While the weather may be warm all year round, it definitely changes. And that’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best time to visit Langkawi – complete with a month-by-month run-down of the islands’ weather, plus some of its best festivals. We’re helping you figure out the right time for you.

The Best Time to Visit Langkawi

Weather in Langkawi in January

January in Langkawi sees plenty of sunshine, with an average of eight hours a day. You can expect beautiful, clear skies, making it perfect for chilling on the beach. It’s one of the driest and warmest months of the year – with average temperatures of 28°C and highs reaching 33°C. In terms of rain, there are just 50 millimeters of rain on average across nine days, so you’re unlikely to be caught in a shower.

And with sea temperatures at a pleasant 29°C, it’s no wonder January is such a popular time to visit Langkawi. I think it’s one of the best places to travel in January.

Weather in Langkawi in February

February is still a relatively dry month, with hot, sunny days and little cloud coverage or rain to speak of. In fact, there are just 47 millimeters expected over just five days on average, so it’s a great time to visit Langkawi to make the most of all that sunshine on the beach. However, it’s quite sticky, too, with high humidity peaking at around 87%. Still, it’s the best time to go to Langkawi.

Average daytime temperatures this time of year hover around 29°C, with highs reaching up to 34°C. On average, there are nine days of sunshine, with sea temperatures also warm (29°C). But since it’s so hot, even if you’re splashing around at the beach, you should definitely ensure to cover up and use sunscreen. 

Weather in Langkawi in March

March marks the end of the “dry season” in Langkawi, so you can expect more days of rain, especially towards the end of the month. Specifically, rainfall averages out at 91 millimeters of rain across nine days. However, rain usually arrives in the form of short, heavy downpours, so it’s not likely to affect your day too much.

Humidity is also pretty high, swinging between a very sweaty 93% and 58%. Temperatures are also now hitting the 30s regularly in the daytime, with highs of 34°C commons. Covering up against UV rays is essential. Even nights are hot, with temperatures barely dropping below 29°C.

Weather in Langkawi in April

Like March, April is a transitional period between Langkawi’s “wet” and “dry” seasons. Average temperatures vary between highs of 34°C and lows of 24°C, but the average daytime temperature is about 30°C. Around nine hours of sunshine are expected each day, but rainfall has increased – 14 days out of the month tend to experience rain, with a total of 169 millimeters falling across the whole of April.

Sea temperatures remain very warm, too, at around 30°C. Despite the rainfall, it’s a good time of year to visit Langkawi – showers occur in the late afternoon, leaving you much of the day to get out and explore the island.

Weather in Langkawi in May

While April was a transitional month, May definitively marks the start of the southwest monsoon. With this comes heavy rain and a rise in average humidity levels. Downpours occur mainly in the afternoon, so it shouldn’t affect a vacation too much. Still, around 256 millimeters of rain falls across 16 days in May, with humidity swinging between a stifling 93% and 65%.

Temperatures in Langkawi are still fairly high. They average out at around 30°C and don’t drop much lower at nighttime. You’ll definitely be thankful for that AC! But days at the beach are still very much on the cards, with sea temperatures sticking around 30°C making for a nice respite from the high humidity.

Weather in Langkawi in June

As the southwest monsoon season continues throughout June, the western coastline is particularly affected by heavy afternoon downpours. But the whole archipelago sees a lot of rain this month – on average, there are 218 millimeters falling across 18 days, so chances are you’ll experience at least some rain if you visit Langkawi this time of year.

However, sunshine is never too far away. Thanks to those short showers, there is still an average of nine hours of sunshine per day and little cloud coverage. Humidity is still high (maxing out at 93% with a minimum of 70%). It’s a good time of year to visit if you can stand the heat, as hotel prices remain low before the high season of summer starts.

Weather in Langkawi in July

It’s still monsoon season in Langkawi by the time July rolls around. This month usually sees around 233 millimeters of rainfall across 13 days, marking an increase on the previous month, while humidity is the same (93-70%).

Even though it’s pretty rainy, there’s still quite a lot of sunshine to soak up in Langkawi in July – around eight hours. UV levels remain high (there’s a UV index of 12), so covering up from the sun and keeping in the shade where possible is a must. Temperatures have dropped slightly, with daytime averages of 28°C and nights around 27°C. 

Weather in Langkawi in August

There’s a lot of rain in August, increasing in previous months. This month also sees more thunderstorms than before, instead of just short showers. Rainfall increases to around 249 millimeters as the rainy season really starts to take hold. Even though it’s summer vacation for much of the world and summer sees many visitors in Malaysia as a whole, it’s not exactly the time of year to visit Langkawi.

That said, the average temperatures are still relatively high, at 28°C on average, but towards the end of the month, these can dip to around 24°C. Sea temperatures also remain warm, hovering around a very inviting 30°C. The increase in the rain can affect swimming conditions, so pay attention to local advice. We spent our August in one of the best places to stay in Langkawi and practiced yoga (photo above).

