Situated just off the northern coast of Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands are the ideal beach vacation destination. Underneath swaying palm trees on white sand beaches, it’s easy to forget your daily worries and simply relax in the sun.
Whether you’re just staying for a few nights as part of a larger trip or you’re looking for a spot for a longer retreat, finding a good hotel on the Perhentian Islands is the first step. Since the islands are small and still have a somewhat “undiscovered” feel, options can be a bit more limited.
To help you with your search, we’ve looked into some cool unique accommodation options on the Perhentian Islands. From high-end luxury to back-to-basics nature retreats, there’s a hotel for every traveler on this list.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Perhentian Islands for One Night
Perhentian Island Jungle Villas
If you ever feel like getting away from it all, then the Perhentian Island Jungle Villas are the place to go. Just minutes from incredible snorkelling spots and surrounded by lush tropical jungle, it’s the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
- Keranji Beach
- Long Beach
- Coral Bay
Is this amazing Perhentian Islands Hotel booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Staying at a Hotel on the Perhentian Islands
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The Perhentian Islands haven’t quite reached the mainstream tourist scene, and they’re also a part of a protected marine conservation area. Although this is great news for people in search of a peaceful spot away from the crowds, it does mean that accommodation options are a bit more limited.
There’s still a good variety of hotels, although some aren’t exactly what you’d consider ‘traditional’. However, you can always count on a spectacular location by the beach for endless sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling.
Keep in mind that because the Perhentian Islands are more remote, electricity is often restricted to certain hours of the day, typically in the morning or evening. More modern hotels will typically have 24 hour electricity, but you might even enjoy the break from technology!
So long as you’re okay with more simplistic accommodation, it’s possible to find affordable hotels if you’re traveling Malaysia on a budget. And hey, you’ll always have the luxury of swaying palm trees and an amazing coral reef just feet away!
What to Look for in a Hotel on the Perhentian Islands
Keep in mind that hotel prices on the Perhentian Islands correspond directly with how modern the amenities are. If you absolutely need air conditioning and hot water showers, you’ll need to spend a bit more money than if you’re okay with mosquito netting and a fan.
Even the most basic hotels provide private rooms, although bathrooms are sometimes shared. Breakfast can also be included in the room rate, or there’s usually an onsite cafe or restaurant where you can purchase meals during your stay.
Nearly all of the best hotels are located right on one of Malaysia’s best beaches, or at least only a short walk away. Some properties will offer additional services like chartered boats, snorkelling or diving tours, or private beach areas.
Most hotels can accommodate two to three people per room, although some properties have rooms for families or larger groups. Be sure to check whether a hotel is child friendly before making a reservation if you’re traveling with younger kids.
A good way to compare options for hotels on the Perhentian Islands is by using search platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Not only can you refine your search to fit your specific preferences, but you can also read reviews from past guests to get a better idea for what a place is like.
Perhentian Island Jungle Villas
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Solar water heater
- > 24 hour electricity
Orang Hutan Camping Suite
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Breakfast included
- > 120 meters from beach
Ombak Resort Perhentian Island
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Onsite bar
- > Beachfront property
The Resthouse
- > $$
- > 8 guests
- > Shared kitchen
- > Beachfront
Mimpi Perhentian
- > $$$$
- > 2 guests
- > Swimming pool
- > Private balcony
Alunan Resort
- > $$
- > 4-5 guests
- > Breakfast included
- > Flat-screen TV
Petani Beach Chalet
- > $
- > 3 guests
- > Beachfront
- > Hammocks
The Top 10 Hotels on the Perhentian Islands
Without further ado, here are the best hotels on the Perhentian Islands! Pack your swimsuit and beach towel, because you’re about to be treated to the tropical beach vacation of a lifetime.
1. Overall Best Hotel on the Perhentian Islands – Perhentian Island Jungle Villas
Combining sustainability with modern comfort, these simple jungle villas are less than a five minute walk to the beach. You’ll feel completely removed from modern civilization, while still being able to connect to Wi-fi and enjoy hot showers thanks to the solar water heater.
There’s a simple restaurant onsite, and other local venues are just a few minutes away on foot. There are plenty of spots to go snorkeling nearby, as well as numerous jungle paths to explore the island. At the end of the day, you can relax on the private porch of your villa and listen to the sounds of the rainforest.
Want to save money on accommodation?
Enjoy 15% OFF on stays ALL around the world.
2. Best Budget Hotel on the Perhentian Islands – Orang Hutan Camping Suite
If you’re traveling on a budget and after unique accommodation on the Perhentian Islands, then check out Orang Hutan’s luxury camping sites. Each of the huge bell tents features a mattress, and power outlets with electricity available in the evenings.
