Coral Bay (Perhentian Islands) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The journey to Coral Bay begins at Kuala Besut Jetty on mainland Malaysia, where regular ferry services transport visitors to the Perhentian Islands. From Kuala Lumpur, travelers can reach Kuala Besut by taking a 7-8 hour bus ride or a 1-hour flight to Kota Bharu followed by a 1-hour taxi journey. The ferry crossing to Perhentian Kecil takes approximately 30-45 minutes, with boats typically running more frequently during the morning hours. Upon arrival at the island, Coral Bay is easily accessible by a short 5-minute walk from the main jetty, or water taxis can transport you directly to the bay's beachfront. If arriving during monsoon season (November-February), check ferry schedules in advance as services may be limited.

Nestled on the western coast of Perhentian Kecil, Coral Bay offers a perfect blend of serene beaches and vibrant marine life. This tranquil bay, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand, serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of Malaysia's Perhentian Islands. Arriving by ferry, visitors are immediately greeted by the laid-back atmosphere and stunning panoramic views that have made this destination a favorite among travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The prime time to visit Coral Bay falls between March and October, when clear skies and calm seas create ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. April to June offers the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds, while July and August mark the peak tourist season with livelier atmospheres and advance bookings becoming essential. Water visibility reaches its peak during these months, often exceeding 20 meters, perfect for exploring the bay's renowned underwater ecosystems. The monsoon season from November to February brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, with many accommodations and ferry services closing completely, making the island largely inaccessible.

Coral Bay serves as an excellent launching point to explore the treasures of the Perhentian archipelago. From here, a quick 10-minute ferry ride takes you to Perhentian Besar, the larger island known for its upscale resorts and family-friendly beaches like Teluk Dalam. Venture slightly further to Lang Tengah Island (45 minutes by boat), where secluded beaches and pristine dive sites await the intrepid traveler. The remote Redang Island, accessible via a scenic 1.5-hour ferry journey, rewards visitors with its marine park and luxury beachfront experiences. For day-trippers, the tiny uninhabited islands surrounding the Perhentians offer spectacular snorkeling opportunities just a short boat taxi ride away.

Coral Bay's underwater world stands as its premier attraction, with vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine species just meters from shore, bring your snorkeling gear to spot sea turtles and blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat. The famous Turtle Sanctuary Beach, a short jungle trek away, offers opportunities to witness conservation efforts and possibly see hatchlings making their way to sea during the right season. Culinary adventures await at the bay's beachfront restaurants, where fresh seafood barbecues and authentic Malaysian dishes like nasi lemak and roti canai satisfy hungry travelers. As evening approaches, join the laid-back beach bars where fire shows and live music create the perfect backdrop to stunning sunsets. For the active traveler, kayak rentals provide a chance to explore hidden coves and beaches not accessible by foot.

Coral Bay sits on Perhentian Kecil, which translates to 'stopping point' in Malay, named for its historical role as a resting place for traders traveling between Malaysia and Thailand. The waters surrounding the bay are part of a protected marine park established in 1994, which has helped maintain the extraordinary biodiversity that makes this area a world-class snorkeling destination. Until the 1990s, Coral Bay remained virtually unknown to international tourists, inhabited primarily by fishermen in traditional wooden houses built on stilts over the water. Local legend claims that the unusually blue waters of the bay are the result of a mythical blue princess who once bathed in these waters, leaving behind her eternal color.