Introduction: Why Terengganu’s Islands Should Be on Your Bucket List
Terengganu, located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is a treasure trove of tropical islands surrounded by the turquoise waters of the South China Sea. Whether you’re looking for serene beaches, colourful coral reefs, or luxurious seaside resorts, these islands in Terengganu offer unforgettable escapes perfect for nature lovers and beach bums alike.
From Pulau Perhentian to Pulau Tenggol, here are five of the most stunning islands you should visit in Terengganu.
1. Pulau Perhentian – Where Serenity Meets Adventure
About the Island
Pulau Perhentian is a pair of islands—Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil—famous for their white sandy beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs.
Highlights
- Awarded CNN’s 13th Best Beach in the World
- Rich in marine biodiversity with great snorkelling spots
- Home to tranquil coves and lively beach parties
Things to Do
- Snorkel at Turtle Beach
- Dive with Nitrox at YBD Dive Centre
- Visit Romantic Beach and enjoy beach hammocks
- Jungle trekking through tropical rainforest trails
Top Stay: Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa
- Private jetty, kids’ club, forest-view villas, batik workshops
- Dining at Dapur and Sekochi for local and seafood cuisine
How to Get There:
30-minute boat ride from Kuala Besut Jetty
2. Pulau Kapas – The Hidden Cotton Island
About the Island
Only 20 minutes by boat from Merang Jetty, Pulau Kapas is a peaceful getaway ideal for those seeking serenity and simplicity.
Highlights
- White “cotton-like” beaches (hence the name ‘Kapas’)
- Excellent snorkelling with shallow coral reefs
- Famous for squid jigging (March to August)
Things to Do
- Squid fishing with locals
- Kayaking along quiet shores
- Snorkelling in calm, crystal-clear waters
Top Stay:
Boutique beachfront chalets and eco-resorts
How to Get There:
20-minute boat ride from Merang Jetty
3. Pulau Redang – A Diver’s Dream with Luxury Comfort
About the Island
Redang is one of Malaysia’s most iconic islands, known for its blue lagoons, turtle nesting sites, and 5-star resorts.
Highlights
- Popular dive sites with sea turtles, reef sharks, and cuttlefish
- White sandy beaches with postcard-perfect views
- Best visited March–September (closed during monsoon)
Things to Do
- Snorkel near the marine park centre
- Dive at Turtle Bay or Shark Point
- Relax at a private beach within resort grounds
Top Stays:
- The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort – Oceanfront suites, turtle snorkelling, luxury dining
- Redang Island Resort – Rainforest chalet with hidden beach
- Laguna Redang Island Resort – Full-board packages with diving & snorkelling
How to Get There:
- 45 mins from Merang Jetty
- 30 mins from Shahbandar Jetty
4. Pulau Lang Tengah – For Tranquil Seclusion & Bioluminescent Magic
About the Island
Tucked between Redang and Perhentian, Pulau Lang Tengah is a lesser-known gem offering peace, privacy, and bioluminescent blue sand.
Highlights
- Secluded, serene environment perfect for romantic getaways
- Home to sea turtle nesting and vibrant coral reefs
- Blue sand sightings at night (caused by plankton)
Things to Do
- Snorkel at Summer Reef and Fish Haven
- Dive at Summer Wreck and Blue Coral
- Go turtle watching and blue sand hunting
Top Stays:
- Summer Bay Resort
- Sari Pacifica
- D’Coconut Lagoon
How to Get There:
30-minute boat ride from Merang Jetty
5. Pulau Tenggol – A Scuba Diver’s Paradise
About the Island
Smaller and more rugged than the rest, Pulau Tenggol is the go-to destination for serious divers, located near Kuala Dungun.
Highlights
- Over 20 dive sites including Batu Chanang and Coral Garden
- Frequent whale shark sightings from August to October
- Great for night diving, wreck diving, and drift diving
Things to Do
- Snorkel near the main beach
- Scuba dive with certified dive operators
- Enjoy dramatic coastal cliffs and coral plateaus
Top Stay:
- Tenggol Coral Beach Resort – Rustic charm with diver-focused facilities
How to Get There:
45-minute boat ride from Kuala Dungun Jetty
Best Food to Try on the Islands
- Local Malay cuisine: Nasi dagang, keropok lekor, sambal squid
- Seafood BBQs: Fresh catches of the day served by the beach
- Resort dining: International and fusion options at Redang and Perhentian
- Drinks & Desserts: Onde-onde, pandan coolers, and lemongrass tea
How to Get to Terengganu
- Nearest Airport: Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) in Kuala Terengganu
- From the airport:
- Taxi/Grab to Kuala Besut Jetty (for Perhentian)
- To Merang Jetty (for Redang, Kapas, Lang Tengah)
- To Kuala Dungun Jetty (for Tenggol)
Final Thoughts
From thrilling underwater dives to serene sunset strolls on secluded beaches, the islands of Terengganu are truly unmatched in their beauty. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure, or tranquility, each island has its own charm waiting to be discovered.
If you’re planning your next tropical escape, let Terengganu’s island gems be your paradise found.