A simple breakfast is provided at the onsite cafe, and you can enjoy a buffet dinner for an additional charge. Since the campsite is located up a jungle path, it’s not the place to be if you have lots of luggage. However, for a bit of adventure and an amazing jungle setting, Orang Hutan won’t disappoint.
3. Best Hotel for Couples – Ombak Resort Perhentian Island
Right on Coral Bay Beach, the Omak Resort offers the best of Perhentian Island scenery while providing modern comforts like A/C and Wi-fi. Start off each day with a breakfast included in the room price, and enjoy sunset views from the restaurant at the end of each day.
For ease of transportation, the hotel offers an airport shuttle for guests. You can also book other activities like snorkeling, hiking, and diving during your stay. There are often live music performances, movie nights or other fun activities for guests to enjoy.
4. Best Hotel for a Group of Friends – The Resthouse
It’s not a traditional hotel, but groups of friends will love this private lodge right on the beach. For a reasonable price, your group can enjoy its own space, as well as a shared kitchen and gorgeous views of the ocean.
Relying on solar power and built from salvaged wood, the Resthouse is also a super environmentally-friendly accommodation option. In addition to snorkeling and jungle hikes, you can learn about the Lang Tengah Turtle Watch program, which is largely supported by proceeds from the accommodation.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI5. Over-the-Top Luxury Hotel – Mimpi Perhentian
Treat yourself to a luxury beach vacation at the Mimpi Perhentian, complete with a view of the ocean from your private balcony. There’s a swimming pool onsite, and a restaurant featuring both local and international cuisine.
Airport transfer are provided, and you can book other activities like snorkelling and diving at the front desk. If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, you can get spa treatments and massages, or just lounge in one of the beach chairs with your favorite book.
6. Best Hotel for Families visiting the Perhentian Islands – Alunan Resort
If you’re bringing kids to the Perhentian Islands, then you’ll want a place that’s comfortable and fun for them to stay. Thanks to the beachfront location and modern comforts like air conditioning and TVs in each room, you’ll never be out of entertainment.
Not that you’d spend all your time indoors! There are plenty of activities to choose from, including snorkelling tours, boating activities, and day trips to nearby islands. A breakfast is included in the room price, and there’s a restaurant onsite with both local and international dishes offered.
7. Best Hotel for Backpackers – Petani Beach Chalet
If you’re tired of staying at hostels in Malaysia, then this little beach chalet is a great pick. It’s a simple accommodation option, but super budget-friendly and sits right on the beach.
There’s a small restaurant onsite serving both local and western cuisine. You can also sign up for snorkeling tours and book water taxis if you want to explore other areas around the Perhentian Islands.
8. Best Hotel for Views – Perhentian Island Resort
Although any hotel on the Perhentian Islands is going to have great views, this resort takes it to the next level. The private bungalows have their own balcony to enjoy the beach and jungle scenery of Teluk Pauh Beach.
You can enjoy dining right on the sand at the Pinang Seribu Restaurant or Beach Kiosk and try some local foods. During the day, you can book diving tours, boat rides, fishing trips, or schedule a massage at the spa for a relaxing afternoon.
9. Absolute Cheapest Hotel on the Perhentian Islands – RainForest Camping
Although it’s certainly not a traditional hotel, this super budget-friendly choice is great for travelers with a love of adventure. The forested camping space is right next to the beach, and spacious tents with comfortable mattresses are provided for accommodation.
Fill your day with activities like snorkelling, jungle treks, or fishing trips. There’s also a small onsite restaurant and cafe which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for whenever you’re hungry.
10. Amazing Luxury Hotel – Lavender Beachfront Villa
Located on Long Beach of Perhentian Kecil, you’ll have direct access to the sand and surf during your stay at the Lavender Beachfront Villa. The property also features modern comforts like Wi-fi, hot water, and air conditioning.
Breakfast is included in the room price, and there are other restaurants and bars nearby serving a variety of local cuisine. You can also arrange for boat trips, snorkeling tours, and other activities at the property during your stay.
FAQ about Hotels in the Perhentian Islands
Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Perhentian Islands.
Don’t Forget Your Perhentian Islands Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hotels on the Perhentian Islands
Leave behind traffic-filled cities and escape to nature on the beautiful Perhentian Islands. This laid-back tropical haven gives you the chance to take a break from the daily grind and relax in one of Malaysia’s best places to stay.
Now that you’ve seen cool options for unique accommodation on the Perhentian Islands, all that’s left to do is make a reservation! Pack your swimsuit and get ready to explore one of the best coral reefs in Southeast Asia.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
