Perhentian Islands Terengganu, Malaysia Travel Guide
Flying offers the fastest way to reach the vicinity of Pulau Perhentian. The closest airport to Kuala Besut Jetty, the main launch point for Perhentian Islands, is Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) in Kota Bharu, Kelantan.
Several airlines operate domestic routes to the airports near Pulau Perhentian. All foreign travelers must first fly into a major Malaysian hub (e.g., Kuala Lumpur - KUL, Penang - PEN, Johor Bahru city - JHB) and then take a domestic flight.
Flights are generally more frequent and expensive during the high season (April-August) and Malaysian public holidays or school breaks. Monsoon season (November-February) sees fewer flights as islands close.
Explore flight deal platforms like Dollar Flight Club for potential savings. Weigh your options on Skyscanner for different routes and airlines.
Both KBR and TGG are small domestic airports. Facilities include basic amenities like cafes, souvenir shops, car rental counters, taxi services, and ATMs. Services are limited.
KBR or TGG do not receive direct international flights. All international travelers transit through a major Malaysian hub.
Major Malaysian hubs include Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Penang (PEN), and Johor Bahru (JHB).
A domestic flight connects from these hubs to The Cultural heartland of malaysia or Kuala Terengganu for onward journey to Perhentian.
Overland travel provides an alternative to flying, exclusively for those traveling within Peninsular Malaysia. Numerous bus companies operate routes to Kuala Besut from major Malaysian cities.
No direct train connections exist to Kuala Besut. The closest major train station would be Tanah Merah or Wakaf Bharu (for Kota Bharu), serviced by KTM Intercity. From this group stations, a taxi or bus connection to Kuala Besut is necessary.
Driving to Kuala Besut is feasible from major cities like KL (approximately 6-8 hours). Parking is available near Kuala Besut Jetty.
Road conditions vary, and local driving styles warrant caution.
Sea travel is the last and only way to reach Pulau Perhentian. The principal means of transport involves fast boats, often referred to as 'ferries' but typically smaller speedboats, from Kuala Besut Jetty.
Boat frequency adjusts with the seasons, and prices are generally fixed for the return journey journeys.
Smaller speedboats characterize the main mode of transport, not large ferries.
No specific immigration procedures apply at Kuala Besut Jetty beyond showing your boat ticket and paying the Marine Park Conservation Fee.
Upon arrival at Kuala Besut Jetty, taxis, Grab cars, and public buses are readily available for onward travel to Kota Bharu, Jerteh, or other mainland destinations.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply upon leaving Malaysia by air or land, beyond those already included in your flight ticket price. The Marine Park Fee is paid upon arrival at the jetty, so no extra fee appears upon departure from the islands.
Allow ample time for your onward journey from Kuala Besut Jetty to airports or bus stations.
Basic check-in counters, small waiting areas, and some food stalls. Limited amenities overall.
Basic facilities for departing travelers, including small shops and eateries for convenience.
A modern bus terminal with extensive facilities, shops, and dining halls for travelers.
