Perhentian & East Coast Islands
Crystal clear waters and turtles on pristine islands 🐢
The Perhentian Islands and their neighbours on the East Coast (like Redang and Kapas) are the postcard-perfect version of tropical paradise. For families, Perhentian Besar (the big island) is usually the preferred choice over the backpacker-focused Perhentian Kecil. The atmosphere here is incredibly relaxed; there are no roads or cars, just footpaths through the jungle and water taxis to hop between beaches. This car-free environment gives parents peace of mind as children run on the sand.
The main activity here is snorkeling. The marine life is abundant and accessible even to beginners. At points like Turtle Point, families can often swim alongside giant green turtles in the wild. The water is shallow, warm, and calm during the season, making it safe for young swimmers. Boat trips are affordable and can be customized to visit pristine spots like the Maldives-esque sandbanks or Shark Point (home to harmless reef sharks). Redang Island nearby offers slightly more upscale resorts with swimming pools and organized recreation if you prefer more amenities over the rustic chalet style of Perhentian.
Important Travel Note: These islands are heavily affected by the monsoon season. Most resorts and boat services close completely from November to February due to rough seas. The best time to visit is between March and October when the weather is dry and the visibility underwater is at its peak. Dining is mostly casual beachfront affairs—think BBQs and fresh fruit shakes—perfect for a fuss-free holiday. It is a place to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Features world-class marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters with visibility often exceeding 20m, rivaling the Maldives for snorkeling and diving. Peak season offers calm seas and stable conditions, whereas the Northeast Monsoon (Nov-Jan) causes rough seas and island-wide resort closures.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Authentic island ecosystems featuring lush rainforest trails and significant turtle nesting sites. Peak months provide dry trails and optimal wildlife activity, while the monsoon months bring extreme rainfall (up to 586mm) that renders jungle exploration and boat access unsafe.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
A premier destination for PADI diving certifications and sea kayaking in pristine environments. Excellent underwater visibility is consistent from March to August, while the off-season sees dangerous swells and monsoon winds that halt all water-based recreation.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Highly engaging for families due to active marine conservation programs and turtle hatcheries. The peak period aligns with the height of the turtle hatching season, providing unique learning opportunities that are unavailable during the monsoon when facilities are restricted.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Boutique and high-end retreats on Redang and Lang Tengah offer sophisticated, peaceful escapes for families seeking to disconnect. The experience is best during the sunny peak months; high humidity and heavy rains in the off-season significantly limit the appeal of outdoor spa and relaxation facilities.
Attractions (24 total)
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Federal Route 3 (Terengganu Coastal Road)
Kuantan
A scenic 230km paved coastal drive (4-6 hours) along the Terengganu coastline. This segment of the legendary Route 3 is celebrated as one of Asia's best road trips, passing through traditional Malay fishing villages (kampungs), palm-fringed beaches, and providing direct access to the jetties for Kapas (Marang), Redang (Merang), and the Perhentian Islands (Kuala Besut). Highlights include the Crystal Mosque in Kuala Terengganu and views of the South China Sea.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Long Beach (Pasir Panjang)
Perhentian Kecil
The most famous beach on the Perhentian Islands, featuring a long stretch of fine white sand and turquoise waters ideal for families.
Pasir Panjang (Long Beach) Redang
Redang Island
A premier scenic beach on Redang Island known for its expansive white sands, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear swimming conditions.
Kapas Island Beaches
Kapas Island
A tranquil natural escape known for its laid-back atmosphere, golden sands, and exceptional water clarity right off the shore.
Windmill Viewpoint
Perhentian Kecil
A popular hiking destination offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island's coastline and the surrounding South China Sea.
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Long Beach (Pasir Panjang), Perhentian Kecil
Perhentian Islands
A vibrant stretch of white sand and turquoise water offering excellent snorkeling and a lively atmosphere for families.
Long Beach (Pasir Panjang), Redang Island
Redang Island
Redang's most famous beach features soft white sand and serves as a gateway to some of the best coral reefs in Malaysia.
Main Beach, Kapas Island
Kapas Island
A tranquil island retreat known for its clear waters, golden sands, and accessible snorkeling spots perfect for families seeking peace.
Turtle Beach, Perhentian Besar
Perhentian Islands
A pristine and secluded bay known for its crystal-clear waters and as a nesting site for sea turtles.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Perhentian Windmill Viewpoint
Pulau Perhentian Kecil
An iconic hiking destination featuring two prominent windmills and a wooden staircase offering stunning panoramic views of the island's turquoise coastline.
Masjid Ar-Rahman
Pulau Perhentian Kecil
A beautiful and iconic mosque built on stilts over the water, serving as the architectural and spiritual landmark of the island's main fishing village.
Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Redang Marine Park Centre
Pulau Redang
A dedicated activity hub on Pulau Pinang offering snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, fish feeding, and marine conservation exhibits for families.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Windmill Trail
Pulau Perhentian Kecil
2.1km moderate out-and-back trail, approx 1 hour duration, 110m elevation gain. This iconic trail leads from Long Beach to a hilltop featuring wind turbines and panoramic views of the turquoise sea. No bicycle rental available on this car-free island.
Visit website →Pasir Panjang to Teluk Dalam Trek
Pulau Redang
2km easy to moderate inland trail, approx 45 minutes duration, 60m elevation gain. A well-marked path connecting Redang's Long Beach to the more secluded northern bays, often crossing paths with monitor lizards. No bicycle rental available on this car-free island.
Visit website →Teluk Pauh to Flora Bay Trail
Pulau Perhentian Besar
2.5km moderate jungle trek, approx 1 hour duration, 120m elevation gain. This cross-island route connects the northern Perhentian Island Resort area with the southern Flora Bay through dense tropical rainforest. No bicycle rental available on this car-free island.
Visit website →Bukit Singa (Lion Hill) Trail
Pulau Kapas
1.5km moderate coastal and cliff trail, approx 1 hour duration, 40m elevation gain. Known for the 'Lion's Head' rock formation and a secret blue lagoon accessible via coastal scrambling. No bicycle rental available on this car-free island.
Visit website →National Park / Nature Reserve
Kapas Island Marine Park
Pulau Kapas
A tranquil nature reserve famous for its exceptionally clear waters and accessible coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for family-friendly underwater exploration.
Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary
Perhentian Besar
A dedicated conservation beach where visitors can observe green and hawksbill turtles in their natural habitat and learn about local marine protection efforts.
Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
Lang Tengah Turtle Watch
Pulau Lang Tengah
A conservation camp and educational center where visitors can learn about hawksbill and green sea turtle nesting and see nest protection efforts in person.
Visit website →Perhentian Marine Park Information Centre
Pulau Perhentian Besar
A dedicated facility providing educational displays on the diverse coral reef ecosystems and sea turtle species found around the Perhentian Islands.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Perhentian Fisherman's Village (Kampung Pasir Hantu)
Perhentian Kecil
Families can explore this vibrant coastal village to see traditional stilt houses, visit the beautiful waterfront mosque, and sample local island treats.
Pulau Bidong Heritage Site
Pulau Bidong
This educational historic site offers families a chance to explore building ruins and learn about the moving history of the Vietnamese 'Boat People'.
Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Perhentian Marine Park Centre
Perhentian Islands
A natural history discovery hub on a small islet providing educational displays about the local marine ecosystem and sea turtle protection.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Pulau Bidong (Vietnamese Refugee Camp Site)
Merang
This island serves as a significant memorial site featuring the ruins of a Vietnamese refugee camp that operated as a 'Little Saigon' from 1978 to 1991.
