Perhentian Islands | Easy Morning and Goodbye at Coral Bay Beach

Lounge chairs and coconut trees at Coral Bay Beach Now I understand why some of the travellers we talked decided to settle temporarily on Pe...

Lounge chairs and coconut trees at Coral Bay Beach

Now I understand why some of the travellers we talked decided to settle temporarily on Perhentian Islands. Aside from the beautiful environment, the atmosphere is laid-back. The island is less than an hour away from the mainland where people can restock supplies. There’s internet connection on the island, so those online entrepreneurs can do the their jobs while lounging on the beach. But how long can this paradise last from impending developments?

Coral Bay Jetty at night

“I remember the tourist protesting about the construction of the jetty because it ruins the view” Says Kasman, our guide for the snorkelling tour. “But for us, we are in favour of anything that will get money in”

 

A couple enjoying the soft sands

It’s another sad case of the environment vs development. If I had my way I would keep the place pristine as possible but I can’t blame the locals if they want to better their condition. When I asked about the constructions creeping in the inner part of the island, Kasman told me it was the government facilitating the work hand in hand with a large resort. It may be a matter of time before things change on these Islands.

A rocky part of Coral Bay Beach

The third day on the island is also our time to leave. It’s a shame we only had two nights to stay here. I didn’t expect I’d be attached to this place. I decided to just take it slow that morning. No alarms to wake me up. I Pulled up one of the lounge chairs from the resort and took time to read a story from my anthology book. By noon it was time to bid goodbye to the island. We took a last look at the clear turquoise water at the jetty while we waited for our boat to arrive. I will be back definitely. This time to stay a bit longer. Just don’t change that much.

Saying goodbye to Senja Bay seen across the clear ocean waters