Perhentian Islands are the most northeastern islands of Malaysia known for its diving, white beaches and wicked dive sites.

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Pulau Perhentian is the name of the two large islands Pulau Perhentian Besar (Big Island) and Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Island) easily reached by ferry at 21 kilometers from Kuala Besut. Together with Pulau Rawa, Pulau Serenggeh, Pulau Susu Dara Besar and Pulau Susu Dara Kecil, it is the first group of islands reached from Thailand. Being the most northern of Terengganu Marine Park, Pulau Perhentian is translated from Malay as 'Place to stop' which it was for traders plying the waterways between Thailand and Malaysia in the last millennium.

Many backpackers from Thailand, but also families and locals spend their holiday here and enjoy its unspoiled charm and breathtaking views of its natural beauty. There are only footpaths (trails) on the islands and many visitors choose to use the water taxi as their main transport around the island. The small fishing village Pasir Hantu is the only inhabited area at Perhentian Kecil, while most tourist resorts are on Perhentian Besar. Its palm fringed shores are surrounded with white beaches on one side and lush rainforest on the other. You can find monkeys, monitor lizards and many different species of birds while trekking through its jungle. Diving tourism is increasing but you might also consider going here for sun-worshipping or drinking cocktails in a hammock on the beach. It has something for each traveler.

Its blue azul colored waters offer some of the most stunning underwater paradises in Malaysia. Many dive sites are shallow perfect for snorkeling and the more inexperienced scuba divers. You will find fringing coral reefs, some fantastic wrecks, brilliant coral formations and an enormous wide variety of fish. Everything appears even brighter and more colorful because of its white sand and shallowness. Turtles, sharks, dolphins and even pilot whales and whale sharks can be seen between July and August if you are lucky. Common coral fish and many other critters are living their lives.

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