Planning a trip to Perhentian but worried about costs? This comprehensive budget guide breaks down everything you need to know about expenses on both Perhentian Besar and Kecil in 2026.
Budget Overview
| Budget Level | Daily Cost | 3-Day Trip |
|---|
| Backpacker | RM100-150 | RM400-600 |
| Mid-Range | RM250-350 | RM800-1,200 |
| Comfort | RM500+ | RM1,500+ |
Transport Costs
Getting to Kuala Besut Jetty
- Flight to Kota Bharu: RM150-300
- Bus from KL: RM45-60 (7-8 hours)
- Grab from Kota Bharu: RM50-80
Boat Tickets
- Return boat: RM70-90
- Marine park fee: RM30 (foreigners) / RM5 (Malaysians)
Accommodation
Perhentian Kecil
| Type | Price/Night |
|---|
| Dorm bed | RM30-50 |
| Fan room | RM80-120 |
| A/C room | RM150-250 |
Perhentian Besar
| Type | Price/Night |
|---|
| Budget chalet | RM120-180 |
| Standard resort | RM200-350 |
| Premium resort | RM400-800 |
Food & Drinks
- Local meal: RM12-20
- Western food: RM20-35
- Seafood BBQ: RM40-80
- Coffee/tea: RM5-8
- Water bottle: RM3-5
Activities Pricing
| Activity | Price |
|---|
| Snorkeling (half day) | RM35-50 |
| Snorkeling (full day) | RM60-80 |
| Discover Scuba | RM200-250 |
| PADI Open Water | RM900-1,200 |
| Fun dive | RM100-150 |
| Kayak rental/hour | RM20-30 |
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel in shoulder season (March-April, Sept-Oct)
- Stay on Kecil for budget options
- Bring snacks from mainland
- Book accommodation directly
- Share snorkeling trips with other travellers
- Withdraw cash in Kuala Besut - island ATMs are unreliable
Sample 3-Day Backpacker Budget
- Boat: RM75
- Marine park: RM5
- Dorm (2 nights): RM80
- Food (3 days): RM150
- Snorkeling: RM50
- Total: ~RM400
Ready to plan your trip? Download the Dipsea app to compare boat schedules and find accommodation deals.