Pulau Redang, located 45km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu, is the largest of a group of nine protected islands dotting the South China Sea off the Terengganu coast. The island offers crystal clear waters and numerous dive sites for enthusiasts. Sheltered within the Pulau Redang Marine Park, the waters here are rich in marine life. At midday when sun rays penetrate the sea, brilliant hues of coral, anemones and fish can be seen.
The waters around Pulau Redang also contain two historic shipwrecks: The H.M.S. Prince of Wales and H.M.S. Repulse, which sank here at the start of World War II, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya. This paradise island is perfect for snorkelling, swimming, scuba-diving, jungle trekking, boating and canoeing. No fishing is allowed within a 3.2km radius of the island as Pulau Redang is gazetted as a marine park. The collection of corals and other aquatic life is also strictly prohibited. Berjaya Resort offers a golf course in an idyllic setting.
![]()
Key Tips
Pulau Redang is larger and has more activity on it, the two Pulau Perhentian islands are smaller and quieter.
How To Get There
By Boat
Begin your island-hopping adventure by catching a boat at any of the jetties in Kuala Terengganu and Merang. Travelling time to Redang is one hour from Kuala Terengganu and 50 minutes from Merang.
Accommodation: CLICK HERE
*****
Pulau Tenggol is another beautiful diving getaway and lies just 45 minutes off Kuala Dungun in the south of Terengganu. It is small – just 3 km long and 2 km wide. However, this doesn’t prevent it from being a paradise, especially diving enthusiasts.
The interior of the island is filled with steep, rocky cliffs. This rocky terrain extends from the interior of the island right into the ocean and has created a dramatic ‘drop-off’ – a sort of vertical canvas of marine life – that divers never seem to tire of.
![]()
Key Tips
Beware of the strong currents Tenggol has if you are a diver. Most dives are scheduled for the calm inter-tidal window, but even so, currents can be strong – perfect for drift diving!
| How to get there |
| By Road Take a bus or taxi to Dungun. From Kuantan, take a bus at Jalan Besar Terminal. If you are coming from Kuala Terengganu, take the bus at the Syed Hussin Central Bus Station. By Sea |
Accommodation Booking: CLICK HERE
***
Pulau Perhentian, meaning ’stopover island’, is not to be missed. Situated 21km off the coast of Terengganu, it consists of the islands of Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. Covered by unspoilt jungle, windswept palms, powdery white beaches and surrounded by sapphire blue waters, Pulau Perhentian is a sanctuary for fishermen, migratory birds and of course, discerning holiday-makers.
Located just off the edge of the Pulau Redang Marine Park, Perhentian’s coral-fringed waters have excellent underwater seascapes for snorkelling and scuba diving. Arrangements can also be made for island cruises, and boats can be hired to go exploring for private bays and secluded coves. A trip to these tropical islands is also a must for those who enjoy windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and deep-sea fishing.
Of the two islands, Pulau Perhentian Kecil is more geared towards backpackers. Here, you’ll find a wide range of budget options for both food and accommodation. Pulau Perhentian Besar, on the other hand, is more developed and therefore offers better facilities. Nevertheless, there are chalets, dormitories and campsites on both islands.
Key Tips
For the best sunsets in the Perhentian Islands, go to Coral View Island Resort , get a cool drink at the café overlooking the sea, and soak in the view.
–Tourism Malaysia
How to get there
By Road
From Kuala Terengganu, take a taxi or bus to the fishing port of Kuala Besut. It lies about 1 hour north of town. The jetty is here.
By Boat
Board a boat at the Fisheries Complex for Pulau Perhentian. The boat ride to the island takes about an hour.
Accommodation Booking: Click Here![]()
*****