Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are a diver's paradise in Malaysia, renowned for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. With over 11 accessible dive sites, the islands cater heavily to novice divers and those looking for relaxed, scenic underwater experiences. The sites are typically shallow, with gentle currents, making it an ideal location for open water courses and fun dives. Key characteristics include impressive coral gardens, interesting rock formations, and several small wrecks that have become artificial reefs teeming with life.
Diving conditions are generally excellent, with warm water temperatures hovering around 29°C (84°F) and visibility often exceeding 15 meters. The islands offer a fantastic introduction to tropical diving, with a high chance of encountering green and hawksbill turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and a vast array of colourful reef fish like clownfish, parrotfish, and angelfish. The laid-back island vibe, combined with affordable diving and the sheer beauty of the marine environment, makes the Perhentian Islands a must-visit destination for any diver seeking a tranquil and rewarding underwater adventure.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
Temple of the Sea (Tokong Laut) is arguably the most famous dive site in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia. It's a submerged pinnacle teeming with marine life. Its popularity stems from the huge schools of snapper and fusiliers that surround the rock, along with frequent sightings of bamboo sharks, moray eels, and blue-spotted stingrays. The site's dynamic topography and biodiversity make it a must-do for certified divers.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
Well-known sites include the Sugar Wreck, great for wreck enthusiasts, and Shark Point, known for its resident blacktip reef sharks. For a less crowded but rewarding experience in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia, visit Terumbu Tiga (The Three Brothers). It offers fantastic topography with large boulders creating interesting swim-throughs and canyons, attracting a wide variety of fish and providing a more adventurous dive.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
The water temperature in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia is consistently warm and tropical throughout the diving season (March to October). You can expect temperatures to range from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F). It's typically at its warmest from May to August. The water remains very comfortable for diving, eliminating the need for thick wetsuits.
When is the best time to visit Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
The best time for diving in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia, is during the dry season, from March to late October. The peak season is from June to August when the sea is at its calmest and visibility is at its best. You should avoid visiting from November to February, as this is the monsoon season, and most resorts and dive operators on the islands are closed due to rough seas.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
During the main dive season in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia (March-October), underwater visibility is generally good, typically ranging from 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet). During the peak months of June, July, and August, conditions can be excellent, with visibility sometimes exceeding 25 meters (82 feet). It can be lower at the start or end of the season or after periods of heavy rain.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
While not a major migration hub, Perhentian Islands, Malaysia offers some seasonal highlights. Turtle nesting season for green and hawksbill turtles runs from approximately April to September, increasing your chances of encounters. Extremely rare whale shark sightings are most likely between March and May, but these are not guaranteed. The main draw remains the rich resident reef life rather than large pelagic migrations.
What marine life can I expect to see in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
You can expect to see abundant green and hawksbill turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and large schools of snappers and barracuda. The reefs in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia are home to bumphead parrotfish, blue-spotted stingrays, moray eels, and a vibrant array of reef fish like clownfish, angelfish, and triggerfish. Macro life includes various nudibranchs and crustaceans, offering something for every diver.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
Given the warm water temperatures of 28-31°C (82-88°F), a thick wetsuit is unnecessary for diving in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia. Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm shorty or even just a rash guard and board shorts for sun and minor scrape protection. A 3mm full suit can provide extra comfort for those who get cold easily or plan multiple dives per day.
How do I get to Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
To get to the Perhentian Islands, Malaysia, first fly into Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kota Bharu (KBR). From the airport, take a one-hour taxi or bus ride to the Kuala Besut jetty. At the jetty, you will purchase a speedboat ticket for a 30-45 minute boat ride directly to your accommodation on either Perhentian Besar (Big Island) or Perhentian Kecil (Small Island).
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia?
The Perhentian Islands, Malaysia is exclusively a shore-based diving destination; liveaboards do not operate here. All diving is conducted by dive centers located at resorts or as standalone shops on the islands. This setup is ideal as all the dive sites are clustered around the islands and are easily accessible via short speedboat trips, allowing for a relaxed and flexible diving schedule combined with island life.