Perhentian Besar

Besar means big in Malay and it is more upscale than Perhentian Kecil. Most of the resorts are located on the western part of the island. The other part of Perhentian Besar is undeveloped and surrounded with dense forests. If you are seeking quality time and privacy with your loved ones, book an accommodation that is away from the other resorts. 

Sleep

Watercolours Paradise Resort is a mid-range option on Perhentian Besar and you can get spacious basic rooms in a wooden style chalet. There are rooms facing the sea at an extra cost, other rooms are facing the garden. The in-house restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Food option ranges from Western to local delights. The resort too has a diving centre, ask for a diving package if you are keen. 

The Reef is just next to Watercolours Paradise Resort but the rooms are slightly smaller. The view is better compared to the latter. All rooms come with a mosquito net and an attached bathroom. Alcohol is available at a bargained price. The resort offers snorkeling and diving trips too.

Coral View Island Resort is set atop the hills of Perhentian Besar and offers spacious rooms. There are private bungalows and A-frame chalets to choose from. Sri Tanjung is the resort's in-house restaurant and the food price is pretty reasonable. Do note that Coral View Island Resort is an Islamic resort and therefore no alcohol is allowed. 

If you want a room with a view, book a room at Perhentian Island Resort. It is located on the bay and every room has a different view of the South China Sea. Rooms are air-conditioned with ample space to walk-about. The resort arranges airport transfer for its guests too.

Activities

There are two beaches on Perhentian Besar named Teluk Pauh and Teluk Dalam. The beach at Teluk Pauh is a giant pool with crystal clear waters. Swimming and lazing on the beach are the perfect activities for this island holiday. Sign up for a diving or snorkeling package to try something different.

The other beach is Teluk Dalam and it is the longest beach on Pulau Perhentian. The waters are not as clear as the previous beach but the location is a little far off from the resorts. If you are lucky, the beach is empty and you can play a game of volleyball or lie on a sarong to get a tan. 

Eat

All resorts on Perhentian Besar have an in-house restaurant and bar so no worries about food when you are there. Do note that there are no ala-carte eateries here. You would have to get to Perhentian Kechil for that.

Know

Pulau Perhentian suits anyone who is looking for new experience or a quiet solitude time. Pick Perhentian Kecil if want to chill and party and Perhentian Besar for privacy and peace. There are no ATMs, banks and public phones. A few resorts and dive centers may accept Mastercard and Visa. The best time to visit is in March and early September.