Perhentian Islands

Boat tours of the marine park, snorkelling, diving and nature hikes

Malaysia’s wonderful and still beautifully preserved Perhentian Islands lie off the northeast coast within the confines of Terengganu National Marine Park and are easily reached by a 40-minute boat ride from Kota Bharu on the Malay Peninsula. The small islands, with no roads or mechanised transport (apart from boats), have largely unspoilt, mountainous, jungle interiors, and are surrounded by vibrant coral reefs which are home to a wealth of marine life.  Despite the ease of access the island resorts are low-key and low-rise.

Our recommendation for the Perhentian Islands is the well-appointed but low-key Perhentian Island Resort situated on Coral Bay of Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian) with a turquoise bay on one side and lush forest on the other.  Aside from their dive courses activities include snorkelling, boat tours to explore the marine park, nature hikes into the interior, visits to local conservation projects, as well, of course, just supping sundowners with your toes in the sand.

The Perhentian Island Resort is reached by speedboat from Kuala Besut, close to Kota Bharu Airport, which is in turn reached by a short domestic flight from either Penang or Kuala Lumpur international airports and so is a suitable add on for any of our Malaysia tours starting or finishing at either location. (Note flights to and from Kota Bharu and not included in our published price.)

The price of £275 is per person based on two people sharing during the March, April, May and September period.  In high season – June, July and August – the price increases slightly to £295 per person. while reductions are available for larger groups or families.  For one person wishing to do this extension, it’s £325 in low season, and £380 in the Summer. (Our suggestion and corresponding price, is for a 4 day, 3-night stay though obviously, you can stay as long as you want!