Introduction to Perhentian Island

Perhentian Island, located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Islands under the district Besut this is a destination that promises an unforgettable tropical vacation experience. Consisting of two main islands, Small Stop and Big Stop, both offer white sandy beaches, crystal clear sea water, and mesmerizing marine life.

This island is a cluster located around 10 nautical miles (19 km) from the northeast coast of the state of Terengganu, Malaysia, and around 40 nautical miles (64 km) south of the border Thailand. It is one of the most visited destinations in Malaysia and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Access to Perhentian Island

To get to Perhentian Island, tourists usually take a boat from Kuala Besut Jetty become the center of attention for tourists because it is the starting point of the trip to this island. Kuala Besut Jetty which is located approx 45 minutes drive from Kota Bharu city or approximately one and a half hours from Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kota Bharu.

The beauty of Perhentian Island

• White Sandy Beach: Perhentian Island is famous for its white and fine sandy beaches. Beaches such as Long Beach and Coral Bay are among the most popular for sunbathing and swimming.
• Clear Sea Water: The sea water around the island is very clear, allowing tourists to clearly see coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Coral Reef: The island offers an incredible snorkeling and diving experience with beautiful coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish. Places such as Perhentian Island Marine Park are hotspots for this activity.
• Sea Life: In addition to colorful fish, tourists also have the opportunity to see turtles, stingrays, and various other marine species. Turtle spawning season is one of the unique attractions here.
• Tropical Forest: This island area is also surrounded by tropical forests rich in flora and fauna. There are several trekking routes that take tourists through this forest, providing an experience close to nature.
• Water Activities: In addition to snorkeling and diving, tourists can enjoy other activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing.
• Various Accommodations: The island offers a wide range of accommodation from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts, making it suitable for all types of travellers.
• Sunset View: The view of the sunset in this island area is amazing and is a moment not to be missed by tourists.

Diving and Snorkeling Activities

These islands are not only ideal places to relax in the sun, but also a paradise for divers and snorkelers. With lush coral reefs and various species of tropical fish, turtles, and even sharks, the island promises an incredible diving experience.

Accommodation Options

Perhentian Kecil is a paradise for backpackers, with a variety of budget accommodation options and cheap food. Meanwhile, Perhentian Besar is more suitable for families or couples looking for accommodation from mid-range to luxury. Additionally, try to book accommodation in the off-peak season (low season) when the price is lower. Peak season is usually from March to August, so try to plan your trip outside of this period.

History of Perhentian Island

The name "Perhentian" comes from a Malay word meaning "stopping place". The island was a stopover for traders, fishermen, and sailors in the past who were on their way along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

In the early 19th century, Perhentian Island was used as a refuge by pirates from the east coast of Sumatra. They use this island as a base to attack trading ships that pass through the waters.

During the British colonial period, the island became more peaceful and began to be used as a fishing center by the local population. The island became famous among local fishermen because of its rich marine resources.

Best Time to Visit

The best season to visit the island is from mid-March to mid-November, with July and August being the peak tourist season. For those who want to avoid the crowds, April, May, or June are ideal times to visit. Avoid visiting the island during the monsoon season (November to February) as most resorts and chalets are closed, and water activities are not recommended due to rough seas.

Nature Conservation

The island emphasizes the preservation of nature. There are coral reef and turtle conservation projects, as well as campaigns to clean beaches of plastic litter and pollution. This effort aims to ensure that the beauty of nature is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Conclusion

Perhentian Island is the perfect destination for a tropical vacation. In addition, the choice between Perhentian Kecil Island and Perhentian Besar Island depending on the type of experience you are looking for. If you are a backpacker or budget traveler looking for a lively atmosphere, Pulau Perhentian Kecil is the right choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for peace, comfort, and a more luxurious experience, Pulau Perhentian Besar is a more suitable choice.