No Roads. No Cars. Just Paradise.

Perhentian Islands

Malaysia's most pristine island escape — crystal water, coral reefs, and nothing but sand between your toes

Malaysia's Best-Kept Island Secret

The Perhentian Islands are not just Malaysia's best beaches — they are Malaysia's best-kept secret. Located off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia, these two islands (Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar) have no roads, no cars, and no airports. The only way to get around is by foot, boat, or swimming. The water is so clear you can see coral from the surface. The sand is so white it hurts your eyes. And the marine life is so abundant that sea turtles swim past your ankles while you're having breakfast.

Perhentian Kecil is the backpacker and social island — Long Beach is the main strip with beach bars, hostels, and dive shops. Perhentian Besar is the family and resort island — quieter, more expensive, and more relaxed. Both islands share the same reef, the same sunsets, and the same obsession with underwater life. If you come to Malaysia for beaches, the Perhentians are the reason you came.

What to Do in the Perhentians

Diving

World-Class Reefs

The Perhentians sit on the edge of the South China Sea with coral reefs that rival the Caribbean. Dive sites like Sugar Wreck, Tokong Laut (Temple of the Sea), and the Vietnamese Wreck offer encounters with reef sharks, turtles, and massive schools of fish. Open Water certification courses are affordable and popular.

Book your dive package in advance during peak season (June-August)

Snorkeling

Shallow Reefs

You don't need to dive to see the Perhentians' marine life. The reefs are shallow enough that snorkelers can see turtles, reef sharks, and clownfish from the surface. Shark Point and Turtle Bay are the most popular snorkel spots, accessible by boat from any beach.

Rent snorkel gear for RM 10–20/day ($2.50–$5 USD) from any beachfront shop

Turtle Watching

Turtle Beach & Coral Bay

Green and hawksbill sea turtles are resident around the Perhentians. Snorkelers regularly encounter turtles feeding on seagrass at Turtle Bay. At night, guided turtle walks on the beaches reveal nesting females (seasonal, April-September).

The best turtle encounters are at dawn when they come to the shallows to feed

Jungle Trekking

Across the Islands

A 45-minute jungle trek connects Long Beach to Coral Bay on Perhentian Kecil. The path is rough but rewarding, with monitor lizards, monkeys, and giant squirrels along the way. On Perhentian Besar, a longer trek leads to wind turbine viewpoint with panoramic island views.

Wear proper shoes — the path is muddy and rocky, especially after rain

Beach Hopping

By Boat or Foot

Every beach on the Perhentians is different. Long Beach is the social hub. Coral Bay is the sunset spot. Adam & Eve Beach is the secluded paradise. Romantic Beach is the hidden gem. The best way to explore is to hire a water taxi for the day and hop between beaches.

Water taxis cost RM 50–100 ($12–$25 USD) for a half-day island tour

Nightlife

Long Beach, Kecil

The Perhentians are not a party destination like Thailand's islands, but Long Beach has a laid-back beach bar scene. Bars like Ombak and Panorama host fire shows, movie nights, and beach parties. The atmosphere is social but never overwhelming.

Bring cash — there are no ATMs on the islands, and card payments are rare

Perhentian Kecil vs Perhentian Besar

Backpackers

Perhentian Kecil (Small Island)

Long Beach is the main backpacker hub with hostels, beach bars, and dive shops. Coral Bay is quieter and more romantic. The atmosphere is social, young, and budget-friendly. Best for solo travelers, backpackers, and anyone who wants to meet people.

Families & Resorts

Perhentian Besar (Big Island)

Larger island with more resorts and fewer backpackers. The beaches are wider and less crowded. The snorkeling is equally good. Best for families, couples, and anyone who wants a quieter, more resort-style experience. More expensive than Kecil.

Practical Information

How to get there: Fly to Kota Bharu (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu (TGG), then take a taxi to Kuala Besut jetty (45 mins). From Kuala Besut, a speedboat takes 30-45 minutes to the islands. Boats run 8am-4pm.
Best time to visit: March to October (dry season). The islands are CLOSED during the monsoon (November to February). June to August is peak season — book accommodation months ahead. March-April and September-October are quieter with good weather.
Getting around: No roads, no cars. Walk the jungle paths or take water taxis (RM 10-20 per trip). Everything is within walking distance on each island.
Where to stay: Long Beach on Kecil for backpackers (hostels from RM 50/night). Coral Bay for couples. Perhentian Besar for families and resorts. Book at least 2-3 months ahead for June-August.
Money: No ATMs on the islands. Bring enough cash for your entire stay. Some upscale resorts accept cards, but most places are cash-only.

Ready to Escape to Paradise?

The Perhentian Islands are Malaysia's most pristine beach destination. No roads. No cars. Just crystal water and coral reefs.

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