Welcome to the beautiful Perhentian Islands in Malaysia, where sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters await you. Nestled in the state of Terengganu, these islands comprise of Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian), each offering a unique experience for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway or a backpacker’s paradise, the Perhentian Islands have something for everyone.
Island Hopping and Exploration
One of the best things about the Perhentian Islands is the ease of travel between the two main isles. You can easily hop from Perhentian Besar to Perhentian Kecil, allowing you to explore both islands at your leisure before deciding where to base yourself. This flexibility makes it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Top Activities to Do on the Perhentian Islands
While the Perhentian Islands may not boast traditional tourist attractions like museums or galleries, the real charm lies in its natural beauty and abundance of underwater activities. Here are the 25 best things to do during your visit:
Breakfast at Panorama Divers Buffet: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Panorama Divers Buffet on Perhentian Kecil, offering a variety of international and Asian dishes to fuel your adventures.
Scuba Diving: Dive into the amazing underwater world of the Perhentian Islands, home to colorful coral reefs, exotic fish, turtles, and even sharks. It’s a must-do activity for diving enthusiasts.
Dining at Santai Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious meal at Santai Restaurant, known for its cold beers, cocktails, and mouthwatering Western dishes like burgers and pizza.
Snorkeling: Explore the underwater wonders of the Perhentian Islands through snorkeling spots like Teluk Pauh, Shark Point, and Tanjung Basi. You can also book snorkeling trips for a guided experience.
Camping at Teluk KK: Experience a unique stay under the stars at the campground in Teluk KK on Perhentian Besar, offering a rustic and nature-filled accommodation option.
Jungle Trekking: Immerse yourself in the lush rainforests of the islands with a jungle trek, where you can encounter local flora and fauna like monitor lizards and monkeys.
Beach Lounging at Long Beach: Unwind and relax on the famous Long Beach of Perhentian Besar, where you can rent a hammock or sun lounger for the ultimate beach experience.
Sunset Watching at Coral Bay: Witness breathtaking sunsets at Coral Bay on Perhentian Kecil, offering secluded beach spots with stunning views of the natural light show.
Turtle Watching at Turtle Beach: Visit Turtle Beach to observe the nesting and hatching of turtles, a heartwarming experience that showcases the island’s rich marine life.
Dinner at World Cafe: Indulge in a culinary adventure at World Cafe, known for its open-air setting and delicious seafood barbecue highlighting the daily catch.
Sunbathing at Adam & Eve Beach: Relax on the tranquil Adam & Eve Beach on Perhentian Kecil, a quiet spot perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Exploring the Fishing Village: Discover the local lifestyle at the Fishing Village on Perhentian Kecil, where you can observe fishermen in action and learn about their daily routines.
Fire Show at Bubu Long Beach: Catch a mesmerizing fire and hula dance performance at Bubu Long Beach, a unique nighttime attraction on Perhentian Kecil.
Volunteering at Turtle Sanctuary: Contribute to marine conservation efforts by volunteering at the Turtle Sanctuary on the Perhentian Islands, helping protect nesting areas and turtle populations.
Sea Kayaking: Embark on a thrilling sea kayaking adventure around the islands, where you can explore the scenic coastlines and crystal-clear waters.
Seafood Dining on Perhentian Kecil: Indulge in fresh seafood dinners on Perhentian Kecil, with Coral Bay being a popular dining destination offering seaside views.
Bubbles Dive Resort: Dive into underwater adventures at Bubbles Dive Resort, known for its PADI certification courses and commitment to marine conservation projects.
Touring the Terengganu Marine Park: Explore the neighboring islands of the Terengganu Marine Park, including Lima, Ekor Tebu, Pinang, and Pulau Tenggol, for a day of island hopping and seclusion.
Diving with Sharks at Turtle Bay Divers: Experience diving with whale sharks and octopus at Turtle Bay Divers, a prime spot for encountering these fascinating marine creatures.
Trying Scuba Walking: Opt for a scuba walking experience to explore the ocean floor without diving, providing a unique perspective on underwater life.
Swimming at PIR Beach: Visit PIR Beach on Perhentian Besar for a serene beach day with clear waters, perfect for swimming and turtle spotting.
Drinks at Tupai Beach Bar: Enjoy a refreshing drink at Tupai Beach Bar, a laid-back spot with live music and a relaxing atmosphere for sunset drinks.
Movie Nights: Wind down your evenings with movie nights at Ombak Resort or other venues on the islands, offering bean bags, snacks, and entertainment under the stars.
Shopping for Arts and Crafts: Browse through arts and crafts at Chillout Cafe and Craft on Perhentian Kecil, where you can find unique souvenirs and beachwear items.
Staying in a Tree House: Experience a unique stay in a treehouse accommodation on the islands, offering a charming and nature-filled lodging option for your vacation.
With a wide range of activities and experiences, the Perhentian Islands promise a memorable getaway filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural wonders. Whether you’re a beach lover, an underwater enthusiast, or a nature admirer, these islands have something special in store for you. Don’t miss out on exploring this tropical paradise in Malaysia!