
Kuala Besut Jetty Perhentian Islands Gateway
The vibrant gateway to the stunning Perhentian Islands, offering local flavors and the start of your tropical adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Kuala Besut Jetty Perhentian Islands Gateway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The vibrant gateway to the stunning Perhentian Islands, offering local flavors and the start of your tropical adventure.
"The bustling starting point for your adventure to the stunning Perhentian Islands."

Book Packages Online
Agents can arrange parking, boats, stays & activities. Saves hassle! :ticket:
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is scarce during holidays. Come early or arrange with your package. :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gateway to Paradise
Kuala Besut Jetty
The bustling starting point for your adventure to the stunning Perhentian Islands.

Local Flavors
Stalls and restaurants near the jetty
Savor traditional Malay dishes, especially delicious grilled fish, before your island escape.

River to Sea Transition
Boat ride from Kuala Besut
Witness the dramatic shift from murky river waters to crystal-clear blue open sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Navigating Boat Tickets & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Packages Online
Agents can arrange parking, boats, stays & activities. Saves hassle! :ticket:
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is scarce during holidays. Come early or arrange with your package. :car:
Life Jackets are Key
Always wear a life jacket on the boat for safety. :life_jacket:
Prepare for Bumpy Rides
Some boats can be rough. Consider seasickness meds if sensitive. :pill:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Packages Online
Agents can arrange parking, boats, stays & activities. Saves hassle! :ticket:
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is scarce during holidays. Come early or arrange with your package. :car:
Life Jackets are Key
Always wear a life jacket on the boat for safety. :life_jacket:
Prepare for Bumpy Rides
Some boats can be rough. Consider seasickness meds if sensitive. :pill:
Enjoy Local Eats
Try the delicious grilled fish (ikan bakar) near the jetty! :fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kuala Besut Jetty serves as the essential gateway to the Perhentian Islands, offering a bustling starting point with local food options. While straightforward to navigate, visitors note challenges with limited parking and occasional cleanliness issues. The boat ride is an adventure, though can be bumpy.
"Kuala Besut has a jetty which is the gateway to Pulau Perhentian Besar and Kechil. Kuala Besut is a small old town located on the banks of Sunagi Besut near the river mouth. There is lots of stalls and restaurant selling traditional malay food. However, there is limited parking lots at the jetty area. On the boat ride, you will notice the murky river water changing to crystal clear blue open sea. Always use a life jacket."
Mohan Raj
"Jetty to Perhentian Island.
With the amount of visitors and tourists who come to this jetty especially during the peak period, this jetty deserves to be upgraded to a bigger venue. It's quite packed and quite a struggle to find parking.
Overall the jetty is very straightforward and easy to navigate. The cleanliness especially at the entrance of the jetty needs to be improved. It does affect the public especially with the smell of the rubbish. There are few shops that sell souvenirs, basic necessities before departing to the island, and food. There are also a few tourist offices and restaurants available here. Waiting can be longer sometimes due to the amount of visitors since it can't accommodate many boats at one time.
It is advisable for those who want to go to Perhentian Island to book the packages prior come here. Because the agent will solve almost everything starting from parking, boat schedule, stay, activities and even foods. There are so many packages available online so make sure to choose the best deals. Please prepare some amount of money for the marine park, and jetty fees accordingly"
Hafizun Mushtafa
"1, tourist tax and entrance fee can be paid by credit card, dont worry (some old post said cash only though). Resident pass doesnt work( i am foreigner but live in KL)
2, there are several boat providers. Almost same price(35rm for adult, 25 rm for kids).
3, we went an boat provider because my taxi driver took me there (Kind of no choice) . Checked the price, looks ok. It was 10:30. They said 11:00 boat is available. I was told to come back 10:55 to the shop. I came back and they took me and other people to the entrance and i paid tax and things . It took some time (Saturday on the school holiday). It was already 11:15. Went to directly the jetty but suddenly I was told it is full and wait another 30min. After 30min, the other guys got on the vessel but I was told I need to wait another vessel, which goes to kecil side. Finally I got on the boat around 12:35. It quite wasted time.
4, the ride is fun. Dont forget to take seasick medicins if you are not good at."
flour paradiso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kuala Besut Jetty is the primary gateway to the Perhentian Islands. You can reach it by car, taxi, or express bus from various cities, including Kuala Lumpur. Many visitors find it convenient to book packages that include transportation arrangements.
