Just like the last years trip to the Andaman Coast of Thailand, this year we planned a beach vacation. With so many options to choose from, finally we decided to fly to the two pristine islands of north-east coast of Malaysia in Gulf of Thailand. Perhentian islands are not so famous with Indian travellers going to Malaysia. People generally visit Kuala Lumpur, Langkwai, Penang and indulge is shopping. Perhentian is on the other coast and away from the busy tourist circuit and has a laid back attitude and a beach which is the best in the country.
Flying into Kuala Lumpur was easy and then we checked into the airport hotel to spend the night. The Tuna hotel is just a walk of few minutes from the terminal. After spending the night, we woke early at 4 AM and checked in to our early morning flight. We flew to Kota Bharu which is an hour flight. The flight was truly scenic as we saw the sunrise over the highlands.
The Highlands
Sunrise
First sight of Perhentian Islands.
We reached Kota Bharu and then we took a shared taxi. The Danish mom and daughter joined us till the islands. After an hour drive to the jetty of Kuala Besut, we checked into the speed boat. It took 45 mins to reach our island which incidentally was the first stop. The hotel Ombak Perhentian Resort is at a great location and the sunset from here is amazing. The in house diving shop is a great addition. We dived into the deep with them during this trip. Enjoy the vistas from the islands.
Shades of Blue
A great place to have food.
Dive classes on.
The Coral Beach
The lighthouse
Shades
Secluded pristine beaches
Sunset Swing
Fun time after dark
The mainland
The jetty
Colors
The movies and fireworks will start soon
The big Island
Diving here is awesome
Waters are so clear here
Play some volleyball
Perhentian Island Resort and the beach
Postcard
The Long Beach
Backpackers paradise
After a 30 mins hike to the highest point of small island
Fishing away
Days end
After spending three laid back days enjoying the sun, dives, snorkeling, beaches, hikes, great food, movies and fireworks we said good bye to the paradise. Time to head back the capital for few hours and witness the twin towers before calling it a trip and head back home.
Petronas Towers
Visit the tourism site of Malaysia to know more. Also for resources lonely planet is a great option. There are so many options to stay in the islands. Use Agoda.com or Booking.com for great options and rates. Remember the season is peak in August and early booking (february/march) is required to assure a room. Rooms are almost not available in August if you do not book early. Do not miss the dive around the islands.