The Island of Pulau Kapas (AKA Cotton Island)
Before setting off to Pulau Kapas from the Marang jetty near Kuala Terrenganu, we had to buy our ticket for the ferry. I have a lovely group of friends that reside in Kuala Terrenganu and they have been going to Pulau Kapas for so long that the man who sold us the tickets gave us the local price which I think was about 10 RM cheaper than the regular price. Tickets to Pulau are 40 RM which is around $10 USD round-trip.
As our voyage made it’s way through the glistening clear water, a bit rained down on us from the waves created by the boat propelling forward. It was a welcome break from the heat causing the little beads of sweet on our foreheads. Without a doubt this island was one of the most alluring sites I had seen in a while. As the outline of it grew closer to us the dark green clump that formed from the sandy foundation begin to take on the shape of a cluster of palm trees. I immediately wanted to jump in the glass-like water that swam around the white sand beaches.
Finding Nemo in Pulau Kapas
I had been told that snorkeling here is amazing and if you spend some time searching the coral reef you will see the Clown Fish (aka Nemo). I was so dazzled by the clown fish and the incredible amount of fish friends that I bought a underwater go pro clone to capture the specimen on digital film.
When You Buy a New Underwater Video Camera
Of course when you buy a new digital toy it’s really important to learn how to use it, and even more important to learn when it’s on and when it’s off. This was a bit confusing to me at first but since I am pretty good with my cameras, I didn’t worry about it too much. I set off with my new digital toy and filmed over an hours worth of fish! I was so happy I couldn’t wait to edit the film. I soon learned after opening up my computer and transferring the files, there was nothing to transfer. Not one Nemo. Not one orange fin. Not even shaky blurry underwater video, because apparently I hadn’t turned the thing on! Please learn from my mistake and read that manual (I probably won’t learn to do that ever, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t).
Activities on the Island
Snorkeling is simply amazing on this quiet little island. I brought a mask with me but if you don’t have one you can rent one once you get to the island. If you want to go scuba diving check out Aquasport.
Restaurants, Pulau Kapas
There are a couple places to eat right at the Jetty once you get dropped off. Bring cash and be sure to find out what time they close, I believe on the weekends they close earlier but it’s just good to know. Also it’s a good idea to bring snacks and water with you.
Staying the night, Kapas Island, Gem Island
I didn’t get to stay the night on the island, but hopefully one day I will visit again! As I didn’t stay anywhere I can’t recommend any places but Agoda is a great place to find the best prices! Two of the more popular places to stay are Kapas Island Resort and Gem Island Resort and Spa (which is on smaller island a few minutes away from Kapas.
All in all if I get to go back I would like to stay at least a week on the island to relax and escape. It seems the perfect place to do something like that. But if I don’t get to maybe you should!
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