Pulau Perhentian Accommodation: Ultimate PIR Detailed Travel Guide

The disadvantages of PIR are quite evident, but I absolutely adore it! Below, I share my genuine feelings after a delightful three-night, four-day stay—no exaggeration or criticism, just pure, unfiltered experience.

Location: West side of Perhentian Besar Island, Malaysia
Full name: Perhentian Island Resort
Official booking: <http://www.perhentianislandresort.net/>
Official email: reservation@perhentianislandresort.net

[Star R] Advantages:
【Stunning Scenery】PIR boasts a long, breathtaking beach right at its doorstep. From the sea-view rooms, it’s just a one-minute walk to the sand. You can enjoy the panoramic ocean views from the balcony of your cozy wooden cabin. The sand is incredibly fine, and on sunny days, the sea shimmers like a crystal-clear jelly.

【Rich Wildlife】Nature lovers will be thrilled by the abundant wildlife. Squirrels, black monkeys, and large lizards are frequent visitors. The real stars, however, are the sea turtles that can often be spotted in the waters to the right of PIR. Many guests snorkel there specifically to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants.

【Diverse Crowd】The resort is mostly frequented by Westerners and locals, creating a relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere. There’s no pressure to dress up or worry about body image, and you won’t see many people posing for photos. The overall vibe is very polite and peaceful, especially at night.

【Delicious Buffet】While some may say the food at PIR isn’t great, I found the all-inclusive package, which includes three daily buffet meals, to be truly delicious. Each meal offers a variety of dishes, with fresh vegetables, fruits, and at least two or three different types of meat. The food was not only tasty but also easy on the stomach. No pork is served.

【Snorkeling Adventures】There’s a fantastic diving spot right at the entrance, and if you bring your own 🤿 equipment, you can dive for free. The all-inclusive package also includes six snorkeling sessions for two people. I even exchanged four tickets for a more luxurious snorkeling package to Rawa, which was an unforgettable experience.

【Exceptional Service】Upon arrival, a staff member will greet you at the small dock and take your luggage directly to your room. The front desk staff are incredibly friendly, and communication in English is smooth. However, they do not speak Chinese.

[Star R] Disadvantages:
【Basic Accommodation】The rooms are modestly sized, with no Wi-Fi, and you might encounter geckos and small flying insects at night. The sheets are not always as clean as one would hope. I strongly recommend bringing disposable bedding sets and mosquito repellent. (I must praise the Thai mosquito repellent I brought; it works wonders in various tropical settings and even during camping trips, and it has a pleasant scent.)

【Late Check-In】
There’s no need to rush to Kota Bharu early, as check-in isn’t available until 3 PM. This means you’ll have some downtime before you can settle into your room.

【Quiet Atmosphere】If you’re looking for a lively party scene, you’ll need to walk 15 minutes to the nearby Mamas area. For even more excitement, you can take a water taxi to Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil. A one-way trip costs 30 RM per person, and a round trip for two is 120 RM, which can add up.

【Limited Activities】The resort has only one beach, and the swimming pool is still under construction. There’s a jungle hiking trail behind the resort, but it’s not for the faint of heart, taking at least 30 minutes one way.

[Star R] Summary: An enchanting blend of serene ambiance, relaxation, and tranquility
This destination is perfect for unwinding, whether you’re lounging by the beach, gazing lazily at the ocean, or enjoying daily snorkeling and sunbathing. The local wildlife, including curious squirrels and playful monkeys, often venture close, sometimes within a meter, adding to the natural charm.

The balance between commercial convenience and untouched nature is seamless, creating a peaceful and undisturbed environment.