awatif campsite

For those of us in Terengganu, and indeed across Malaysia, the thought of an island getaway often conjures images of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the soothing sounds of nature. While luxurious resorts have their appeal, there's a unique charm and adventurous spirit found in camping by the beach. On the enchanting Pulau Perhentian Kecil, **Awatif Campsite** offers precisely this experience, providing a straightforward, budget-friendly, and immersive way to connect with one of Malaysia's most beautiful islands.

Awatif Campsite isn't about five-star luxury; it's about embracing the simple joys of island life. As a recommended camping site, it caters to those who seek an authentic outdoor experience, whether you're a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time. The reviews highlight its practical advantages and the satisfaction it brings to guests looking for an affordable yet memorable escape. If you're considering a trip to the Perhentian Islands and prefer a more grounded, nature-centric stay, let's explore what makes Awatif Campsite a compelling choice for us locals.

Awatif Campsite is uniquely located on **Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia**. This places it on the smaller, more backpacker-friendly of the two main Perhentian Islands, known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches like Long Beach and Coral Bay, and excellent marine life.

Getting to Pulau Perhentian Kecil, and subsequently to Awatif Campsite, involves a few steps, but it's a well-trodden path for us in Terengganu and beyond. The journey typically begins from **Kuala Besut Jetty** on the mainland. From major cities like Kuala Lumpur, one would usually fly to either Kota Bharu (Kelantan) or Kuala Terengganu (Terengganu) airports. From Kota Bharu Airport, it’s about a 45-minute to 1-hour taxi or Grab ride to Kuala Besut Jetty. From Kuala Terengganu Airport, the journey to the jetty takes around 1.5 hours. Buses also run to Kuala Besut from various parts of Malaysia.

Once at Kuala Besut Jetty, you'll take a **speedboat to Pulau Perhentian Kecil**. This boat ride typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Boats generally operate between 8 AM and 5 PM during the season (March to October), and tickets can be purchased at the jetty. Upon arrival at Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Awatif Campsite offers a significant advantage: it's noted as being the "**Campsite near the jetty out of all others campsite**." This means a shorter, more convenient walk with your gear after disembarking from the boat, saving you from long treks with your bags under the island sun. While there are no roads on the island, water taxis are available for transport between different beaches if you wish to explore further.

Awatif Campsite focuses on providing essential services for a comfortable camping experience, acknowledging the rustic nature of island camping.

• Tent Rental: The campsite provides tents for rent, including standard tents for two people and larger tents that can accommodate up to four pax. Guests are provided with a "toto mat" and "1 pillow."
• Communal Toilet & Shower Facilities: Shared toilet and shower facilities are available for campers. While one review noted "water pressure for sharing toilet not very powerful," these are fundamental amenities for any campsite.
• Electricity Supply: Electricity is available, operating "24hrs/stop when genset over heat." This implies a generator-based system, common in island settings. Guests are advised to "charge hp or pow bank on ur own risk" and to bring "3pin multi or multi usb charger."
• Hot Water (at cafe): Hot water is available at the Awatif Cafe for a small charge (RM2 per thermos), or can be obtained from a friendly banana fritter auntie nearby.
• Basic Camping Provisions: The site provides a basic setup, focusing on the tent and sleeping mat. Guests are encouraged to bring additional comfort items.
• Cafe/Food Services: There's an "Awatif Cafe" on-site, suggesting that food and drinks are available for purchase.
• Check-in/Check-out Flexibility: One review mentioned "check-in check-out agak flexible," allowing early check-in (e.g., 7:30 AM) and late check-out (staying in the tent until 4 PM boat departure).

Awatif Campsite, despite its no-frills approach, has several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice for an island camping adventure in Terengganu.

• Prime Jetty-Side Location: Its most significant highlight is being the "campsite near the jetty out of all others campsite." This makes arrival and departure incredibly convenient, reducing the hassle of transporting luggage across the island.
• Affordable Island Experience: Offering a "reasonable price," Awatif Campsite provides an accessible way for budget-conscious travelers and families to experience the beauty of Pulau Perhentian Kecil, which is known for attracting backpackers and offering more affordable accommodations compared to its larger counterpart, Pulau Perhentian Besar.
• Immersive Nature Experience: Camping directly on the island allows for a more authentic and immersive connection with nature. You wake up to the sounds of the waves and are constantly surrounded by the island's natural beauty.
• Suitable for Families: The review mentioning "We are satisfied with our family stay" indicates that despite being a campsite, it can comfortably accommodate families looking for an adventurous yet manageable holiday.
• Basic but Functional Amenities: While water pressure might be a minor issue and lighting could be improved, the provision of tents, sleeping mats, and electricity (even if intermittent) covers the essential needs for a comfortable camping trip.
• Proximity to Local Amenities: The mention of a "friendly auntie selling banana fritters near the site" implies that local food options and perhaps other small shops are within easy reach, adding convenience.
• Flexibility in Stay: The flexible check-in and check-out times, as noted by a past guest, are a huge plus, allowing for a more relaxed arrival and departure, especially after a long journey or before catching an evening boat.
• Prepared for Rain: The advice to "bring also big plastic to cover ur top tent when rain" indicates an awareness of tropical weather and provides a useful tip for campers, suggesting a readiness for all conditions.

While specific contact information beyond the general island address for Awatif Campsite is often communicated through on-site presence or online booking platforms relevant to Pulau Perhentian, the provided contact details are typically the primary way to inquire or reach out.

Address: Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia

Phone: 019-216 3369

Mobile Phone: +60 19-216 3369

For us locals in Terengganu, and indeed for anyone in Malaysia seeking an authentic and affordable island adventure, Awatif Campsite on Pulau Perhentian Kecil offers a truly appealing option. Its most significant draw is its **strategic location right near the jetty**, which means less hassle upon arrival and departure – a major plus when you're carrying camping gear.

This campsite is perfect for families or groups of friends who want to experience the stunning beauty of Pulau Perhentian without the higher costs associated with resorts. It encourages a more hands-on, adventurous spirit, allowing you to immerse yourselves fully in the island's natural charm. While it's important to come prepared for basic amenities and the realities of camping (like bringing extra protection for rain), the "reasonable price" and the satisfaction of previous family stays underscore its value. Awatif Campsite is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an opportunity for us to create lasting memories amidst the breathtaking scenery of our own Terengganu islands, making it an excellent choice for a genuine, budget-friendly island escape.

awatif campsite

Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia