Langkawi Travel Guide

Just off the west coast of the Malaysian peninsular, Langkawi is a group of dozens of islands which sit close to Thailand, featuring idyllic beaches that make it one of the premier tourist destinations in the country. Lying in the Andaman Sea, the chain is dominated by the largest island Langkawi, which is blessed with a climate that escapes the monsoon and until recent decades, was relatively untouched by tourism.

Thanks to its tax-free status granted in 1987 and increased connections that now span across the globe, Langkawi has become one of Malaysia’s main tourism draws, yet there remain islands that remain relatively untouched. For most, a Langkawi holiday will be spent on the main island, with the foremost city of Kuah being the gateway. The western part of the island is the most developed, in particular Pantai Tengah, Pantai Cenang and Pantai Kok, with Burau Bay and Datai featuring the majority of Langkawi’s upscale resorts. All of the beach’s here are blessed with fine white sand backed by jungle.

Langkawi is a good destination for outdoor pursuits like scuba diving and golf, but some of the main island’s manmade attractions are a bit worn and tacky in places, with the much promoted shopping leaving much to be desired. Nature spotters can take a glass-bottomed boat ride at the Pulau Payar Marine Park or head to the mangrove forests, limestone cliffs and caves in the northern part of the island for a look at Langkawi’s diverse wildlife.

Langkawi Attractions

Pantai Cenang: is one of the most popular beach resorts on the island and is still not over-developed with a good selection of eateries and drinking holes.

Burau Bay: high-end resorts, fine dining and a nearby golf course.

Kuah Night Market: a good place to spend the money you’ve saved on tax-free items elsewhere if you want to take something home that is authentic Langkawi.

Pulau Payar Marine Park: accessed by boat from the main island, this protected area boasts great diving and amazing underwater life.

Eagle square: even if you think this giant eagle statue is bizarre and somewhat tacky, we guarantee you will take a photo of the island’s main landmark.

Beaches: Pantai Cenang is the island’s most popular beach stretch, with Datai and Burau bays offering quieter alternatives.