it was otherwise smooth sailing.
This trip takes about 5-6 hours and is the most convenient way to travel between these two popular destinations. I paid RM 120 for my private transfer and booked through my accommodation. If you’re staying in Kuala Tahan, someone working at your hostel or hotel will be able to help you organise it otherwise head to the NKS office in Taman Negara who organise the transfers.
Read also: Complete Guide to Taman Negara, Malaysia
From Langkawi
Getting from Langkawi to Kuala Besut takes a little bit of planning and is quite a long journey but it can be done:
Ferry and Bus
First, take the ferry from Langkawi to Kuala Perlis Jetty. From there, hop in a grab to Kangar Bus Terminal, Perlis. There is one bus per day to Kuala Besut leaving at 8.30 pm. It takes around 8 hours and costs around £9.
Flying
Perhaps the easiest and by far the quickest way is to fly from Langkawi International Airport to Kota Bharu. Even with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur, this takes just over 3 hours and costs around RM 196. From the airport, book a 1-hour mini bus to Kuala Besut Jetty from 2Go for around £5.
Top Things to Do on the Perhentian Islands
1. Snorkelling
Snorkelling is one of the best and easiest activities to do in the Perhentian Islands. Thanks to its stunning blue waters, it’s as easy as grabbing the gear and heading to your nearest beach. You don’t have to bring your own snorkel either as there are places on the island where you can rent one for the day for a few ringgit.
When I was on the island, I did a full-day snorkelling trip, and it was incredible. You can easily book your trip at one of the many stalls along Long Beach or through your hotel. They’ll pick you up and take you to 5-6 different snorkelling spots around Perhentian Besar. There’s also a half-day option, which I’d actually recommend because it’s more than enough time in the water without feeling too exhausted.
Top Snorkelling Spots in the Perhenthain Islands:
- Turtle Point: As the name suggests, you’re almost guaranteed to spot turtles here. The water is shallow and calm, making it great for all skill levels. It’ does get pretty busy here with tours so maybe come later in the day after all the boats have left.
- Shark Point: Don’t worry—these are harmless blacktip reef sharks! Shark Point offers an adrenaline rush while still being beginner-friendly. Again, this is a popular spot for tours but it is well worth it! I saw around 10 baby sharks and it was incredible.
- Coral Bay: Located on Perhentian Kecil, Coral Bay is perfect for seeing soft corals and smaller marine species just a short swim from the shore.
- Romantic Beach: One of my favourite beaches on the island, this lesser-known spot has much fewer crowds, offering a peaceful snorkel with stunning underwater views and a gorgeous beach to dry off on.
With a bit of luck, you might also encounter stingrays, squid, and even cuttlefish as you explore the underwater beauty of the Perhentians.
2. Diving
The Perhentian Islands are a diving paradise, attracting both beginners and seasoned divers alike. With warm, clear waters, excellent visibility, and diverse marine life, it’s one of the best (and cheapest) places to learn how to dive in Southeast Asia.
There are numerous dive shops offering courses and fun dives. I met so many people getting their open water or advanced diving licenses and everyone seemed to be loving it. One of my friends extended her stay by an extra 3 days to dive for longer. Expect to see turtles, sharks, and even the occasional manta ray or whale shark during peak seasons!
Bonus tip: Try to book your accommodation with the centre you want to dive with. Not only does this mean you can sleep in a little longer in the morning, but they often offer discount dives making your trip even cheaper!
Top Diving Centres in the Perhenthain Islands:
- Turtle Bay Divers (Perhentian Kecil)
- Cosmic Divers (Perhentian Besar)
- Quiver Dive Team (Perhentian Kecil)
- Sea Voice Divers (Perhentian Kecil)
- Octo Diver Perhentian Island (Perhentian Besar)
3. Hiking and Jungle Trekking
Whilst one way to get from beach to beach or around the island is to hop on a boat, I much prefer hiking. You’ll see much more of the island’s wildlife and jungle and beautiful views. And the best bit? 99% of the time you’re hiking to be rewarded with pristine beaches and blue waters to cool down in.
