Matahari Chalet Long Beach

For us in Terengganu, the Perhentian Islands are a treasured gem, a paradise right on our doorstep. When planning a trip there, finding the right place to stay is key. Matahari Chalet Long Beach is a lodging option on the bustling Long Beach of Pulau Perhentian Kecil that caters specifically to budget-conscious travelers and those who prioritize location over luxury. It's a no-frills, straightforward choice for visitors who want to spend their time exploring the island’s stunning beaches and vibrant marine life rather than staying cooped up in a room. As a local, we know that Perhentian can be a bit rustic, and Matahari Chalet embraces this island vibe. It offers basic, essential accommodation for travelers like us who are here for the diving, snorkeling, and the lively atmosphere of Long Beach. It's a place to rest your head after a long day of sun and sea, providing a practical base for your island adventures.

The location of Matahari Chalet is one of its most significant selling points, especially for us Terengganu residents. Situated on Pulau Perhentian Kecil, a short distance from the main stretch of Long Beach, it provides easy access to one of the most popular and lively areas on the island. To get there from the mainland, we would typically travel to Kuala Besut Jetty. From there, a speedboat ride of about 30 to 45 minutes takes you directly to the islands. Upon arrival at Perhentian Kecil, you will be dropped off at the main beach, and Matahari Chalet is just a short walk away. This excellent location means you are in the heart of the action, with easy access to restaurants, dive shops, and other amenities along Long Beach. For locals, this journey is a familiar one, and knowing that your lodging is so conveniently located right where the action is makes the trip seamless. The chalet's proximity to the main beach is a huge advantage, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island's vibrant social scene.

Matahari Chalet offers a range of essential services aimed at providing a comfortable and practical stay for its guests, particularly those who are on a budget or focused on activities like diving.

• Accommodation: A variety of rooms are available, including dormitory-style rooms with air-conditioning and private chalets or bungalows with fans or air-conditioning. These rooms come with basic amenities like beds and private bathrooms.
• Electricity: The lodge operates on a generator system, with electricity available during specific hours, such as from 6:30 PM to 10:00 AM and a few hours in the afternoon. This is a common practice on the island and is important to note for charging devices.
• Dormitories: For solo travelers or those on a very tight budget, air-conditioned dorm rooms with bunk beds and private bathrooms are available. These rooms also include lockers for security.
• Payment Options: The reception is noted to have the useful service of accepting card payments, often for a small fee. This can be a huge convenience, as ATMs are not available on the island and cash can be scarce.
• Snorkeling and Diving Packages: Matahari Chalet partners with dive operators, making it a popular choice for divers. They may offer packages that include accommodation, meals, and snorkeling or diving trips.
• Helpful Staff: While reception might not always be attended, the staff are known to be friendly and helpful when they are available, assisting guests with their needs.
• Balcony/Garden View: Many rooms offer a private balcony and a serene garden view, providing a nice space to relax outside the room.

Matahari Chalet's highlights are centered around its affordability and its prime location for certain types of travelers.

• Unbeatable Location: The chalet's biggest highlight is its location just off the main Long Beach. This places guests right in the center of the action, with easy access to the beach, restaurants, and the lively nightlife of Perhentian Kecil.
• Budget-Friendly Prices: It is known as a cost-effective option for accommodation on the island, making it highly attractive for backpackers, students, and budget travelers.
• Suitable for PADI Courses and Divers: Given its basic yet functional amenities and its connection to dive centers, it is a highly acceptable choice for visitors who are primarily on the island for diving courses and simply need a place to sleep.
• Air-Conditioning in Rooms: While electricity is limited to certain hours, the availability of air-conditioning in some rooms is a significant comfort feature, especially during the hot Terengganu weather.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: As noted in customer reviews, the staff are friendly and helpful, which can make a big difference in a traveler's experience, particularly on an island where service can vary.
• Card Payment Option: The ability to pay with a card is a huge convenience on an island that is largely cash-based, helping guests manage their expenses without worrying about running out of cash.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can reach Matahari Chalet Long Beach using the following contact details.

Address: Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Terengganu, Malaysia

Phone: 016-920 2569

Mobile Phone: +60 16-920 2569

It is always best to call ahead to confirm availability and discuss your specific needs, especially during the peak season from March to October when the islands are at their busiest.

For us locals in Terengganu, Matahari Chalet Long Beach is a suitable lodging option for a few key reasons. First and foremost, its budget-friendly nature aligns well with how many of us travel to the islands – for a quick, action-packed getaway rather than a luxurious resort holiday. We know the islands, and we understand that basic accommodation is often part of the authentic experience. For those of us undertaking a PADI certification or spending most of our time snorkeling and diving, the room is simply a place to shower and sleep. Its unbeatable location on Long Beach means we are in the middle of all the action, with easy access to food stalls, restaurants, and the nightlife that makes Perhentian Kecil so famous. While reviews mention some basic issues like a lack of hot water and occasional insects, these are common realities of island life and something we are often prepared for. Knowing the staff is friendly and that the rooms provide a bed and a working A/C (during specific hours) is often all that is needed for a great trip. For a Terengganu resident who values a good deal and a prime location for island fun, Matahari Chalet is a practical and acceptable choice for a memorable and affordable trip to our beautiful Perhentian Islands.

Matahari Chalet Long Beach

Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Terengganu, Malaysia