Perhentian consist of two islands, namely Pulau Perhentian Besar (Large Perhentian Island) and Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island). They are situated 21 km off coast of Terengganu, on the South China Sea. Perhentian Islands are one of the most visited places in Malaysia and attract thousands of tourists from all over the world every year.
The Malay name Perhentian is translated as “place to stop”. It was a place for Malaysia and Thailand traders stop on their traveling route by sea. It was also a shelter for fishermen during storm or choppy water. Today, the islands are a perfect place for you to stop and enjoy, one of the stunning islands holidays in the world.
Where to stay
Perhentian Besar is your perfect choice if you want a tranquility island holidays with your loved one or family. Meanwhile Perhentian Kecil is more popular among backpackers, because Perhentian Kecil has more choices of budget accommodations. However, there are a few very good quality accommodations on Perhentian Kecil such as Bubu Villa, Bubu Resort and Alunan Boutique.
When to go
The islands are open from February to October each year. During monsoon season from, November to January the islands are closed for tourists. Your package price or room fluctuates based on which month of your trip. In general, they are categorized as follows:
- Low Season – February, March and October
- Peak Season – April, May, June & September
- Super Peak – July & August
How to get there
Perhentian Islands are connected to the mainland via Kuala Besut Jetty. This is the only gateway to Perhentian Islands. Kuala Besut is connected by transportation system such as air, bus, train, taxi, and shuttle services. You can plan your transportation based on your traveling route, time and budget.
Things to do
Relaxing on the stunning clean white sandy beach under the sun at the same time do not miss snorkeling! Discover the underneath of the crystal clear waters of the amazing marine life and creatures, colorful fishes and corals. In fact, you can find “Nemo”, the popular characteristic in the movie of Finding Nemo (2003), at the beachfront of your resort.
If you want to explore more and enjoy the magnificent underwater views, scuba diving is the best option. You might meet a dazzling array of fish and marine mammals. Encountering the bigger fish and learn the amazing biodiversity present in our oceans. There are a few PADI Centers for you like to attend the divers course, which run by qualified PADI instructors.
Weather in Perhentian Islands
Perhentian is a tropical island with air temperature in the of range 24 to 34 degree celsius, and water temperatures from 25 to 30 degree celsius throughout the whole year. Monsoon season, from November to January, is wet a season and most of the resorts are closed for tourists.
The best weather is in between April and September because of the warm weather and limited rainfall. It is advisable for you to constantly wear sunscreen, appropriate clothing and avoid direct sunlight for a long period of time because the UV index is high throughout the year.
Sustainable tourism program
The islands are well preserved. Only minimum developments, just to cater tourists’ basic facilities are allowed. There is no pavement road to connect you from a place to another on the islands. Your main transportation is by boat or walking via trails crossing the jungle. Only a small inhabitant traditional fishermen village is located in Pulau Perhentian Kecil.