The Best Tropical Islands: Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are a small group of beautiful, coral-fringed tropical islands off the coast of northeastern Malaysia. These islands are well preserved and as close to paradise as one would get to in an area so close to "the mainland." There’s not much to do on these tropical islands outside the normal water activities except relax and treat yourself to some much needed rest and pampering.

Quick Facts About of the Perhentian Islands
Capital: —-
Population: —
Size: —-
Power Outlets: 240V 50Hz
Official Languages: Malay
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Time Zone: GMT +8
Religion: Islam
Calling Code: +60

When to go: Due to the eastern Malaysian monsoon, the season in the Perhentian islands is effectively limited to the period between mid-February and late October. The islands are closed outside this period because the weather on the Malay peninsula is too bad.

Cost and Budgeting for the Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are pretty cheap by tropical island standards. There isn’t a lot of luxury hotels here- just upscale beach houses. Rooms start at 10 Ringgit and go all the way to 200 Ringgit per day. Meals are typically around 6 Ringgit. Competition for divers is fierce and consequently diving is quite cheap, averaging out to RM60-80 per dive depending on how many dives you do and whether you bring your own gear. All dive shops arrange introductory dives and PADI training. Snorkeling is typically RM30 a day for mask, snorkel and fins.


Things to Do and See in the Perhentian Islands
Sea-kayaking- The waters around the islands provide some excellent opportunities for sea kayaking. Many of the resorts rent out equipment or you can sign up for a tour.
Scuba Diving- The Perhentian islands offer excellent diving and draw divers from far and wide. In addition to coral and fish, the Perhentians are home to sea turtles and many species of shark. Visibility is often in the 20 meter range and no wet suit is required, although you may wish to use a dive skin for protection from coral and the occasional jellyfish.
Snorkeling- All resorts rent out snorkeling gear and arrange snorkeling tours around the islands. You can get some cheaper equipment from some local restaurant. Popular snorkeling spots on Besar include Teluk Pauh (to the left of the beach in front of the PI Resort), Shark Point and Tanjung Basi. For turtles, best place is the middle of the beach in front of Perhentian Island Resort, where the sandy bottom is covered with algae.
Jungle trekking- These tropical islands are crisscrossed by small paths connecting one beach to another, but be prepared to sweat and swat off bugs if you tackle any of these. There is a big chance to see big monitor lizards and large spiders between Long Beach and Coral Bay, and if you are walking off the main trails, you are likely to spot some wild monkeys if you are lucky.
Lounge on the Beach- While many tourist islands have crowded sands, the Perhentian Islands are an exception. There is breathtaking natural landscape, and this makes these islands worth visiting again and again, Here you can experience the pure and untapped serenity of the area.
Eat Perhentian Food- There are roughly 8 or 9 restaurants scattered across the islands. They provide premium gourmet meals, as well as casual meals. Most food is imported, so it is a bit pricey, but the locals claims the seafood is fresh and locals claim it to be the best in the world.

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