Parking is available but can be very limited, especially during peak seasons like school holidays and festive periods. It's advisable to arrive early or book a package that includes parking arrangements to avoid disappointment.
Many travelers opt for express buses from major cities to Jertih, which is a nearby town, and then take a taxi to Kuala Besut Jetty. Some packages also include direct transfers.
Yes, taxis are available to take you to Kuala Besut Jetty. If you're arriving by bus to Jertih, you can easily find a taxi there.
Ferry timings can vary depending on the season and demand. It's best to check with your chosen boat provider or tour agent for the most up-to-date schedule. Boats typically depart throughout the day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry ticket prices can vary. While some private agents might offer lower prices (around 35 RM one-way), government counters may charge more. Return tickets are also available. It's wise to compare prices and book in advance, especially during peak times.
Yes, you will need to pay marine park and jetty fees. These can typically be paid at designated offices near the jetty. Some older advice suggests cash only, but recent information indicates credit card payment is possible.
You can purchase ferry tickets from various private boat operators at the jetty or from government counters. Booking packages online in advance is also a popular and convenient option.
It is highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season, school holidays, or festive periods, to secure your spot and avoid long queues.
Private agents may offer slightly lower prices, but it's important to verify their legitimacy and compare them with official government counter prices. Booking through a reputable package provider often simplifies the process.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The jetty has shops selling souvenirs and basic necessities, as well as food stalls and restaurants. There are also tourist offices. However, cleanliness, particularly regarding rubbish, can be an issue in some areas.
You can find various stalls and restaurants offering traditional Malay food. Grilled fish (ikan bakar) is a popular local specialty that many visitors enjoy before heading to the islands.
Yes, Kuala Besut Jetty can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. The jetty's capacity can be a challenge when accommodating many boats and visitors at once.
The boat ride can be fun but also bumpy, especially on smaller boats. If you're prone to seasickness, it's advisable to take medication beforehand.
While generally safe, it's always recommended to be aware of your surroundings. Always use a life jacket during the boat ride.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the jetty itself can be crowded, the boat ride to the Perhentian Islands is an adventure kids often enjoy. Once on the islands, there are plenty of family-friendly activities. Consider bringing snacks and drinks for the journey, as options might be limited once you're on the boat.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for packages that offer basic accommodation and boat transfers. Eating at local food stalls near the jetty, like those serving ikan bakar, can be more economical than resort dining. Remember to factor in the marine park and jetty fees, which are mandatory.
couples
Enjoy a delicious local meal at one of the eateries near the jetty before you depart. The boat ride itself can be a scenic prelude to your island experience. Consider arranging for a private or semi-private boat transfer if you prefer a more intimate journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to the Perhentian Islands
When arriving at the jetty, you'll likely be approached by numerous boat taxi companies offering transfers. It's wise to have your tickets or package confirmed beforehand to avoid confusion or potential overcharging. Be prepared for the possibility of waiting for your boat, especially during busy periods, as the jetty can get congested and may not accommodate all boats simultaneously.
For a smoother experience, consider booking a package that includes your boat transfer. This often simplifies the process, as agents can manage your tickets, and sometimes even parking, ensuring a more organized start to your island getaway. Remember to always wear a life jacket during the boat ride for your safety.
Local Culinary Delights
These eateries offer a glimpse into the local food culture and are a convenient option for a meal while waiting for your boat. You can find a variety of seafood and other local dishes that provide a satisfying start to your trip. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from locals or fellow travelers.
Navigating the Jetty Experience
The jetty itself has shops selling souvenirs and basic necessities, along with tourist offices. However, some reviews point out that the cleanliness, particularly concerning rubbish, could be improved. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall process of getting to the islands is manageable, especially with pre-booked arrangements.
Be prepared for the boat ride, which can be quite bumpy. While exciting, it's advisable for those prone to seasickness to take precautions. The transition from the river to the open sea is a notable part of the journey, offering scenic views as you head towards the beautiful Perhentian Islands.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit