Discover Perhentian Island, Malaysia: Your Ultimate Dream Island Escape Vacation
👋 If you’re dreaming of a hidden paradise with crystal-clear blue seas, breathtaking skies, and a vibrant underwater world, Pulau Perhentian in Malaysia is an absolute must-visit!
🚢 [How to Get There]
Nestled off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula, Pulau Perhentian is a gem waiting to be discovered. Start your journey by flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bharu (KBR), a short 1-hour flight. From there, hop on a bus or taxi for a scenic 1 hour and 10-minute ride to the Kuala Besut jetty.
A taxi or Grab will set you back around 80 MYR. Finally, board a speedboat or ferry to Pulau Perhentian, and be sure to inform the boat captain of your resort booking. The exhilarating 40-minute journey costs about 70 MYR round trip.
❗️Important: The last boat from the jetty to the island departs at 4 PM.
Plan your arrival time carefully. Missing it means hiring a private speedboat, which can cost upwards of 500 MYR. Trust me, you don’t want to miss that last boat! 😭
🏠 [Accommodation Recommendations]
Pulau Perhentian comprises two islands: the larger, serene one and the smaller, lively one. Both offer a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly inns. I recently stayed at Coral View Resort on the larger island, and it was a delightful experience. The resort is right on the beach, providing a tranquil atmosphere. The food at the resort is also a highlight, with mouthwatering stir-fried noodles and fresh seafood.
🏊♀️ [Island Activities]
Pulau Perhentian is a photographer’s dream, with its pristine waters, lush greenery, and pristine white beaches.
1⃣ Snorkeling
I highly recommend the half-day snorkeling tours, perfect for beginners. For just 50-60 MYR, you can visit 4-5 snorkeling spots, where you’ll see stunning corals, graceful sea turtles, curious sharks, and a myriad of colorful fish.
The boat operators provide life jackets and snorkeling gear, but feel free to bring your own. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
2⃣ Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is a bit more challenging for beginners. As a non-swimmer, I signed up for a scuba diving experience and learned to clear my mask in shallow water.
However, I wasn’t entirely comfortable, so I didn’t venture into deeper waters. Always prioritize safety.
3⃣ Hiking
On the smaller island, there’s a charming, abandoned seaside boardwalk perfect for hiking. The views are simply stunning, and it’s a fantastic spot for capturing memorable photos. The hike up the mountain takes about 30 minutes, and the trail is quite primitive, so wear comfortable shoes.
The boardwalk at the top is in a state of disrepair and not recommended for walking too far. It’s also wise to avoid ascending too late, as descending in the dark can be dangerous.
💼 [Things to Note]
– The island’s resources are limited, so it’s best to prepare your daily necessities in advance.
– Be mindful of the environment and avoid damaging the coral reefs and marine life.
– Take proper sun protection measures to avoid sunburn from prolonged exposure to the sun.
Pulau Perhentian is a serene haven where you can hit the pause button on life and savor every moment. Here, you can leave behind the stresses of daily life, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, and rediscover a sense of inner peace. If the idea of pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters has already set your heart racing, it’s time to start planning your escape to Pulau Perhentian! 🌴🌊
