The Perhentian Islands (Pulau
Perhentian in Malay) lie approximately 10 nautical miles (19 km) off the
northeastern coast of West Malaysia in the state of Terengganu, approximately
40 miles (64 km) south of the Thai border.
The two main islands are
Perhentian Besar ("Big Perhentian") and Perhentian Kecil ("Small
Perhentian"). The small, uninhabited islands of Susu Dara (Virgin Milk),
Serenggeh and Rawa lie off Kecil. The Perhentians belong to Pulau Redang
National Marine Park, which means that fishing, collecting coral and littering
are strictly prohibited. Like Besut, people here generally speak Kelantanese
Malay.
Nature tourism provides the
economic base for the islands. Both the islands have palm-fringed white coral
sand beaches (that can be tough on the feet) and turquoise blue sea. Popular
tourist activities include scuba-diving, snorkeling, and swimming. On most
beaches, the water is shallow with many rays, cuttlefish and parrotfish. For
diving, there are dozens of divesites around both main islands, as well as
several off-shore sites. Apart from these, activities like camping, canoeing,
fishing, jungle trekking, and banana boat riding are also available. As for
accommodation, most of it can be found on Perhentian Besar, the larger island.
Hotels are usually aimed at budget travelers.
The only access to the Islands is
by boat from the fishing villages of Kuala Besut and Tok Bali. Local tourist
operators run fishing boats and speed boats several times a day. Most
travellers get into region by AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur (flight to Kota Bharu)
or from Bangkok (flight to Narathiwat)
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