Complete 2026 travel guide to Perhentian Islands Malaysia. How to get there, best time to visit, where to stay, what to do, prices, tips. Book your boat transfer online from RM40 one-way.
Planning a trip to Perhentian Islands Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know? 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.
The Perhentian Islands are two of Malaysia's most stunning tropical destinations - Perhentian Besar (Big Island) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Island). Located off the coast of Terengganu on Malaysia's east coast, these islands offer crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving.
Getting to Perhentian Islands: The only way to reach the islands is via Kuala Besut Jetty. From there, a 30-45 minute speedboat takes you directly to your resort's beach. You can book your boat ticket in advance at PerhentianBoat.com to skip the queue at the jetty.
Best Time to Visit: The islands are open from March to October. Peak season is July-August (European summer holidays). November to February is monsoon season - most resorts close completely.
Where to Stay: Perhentian Kecil (Coral Bay, Long Beach): Backpacker-friendly, lively nightlife, budget chalets. Perhentian Besar: Family-friendly, luxury resorts, quieter atmosphere.
What to Do: Snorkeling (turtles, reef fish, coral gardens), scuba diving (Vietnamese Wreck, Temple of the Sea), island hopping to Redang, jungle trekking, beach camping.
Essential Tips: - NO ATMs on the islands - bring all cash from Kuala Besut Jetty - Wet landing: you'll step into shallow water when arriving - Marine Park fee: RM30 for foreigners (cash only at jetty) - Book boat transfers in advance during peak season - Mobile signal: Celcom/Maxis work best (sporadic on some beaches)
Fly to Kota Bharu Airport (KBR), take a 1-hour taxi/Grab to Kuala Besut Jetty, then a 45-minute speedboat to your island. You can book the complete journey (airport transfer + boat) at PerhentianBoat.com.
Boat transfer: RM40 one-way (RM80 return). Accommodation: RM50-500/night. Meals: RM15-40/meal. Snorkeling trip: RM40-60. Budget: ~RM150/day. Mid-range: ~RM350/day.
Perhentian Kecil is better for backpackers, social travelers, and budget stays. Perhentian Besar is better for families, couples, and those wanting quieter luxury resorts. Both have excellent snorkeling.
Yes, especially Perhentian Besar which has calmer beaches and family-friendly resorts. The boat transfer uses life jackets for all passengers including children. Kid-sized jackets are available.
July is one of the best months to visit Perhentian Island with perfect sunshine and calm seas. Book your boat tickets early as it gets busy!
Book speedboat + turtle snorkeling in Perhentian. RM40 one-way, daily departures, direct resort drop-off. Spot sea turtles at Turtle Point & Tanjung Basi.
Find out the best months to visit Perhentian Island for crystal clear water and sunshine, and learn about the monsoon closure months.
Book your speedboat transfer to Samudra Beach Chalet (also known as Samudera) on Perhentian Besar. 45-min ride from Kuala Besut Jetty to Teluk Dalam. One-way from RM40.