Welcome to Pulau Perhentian, Malaysia’s ultimate paradise! Are you ready for crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and tropical island vibes? Whether you’re a budget traveler or looking for luxury, this guide covers everything you need to know—from how to get there to where to stay, what to eat, and the best activities. Let’s dive in! 🌴✨
🚢 Getting to Pulau Perhentian
Pulau Perhentian is accessible via Kuala Besut Jetty, and there are multiple ways to reach it from Kuala Lumpur. Here are your best options:
🚌 By Bus
- Take a bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) to Kuala Besut Jetty.
- Cost: MYR 40-45 (one-way)
- Duration: 6-8 hours
- Tip: Buy your ticket online for convenience!
🚗 Driving
- The drive from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut is 450 km.
- Fuel: Around MYR 75
- Tolls: About MYR 60
- Car rental: MYR 150/day (basic) to MYR 800/day (luxury)
- Jetty parking: MYR 10/day
✈️ By Plane
- Fly from Kuala Lumpur (KLIA/KLIA2) to Kota Bharu Airport.
- Flight cost: From MYR 125 (one-way)
- Flight duration: 1 hour
- Taxi to Jetty: MYR 70 (~1 hour)
Once at Kuala Besut, take a 45-minute ferry to Pulau Perhentian Kecil (small island) or Pulau Perhentian Besar (big island).
- Ferry ticket: MYR 17 (round-trip)
- Marine park fee: MYR 5 (locals) / MYR 30 (foreigners)
🏝 Where to Stay in Pulau Perhentian: Our Top Picks
Pulau Perhentian, Malaysia’s tropical paradise, offers accommodation options for every type of traveler—from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront bungalow, a cozy eco-lodge, or a high-end resort, Perhentian has something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the best places to stay!
🏕 Budget Travelers (Backpackers & Campers)
- Camping on the beach: MYR 50/night
📍 Recommendation: Rainforest Camping Perhentian – Sleep under the stars, just steps from the ocean! - Hostels & Guesthouses: From MYR 60/night
📍 Recommendation: Lemon Grass Guesthouse – A cozy, social hostel for backpackers.
🏠 Mid-Range Hotels & Guesthouses
- Comfortable stays from MYR 90/night (shared bathroom) or MYR 200/night (private bathroom)
📍 Recommendation: Ombak Resort Perhentian – A perfect beachfront escape with modern amenities.
🏝 Luxury Resorts & Villas
- Luxury stays start at MYR 300/night
📍 Recommendation: Perhentian Island Resort – A beachfront haven with diving and spa options. - Premium resorts (MYR 700-1,500/night)
📍 Recommendation: Bubu Villa – Exclusive beachfront villas, perfect for couples and honeymooners.
🍽 Where to Eat: Culinary Delights in Pulau Perhentian
Pulau Perhentian is not just about stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters—it’s also a paradise for food lovers! Whether you’re craving local Malaysian delights or international flavors, the island has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best dining spots you shouldn’t miss:
☀️ Breakfast Spots
📍 Adina Cafe – Try their breakfast set (MYR 27 for two) with fresh fruits, bread, and coffee.
🍔 Lunch Recommendations
📍 Che Out Café – Beachfront dining with their famous FFR burger (MYR 15) and amazing coffee!
🦐 Dinner Hotspots
📍 Tiara Cafe, ABC Cafe & BBQ D Cafe – Try the Adia sauce with fresh seafood and grilled meats.
🌊 Must-Do Activities in Pulau Perhentian
Pulau Perhentian is an absolute dream destination, and we can’t wait to share our favorite experiences with you! Whether we’re diving into the crystal-clear waters, hiking through the lush jungle, or just lounging on a stunning beach, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re planning a trip, here are the top things we think you shouldn’t miss in Pulau Perhentian!
🤿 Snorkeling Adventures
- Tour Cost: MYR 50-90
- Top spots: Shark Point, Turtle Bay & Coral Garden
🚣 Kayaking: Paddle at Your Own Pace
- Rental Cost: MYR 20-100
- Explore hidden beaches and crystal-clear lagoons.
⛰ Hiking to Coral Bay & The Windmill
- Coral Bay Hike: 30 minutes
- Windmill Hike: 30-45 minutes (steep terrain – bring water & good shoes!)
🐠 Scuba Diving: Explore the Deep Blue
- 📍 Spice Divers Perhentian – The island’s most professional and experienced dive center.
- Tip: Even beginners will feel comfortable with their expert guidance!
Why we Love it?
We absolutely love the Perhentian Islands because they have everything we could ask for in a tropical getaway—crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, incredible marine life, and a laid-back island vibe. Whether we’re snorkeling with sea turtles, hiking through lush jungles, or just relaxing by the beach with a coconut in hand, every moment here feels like paradise. Plus, the breathtaking sunsets and friendly island atmosphere make it a place we always want to come back to!
🏖 Conclusion
Pulau Perhentian is the perfect island getaway, catering to every type of traveler. Whether you’re snorkeling, diving, hiking, or just chilling on the beach, this paradise has it all.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Let us know in the comments which adventure you’re most excited for! 🌊✨
- “Unbelievable Stay! We Slept in a Real Airplane at Twin Jet Resort Malaysia!”
- Penang travel guide: A Foodie’s Journey Through Coffee, Culture & Hidden Gems
- Talula Hill Farm Resort: Our Unforgettable Escape into Nature
- Malaysian Islands: 5 Unforgettable Tropical Paradises You Must Visit!
- “Pulau Perhentian Travel Guide: Your Ultimate Tropical Paradise Getaway”
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
[…] adventure hunting for the best Malaysian Islands began with the Perhentian Islands, a haven for crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Located off the coast of Terengganu, the […]