Paradise in Malaysia

We were supposed to go to Bali. But then as our busy schedules would have it, we weren't able to book our hotel nor our flight. So upon a friend's recommendation, off we went to Perhentian Islands in Malaysia without exactly knowing what to expect when we get there.

Perhentian Islands is a group of islands at the north eastern side of the Malaysian peninsula. It is composed of Pulau Perhentian Kecil (the small island) and Pulau Perhentian Besar (the big island), both known for its diving spots and exquisite unadultered beauty.

a crude map of the islands

The Long Beach in Perhentian Kecil is a favorite among Europeans. It has a nice long stretch of white sandy shores and a variety of dining options within walking distance. It has the right amount of noise and buzz to keep the island alive especially at night.

Long Beach, Perhentian Kecil

Pulau Perhentian Besar on the other hand is the quieter, more laid back island frequented by locals. It provides a perfect solace for anyone who wants to get away from all the stress of the city life.

dusk at Perhentian Besar

From Singapore, we flew to Kuala Lumpur then from KL took another flight to Kota Bahru. From Kota Bahru, there was an hour ride to the sleepy town of Kuala Besut then finally a 30-minute speedboat ride to the islands. We stayed at Coral View Resort at Perhentian Besar for 3 nights. The resort was very laid back and comfortable, the chalets simple but clean and well maintained. Coral View Resort is not exactly a posh resort but for an island accommodation, the chalets are way, way better than our usual accommodations when we go surfing in Philippines :) I suggest though that you choose the sea view chalets to save you the walk to and from the beach. But if you and your group would want a more secluded and private chalet then the hill view ones would be okay (wouldn't take you 10 mins to get to the beach).

chalets at Coral View Resort, Perhentian Besar

Coral View also has an internet room which you can use for a minimum amount, a nice dining area (overlooking the sea) and very accommodating and friendly staff. We were forever requesting for anything and everything (extra towels, extra mattress, room relocations, etc) and the people there really found time to quickly attend to our needs (special thanks to Ayi and Faiz -- hope i spelled your names right :)).

dining at Coral View Resort

The restaurant does not have a wide variety of dishes to choose from but the food was good and you can easily explore the nearby resorts for other dining options. No alcoholic drinks are offered in restaurants across all resorts (except for some in Long Beach) as it is part of an Islamic state but you're welcome to bring your own drinks and have your usual night cap in your chalets.

It wasn't my usual beach or surfing trip but overall, it was an amazing experience -- I saw sharks, turtles, swordfishes, flying fishes and lots and lots of other fishes. I had a fun time swimming and exploring the islands via water taxis (I can't get over how beautiful it was to ride the water taxi in the stillness of the night with a blanket of stars for your light). I nearly had a heart attack while jumping off the lighthouse in the middle of the sea (it was the longest 12 second jump of my life when everything suddenly turned slowmo). I have met new friends who made the trip more fun.

with Nora, Sufi, Azah and Jill at Long Beach

with Faiz and the manager of Coral View Resort

But the highlight of it all was witnessing one of the most magnificent sunsets in all my years of traveling -- such a humbling experience to be in the midst of His grandeur.

sunset at Perhentian Islands

If you're interested, you might want to check out these sites

Coral View Resort

Information on Perhentian Islands

You may drop me a note too if you have questions, I'll find time to answer them :)