Pulau Besar Travel Guide

The best beach. Period. Well, maybe together with Pulau Rawa.

Once known as Pulau Babi Besar (Big Boars Island), its name has since been changed to take into account the sensitivities of locals as pork is banned in Islam. Pulau Besar is an idyllic tropical paradise that gives the beaches in Pulau Tioman a run for their money, and some - including us - are convinced that the long stretch of snow white sand and clear turqoise waters here are superior.

You can look forward to some serious lounging and swimming. Resorts can arrange for scuba diving and fishing trips, but besides that there are no independent dive operators on this island. Nevertheless, there is plenty to explore in the hidden trails running parallel to the beachfront.

Mirage Island Resort is probably the best place to stay thanks to their value packages. If you're interested in a no-frills feel of kampung life, there is the homestay option too. As for eating, the food at Aseania Resort is good and reasonably priced, but more a more compelling reason to eat there is the restaurant which has a spectacular view of the South China Sea.