Perhentian Island, located 77km from Kuala Terengganu, is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy clean beaches and clear waters. The island, which can only be visited from February to October, attracts many for activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, island hopping, hiking, turtle watching, and many more. The monsoon season usually occurs between November and January, prohibiting any activities and no vacations are allowed on Perhentian Island during that time. For those who want to visit Perhentian Island and do not know what activities can be done, this article may help you make a choice.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is a must-do and interesting activity to do when visiting the island. You will be watching colourful coral reefs and various species of tropical fish in these clear waters. Tourists will surely be amazed by the vibrant marine life, as if diving in the Maldives islands. Some of the popular snorkelling spots include Turtle Point, Shark Point and Coral Garden. Snorkelling is the most popular activity on Perhentian Island because its clear, shallow waters with full of marine life such as clownfish, sea turtles and colourful coral reefs. The three most famous locations are Turtle Point, Shark Point and Coral Garden.
Kayaking
Kayaking around the Perhentian Islands offers a different perspective of the beauty of the beaches and the sea. It provides you with a unique experience while paddling a kayak through calm waters and enjoying the vast blue sea. Kayaks can be rented for as low as RM50. For tourists who prefer a more relaxed experience, you can rent a kayak and paddle around beautiful bays such as Coral Bay, Romantic Beach, and Teluk Pauh.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is one of the most thrilling activities on Perhentian Island and visitors can try diving at 30 different locations across the island. The scenery at each diving point is different and you will surely be excited to see manta rays that can be found near the wreck of the Sugar Ship in the waters of Perhentian Island. Each visitor who wants to dive needs to pay around RM250 only.
Swimming in the Sea
Tourist may enjoy swimming in the clear sea of Perhentian Island. Tourists can engage in this activity at any time as there is no specific schedule for sea swimming. However, the experience during the day is different from at night. Tourists are advised to wear UV-protective clothing while swimming during the day or at least apply sunscreen on exposed skin to prevent sunburn.
Local Food Experience
You may enjoy up to 30 East Coast-style local dishes offered by the residents of Perhentian Island. Among the popular foods here are nasi dagang along with traditional Malay kuih and they can be enjoyed while breathing in the fresh air amid the beach atmosphere with its white sand, clear waters, and blue sky.
Floating Mosque
A place that can be visited by Muslim tourists is the Perhentian Island Floating Mosque. This mosque provides a peaceful prayer space as well as a soothing sea view and is located on the water.
Watch Turtles Lay Eggs
If you’re lucky, tourists have the chance to see turtles laying eggs at night, making it a great family activity while also raising awareness and teaching about the natural ecosystem on Perhentian Island.
Visit the Fishermen’s Village
The Fishermen’s Village on Perhentian Island is a real local village that serves as the main hub for the island’s residents. You can experience the customs, culture and traditions of the local people of Perhentian Island here, which have cultural influences from the states of Terengganu and Kelantan.
Hiking at the Windmill
You may enjoy the best views on Perhentian Island by hiking to the windmill on the hill (Windmill Viewpoint and Lover’s Viewpoint). The hiking trail, surrounded by green trees and clear sea panoramas, is a moment you are unlikely to forget.
Watch the Sunset and Sunrise
Watch the sunrise at Long Beach and sunset at Coral Bay on Perhentian Island are unique as the sky seems like a perfect painting with a combination of light blue, orange, red, and purple colours.
Lata Air Berani
Bathing in the waterfall at Lata Air Berani can provide long-lasting refreshment, helping you sleep soundly at night. Lata Air Berani remains a well-preserved waterfall, and you need to take a boat to access this location.
Island Hopping
Visit nearby islands such as Pulau Rawa, Pulau Susu Dara, and Tokong Burung by hiring a boat at reasonable rates.
Watching the Fire Show
From 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM at night, you may watch mesmerizing fire shows at Long Beach which is perfect for entertainment after a full day of activities. The atmosphere is very relaxed with fire performances, juggling, and lively music while enjoying soft drinks by the beach.
Photography:
Capture the beauty of the underwater world and sunsets. Make sure to use a waterproof camera to photograph the coral reefs and schools of fish.
Educational Activities:
Edu-Tourism: Participate in marine awareness programs such as briefing sessions, tours with marine biology experts, or beach cleaning programs together with tourists.
You will surely visit Perhentian Island again in the future after enjoying the activities available here. In fact, there are international tourists who are willing to spend money to enjoy the fun experiences on Perhentian Island.
