perhentian in 3 days, 2 nights

A flight and speedboat out to the islands, a day of snorkelling with turtles and a village lunch, and a last swim before the boat back. Plan it for March to October, when the resorts are open and the sea is calm.

1. Day 1

   Over to the islands

   Morning

   Fly from KL to Kota Bharu, about an hour, then drive about 1.5 hours to the jetty at Kuala Besut. The speedboat takes 30–45 minutes, and the marine park fee is collected when you arrive.

   Lunch

   Settle in and have lunch at your resort. Stay on Besar for quieter, family-friendly bays, or on Kecil to be near Long Beach.

   Afternoon

   Swim and snorkel straight off the beach. The coral starts close to shore, so you don't need a boat on the first day.

   Evening

   Water taxi over to Coral Bay, on the sunset side of Kecil, then walk the short trail across the island to Long Beach.

   Night

   Fresh fish grilled on the sand at one of the Long Beach barbecues.

2. Day 2

   Turtles and reef sharks

   Morning

   A half-day snorkelling trip by boat, which most resorts and dive centres run. Turtle Point and Shark Point are the usual stops, for turtles and small reef sharks in the shallows.

   Lunch

   Ask the boat to drop you at the fishing village on Kecil for simple Malay food.

   Afternoon

   Rest through the heat, or try an introductory dive. The islands are a popular place to learn.

   Evening

   Dinner along the beach near your resort, then an early night.

3. Day 3

   Last swim and home

   Morning

   An early swim, or a walk along one of the jungle trails that link the bays, before the heat builds.

   Lunch

   Early lunch at the resort, then the speedboat back to Kuala Besut. Boats run at set times, so confirm yours the day before.

   Afternoon

   Drive about 1.5 hours to Kota Bharu airport and fly home.