Perhentian Islands, Island group in Terengganu, Malaysia.
Perhentian Islands form a group of nine islands in the South China Sea, with Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil as the largest. White sand beaches alternate with rocky headlands, while dense rainforest rises behind them toward low ridges in the interior.
Traders journeying between Bangkok and Malaysia used these islands for centuries as a resting spot during rough seas. In 1994 they were designated a protected marine reserve, restricting commercial fishing and development.
The name means "anchorage" in Malay, reflecting how travelers once sought shelter here from monsoon winds. Fishers from nearby villages still moor their boats in shallow bays and sell fresh catch in the morning right on the sand.
Speedboats depart several times a day from the jetty in Kuala Besut, with the crossing taking about half an hour. There are no paved roads, so walking or hopping between beaches by boat is how you get around.
Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles nest regularly on several beaches, with a hatchery caring for the newborns. Visitors can watch the turtles come ashore at night during nesting season.
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