If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Kuala Lumpur, Pulau Perhentian is the perfect destination. This beautiful island is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and rich marine life. With a 3-day itinerary, you can explore all that Pulau Perhentian has to offer.
Accommodation: : Where to Stay in the Perhentian Islands
Getting to Pulau Perhentian
Day 1
There are several ways to get to Pulau Perhentian from Kuala Lumpur, but the most common method is by taking a bus or driving to Kuala Besut Jetty. If you’re taking the bus, there are several operators that run daily services from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut. Some of the popular operators include Transnasional, Perdana Express, and Konsortium Express. The journey takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
If you’re driving, it’s advisable to take the East Coast Expressway (ECE) and exit at Kuala Besut. The journey takes around the same amount of time as the bus, but you’ll have more flexibility in terms of timing and stops along the way.
Once you arrive at Kuala Besut Jetty, you’ll need to purchase a speedboat ticket to Perhentian Island. The speedboat ride takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on sea conditions. There are several speedboat operators at the jetty, and it’s recommended to book your ticket in advance during peak season (June-August).
After arriving on the island, check into your accommodation and freshen up. There are several types of accommodations available on the island, ranging from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious resorts. Some popular options include Bubu Resort, Perhentian Island Resort, and Tuna Bay Island Resort.
For lunch, head to Mama’s Café, which is located near Long Beach. This cafe is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and serves a variety of local and Western dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include nasi lemak (coconut rice with spicy sambal and toppings) and grilled fish with rice.
After lunch, take a stroll along Long Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The beach stretches for about 1.5km and is lined with coconut trees and crystal-clear waters. You can also rent snorkeling or diving gear and explore the rich marine life in the waters.
In the evening, head to Bubu Long Beach Resort for some cocktails and enjoy the sunset. This resort is located on the western side of the island, and offers stunning views of the sunset. For dinner, head to Oh La La Restaurant, which is located near Coral Bay. This restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including grilled fish and butter prawns.
Overall, Day 1 is a great way to start your trip to Pulau Perhentian, with scenic views, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Exploring Perhentian Island
Day 2
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or head to one of the local cafes to try some local Malaysian delicacies. You can try the traditional Malay breakfast of nasi lemak, which consists of coconut rice, fried anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and sambal sauce.
After breakfast, head to Turtle Beach, located on the east coast of the island. This beach is known for its turtle conservation efforts and is a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. You can witness baby turtles hatching from their eggs and make your way towards the sea. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some adult turtles swimming in the waters.
Next, make your way to Adam and Eve Beach, a hidden gem on the island that offers crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs. This beach is perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts as it has a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sharks, and turtles. You can rent a kayak and explore the nearby islands, or simply relax on the beach and soak in the sun.
For lunch, head to Maya Cafe, located on Long Beach. This cafe is known for its delicious pasta and wood-fired pizzas. You can also try some of their refreshing smoothies and juices.
After lunch, head to the jungle trekking trail, located in the center of the island. The trail takes you through the lush rainforest, where you can spot a variety of flora and fauna. You might encounter monkeys, tropical birds, and even wild boars on the way. The trail leads to a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
In the evening, head to Coral Bay, located on the west coast of the island, for some sunset views. You can enjoy some cocktails and live music at one of the beach bars or simply relax on the beach and soak in the views. For dinner, head to Mama’s Chalet, located on Long Beach, for some delicious Thai food. Try the pad Thai or the green curry, which are some of the favorites among tourists and locals alike.
After a long day of exploring, head back to your accommodation for some well-deserved rest and relaxation, or join in the beach party at Long Beach for some fun and entertainment.
Last Day in Pulau Perhentian
Day 3
On your last day in Perhentian Island, you can start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation, taking your time to soak up the island’s peaceful vibes. Afterward, you may want to head to the Fisherman Village to do some souvenir shopping. This small village is known for its handmade jewelry, sarongs, and other souvenirs, and is an excellent place to pick up a few mementos of your trip.
If you’re a fan of snorkeling, head to Teluk Keke, a stunning beach with clear waters and gorgeous coral reefs. You can rent a snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world or rent a stand-up paddleboard and enjoy the view from above.
For lunch, head to Abdul’s Cafe, which is known for its delicious burgers and sandwiches. This casual spot is perfect for a quick lunch, and it’s located near the beach, so you can enjoy your meal with a stunning view.
After lunch, spend the rest of your day relaxing on the beach or taking a dip in the waters. Pulau Perhentian is the perfect place to unwind and recharge, so take your time and soak up the island’s natural beauty. You can also choose to take a short hike or explore more of the island’s beaches.
In the evening, it’s time to head back to Kuala Besut Jetty and take a bus or drive back to Kuala Lumpur. If you have some time before your departure, you can grab a quick snack or drink at one of the local cafes or restaurants.
Overall, Pulau Perhentian is an excellent destination for a quick getaway from Kuala Lumpur. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and rich marine life, this island offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Perhentian Island has something to offer.
