In Malaysia, there is a hidden paradise that is a top destination of visitors and locals alike. It is commonly known as home away from home. The Perhentian Islands is a group of small islands off the coast of northeastern Malaysia. It is not that far from Thailand’s border. The name Perhentian in Malay means “stopping point” since the islands were used by the traders way back and a staging point from Malaysia to Bangkok.
1. Perhentian Islands has two main islands
The islands are named Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Pulau Perhentian Besar. It means Big Perhentian Island and Small Perhentian Island respectively. Pulau Perhentian Kecil has attracted more visitors because of its cheaper accommodation whereas Pulau Perhentian Besar is kinda expensive but caters to families.
2. Best travel period is from June to October
Other than these months, the sea may seem to be very rough and dangerous. So be careful in booking a room in hotels since some travel agents claim that they are open even though there is nothing much to do in the island.
3. Clean environment.
The island of Susu Dara, Rawa and Seringgi lie off Pulau Kecil. Perhentian Islands is a protected marine park. It means that littering, fishing and collecting corals are big no-no. Keep this in mind, travelers.
4. Beautiful beaches.
Being on the Perhentian Islands is such a stress reliever especially if you are a beach lover or a risk taker. Both islands are covered with white sand beaches and the crystal clear cerulean sea will really attract the tourists. Surrounded with water, there are many things that you can do in the islands. There is a wide array of activities that will surely put tan lines on your glowing skin.
5. Protected marine life.
Put on your sexy outfit and take a dip onto the sea. Enjoy being in the water as you absorb the heat of the sun. You can also snorkel and explore more about marine biodiversity. There are cuttlefish, parrot fish, clown fish, blue spotted rays, black tipped sharks and many more that you will encounter. If you are for extreme adventures, you can go diving. The island has many dive sites that you will truly enjoy and feel the adrenaline rush.
6. More activities.
You can also camp in the beach, lay down and watch the stars shine on the horizon. You can work up your biceps and canoe. You can explore more on the island and do jungle trekking or ride the banana boat. Visit the island and get in touch with nature. Scuba dive all the way underwater and get to see many species of fish and seek out the beautiful corals. You can also get you own PADI in various location and you must certainly discover the shipwrecks and the coral reefs. Life underwater is really beautiful!
Be warned that the island is a home to different creatures like poisonous spiders, geckos, monitor lizards and many more. If you wish to stay, there are hotels and resorts open nearby. Most of them can be found on the Perhentian Besar, the larger island.