Island paradise

An April 2000 trip to Perthentian Islands by erasmus

Perhentian Islands consist of two paradise islands off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. The beaches and the snorkelling/diving is as good here as on any of the better-known islands in southern Thailand.

  • 2 reviews

Island paradiseBest of IgoUgo

Overview

There are few things to do on the Perhentians, but therein lies the charm of the islands: You can easily spend a week here relaxing and still not get bored, because the scenery is so perfect. If you are a bit more adventorous, the snorkelling and diving in the surrounding sea is very good. Especially sea turtles and big pelagic species of fish are relatively regular sightings.

Don't expect wild full-moon parties like on the more famous Thai islands, but if you like your peace and quiet the Perhentians are a much better option.

Quick Tips:

You really should experience the underwater world while on the islands; the snorkelling is very good and diving is both terrific and cheap.

Stay on Perhentian Kecil if you like a lively environment but on Perhentian Besar if you want to be more private.

Best Way To Get Around:

SnorkelingBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Snorkeling sites"

The best snorkeling on Perhentian Kecil is at the northern end of Coral Bay or the northern end of Long Beach. Both are similar in the regards of types of coral and fish, and you should see turtles and rays on both locations. On Besar, Teluk Dalam is the best bay for snorkeling. Sharks are said to frequent the formation of underwater rocks and coral at the westernmost tip of this bay.

Everywhere the water is exceptionally clear and very warm. The islands are one of the best snorkeling sites I've ever seen, and very safe too.

  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by erasmus on May 15, 2002

Snorkeling
Perhentian Islands Perthentian Islands, Malaysia

About the Writer

erasmus
erasmus
Copenhagen, Denmark

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