Pulau Perhentian, also known as the Perhentian Islands, is one of Malaysia’s most stunning tropical getaways. Imagine turquoise waters, powdery white beaches, swaying palm trees, and colorful marine life waiting just beneath the surface. Whether you’re here to snorkel with turtles, dive at coral gardens, or simply relax by the sea, the Perhentian Islands promise an unforgettable escape.
This guide covers everything you need to know in 2025 — how to get to Pulau Perhentian from Kuala Lumpur, the latest transport and boat prices, the best time to visit, things to do, and practical tips.
How to Get to Pulau Perhentian (Perhentian Islands)
To reach Pulau Perhentian, you’ll need to travel to Kuala Besut Jetty in Terengganu and then take a speedboat to the islands.
Step 1: Getting to Kuala Besut Jetty
- Flying ✈️
The fastest way is to fly to either Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu Airport (TGG). - Flight time from Kuala Lumpur: ~1 hour
- Airlines: AirAsia, Batik Air (formerly Malindo), Firefly, Malaysia Airlines
- Taxi fare: RM100–RM120 (1 hr from Kota Bharu, 1.5 hrs from Kuala Terengganu)
- Bus 🚌
Budget travelers can take an overnight bus from KL TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) to Kuala Besut. - Duration: 8–9 hours
- Price: From RM50 per person (2025)
- Drop-off: Kuala Besut Bus Terminal (10 min walk to jetty)
- Car/Taxi 🚗
- Driving from KL: ~6 hours, parking at jetty ~RM12/day
- Private taxi from KL: ~RM1,000 per car (good for groups)
Step 2: Boat to Pulau Perhentian
- Public Speedboat
- Schedule: 8:00am – 5:00pm daily
- Duration: ~40 minutes
- Price: RM80 return per person (2025 update)
- Note: Boarding is from the beach, so expect to get your feet wet.
- Private Boat
- Flexible departure times
- Price: RM400–RM450 one way (up to 12 pax)
- Best for families or groups who want direct drop-off to their resort.
💡 Don’t forget: Marine Park Conservation Fee (RM30 Malaysian / RM100 non-Malaysian) payable at Kuala Besut Jetty.
What To Expect On Perhentian Island
Perhentian Island is a tropical paradise that offers a relaxing and fun-filled vacation for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the things you can expect on Perhentian Island:
Weather And Climate
Perhentian Island has a hot and humid climate all year round, with an average temperature of 28°C. The best time to visit Perhentian Island is from March to October, when the weather is sunny and dry, and the sea is calm and clear.
The worst time to visit Perhentian Island is from November to February, when the weather is rainy and windy, and the sea is rough and murky. This is also the monsoon season, when most of the accommodation and activities on the island are closed or limited.
Time of Year | Climate | Temperature | Sea Conditions | Accommodation & Activities |
March - October | Hot and humid | Average of 28°C | Sunny and dry | Open, calm, and clear |
November - February | Rainy and windy | Varies | Rough and murky | Limited or closed due to monsoon season |
Accommodation
- Perhentian Besar (Big Island): Quieter, family-friendly, more mid-range to upscale resorts.
- Perhentian Kecil (Small Island): Lively, budget-friendly, backpacker vibe.
Price range in 2025: RM80 – RM600 per night, depending on type and season.
Food & Drinks
- Meals: RM15 – RM60 per person
- Options: Fresh seafood BBQs, Malay dishes, Western cafés, beach bars
- Halal food widely available
Transport on the Islands
- Walking (most common)
- Water taxi (RM10–RM50 depending on distance)
- Bicycle rentals on Perhentian Besar (~RM15/day)
⚠️ ATMs are unreliable. Bring sufficient cash. Limited Wi-Fi.
Things to Do in Pulau Perhentian (2025 Edition)
1. Snorkeling & Diving
Explore colorful reefs, turtles, reef sharks, and wrecks.
- Best Spots: Turtle Beach, Shark Point, Coral Garden, Sugar Wreck
- Prices: From RM50 (snorkeling trip) | RM120+ (diving trip)
2. Kayaking & Hiking
- Paddle to hidden bays like Romantic Beach
- Hike up Windmill Point for panoramic views
3. Turtle Watching & Conservation
- Turtle Beach (nesting season: Apr–Aug)
- Turtle Bay (hatching: Jun–Oct)
- Volunteer at the Turtle Project on Perhentian Besar
4. Beach Relaxation
- Long Beach (Kecil): Lively, nightlife, fire shows
- Coral Bay (Kecil): Peaceful, sunset views
- Flora Bay (Besar): Family-friendly, quiet
- Teluk Dalam (Besar): Secluded, perfect for couples
Recommended Hotels in Perhentian Island
NO.1
Explore Perhentian Island Today!
Perhentian Island is a dream destination for travelers who love nature, adventure, and relaxation. It's easy to get to Perhentian Island from Kuala Lumpur or other parts of Malaysia by flying, bus, taxi, or car to Kuala Besut jetty and taking a boat to Perhentian Island. It's also easy to get around Perhentian Island by walking, boat taxi, or bicycle.
Perhentian Island has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. You can snorkel and dive with turtles and sharks, kayak and hike with monkeys and hornbills, watch turtles nesting and hatching with conservationists, or relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea with your loved ones.
Perhentian Island is a place where you can have an unforgettable vacation that will make you want to come back again and again. If you're ready to experience this paradise for yourself, book your trip with trip.com today. You won't regret it!
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Pulau Perhentian?
March–October (dry season, calm seas). November–February is monsoon season and most resorts close.How long should I stay?
3–4 nights is ideal. Short trips (2 nights) work, but a week is better for diving or volunteering.Which island should I choose?
- Besar: Quiet, family-friendly, mid-range to luxury resorts.
- Kecil: Budget-friendly, lively, backpacker vibe.
How much cash should I bring?
ATMs are unreliable. Budget RM150–250/day (backpackers), RM300–500/day (mid-range), RM600+ (luxury).Is it family-friendly?
Yes. Perhentian Besar suits families with calm beaches; Kecil is more vibrant with nightlife.Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially June–August and school holidays. Outside peak season, walk-ins may be possible.Can I use credit cards?
Some resorts accept cards, but most shops and taxis require cash.Is it safe for solo travelers?
Yes, generally safe. Take normal precautions at night and with belongings.What should I pack?
Light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, waterproof bag, cash, and a power bank.Are there medical facilities?
A small clinic exists on Kecil; serious cases need transfer to the mainland.