Whilst I only hiked on Perhentian Kecil, it’s nothing too strenuous, and the tallest peak will only take you a few minutes to reach. Windmill Point on Perhentian Kecil is a must for incredible views, and then you can carry on to find beautiful beaches such as Adam and Eve and Turtle Beach.
On Perhentian Besar, I’ve heard that the trails are slightly more challenging but equally rewarding. One of the popular hikes is to Teluk Keke Beach, where you’ll find clear waters and great snorkelling.
Make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, as it can get very hot on your walk. And wear a good pair of shoes as there are some questionable paths and a slight bit of jungle trekking.
Top Trails in the Perhenthain Islands:
Make sure to get MapsMe – Google Maps does not have the trails and you are unlikely to get internet in the centre of the trails. You can download MapsMe whilst you have the internet, and I found the trail routes to be pretty accurate whilst hiking around the island.
Perhentian Kecil:
- Windmill Point to Adam and Eve Beach
- Windmill Point to Turtle Beach
- Long Beach to Romantic Beach
- Coastal route from Coral Bay to Long Beach (via the Fisherman Village)
Perhentian Besar:
- Teluk Keke Trail
- Tuna Bay to Coral Bay
4. Sunsets and Sunrises
One of my favourite things to do when visiting a new island is to find the best sunrise and sunset spots. Sunrises and sunsets in the Perhentian Islands are breathtaking and well worth waking up early or staying out late to experience.
The islands’ relaxed vibe makes it easy to find a peaceful spot to watch the sky change colours. For sunrises, Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil is one of the best places, where you can see the sun slowly rising over the water.
For sunsets, head to Coral Bay on Kecil or Teluk Keke on Perhentian Besar. The golden hues reflect beautifully off the calm waters, creating a serene atmosphere to end the day. Take a last dip in the water or bring a drink to soak in the moment – it’s the perfect way to unwind.
Read Also: How to Spend a Perfect Day Day in Melaka, Malaysia
5. Beach Hopping
Beach hopping is an absolute must. Whilst the popular beaches such as Long Beach and Coral Beach are lovely and convenient, it’s the more secluded beaches that really made this one of the most memorable trips for me.
Many of the beaches are accessible by hiking trails or a short water taxi ride, making it easy to hop from one to another. And the best part? They are way less crowded and you often get them completely to yourself.
Spend your mornings snorkeling or swimming in crystal-clear waters, and your afternoons lounging in the sun with fewer crowds. Beach hopping lets you experience the islands at your own pace, from the busier beaches filled with dive shops and restaurants to quiet coves perfect for relaxing
Best Beaches in the Perhenthain Islands:
- Long Beach (Perhentian Kecil) – best for food and a lively atmosphere
- Coral Bay (Perhentian Kecil) – best for food and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than Long Beach
- Adam and Eve Beach (Perhentian Kecil) – best for seclusion and tranquillity
- Romantic Beach (Perhentian Kecil) – best for blue waters, tranquillity and snorkelling
- Turtle Beach (Perhentian Besar) – home to the island turtle sanctuary
- Teluk Keke Beach (Perhentian Besar) – best for snorkelling
6. Island Hopping
Island hopping is a fantastic way to explore beyond just one part of the Perhentian Islands. The two main islands, Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, each offer something different – so hopping between them gives you a fuller experience.
You can visit hidden beaches, snorkel in coral-filled waters, and explore quieter spots that are often only accessible by boat. The trips are usually affordable and can be arranged with local operators, including stops at nearby islands or popular snorkelling spots like Rawa Island.
You might even get the chance to see turtles, baby sharks, and vibrant marine life along the way. Whether you prefer a half-day tour or a full-day excursion, island hopping is a great way to soak in the beauty of the Perhentians and discover spots you wouldn’t reach on foot.
