Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands located off the coast of mainland Malaysia, near the Thailand border. The largest town in Langkawi is Kuah, while Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach. In addition to being a sought-after beach holiday destination for tourists from Malaysia and around the world, it is also famous for being a duty-free island.
To reach Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur (the capital city of Malaysia), the best option is to take a short, one-hour flight. This is the most convenient and time-efficient way to travel to Langkawi.
All You Need to Know About Langkawi
Weather
Expect hot, tropical weather with high humidity. The wet season runs from April to October, while November to March is considered the dry season. However, the rain can help lower temperatures and make outdoor activities more comfortable, and it typically lasts only a couple of hours. You might consider planning a trip year-round, as crowds tend to be smaller during the wet season!
Accommodation
Langkawi offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach area, featuring numerous resorts and budget options. The advantage of staying in Pantai Cenang is the abundance of food options, nightlife, duty-free malls, and the aquarium, all within walking distance. However, due to its popularity, it can get quite crowded.
We stayed at the Berjaya Resort, located on the quieter side of the island. It offers a stunning private beach and is just a short walk from the SkyCab station. Set against the backdrop of a lush tropical forest, with direct beach access, we found it to be the perfect base for our Langkawi getaway.
Network/Staying Connected
Having internet access is essential when visiting Langkawi. You'll need it for booking taxis via Grab, checking nearby attractions and restaurants, and booking activities on Klook. We suggest purchasing a local SIM card at the airport; we found a great deal at 10 RM for seven days, and it worked perfectly!
Transport
Transport in Langkawi is easy and hassle-free. Grab is widely available, offering quick and affordable rides with minimal wait times. If you prefer more flexibility, you can also rent a scooter from one of the many shops around the island. Just a note—like in India, traffic in Malaysia follows left-side driving.
Currency
Although you can use your card to book attractions through platforms like Klook, it’s a good idea to carry cash for things like taxis, meals at smaller restaurants, activities, and shopping. Be sure to have some Malaysian Ringgit on hand. You can easily withdraw cash at the airport or from ATMs in Kuah or Pantai Cenang.
Food
While Malaysian cuisine and fresh seafood are abundant, finding Indian and vegetarian options can be a bit more challenging. There are a few Indian restaurants on the island, but choices may be limited.
If you're craving something specific, you can order food conveniently through the Grab app.
Activities
Langkawi is a fantastic destination, offering a wide range of activities for every type of traveler—whether you're into water sports, hiking to waterfalls, wildlife encounters, mangrove tours, or snorkeling. With so much to do, you'll never run out of options! We highly recommend setting aside your evenings to relax by the shallow beach and enjoy the warm, inviting waters.
2-Day Langkawi Itinerary -
Day 1:
Arrive in Langkawi and head straight to the SkyCab station. Take the iconic cable car ride up to the SkyBridge, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding lush mountains. The experience is truly unforgettable! Keep in mind that the SkyBridge may close unexpectedly due to weather conditions, so we recommend purchasing tickets for it at the top to ensure you don’t miss out. The cooler temperatures at the summit make walking the SkyBridge even more enjoyable!
At the base of the SkyCab station, you’ll find the Oriental Village, a vibrant recreational area with plenty to offer. There are great food options here, but don’t miss the 3D Art Centre—it’s a fantastic stop for both kids and adults, and you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring.
Afterward, take some time to unwind by the beach, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Day 2:
Start your day with an early Mangrove Tour, usually departing around 9 or 10 AM. Head to the Tanjung Rhu Jetty, where you'll board a boat for a tour through the Kilim Geoforest Park. The tour includes fascinating stops like the Bat Caves, a crocodile cave, eagle feeding, and a visit to a fish farm. You’ll also have the chance to feed monkeys, though we wouldn’t recommend it! The entire tour lasts a few hours, but it’s packed with incredible sights and wildlife.
If you're in the mood for a change, you can opt for an island-hopping tour, which takes you to three islands and offers opportunities to swim and kayak in the crystal-clear waters of the Pregnant Maiden Lake.
In the afternoon, head to Pantai Cenang for some duty-free shopping. You can also choose to spend the evening here enjoying the lively atmosphere, but we decided to head back to the Berjaya Resort to relax and enjoy the beach one more time.
Bonus:
If you have extra time in Langkawi, we highly recommend the sunset dinner cruise, especially if the weather is clear. You'll be taken on a yacht to watch a stunning sunset, followed by a delicious dinner on board. It's an experience we’re definitely planning for on our next trip to Langkawi!
Langkawi is a gorgeous tropical island paradise and a perfect holiday destination for families!
Happy travels.
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