The Perhentian Islands are the perfect tropical island escape!
Located far enough away from an international airport to not get huge crowds, these islands are largely unspoilt but this is changing all the time.
The islands are located off the east coast of Malaysia. They are accessed via boats from Kuala Besut which can be easily reached from Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu airports.
The Perhentian Islands consist of two islands – Besar (big) and Kecil (little). They are close together, and it’s easy to travel between the two. Kecil has a reputation as a party, backpacker island with Besar being more chilled out and this is true in the main areas. Both have some great beaches and scenery.
There is more information about both islands and which you should stay at in our accommodation guide here.
Water sports are popular here as is exploring the jungle. There are some nice walks and some great snorkelling and diving with opportunities right off the beaches.
Below, we share everything you need to know for an excellent Perhentian Islands holiday!
Perhentian Islands Attractions
There are some fun activities and things to do while you are visiting Perhentian Islands. Find our guides below.
Perhentian Islands Acommodation
While the Perhentian Islands are missing flash resorts, there are some great places to stay here for all budgets. Find our guide below.
Perhentian Islands Travel
The Perhentian Islands are a little out of the way which is part of their appeal. Still, it is easy to get here from Malaysia and Singapore and the rest of the world thanks to being close to an airport.
Read our detailed guides to how to travel to Perhentian Islands from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
If you are coming from elsewhere, full information is also supplied in the following guides.
Other Information
If you are still undecided about which east coast island to visit, read our guide here to whether Perhentian Islands, Redang Island or Tioman is best!
You can find more information on other destinations in Malaysia across this site.