Overview
The Perhentian Islands are islands in Besut District, Terengganu, Malaysia. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. The small, uninhabited islands of Susu Dara, Serengeh and Rawa lie off Kecil.
Description
Just off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia, the Perhentians are a pair of islands that boast brilliantly white sand beaches, thickly jungled interiors and crystalline waters where you can find some of the best snorkeling in the region. The islands also have many popular dive sites offshore and are a good base for exploring the smaller islands that dot the deep blue waters nearby.
In the west is Kecil (literally ‘small’) and in the east is Besar (‘large’). Besar is the most popular option, drawing thick crowds. Smaller Kecil has quieter beaches but offers only simple places to stay like Bubu Long Beach Resort. Despite this lack of infrastructure, the island’s location in the heart of a marine sanctuary makes it an alluring destination for those interested in underwater life.
There are several coral reefs that have mostly resisted the bleaching events in the area. Just off the southern coast of Kecil is Sugar Wreck, the site of a ship that sank while hauling sugar during the monsoon season in 2000.
Besut Terengganu
Malaysia
URL:
http://www.audleytravel.com/malaysia/places-to-go/perhentian-islands