Perhentian Island, Malaysia hotel rooms at the Independent

"I really liked Arwana and would stay here again. It’s literally right on the beach. The water is crystal clear and baby reef sharks swim around happily. Perhentian doesn’t have any roads so the hotel can arrange water taxis. We did the Redang island trip and the snorkelling trip, both arranged by Arwana and they were both excellent. Don’t go expecting a 5 star experience, but this hotel has a rustic charm, the room was nice and clean and the pool is a good size. It’s peaceful and exudes chilled island vibes. In the evening, walk down the beach for different dining options and try the guys to grill the fresh seafood for you. I loved it here. A thoroughly relaxing stay in pristine surroundings."

"The island is beautiful but the accommodations are subpar and not worth what they charge. Rooms are much smaller than they appear in the pictures online. Also, the staff at the restaurant are SOOOO slow. They don’t care because they build 18% tip into your bill so they could care less about serving you. Reception desk also doesn’t care 5 of them stand around twiddling their thumbs while only one works. Overall I would recommend that you go somewhere else. "

"Avoid this place. We stayed here in July 2025 for 4 days and it was a disaster. Before arrival, no response from the property despite multiple attempts. They also provided wrong info about boat schedules from Kuala Besut (boats actually leave every 40 min). Day 1: The place looked abandoned,unfinished buildings, scaffolding, and garbage everywhere. No reception,just a guy at the bar watching loud videos on his phone. He didn’t speak English, so we used the translator. He refused early check-in, probably to sell us a drink during the wait. The sea view room was dirty: stained sheets, hair and dirt in the bathroom, sewer smell, a broken mirror, and no hot water. Complaining didn’t help. Day 2: The day after, we asked if the problem had been fixed. He told us he hadn’t been able to fix it and that a part needed to be ordered, which would arrive the following day. We asked for a different room, but that wasn’t possible. Other guests also stood waiting at “reception” for hours with no help. Day 3: A manager finally showed up and spoke English, but instead of fixing anything, he offered us snacks and a cocktail. He then said it was a public holiday and repairs would be done the next day. We were promised a room change if the issue persisted. Too late, we had only one day left and were showering using the bidet shower. Day 4: Shower was finally fixed. In short: Structure is falling apart, staff is incompetent, and hygiene is unacceptable. Save your holiday, book elsewhere."

"This is one of two expensive places on the small island. The other is about the same in price but just a motel with a better location. This property is many classes above all the others and a strong competitor for hotels and resorts anywhere. The only issue is that unless you want a full service restaurant there are no real options for just snacks."

"Unbelievable beach and the water was incredible! You can snorkel right from the beautiful white sand beach. Buy (or bring) a good mask and you are all set. Head to Long Beach for some better food if you wish. Book the beachfront rooms if you can...it is worth the few.extra bucks. Pool is nice. You will not be disappointed as long as you don't mind a taxi ride from one of the close cities and a 35-45 minute boat shuttle! Worth the travel there 100%! Enjoy!"

"Was good as a backpacker style hotel. "

"What a great place to stay on Perhentian island (Greater)! A real gem. Location is perfect with 3 beaches in walking distance (one right next to the accommodation). We stayed in a seafront view family room and it was amazing waking up to the beautiful view. The rooms are spacious, clean, comfy beds, plenty of pillows, fridge, AC, a big fan on the ceiling. Big screen tv is connected to wifi so we were able to watch some of our favourite programs before bed. Spacious balcony - stepping out of it -> stepping into the restaurant. Staff are super helpful, professional, friendly. We strongly recommend this place. We would definitely come back if we come to East Malaysia again. "

"Some of the friendliest staff I’ve ever met! Amazing water activities! "

"Staff were so helpful! We were given a nice upgrade. "