Perhentian Islands

These 2 islands offer something for every type of traveller. High-end resorts or backpackers, all are welcome here in crystal clear warm waters.

Paradise Islands Besar & Kecil

Perhentian Islands

Visit Pulau Besar and Pulau Kecil in this beautiful park with crystal clear waters.

Check out the main page for Perhentian here!

Where are the Perhentian Islands?

The Perhentian Islands are situated on the North-eastern coast of Malaya (mainland Malaysia).

The islands are named Besar & Kecil (big and small) and leaving the port/ferry at Besut to the Perhentian Islands you need to choose which island to be dropped off.

Why go there?

They made me choose when entering the docks to which Island I would want to go. Knowing absolutely nothing about either of them I just said Besar. I ended up on one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. The fish are not shy but actually curious to meet me.

The island is only inhabited along a portion of the coast which makes it feel tiny and personal. There are a few Diving schools situated along the beach all offering the same prices for a day of diving.

Kecil is the smaller of the two islands, however not less beautiful. The accommodation is a bit more simple and the nightlife more extensive. Hostels and low-budget accommodation is found here and diving school operates along the coast as well.

A lot of easy dives, wreck dives, cheap, and expensive accommodation in an absolutely stunning setting make this an excellent Diving scene.

When to go?

Diving on the Perenthian is possible between April - October. The park is closed from November - March. The somewhat 20 dive sites are varied, easy to dive usually, and friendly and warm. The temperature varies between 26 and 29 degrees and visibility is mostly very good.

The peak season between July and August can be busy and therefore expensive so I would recommend booking in advance.

Who & How to go there?

To get to Pulau Besar and/or Kecil you will have to arrange a ferry from Besut Jetty. The ferry takes around 40 minutes and you can get a 2 way trip for as much as $21,00 per person.

Accommodation varies:

Pulau Besar is mid to high-end with Prices varying from $45 - $300 with a few cheaper exceptions also available if booked in advance.

Pulau Kecil is mostly more low-budget with prices usually around $20-$40, however more inland you can also find high-end accommodation.

Be aware as of the time of writing, there are no ATMs on the islands although most hotels accept credit cards it's a good idea to bring sufficient cash.