Perhentian Island in Malaysia is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and soft white sand. Among the accommodations on this idyllic island, Bubu Villa on Long Beach, Perhentian Kecil, often stands out as one of the more premium options. With its beachfront villas, complimentary extras, and rustic-chic atmosphere, the resort certainly looks appealing — but the big question for many travelers remains: Is Bubu Villa worth it considering the price?
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a honeymoon, or a relaxing beach holiday, it’s important to know whether what you’re paying truly delivers. In this article, we take a closer look at Bubu Villa’s pricing, amenities, location, and guest experience to help you determine if it’s the right investment for your island adventure.
Location: Prime Beachfront Access That Adds Value
One of Bubu Villa’s biggest selling points — and a reason many say Bubu Villa is worth it — is its unbeatable location. The resort is set on Long Beach, the most popular stretch on Perhentian Kecil. Unlike other properties tucked inland or set on quieter beaches, Bubu Villa offers:
Direct beachfront access just steps from your villa
Spectacular sunrise and sunset views
Easy access to boat transfers, dive centers, and local eateries
Staying here means you’re not only paying for a room but also for the experience of waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying the island’s most scenic spot right outside your door.
Villa Quality: Comfort Without Excessive Luxury
Let’s talk accommodation. For the price, guests expect a certain level of comfort — and Bubu Villa mostly delivers. The villas are designed with a rustic, eco-conscious style that blends well with the island vibe.
What You Get:
Spacious private villas with king-size beds
Open-air bathrooms with tropical ambiance
Air conditioning and mosquito netting
Private patios surrounded by lush gardens
However, if you’re expecting ultra-modern facilities or luxury features like a pool or in-room entertainment, you won’t find that here. The charm of Bubu Villa is in its simplicity and natural elegance, not over-the-top opulence. For travelers who value authenticity over extravagance, Bubu Villa is worth it — but luxury seekers might prefer other options.
Meals and Extras: Are the Perks Worth the Price?
Unlike some accommodations on Perhentian Kecil, Bubu Villa includes valuable extras in the nightly rate that help justify the price:
Complimentary daily breakfast
Evening cocktails served to guests
Discounted or priority access to their beachfront restaurant, The World Café
Complimentary welcome drinks and cold towels upon arrival
The food itself is a mix of local and international fare, and while it’s more expensive than the smaller local warungs (street cafés), the quality, presentation, and beachfront dining experience give it a premium feel.
So, is Bubu Villa worth it when it comes to food and extras? If you enjoy convenience, scenic dining, and a few complimentary luxuries, the answer is yes.
Activities and Excursions: Adding Value Beyond the Room
A big part of any island holiday is what you can do beyond the resort — and Bubu Villa provides easy access to a wide range of activities:
Snorkeling and diving tours (many leave from the beach in front)
Island-hopping and sunset cruises
Jungle trekking right from Long Beach
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and more
Although Bubu Villa doesn’t run all these excursions themselves, they are happy to help guests arrange them with reliable operators. Their location makes it convenient to hop into the action, and for those who prefer organized fun, this can add tremendous value.
In this context, Bubu Villa is worth it for travelers who want both relaxation and exploration in one place.
Service and Hospitality: Does It Match the Price Tag?
One of the reasons people often say Bubu Villa is worth it is because of the friendly, attentive staff. From the moment you arrive by boat, the team ensures you’re welcomed, informed, and comfortable.
Notable service highlights include:
Luggage assistance across the sandy beach
Staff who remember guest names and preferences
Efficient help with bookings, tours, and special requests
Multilingual front-desk staff
While Bubu Villa doesn’t have the level of service you’d expect from a five-star city hotel, the personal touch and warm island hospitality create a memorable experience that aligns with its price point.
Limitations: When Bubu Villa Might Not Be Worth It
To fairly answer the question — Is Bubu Villa worth it? — we also need to address situations where it might not be.
Consider the following:
No swimming pool or spa: Not ideal if you expect full resort amenities.
Limited Wi-Fi: Good for unplugging, not great for remote workers.
Sandy access only: Guests must walk barefoot or in sandals; not stroller or wheelchair-friendly.
Higher cost than nearby chalets: If you’re on a tight backpacker budget, there are cheaper alternatives.
So, if your expectations are more aligned with luxury resorts or you’re looking for high-tech amenities, Bubu Villa may not meet your needs — and in that case, the price might not feel justified.
Guest Reviews: What Do Other Travelers Say?
Online reviews from TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google generally give Bubu Villa high praise, with most guests saying the price is worth it for the overall experience. Common themes include:
“Beautiful beachfront villa — amazing sunrise view from bed.”
“Evening cocktails and friendly staff made us feel at home.”
“Perfect place to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the ocean.”
Criticisms are usually related to the cost versus amenities, but most reviewers say the value lies in the location, peace, and beach access.
Guest Reviews: What Do Other Travelers Say?
Online reviews from TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google generally give Bubu Villa high praise, with most guests saying the price is worth it for the overall experience. Common themes include:
“Beautiful beachfront villa — amazing sunrise view from bed.”
“Evening cocktails and friendly staff made us feel at home.”
“Perfect place to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the ocean.”
Criticisms are usually related to the cost versus amenities, but most reviewers say the value lies in the location, peace, and beach access.
Conclusion
If you’re still wondering, “Is Bubu Villa worth it?”, here’s the bottom line:
Yes, Bubu Villa is worth it if:
You’re looking for a peaceful, beachfront location on Perhentian Island.
You value personal service, natural charm, and direct access to island activities.
You enjoy relaxing, dining by the sea, and staying somewhere eco-conscious.
It might not be worth it if:
You’re seeking five-star resort features like spas, pools, or in-room tech.
You’re traveling with large groups or mobility-limited family members.
You’re on a very tight budget and prefer basic dorms or hostels.
