Hello fellow travellers and adventure seekers! Let me share with you the incredible journey my family and I recently made to Perhentian Besar. This trip made my dreams come true, as I always wanted to visit this popular island. We enjoyed the crystal clear blue waters, beautiful sandy beaches and a fantastic resort experience at Coral View Island Resort.
How to get there
In September we hopped on a flight from KLIA2 to Kota Bahru and then took a taxi for about an hour to Kuala Besut. From there a speedy boat ride – approximately 45 minutes – was our ticket to the Perhentians. Perhentian Island resorts are located on the two main islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar (Greater Perhentian) and Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Lesser Perhentian).
Our girls enjoyed the boat ride. The boat services to Perhentian Besar run from 9am to 4pm and cost RM70 for a return ticket for adults and half of that for kids. The journey might seem a bit long, but trust me, it’s worth it, especially since the islands are only open between April and October during the dry season.
Coral View Island Resort
If you ask me, Coral View Island Resort is one of the best accommodations on Perhentian Besar. The resort shares Teluk Pauh Beach with Perhentian Island Resort, which is the most beautiful beach on the island with pristine white sands. Right in front of the resort, there is a real coral garden – a snorkelling paradise where you can marvel at the abundant coral and fish. On the left side of the hotel, a convenience store catered to our snack and drink needs and nearby, The Barat Perhentian Resort offers great dining options and alcoholic drinks.
Coral View Island Resort also offers very nice meals, but it might be good to know that it has a non-alcohol policy. The Wi-Fi is available only in public areas, so you can focus on disconnecting and embracing the beauty of nature. The rooms, about ninety in total, are tastefully decorated and come with all the essentials like towels, air conditioning and some even with private pools. Of course there is a lot to see on the island itself like squirrels, monkeys, lizards, butterflies and we have even spotted some eagles in the sky.
Fun activities
Coral View Island Resort offers activities such as snorkelling, fishing and non-motorized water sports for adventure lovers. Kids can have a blast at the swimming pool and water park, making it a family-friendly place. One of our favourite experiences was the snorkelling trip where we spotted turtles, sharks, and mesmerizing marine life.
Every day, we soaked up the breathtaking views of the coral beach while enjoying delicious breakfast at Coral View Island Resort’s restaurant. The island is dotted with hammocks, inviting us to relax and soak in the peaceful vibes.
Our 4-day getaway was nothing short of spectacular. Perhentian Besar and Coral View Island Resort left us with cherished memories and a longing to return many more times for sure!
If you want to explore more beautiful resorts on the Perhentians, how about Bubbles Dive Resort or Tuna Bay?