7. Kayaking
With calm seas, kayaking in the Perhentian Islands is an excellent way to reach secluded spots. You can explore the coastline at your own pace, soaking in the natural beauty. Renting a kayak is easy and affordable, with options available at popular beaches like Long Beach and Coral Bay.
Paddle through crystal-clear waters, discovering hidden coves, quiet beaches, and even snorkelling spots that are harder to reach on foot. Romantic Beach is a must-stop on your kayaking adventure! For something extra special, try a sunset kayaking trip—it’s a lovely way to end the day.
Where to Stay: Best Accommodation Options for Every Budget
When it comes to where to stay on Perhentian Kecil, I think Long Beach or Coral Beach are the best for budget backpackers or anyone looking for a bit of atmosphere in the evening. However, there are plenty of beautiful, more tranquil spots around the island.
On Perhentian Besar, you’ll find most accommodation on the west side of the island which is gorgeous and generally much quieter than the little island.
Best Budget Accommodations
Seahorse Diver Guest House
Seahorse Diver Guest House is one the best places to stay on Perhentian Kecil for budget travellers and backpackers. Located right on Long Beach, you have free access to their beach chairs and umbrellas (a must if you plan on staying long in the Malaysian Sun) plus a 5% discount on their dive courses and experiences.
It has a laid-back atmosphere and is right in the midst of all the action. It can be pretty loud at night with fire shows outside, but a good pair of earplugs did the trick for me! Plus, the communal balcony and hammocks make it a good vantage point to watch the show. The rooms are basic but clean, with fans to keep you cool after a day of exploring. Its social vibe makes it easy to meet other travellers.
Cost | Approx £12 per night
Amenities | Non-smoking rooms, restaurant, beachfront, discount dives, beach chairs and umbrellas, female-only dorms, private rooms, free wifi
Address | Perhentian Kecil, Longbeach Perhentian Kecil, Longbeach, 22300 Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Best Mid-range Accommodations
Tuna Bay Island Resort
Tuna Bay Island Resort on Perhentian Besar offers a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable beachfront chalets. Surrounded by the island’s jungle, the rooms are clean and air-conditioned, with private balconies overlooking the ocean or lush gardens.
You’re right by the beach, so it’s easy to snorkel or swim right from your doorstep. The resort’s on-site restaurant serves up fresh seafood and local dishes, perfect for unwinding after a day of island hopping or water activities. With its balance of comfort and natural beauty, Tuna Bay is a great mid-range choice for a peaceful island escape.
Cost | Approx £55 per night
Amenities | Free wifi, non-smoking rooms, restaurant, beachfront, family rooms, bar, good breakfast
Address | Pulau Perhentian Besar, Kuala Besut, 22200 Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Cozy Resort
Cozy Resort, located on Perhentian Besar, is a charming mid-range option with a mix of beachfront and jungle-view rooms. The rooms are simple but well-kept, featuring air-conditioning and hot showers for added comfort.
Its on-site restaurant serves tasty local and Western meals, while the resort’s location near Coral Bay makes it easy to catch the island’s famous sunsets. With its chilled atmosphere, friendly staff, and convenient location, Cozy Resort offers a comfortable stay that’s close to snorkelling spots and dive centres, perfect for those looking to explore without going too fancy.
Cost | Approx £55 per night
Amenities | Balcony views, beach access, free wifi, restaurant, laundry service, air conditioning, private bathroom
Address | Pulau Perhentian Besar, Pulau Perhentian Besar, Perhentian Islands, Malaysia, 22300
Perhentian Island Resort
Perhentian Island Resort on Besar offers a comfortable stay with a prime location on a beautiful beach. The resort has spacious rooms with air conditioning, private balconies, and views of either the garden or the sea.
