A pair of jungle-covered islands off Malaysia's east coast, with white-sand beaches and clear water full of marine life.
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The Perhentian Islands, meaning Stopover Islands, are a pair of small, jungle-covered islands off the coast of Terengganu in Malaysia, long known for their clear turquoise water and white-sand beaches. The two islands, Perhentian Besar (Big) and Perhentian Kecil (Small), have quite different characters, with Besar generally quieter and more resort-focused, and Kecil busier and more budget-friendly, popular with backpackers.
The surrounding waters are some of the best in Malaysia for snorkelling and diving, with coral reefs, turtles and reef sharks commonly spotted close to shore. With no roads connecting most of the beaches, getting around is mostly by boat or short jungle trail, keeping the islands refreshingly undeveloped compared to many other beach destinations in the region.
10 Days / 09 Nights
The islands suit couples, groups, divers and nature lovers, for a stay of 2 to 4 days. The islands are closed to tourism during the monsoon season, roughly November to February, when rough seas make boat travel unsafe.
Facilities on the islands are more basic than on the mainland, and there is no mobile network in some areas, so it's worth bringing cash, any essentials, and being prepared for a simpler island pace of life.
Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to Kuala Lumpur, then connect to a domestic flight to Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu. Check current routes and book early.
Take a taxi or transfer to the Kuala Besut jetty on the mainland, usually about 1 to 2 hours.
Take a speedboat to Perhentian Besar or Perhentian Kecil, a crossing of about 30 to 40 minutes.
Settle into your beach resort or guesthouse, then explore the beaches and snorkelling spots by boat or on foot.
May to September
The calmest seas and clearest water, the best time for snorkelling and diving.
March to April and October
Generally good conditions, with slightly more variable weather.
November to February
Rough seas close most resorts and boat services to the islands.
Book ahead for peak months
Accommodation can fill up quickly in the busiest mid-year months.
Travel smart
A few useful things to know before you go there.
The islands are effectively closed during the monsoon, roughly November to February.
Perhentian Besar is quieter, while Perhentian Kecil is livelier and more budget-friendly.
Card payment options are limited on the islands.
Helps protect the coral reefs you'll be snorkelling and diving around.
Rooms can fill up quickly in peak season.
Medical facilities on the islands are limited.
Avoid touching coral or marine animals while snorkelling or diving.
Mobile network can be patchy or absent in parts of the islands.
Location
Explore Perhentian Islands in Malaysia and get directions easily.
Malaysia
They are a pair of jungle-covered islands off Malaysia's east coast, known for white-sand beaches and clear water for snorkelling and diving.
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