Pulau Perhentian - Discovering Malaysia

Travelling to Pulau Perhentian

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pulau Perhentian, a pretty good destination in Malaysia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Pulau Perhentian and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Pulau Perhentian, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Malaysia, here's everything to know about Pulau Perhentian for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pulau Perhentian

Pulau Perhentian is a beautiful island located off the coast of northeastern Malaysia, in the state of Terengganu. It is split into two main islands - Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil - which are surrounded by crystal clear waters and coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island is largely undeveloped, with limited amenities and a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and relax in a peaceful environment. The island has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C year-round, and is best visited between March and October when the seas are calm and the weather is dry.

What to visit in Pulau Perhentian

Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Pulau Perhentian and some information about each of them: 1. Perhentian Island Beaches - Pulau Perhentian is famous for its pristine, white-sand beaches. Some of the popular beaches on the island include Long Beach, Coral Bay, and Teluk Keke.
2. Snorkeling and Diving - Pulau Perhentian is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can see turtles, various species of tropical fish, and even reef sharks.
3. Tiga Ruang Island - This small island located south of Pulau Perhentian is a popular spot for snorkeling due to its crystal-clear waters, coral gardens, and an abundance of marine life.
4. Pulau Rawa - This small, uninhabited island located to the east of Pulau Perhentian, is a popular day-trip destination for visitors. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of sea life.
5. Turtle Sanctuary - The Pulau Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary is a conservation area dedicated to preserving the endangered green sea turtle. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and even witness the release of baby turtles into the sea.
6. Monkey Bay - Located on the east coast of Pulau Perhentian, Monkey Bay is known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and hiking trails.
7. Kayaking and Stand-up Paddleboarding - Visitors can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the crystal-clear waters around Pulau Perhentian or take a guided tour to explore hidden coves and beaches.
Overall, Pulau Perhentian offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring the abundant marine life through snorkeling and diving.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Malaysia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Pulau Perhentian.

When to go on holiday to Pulau Perhentian

The best time to visit Pulau Perhentian in Malaysia is from March to October. During this time, the weather is generally warm and sunny with less rainfall and calmer seas, making it perfect for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. The peak season is between July and August, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it's better to plan your stay during other months. However, it's worth taking into account that weather can be unpredictable, and there might be occasional rain showers or storms.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Pulau Perhentian

To get to Pulau Perhentian, you can take either a flight or a bus to Kuala Besut and from there take a 30-minute speedboat ride to the island. By Air: 1. To reach Kuala Besut, you need to take a flight to Kota Bharu Airport (Sultan Ismail Petra Airport).
2. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Kuala Besut Jetty which takes around an hour and costs around 70-80 MYR. 3. Once you reach Kuala Besut Jetty, you can buy tickets for the speedboat which will take you to Pulau Perhentian.
By Bus: 1. You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut which takes around 8-9 hours and costs around 45-50 MYR. 2. Once you reach the Kuala Besut Jetty, you can buy tickets for the speedboat which will take you to Pulau Perhentian.
I recommend checking the speedboat timings beforehand as the last speedboat leaves from Kuala Besut Jetty at around 5:00 pm.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pulau Perhentian, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pulau Perhentian

Here are some typical foods of Pulau Perhentian in Malaysia: 1. Nasi Lemak - A popular Malaysian dish consisting of coconut rice with various toppings like fried chicken, sambal (spicy sauce), cucumber, and peanuts.
2. Laksa - A spicy noodle soup made with coconut milk, dried shrimp, fish, and vegetables.
3. Grilled Seafood - Freshly caught seafood like fish, crabs, and prawns are grilled with a variety of spices to create a delicious meal.
4. Keropok Lekor - A local snack made from fish paste and sago flour, that is cut into fried sticks.
5. Roti Canai - A popular breakfast dish, which is a type of Indian-style flatbread that is often served with a curry sauce or dal (lentil) soup.
6. Satay - Skewered meat pieces (chicken, beef, or lamb) are marinated and grilled to produce a smoky, tender dish that is typically served with peanut sauce.
7. Cendol - A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, green jelly noodles, sweet corn, and palm sugar syrup.
8. Teh Tarik - A sweet, milky tea that is poured back and forth to create a frothy top layer.
You can find general info about typical foods in Malaysia here.

Is Pulau Perhentian an expensive destination for tourists?

Pulau Perhentian is generally considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists in Malaysia. While prices may vary depending on the type of accommodation, food, and activities chosen, most visitors find that they can enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. That being said, prices on the island can still be higher than in other parts of Malaysia due to its remote location, limited resources, and popularity among tourists. It is important to do research and compare prices before booking to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Pulau Perhentian

There are two main areas to find accommodation on Pulau Perhentian, which are: 1. Perhentian Besar: This is the larger of the two islands and offers a wider range of accommodation options including resorts, guesthouses, and beachfront huts. It is also easier to find restaurants, bars, and other amenities on this island.
2. Perhentian Kecil: This is the smaller of the two islands and is known for its backpacker scene. The accommodation options here are mostly budget-friendly hostels or beach huts. This island is also popular for snorkeling and diving.
You can check hotel prices at Pulau Perhentian here:
Booking.com

Is Pulau Perhentian a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Pulau Perhentian is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any destination, it's important to make sure you take the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe. This includes being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and being cautious when taking part in water activities. It's also a good idea to research any potential safety concerns before visiting and to follow the advice of local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Malaysia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Pulau Perhentian.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pulau Perhentian the most?

Pulau Perhentian is a popular destination for different types of travelers. It is a great place for couples and families who love beaches, snorkeling and exploring the outdoors. For couples, Pulau Perhentian is a romantic destination, offering breathtaking scenery and private beach areas. There are also several affordable accommodations that cater to couples, such as beachfront villas and private cottages.
Young people looking for fun will also enjoy Pulau Perhentian as there are many outdoor activities available, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping. Additionally, the island has a vibrant nightlife scene with beach parties and live music events.
Families with children will appreciate the calm and serene environment of Pulau Perhentian. There are many family-friendly resorts and activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and playing on the beach. Overall, Pulau Perhentian is a beautiful island destination that offers something for everyone.

How to get around Pulau Perhentian

The best way to move around Pulau Perhentian is on foot or by water taxi. Most of the island's attractions are easily accessible on foot, and there are plenty of water taxis available to take you between the beaches and nearby islands. There are no motorized vehicles on the island, so walking or taking a water taxi is your only option for transportation.

What to see around Pulau Perhentian

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Pulau Perhentian: 1. Redang Island - Known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and marine life. You can go snorkeling, diving, or just relax on the beach.
2. Tenggol Island - A less crowded island with beautiful beaches and good diving spots.
3. Kapas Island - A small island with crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches. You can also go for snorkeling and diving here.
4. Kuala Terengganu - The capital of Terengganu state. Known for its cultural attractions such as the Crystal Mosque, the Sultan Mahmud Bridge, and the Islamic Heritage Park.
5. Kenyir Lake - The largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia. You can take a boat ride, go for fishing or trekking. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Malaysia you can click here.

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