There’s an on-site restaurant serving a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, and you’re close to some of the best snorkelling spots on the island, including Turtle Beach. If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe with easy access to both relaxation and adventure, this resort strikes a nice balance between comfort and natural surroundings.
Cost | Aprrox £75 per night
Amenities | Free wifi, spa and wellness centre, restaurant, beachfront, breakfast, balcony
Address | Resort Office, Pulau Perhentian Besar, Daerah Besut,22200 Kuala Besut, 50250 Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Best Luxury Resorts
BuBu Villa
BuBu Villa on Long Beach, Perhentian Kecil, offers the ultimate luxurious beachfront experience with private villas just steps from the sea. Each villa is elegantly designed with rustic charm and modern comforts, including air conditioning, open-air bathrooms, and private balconies.
The resort offers a more intimate feel, with personalized service and stunning views. Enjoy complimentary evening cocktails and delicious meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves both local and Western cuisine. If you want a mix of luxury and laid-back island vibes, BuBu Villa is the perfect getaway for the Perhentians.
Cost | Approx £500+ per night
Amenities | Free wifi, beachfront, restaurant, spa and wellness centre, bar, breakfast, family rooms, daily housekeeping, air conditioning
Address | Long Beach, 22300 Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Mimi Perhentian
Mimi Perhentian, located just off the jetty on Long Beach, combines luxury with the island’s natural beauty. The villas are spacious and stylishly designed, with all the modern amenities needed for a relaxing stay, including air conditioning and stunning sea views.
The resort has a peaceful ambience, with an outdoor, saltwater swimming pool perfect for lounging or a refreshing dip. Enjoy freshly prepared meals at the resort’s restaurant, which focuses on fresh seafood and local dishes. For those seeking a more private, tranquil experience in the Perhentians, Mimi Perhentian offers the ideal setting for an indulgent island retreat.
Cost | Approx £130+ per night
Amenities | Outdoor swimming pool, free wifi, spa and wellness centre, room service, restaurant, beachfront, private balcony, private bathroom, free toiletries
Address | Long Beach Perhentian Island, Terengganu, Malaysia,
Sample Itinerary for the Perhentian Islands (2-4 Days)
This itinerary is based on whether you are staying on Perhentian Kecil as it’s where most backpackers tend to visit (and where I stayed!). It’s super relaxed but still lets you see all the island’s highlights.
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
Morning: Arrive on Perhentian Kecil via ferry and settle into your accommodation near Long Beach or Coral Bay.
Afternoon: Start your trip with some beach time at Long Beach. Swim, relax, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Evening: Head over to Coral Bay for sunset. Enjoy dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Day 2: Snorkeling and Beach Hopping
Morning: Take a half-day snorkelling tour. Visit spots like Shark Point, Turtle Point, and Coral Garden. Keep an eye out for turtles and baby sharks!
Afternoon: If you’re not feeling too sunned out, grab a boat taxi or walk to one of the gorgeous beaches on the island. Romantic Beach is a stunning location not too long of a walk away, although it doesn’t have much shade in the afternoon.
Evening: Have a seafood dinner at one of the beachside BBQ spots and catch a fire show on Long Beach.
Day 3: Hiking and Island Exploration (Optional)
Morning: Pack lots of water and food and hike to Windmill Point. Enjoy the sun rising before heading through the jungle to Adam and Eve Beach or Turtle Beach for a swim.
Afternoon: Rent a kayak and explore the coastline. If you’re renting from Long Beach, D’Lagoon is a great spot to paddle to. Alternatively, if you’re starting from Coral Bay and didn’t get a chance to visit Romantic Beach the day before, make it your first stop, then continue on to Cenderawasih Beach for a more secluded experience.
Evening: Catch a film at the outdoor cinema at Ombak Resort and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Day 4: Relax and Departure
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning in Long Beach or Coral Bay. Grab breakfast and take in the last of the island vibes.
