The coasts of Peninsular Malaysia also boast some of the most beautiful locations in Southeast Asia, where you can discover the sunken treasures hidden in their waters and be amazed by splendid tropical islands.
One of the most famous destinations is the archipelago of Perhentian Islands located 25 km off the north-eastern coast, near the border with Thailand, and consists of two islands: Perhentian Besar (Big Island) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Island).
These are verdant islands where the lush tropical jungle that grows within them reaches up to and forms a backdrop to the white beaches of fine sand, bathed by the warm, crystal-clear South China Sea.
There are no roads on the islands, so motorized vehicles are prohibited. The most distant beaches and bays can only be reached on foot along narrow paths or by boat.
The evocative tropical setting allows you to fully experience a holiday entirely dedicated to relaxation and the discovery of magnificent nature both above and below the water.
Diving is in fact one of the most popular activities on both islands and the best way to explore the wonders of the marine flora and fauna.
The fifteen spots located on the seabed of both islands are able to offer ever-changing dives.
A short stretch of sea separates the dive sites from the island, allowing the boats to return to the diving centers after each descent, thus offering divers the option of completing just one dive and dedicating the rest of the day to relaxation, or continuing with the subsequent dives.
Suitable for divers of all levels, dives typically reach depths between 15 and 24 meters. The low depths, which correspond to reduced air consumption, allow for extended underwater stays, up to an hour, ideal for admiring the stunning seabed and rich marine life in complete tranquility.
During the peak season, between March and October, visibility varies from 8 to 15 meters depending on the time of day. Photographers should choose to dive in the morning for the best conditions.
Once you descend beneath the surface of the sea, a fantastic world of coral gardens of various shapes appears that will leave you speechless.
Marine life, both large and small, is equally well represented. During a dive, you can admire colorful nudibranchs, seahorses, turtles, moray eels, giant barracudas, and excellent specimens of blacktip and whitetip sharks.
One of the greatest thrills is the encounter at Iron Cape with schools of Giant Parrotfish wandering undisturbed in search of food along the reef with their young in tow.
Many triggerfish, even large ones, and the shy cubic boxfish (or yellow boxfish).
Among the protagonists of these seabeds we cannot forget the charming clownfish of every variety and color that swim among the numerous anemones present on the reef.
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