Langkawi Travel Guide

Pulau Langkawi is the largest island of the Langkawi archipelago, boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia. The perfect place to relax and unwind, Langkawi Island is known for its peaceful isolation, breathtaking surroundings and vibrant sea life. 

The beaches, located along the western and northern coasts of Langkawi Island, are most easily reached by car or motorbike. The ferry terminal at the southern settlement of Kuah has vehicles for rent. Although possible to arrive by taxi, it can be a very expensive ride. 

There are several tropical beaches to explore, each with their own unique attractions. Pantai Cenang is Malaysia’s most developed west-coast beach, the perfect place to find restaurants, pubs and beer gardens. For a more remote location, Pantai Kok is encircled by forests and mountains. Datai Beach is a unique blend of both nature and comfort. Luxury resorts and spas are nestled in an ancient forest, and are bordered by white sand and clear blue waters of the sea, perfect for a snorkel.

Swim with lobsters, barracudas and black-tip reef sharks in their underwater coral garden home. There are many dive companies on Langkawi to take you on an underwater exploration. For a truly exceptional diving experience visit Pulau Payar Marine Park, about an hour away from the main island. For a more private experience, set off in search of your own stretch of beach, easily discovered by sailing boats available to rent on the island.

Take advantage of the duty free shopping on Langkawi with a day spent in Kuah, the main settlement. Here, you’ll also have access to a wide range of restaurants where you can taste the local seafood and traditional Malay, Indian, Thai and Chinese cuisines. Malaysians are very enthusiastic about their food; the exciting food culture is a result of their passion and their diverse ethnicity.