Perhentian Islands Malaysia (Traveler Tips)
WHEN TO GO
The seasons are the most important thing to consider before planning a trip to the Perhentians. These islands have two seasons: Dry season and Monsoon season. Dry season starts in March and runs about mid-way through October. Monsoon season picks up in October and runs through the end of February. Plan your trip during Dry season.
The weather is favorable (almost continuously hot and sunny), the ocean is calm, the speed boats connecting the terra firma to the islands run ofttimes, and every one the islands’ restaurants and accommodations are open.
Visiting in Monsoon season is nearly impossible and would be pretty unpleasant anyway. While there may still be boats running from the mainland to the islands during these months, all accommodation and most restaurants are shut down during this time. The islands are completely void of life except for the locals who live year-round in the village. If you visit in Monsoon season, you could easily find yourself stranded with nowhere to sleep or eat!
GETTING IN
From the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, you can take a bus from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) to the Kuala Besut Bus Terminal. One of the most popular bus companies is Perdana and one-way tickets start at 44 Malaysian Ringgit ($11 USD). Perdana has four daily departure times, but I recommend taking the overnight bus which leaves Kuala Lumpur around 9pm and arrives to Kuala Besut around 6am the next day. From the Kuala Besut Bus Terminal, it’s only a 5-minute walk to the Kuala Besut Jetty where the speed boats leave from.
The overnight bus is a great option if you want to maximize your time on the islands. Arriving at 6am ensures you a spot on the first speed boat, which leaves at 8am. Thereafter, boats run based on need with no fixed schedule until around 4pm. The cost of a one-way boat ticket is 35 Malaysian Ringgit ($8.50).
GETTING OUT
You will take the same speed boat back to Kuala Besut Jetty from the islands. There are three fixed departure times; 8am, 12pm, and 4pm, however you may be able to find boats leaving at other times. Perhentian life can be sporadic! You can purchase your ticket from the small mom n’ pop shops along the beaches or talk to your guesthouse manager.
Where to stay on Pulau Kecil
Long Beach is the most popular area to stay on the Small Island and has the most variety of guesthouses. Below are just a few of the options.
Budget: Super-budget travelers should check out Symphony, a spattering of bungalows halfway down Long Beach boasting the cheapest beachfront digs. Rock Garden sits on the south end of the beach and offers cheap abodes for those willing to make the rickety climb to the bungalows perched on the hillside.
Mid-range: Check out centrally located OhhLaLa’s Guesthouse on Long Beach. It’s got fresh restored rooms and dorms, plus the most popular bar/restaurant on the island. The rooms are basic but comfortable and are considered middle of the road in terms of price.
Luxury: Bubu’s Resort has two location on Long Beach, one about mid-way down the shore and the other on the north end. The rooms are comfortable, secure, and boast all the amenities you’d expect from a higher-end hotel.
The building churns out tasty western meals and therefore the cocktails square measure the simplest on the island. Even if you can’t afford to stay there, the restaurant/bar is the place to come for a fancy night out or pre-dinner drinks.
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