Perhentian Islands Travel Guide: Best Beaches & Snorkeling

Introduction

We consider the Perhentian Islands to be the crown jewel of Teregganu coast. Located roughly 21km from the mainland, these islands are part of a protected Marine Park, which explains why the underwater life here remains so spectacular.

The islands are split into two distinct personalities. Perhentian Kecil (Small Island) is the heartbeat of the area, famous for its social vibe, budget-friendly chalets, and the iconic Long Beach. On the other hand, Perhentian Besar (Big Island) offers a more relaxed, upscale experience with quieter beaches and larger resorts nestled against the jungle.

There are no roads, cars, or motorbikes here; your only way around is by walking through jungle trails or hopping onto a water taxi. It’s a place where life slows down to the rhythm of the waves.

What to See and Do at Perhentian Islands

Perhentian Kecil (Small Island)

This is the livelier of the two islands, catering to backpackers and younger travelers. The main hub is Long Beach, known for its white sand, evening fire shows, and a wide array of cafes. If you want a quieter side of Kecil, head over to Coral Bay for stunning sunsets or hike to the "Windmill" viewpoint for a panoramic look at the archipelago.

Perhentian Besar (Big Island)

Besar is the choice for families, honeymooners, or those seeking a peaceful retreat. The beaches here are generally wider and less crowded than on Kecil. Most resorts are tucked away in private coves, offering a "castaway" feel while still providing modern comforts.

Snorkeling Points (Shark Point & Turtle Point)

You don't need to be a diver to see the best of the Perhentians. At Shark Point, you can regularly spot blacktip reef sharks gliding through the shallows. Turtle Point is the go-to spot for swimming with green sea turtles as they graze on the seagrass.

Fees

Snorkeling boat trips typically cost between RM40–RM60 per person depending on the route.

Long Beach & Romantic Beach

Long Beach is the social center of the islands, perfect for sunbathing and nightlife. For something more secluded, we recommend taking a water taxi to Romantic Beach on Perhentian Kecil, which offers some of the clearest water and best shore-snorkeling in the area.

Getting there and around

Getting to the Perhentian Islands requires a bit of planning as there is no direct air or land access to the islands themselves.

Step 1: Reach the Jetty

All boats to the islands depart from Kuala Besut Jetty in Terengganu.

By Air: The nearest airport is Kota Bharu (KBR) in Kelantan. From there, it is a 1-hour taxi or Grab ride to Kuala Besut. Alternatively, you can fly into Kuala Terengganu (TGG) in Terengganu, though the drive to the jetty is longer at approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Bus: Direct overnight buses run from Kuala Lumpur (TBS) to Kuala Besut, arriving early in the morning just in time for the first boats.

Step 2: The Boat Transfer

Schedule: Speedboats typically operate between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Duration: The journey takes about 30–45 minutes depending on sea conditions.
Pro-tip: When buying your ticket, tell the operator which resort you are staying at; the boat will drop you off directly at your resort's jetty or beach.

Moving Around the Islands

Water Taxis: Since there are no roads, water taxis are the primary mode of transport. Prices are standardized but increase after dark. Expect to pay between RM10 to RM25 for trips between beaches on the same island, and slightly more for inter-island transfers.
Jungle Trekking: There are several well-marked trails, such as the path connecting Long Beach to Coral Bay on Perhentian Kecil, which takes about 15 minutes to walk.

Hours and fees

Hours

The islands are closed to tourists during the monsoon season, typically from November to February.

Fees

Marine Park fee is RM30 for foreigners and RM5 for Malaysians. This is a mandatory conservation fee payable at the Kuala Besut Jetty office before you board. For boat transfer, a standard return speedboat ticket costs approximately RM70–RM80.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit?

The islands are effectively closed during the monsoon season from November to February. We recommend visiting between March and October for the best weather and calmest seas.

Are there ATMs on the islands?

No. There are no ATMs on either island. While larger resorts accept credit cards, you must bring enough cash for water taxis, small meals, and snorkeling trips.