Day 7: Island Pace and the Windmill Viewpoint | Malaysia Purple Travel Guide

Today, there is no set itinerary. As this is your last full day on the island, this is your time to embrace the ‘island pace’. Whether you want to be underwater with sea turtles or simply horizontal on the sand with a book, today offers the perfect day for you to do that.

Below are the best ways to spend your free day:

Option 1: The ‘Lazy Day’ (Sunbathing & Swimming)

If your goal is total relaxation, simply find a spot on the powdery white sands of Long Beach. The southern end of the beach is generally quieter during the day, while the center is the hub for beach cafes and music.

• Self-Discovery Tip: Rent a beach umbrella and a lounger (usually around RM15–RM20), if they are not included in your accommodation, and enjoy the view of the turquoise water. Many cafes will serve you fresh fruit juices or coconuts directly to your chair.

Option 2: Independent Snorkeling (Long Beach North)

Continue your discovery of the world-class off-beach snorkeling at the northern end of Long Beach (past the BuBu Resort jetty).

Option 3: Guided Snorkeling Boat Tour

For a more comprehensive look at the Marine Park, join a ‘Long Trip’ or ‘Short Trip’ boat tour. You can take a tour from your resort, or find a tour from one of the companies on Long Beach. The more expensive tours from the resorts typically get better reviews than the independent operators.

• The Route: Most tours leave at 10:00 AM and include stops at Turtle Point (to swim with Green Sea Turtles), Shark Point, and Coral Garden.
• The Lighthouse: Some tours include a stop at a rusted lighthouse structure in the middle of the sea. You can climb up and jump into the deep blue water, which is surrounded by massive schools of fish.
• Cost: Expect to pay between RM40 and RM60 per person.

Option 4: Visit Perhentian Besar (The Big Island)

If you are staying on the ‘small’ island, take a water taxi across the channel to explore Perhentian Besar.

• Where to Go: Ask the boatman to drop you at Teluk Pauh (in front of the Perhentian Island Resort). The water here is incredibly clear and the beach is wide and pristine. Alternatively, head to Tuna Bay for a quiet lunch and great snorkeling right off the shore.
• Water Taxi Cost: Prices are standardized but vary by distance. A trip from Kecil to the main beaches on Besar usually costs RM15–RM25 per person each way.

Option 5: Hike the Island Trails

For those who prefer land to water, there are several trails that reveal the island’s wild interior.

• The Windmill Viewpoint: This is the most popular hike on Perhentian Kecil. Follow the path from the back of Long Beach toward the interior. It is a steep 20-minute climb to the top of the hill where two large windmills stand. From the abandoned staircase nearby, you get the most iconic panoramic view of the islands.
• Long Beach to Romantic Beach: This is a more rugged trail that takes you to a secluded, ‘secret’ beach on the other side of the headland. It is perfect for those who want a private swimming spot away from the crowds.

Traveler Tip

If you choose to hike to the Windmill Viewpoint, please be careful on the stairs. They have not been maintained and can be quite slippery or broken in sections. Always wear sturdy sandals or sneakers—do not attempt the hike in flip-flops. Also, bring water, as it is very humid inside the jungle canopy. And also bring mosquito repellant.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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