Afternoon: The last boat leaves the Island at 4 pm, so make sure you’re packed and ready to go at the jetty 15 minutes before.
Eating and Drinking: Where to Find the Best Food
Eating and drinking in the Perhentian Islands is a laid-back experience, with plenty of fresh, local food to enjoy. The best places to find restaurants are along Long Beach and Coral Bay on Perhentian Kecil. These areas offer beachfront dining, with plenty of BBQ options serving fresh fish, prawns, and squid, cooked to perfection right in front of you.
Keep in mind that many places aren’t listed on Google Maps, so it’s worth exploring on foot. Just walk along the beach and follow your nose to some hidden gems!
As for drinking, alcohol is limited on the islands due to local customs and religious practices, so most restaurants do not serve alcohol. However, there are a few spots where you can enjoy a cocktail or beer, you just have to keep an eye out!
What to Pack for the Perhentian Islands
Clothing
- Swimwear: Bring a couple of bikinis or swimsuits.
- Cover-Up: Perfect for walking along the beach to visit restaurants and shops.
- Quick-Dry T-Shirts and Shorts: Ideal for hiking and beach activities.
- Lightweight Dress or Sarong: Great for casual outings or dinner.
- Flip-flops/Sandals: Easy to wear for beach and casual walks.
- Hiking Shoes: Comfortable and suitable for jungle trails.
- Light Jacket or Sweater: For cooler evenings or boat rides, but not a must.
Beach Gear
- Beach Towel: Quick-drying options are best.
- Snorkelling Gear: If you have your own, bring it along.
- Waterproof Dry Bag: To protect your belongings while kayaking, at the beach or on boat rides.
- Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection.
Toiletries
- Sunscreen: Choose reef-safe options to protect marine life.
- Insect Repellent: Essential for jungle hikes – I got bitten to shreds!
- Personal Care Items: Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries.
- First Aid Kit: Include basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
Miscellaneous
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while being eco-friendly. I also found the bottled water here much more expensive than on the mainland.
- Snacks: Energy bars or dried fruits for hikes.
- Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery.
- Cash: Many places do not accept credit cards, especially small eateries and there is no ATM on the island!
FAQ: Your Perhentian Islands Travel Questions Answered
1. Is there internet access on the islands?
Yes. If you have a good data plan (I got mine with a local sim company Celcom), you will have data access on the island in popular areas such as Long Beach and Coral Bay.
However, I found it almost non-existent on the more remote beaches and jungle trekking, which is why it’s best to download Mapsme before you arrive.
Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi, however, the connection may be slow or intermittent.
2. Are there ATMs on the islands?
There are no ATMs on the islands. You must get your cash before coming to the island as lots of hostels, restaurants and activity providers will only accept cash.
3. Can I find vegetarian or vegan food?
Some restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, but they are pretty limited like a lot of Southeast Asia. You’ll find dishes like vegetable stir-fries, curries, and fresh salads, particularly in larger eateries, but the majority of food does have fish.
4. Are there any nightlife options on the islands?
Nightlife is low-key, with beach bars offering fire shows and music. For a livelier scene, Long Beach is the best spot, featuring a few bars and restaurants. But, as I said, it’s not the same party vibe as Thailand.
5. Do I need to book accommodations in advance?
It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season (June to August), as accommodations can fill up quickly.
I visited at the very end of the season (September) and could book a few days in advance, with some friends booking the day of or extending their stay as it suited them (although their accommodation options were a lot more limited and not as nice).
The Wrap-Up to Your Complete Guide to Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands
And there we have the wonder of the Perhentian Islands. Even though I was there for just a week, they managed to work their way into my mind and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about them.
I loved exploring its beaches, discovering its secrets, and relaxing in its restaurants. I hope with this guide, you’ll be able to visit the islands with ease and discover all of this yourself. No matter how long you decide to stay, I am sure your time will be magical, and you’ll come back refreshed and amazed by them as I did.
