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 Pulau
Besar
Located approximately 3 nautical miles off Pengkalan Pernu at Umbai,
10 km south of Malacca town, is Pulau Besar. Covering an
area of 133 hectares, it is the largest of eight islands off the
coast of Malacca. Believed to be the location of Malaysia's earliest
civilisation, it abounds in legends about mermaids and princesses,
as well as sacre graves and shrines.
An island of unspoilt natural beauty, it is a haven of tranquility
for those in search of fresh air and silky white beaches. There
is an international class hotel an several beach chalets, an 18-hole
international golf course, a yacht club and a host of sea sport
facilities for fishing, parasailing, wind-surfing, water-skiing
and snorkelling. The island is an equally inviting spot for island
hopping, swimming, camping, picnicking and jungle trekking.
How To Get There
The Syarikat Kenderaan Aziz bus line operates regular services to
Umbai from the Jalan Tun Ali Terminal in Malacca town. From the
Pengkalan Pernu jetty, a boat then transports you to the island.
The journey to Pulau Besar from Umbai by speed boat takes 15 minutes.
A 45-minute boat service is available from the Shahbandar jetty
in Malacca town as well as the jetty behind the State Tourist Information
Centre.
Two nautical miles off the coast of Klebang is Pulau Upeh.
An island covering some 7 acres, it can easily be covered by foot
within 30 minutes. Formerly known as "IIha Das Pedra" (places of
stone), the island has come a long way from its quarrying days when
the Portuguese reigned supreme. Now the island attracts visitors
to historical sites like the British Memorial Mast, an old well
and World War II relics. It also has two landing sites where Hawksbill
turtles swim ashore to lay their eggs, plus spectacular sunset strips
and an 80-foot observation tower.
As for accommodation, Pulau Upeh Resort offers guests a choice of
72 rooms ranging from suites to chalets. It also has facilities
for fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, windsurfing and jet skiing.
Ferries to Pulau Upeh can be taken from the Shahbandar Jetty in
Malacca Town. The journey takes 10 to 12 minutes. Parking is available
at the jetty.
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