The Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian in Malay)

The Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian in Malay) lie approximately 10 nautical miles (19 km) offshore the coast of northeastern Malaysia in the state of Terengganu.

The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (”Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (”Small Perhentian”).

Perhentian Island is an ideal place for snorkeling and scuba diving. The islands have been gazetted as marine park, therefore fishing and collecting marine life is strictly prohibited. This also means that the rich diversity of aquatic life has been preserved and it is beautiful to experience.

How to Get There?

• by Air
  
  • Kuala Lumpur - Kota Bharu (approx 45 min)
    Malaysian Airlines operates daily flights to  Kuala Terengganu or Kota Bharu from KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport).
    AirAsia also has daily flights to Kuala Terengganu or Kota Bharu from LCCT in Kuala Lumpur (Low Cost Carrier Terminal).

    Kota Bharu Airport is nearer to Kuala Besut Jetty -  entry point to Perhentian Island - therefore it’s recommended to fly to Kota Bhar.

• by Land and Sea
  • Kuala Lumpur - Kuala Besut (by Bus, approx 7 hours)
    There are daily buses from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut.
  • Kuala Besut Jetty - Perhentian Island (by Ferry, approx 45 min or 1.30 hours depending on the boat)

Note: Remember that there are no ATMs or banks in Kuala Besut or on the Perhentian Islands. Visa and Mastercard are only accepted at a few resorts. The closest ATMS are in Jerteh. So have enough cash with you.

If the sea is rough you can be assured of a bumpy ride and you may even get wet. You may need to disembark in shallow water if there is no jetty at your beach, so dress (and pack) accordingly!