Terengganu; ideas and things to do

Terengganu is endowed with a wealth of superb natural landscapes. It is often said to have the most amazing geographic and natural diversity of all the states in the nation. Few visitors would disagree...

It has beaches, exotic islands, lush virgin tropical jungles, quaint fishing villages, dazzling waterfalls and much, much more. Miles and miles of white, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters stretch the length of its coastline from Besut in the north to Kemaman in the south.

Her islands are among the most picturesque and romantic in the country. From its myriad of colourful pastimes, which include batik-printing and songket-weaving, to the celebration of its many cultural and traditional heritages handed down from generation-to-generation, Terengganu is indeed a very blessed state.

Terengganu's population is predominantly Malay and speak in a dialect almost foreign to the rest of the country. The pace of life in Kuala Terengganu, the state capital, and all the towns and villages in Terengganu is countrified and unhurried.

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Pulau Perhentian

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.

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.

Who to contact

For more information, call the Terengganu Tourism Office on +609-622 1433 / 1893

Accommodation Overview

The twin islands offer an astounding range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to a 4-star resort. If you are here for diving, it is best to book them as part of an organised dive tour so that meals, diving and accommodation are all-inclusive.

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Pulau Redang

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.

Who to contact

For more information, call the Terengganu Tourism Office on +609-622 1433 / 1893

Accommodation Overview

This marine park offers an astounding range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to a 5-star resort. If you are here for diving, it is best to book them as part of an organised dive tour so that meals, diving and accommodation are all-inclusive.

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Rantau Abang

Another place that should be on every visitor's itinerary is Rantau Abang, 60km south of Kuala Terengganu. There, visitors can lie quietly in wait from midnight to dawn to watch giant leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. The turtles, lumbering slowly up the white sandy beaches to lay eggs, are a memorable sight.

These giant turtles grow up to 2.5m long and sometimes weigh more than 375kg. Rantau Abang is one of only six places in the world visited by these turtles, from the months of May to September.

These turtles and their eggs are also protected. Their eggs are located and replanted by scientists in incubator centres where controlled conditions can influence the sex of young turtles, helping the species survive.

Key Tips

When you arrive on the beach, you can visit the Turtle Information Centre first to find out where the best places for a sighting might be.

How to get there

By Bus You can catch a bus every half an hour from Marang to Rantau Abang.

Who to contact For more information, call the Terengganu Tourism Office on +609-622 1433 / 1893

Accommodation Overview

There are two simple but cosy guesthouses right on the beach. Your other choice is to make a day trip from Kuala Terengganu, where a whole range of accommodation is available.