Located just off the eastern coast peninsular Malaysia in the state of Terengganu are two small tropical islands called Perhentian Besar (big) and Perhentian Kecil (small). They used to be merchant trading posts but are now paradise isles for travellers and divers.

The islands can be reached by boat from Kuala Besut just 14 nautical miles away. Accommodation is mostly small beach hut resorts. Perhentian Besar has the most facilities and dive centres on the beach run morning and afternoon dive trips.

Dive sites are close to shore so most dives are by local boat and are pretty cheap. There are about 10 regularly dived sites in what is now part of the Terengganu marine park.

The best season to dive at the Perhentian Islands is April to September, that's the dry season and when the sea is flat. Out of season the islands virtually close down.

Diving here is not as consistently good as Sabah but can be very good when the visibility is good. Visibility averages about 15m. Most dives are suitable for all levels of diver and are quite shallow. Many dive sites are equally good for snorkelling. Continued >>