Kuala Perlis

The main fishing port and coastal town of Perlis with a bustling maritime atmosphere and fresh seafood markets. It's the departure point for ferries to Langkawi and offers picturesque waterfront views.

Things to do

• Kuala Perlis Waterfront Walk — Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade lined with fishing boats and views across the Strait of Malacca toward Thailand.
• Perlis State Fisheries Jetty — Visit the bustling main fishing port where boats return daily with fresh catches and observe the lively auction and fish market activities.
• Ferry to Langkawi — Take the scenic ferry departure from Kuala Perlis jetty, a 1.5 to 2-hour journey with views of the Andaman Sea and surrounding islands.
• Kuala Perlis Seafood Restaurant District — Explore the cluster of waterfront seafood restaurants where you can dine on fresh daily catches while watching fishing vessels dock.
• Taman Tema Tun Dr Mahathir (Mahathir Theme Park) — Visit this nearby cultural and recreational park featuring gardens, interactive exhibits, and views of the Perlis landscape.
• Early Morning Fish Market Tour — Experience the vibrant pre-dawn fish auction and wholesale market where local fishermen sell their overnight catches to vendors and restaurants.

Food to try

• Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar) — Fresh catch grilled whole over charcoal and served with sambal, lime, and rice—a signature preparation at Kuala Perlis waterfront restaurants.
• Asam Pedas (Sour and Spicy Fish Curry) — A tangy and fiery Malay fish curry made with tamarind, chilies, and aromatic spices, commonly served with steamed rice in local eateries.
• Cockle Porridge (Bubur Kerang) — Creamy rice porridge studded with fresh cockles harvested from Perlis waters, served at hawker stalls and breakfast shops.
• Satay (Sate Ayam/Daging) — Grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce, a popular street food and appetizer at waterfront dining spots.
• Fresh Seafood Platters — Mixed selections of locally caught prawns, squid, grouper, and other fish prepared steamed, grilled, or stir-fried at harborside restaurants.
• Nasi Kuning (Yellow Rice) — Fragrant rice cooked with turmeric and coconut milk, often paired with grilled fish or seafood curries at local dining establishments.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit the Fish Market Early — Arrive before 6 AM to witness the authentic energy of the fish auction and interact with fishermen and vendors during peak activity.
• Respect Ferry Schedules — Ferries to Langkawi operate on set schedules (typically morning and afternoon departures); arrive early to secure tickets and avoid delays.
• Dress Modestly and Appropriately — As a Muslim-majority coastal town, wear respectful clothing especially when visiting local restaurants and public spaces, and be mindful during prayer times.
• Engage with Local Fishermen — Fishermen and vendors are generally welcoming to visitors; learning about their daily work and catch adds authenticity to your experience of this working port.