No ATMs on Perhentian Islands! Withdraw cash at Kuala Besut Jetty before boarding (5 ATMs: 3 Euronet, BSN, Agrobank). On-island payments: cash preferred, QR Pay accepted at some places, cards at selected resorts. Plan your cash wisely.
Planning a trip to Are There ATMs on Perhentian Islands? 2026 Cash & Payment Guide? Here is the latest travel information you need right now. The standard adult fare for this route is typically RM 40.00 one-way and RM 80.00 for a return ticket. For children (aged 3-12), it is RM 25.00 one-way.
One of the most frequently asked questions by first-time visitors: Are there ATMs on Perhentian Islands?
The short answer is NO - there are no ATMs on either Perhentian Besar or Perhentian Kecil. This guide explains exactly where to get cash, what payment methods work on the island, and how much cash to bring.
Where to Withdraw Cash Before Arriving:
All ATMs are located in Kuala Besut town, the departure point for boats to Perhentian. There are 5 ATMs near the jetty:
Euronet ATMs (3 machines): 1. Right at the Kuala Besut Jetty area 2. 7-Eleven Kuala Besut 3. Kuala Besut Bus Station
Local Bank ATMs (2 machines): 4. Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) - Kuala Besut 5. Agrobank - Kuala Besut
We recommend withdrawing enough cash in Kuala Besut before your boat departs. Once you're on the islands, there are no banking facilities.
Payment Methods on Perhentian Islands:
Cash (MYR) is the most widely accepted payment method. Most small restaurants, souvenir shops, and budget accommodations operate on a cash-only basis.
QR Pay (DuitNow / Maybank QR) is accepted at many mid-range restaurants and some resorts. If you have a Malaysian bank app, this is a good backup.
Credit/Debit Cards are accepted at larger resorts and some higher-end restaurants, but don't rely on card payments alone. Many places charge a 2-3% surcharge for card payments.
How Much Cash to Bring Per Day: - Budget traveler: RM100-150/day - Mid-range: RM200-300/day - All-inclusive resort: RM100/day (most costs included)
Additional Costs to Account For: - Marine Park Conservation Fee: RM30 for foreigners, RM5 for Malaysians (cash only at jetty) - Snorkeling trips: RM40-60 per person (cash) - Food & drinks: RM15-40 per meal (cash or QR) - Souvenirs: RM20-100 (cash)
Pro Tips: - Break your cash into smaller denominations (RM1, RM5, RM10 notes) for easier transactions - Keep some cash separate for your return boat ticket if you haven't pre-booked - The nearest ATM after leaving Kuala Besut is back on the mainland - plan accordingly - Most resorts in Perhentian Besar are more likely to accept cards than those on Perhentian Kecil
No, there are no ATMs on either Perhentian Besar or Perhentian Kecil. The nearest ATMs are in Kuala Besut, the departure point. Withdraw cash there before your boat leaves.
Some larger resorts and higher-end restaurants accept credit cards, but with a 2-3% surcharge. Small shops, food stalls, and budget accommodations are cash-only. Always bring enough cash as backup.
Yes, many mid-range restaurants and some resorts accept QR Pay through DuitNow or Maybank QR. This is a good option if you have a Malaysian bank account, but cash is still king.
The Euronet ATMs at Kuala Besut Jetty area are the most convenient. There is also a 7-Eleven with an ATM and a bus station ATM nearby. For lower fees, use BSN or Agrobank ATMs.
For the ultimate nature lovers. Find out where you can camp, rent equipment, and the rules for camping on the islands.
Book a speedboat from Kuala Besut to Moonlight Chalet at Coral Bay, Perhentian Kecil. Popular budget stay with stunning sunset views. From RM40.
Short on time? Join a full day trip to Perhentian Island from Kota Bharu. Includes land transfer, boat ride, and snorkeling points.
Direct boat transfer to Arwana Perhentian Eco Resort & Beach Chalet on Perhentian Besar. 45-min speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty. One-way from RM40. Book online.