Long Beach, Sand beach on Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Besut, Malaysia
Long Beach is a wide stretch of white sand curving gently along the western edge of Pulau Perhentian Kecil, a small island in the Besut district of Malaysia. The water is clear and shallow enough for swimming and snorkeling, with small boats usually anchored nearby and simple wooden chalets lining the back of the beach.
Pulau Perhentian Kecil was long used as a fishing ground by local communities before travelers began discovering the island in the 1980s and 1990s. Long Beach gradually became a focal point for simple guesthouses and beach stays, growing alongside the rise of budget travel in Southeast Asia.
In the evenings, fire dancers perform along the shore, spinning flaming sticks and hoops for visitors sitting on the sand. The shows draw small crowds who gather casually, sharing drinks and conversation under an open sky.
The beach is only accessible by boat from the mainland or nearby islands, so it is worth checking departure times in advance. Bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, and enough water is a good idea, as shops on the island can be limited and more expensive than on the mainland.
When the tide pulls back, the beach reveals a scattering of small shells and smooth stones that many visitors stop to collect. These low-tide moments are often the calmest and most pleasant time to walk along the water's edge.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
