Just landed in Kuala Lumpur? Here's exactly how to reach the islands — step by step, no guesswork needed.
Perhentian Island sits on Malaysia's northeast coast — roughly 7 to 9 hours from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The journey sounds long, but it's one of the most well-worn routes in Southeast Asian backpacker travel. Thousands of international tourists do it every season, and the path is clear.
There is only one way onto the island: a speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty in Terengganu. Everything you do before that — flying, bussing, driving — is just getting yourself to that jetty. From there, it's 45 minutes of open sea and you're in paradise.
Before you travel:
Book your boat ticket online in advance. Seats fill up during peak season (June–August) and on Malaysian public holidays. Walk-up tickets are usually available, but why take the risk after a 7-hour journey?
Both routes end at the same place: Kuala Besut Jetty, where you board the speedboat.
KLIA → KBR airport → taxi → Kuala Besut Jetty
The fastest and most comfortable option. Fly from KLIA to Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) in Kota Bharu — the flight is just 55 minutes. From KBR, grab a taxi or booked van transfer to Kuala Besut Jetty.
KLIA → TBS KL → overnight bus → Kuala Besut Jetty
The budget traveller's classic. Take the KLIA Ekspres train to KL Sentral, then move to TBS. Overnight buses depart TBS between 9PM and 11PM, arriving at Kuala Besut around 5AM–7AM.
Clear immigration and collect your luggage. If you have a connecting flight, check your terminal (MAS uses KLIA, AirAsia uses KLIA2).
Allow at least 2 hours between your international arrival and domestic departure.
Flights run multiple times daily. The journey is just 55 minutes. Book 2-4 weeks out for the best rates.
KBR is the nearest airport to Kuala Besut Jetty.
Head to the taxi counter at KBR arrival hall. A prepaid taxi takes ~60 mins and costs RM80-100.
Pre-book a private van transfer with us for zero stress.
The jetty is small and well-organized. If you pre-booked, just show your confirmation and go to boarding.
Check-in at our office 30 mins before departure.
Crossing takes ~45 mins. The boat drops you directly at your resort's beach.
Pack sunscreen in your daypack!
Use these as a rough guide when planning your departure from KLIA.
| Route | Depart KLIA | Arrive Jetty | First Boat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fly (KBR) | 7:00 AM | ~11:30 AM | 12:00 PM |
| Fly (KBR) | 10:00 AM | ~2:30 PM | 3:00 PM |
| Fly (KBR) | 1:00 PM | ~5:30 PM | Next Day |
| Bus (TBS) | 9:30 PM | ~5:00 AM | 8:00 AM ✓ |
| Bus (TBS) | 11:00 PM | ~7:00 AM | 8:00 AM ✓ |
If you arrive at the jetty after 5PM, you will not be able to reach the island that day. Plan your flights and bus timings accordingly. If in doubt, stay overnight in Kuala Besut town and catch the first 8AM boat the next morning.
No ATMs on the island. Withdraw enough MYR in Kuala Besut.
Island closes during the Northeast Monsoon (Nov–Feb).
Peak season is very busy. Secure seats online in advance.
Boats may be delayed during rough weather. Build a buffer day.
RM30/adult fee paid at jetty. Not included in boat ticket.
Mobile coverage is patchy. Download offline maps!
Secure your seat on the speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty to Perhentian Island. Direct beach drop-off. From RM40 one-way.
Book My Boat Ticket