Weather in Langkawi in September

Heavy rain peaks in September – 339 millimeters of rainfall are expected over 21 days, but it’s still not the rainiest month of the year. That’s right, even more rainfall is expected as the month continues, even if the southwest monsoon is coming to an end (that’s because the southeast monsoon is coming up).

The average temperature throughout September in Langkawi is 27°C, but it will begin to hit daytime averages of 30°C once the month is up. Thunderstorms are still to be expected, mainly in the late afternoon and early evening, with humidity remaining at a very sticky maximum of 93% (minimum of around 70%).

Weather in Langkawi in October

Marking the start of the southeast monsoon, October is a mixed bag, really. But all in all, it’s one of the wettest months of the year. This month really sees some heavy rainfall – 344 millimeters, to be exact, falling across an average of 26 days. This can cause flooding in some areas, so be sure to pay attention to the local weather forecasts.

Temperatures, however, remain much the same as they were in September. With average daytime temperatures of 27°C, lows of just 23°C, but highs of 31°C. As you may have already guessed, humidity remains at a very sticky 93% maximum, making this a very sweaty time of year to explore the archipelago (at least on foot).

Weather in Langkawi in November

November is hot and humid. It’s still wet, with a fair amount of rainfall, but this is a shoulder season since the weather begins to improve as the month progresses. Though the southeast monsoon is still affecting the weather, the worst of the rainy season is over by the end of the month.

For good accommodation deals, November is a good time of year to visit Langkawi. Just be prepared for the occasional downpour (and for that humidity, too). Average temperatures in November hover around 28°C; it’s not much cooler at night, though (27°C).

Weather in Langkawi in December

The year’s final month sees Langkawi reaching peak season, with the holidays around Christmas and New Year’s seeing many more visitors. Beach conditions are near ideal, thanks to the daily seven hours of glorious sunshine and average daytime temperatures of 30°C. The sea temperature almost matches that of the air, averaging at 27°C.

The weather is generally pretty sunny, with occasional showers to be expected. If you’re visiting Langkawi this time of year, it’s best to book accommodation in advance due to the increased visitor numbers.

Festivals in Langkawi to Attend

Winter Festivals in Langkawi

Christmas in Langkawi is a popular time for domestic and international tourists to visit the archipelago. Businesses and restaurants are decorated with festive decorations for a tropical take on the usually frosty holiday season. New Year’s is often a big party in resorts, with lanterns and fireworks marking the occasion.

Ponggal, held around mid-January, is celebrated by the Tamil community of the archipelago. It’s an offering of thanks for a good harvest, best experienced by visitors with a visit to Laman Padi – an open-air museum dedicated to rice cultivation.

Chinese New Year is a significant festival for Langkawi, mainly for its Chinese population. Falling in late January or early February, restaurants festooned with lanterns and lights become busy with family get-togethers.

Spring Festivals in Langkawi

Langkawi International Festival is held across 10 days in April. A celebration of arts from around the world, the event sees international artists, dancers, and musicians showcasing various traditional and modern creativity.

The last week in May sees Langkawi play host to the International Laksa Festival. A hotspot for foodies, the event celebrates the quintessential Malaysian dish of laksa and all its regional variations – a must for any fan of food.

Summer Festivals in Langkawi

In June, it’s time for the Langkawi Geopark Festival. Another celebration of the archipelago’s flora and fauna marks the date when portions of Langkawi were recognized as a Geopark by UNESCO back in 2007. Expect an array of entertainment, from food stalls to dance troupes.

During the month of Ramadan – a period of 28 days of fasting observed by Langkawi’s Muslim community (which can fall in May or June) – there’s the Ramadan Bazaar held in Kuah, the island’s main town. Authentic local dishes and Nyonya and Indonesian cuisine are served up as Muslims break their fast en masse after sundown.

Eid then marks the end of Ramadan. This celebration sees Muslims on the island dressing in traditional clothing and celebrating and feasting with their families.

On August 31, the whole of Malaysia, including Langkawi, celebrates Hari Merdeka or Malaysian Independence Day. This festival marks the end of British colonial rule of the Malaysian Peninsula in 1957 and is marked in Langkawi by parades in Kuah, with an array of cultural events and sports activities to be seen across the island in a demonstration of patriotic spirit.

Fall Festivals in Langkawi

Following on from Mari Merdeka, there’s the Malaysia Day celebration on September 16. This marks the day in 1963 when Malaya, North Borneo, and Singapore joined together to form the Federation of Malaysia (Singapore was to leave two years later in 1965).

Depending on the lunar calendar, but celebrated around two months after the first Eid, Langkawi’s Muslim community enjoys two days holiday to mark the end of the year’s second Ramadan. Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a bigger celebration than the earlier Eid, and again, it is a time of feasting and family.

November in Langkawi means Divali. An important event on the Hindu calendar, Divali – also known as the Festival of Lights – is a time to come together for prosperity and peace. Fireworks and illuminations cover the island. Dates vary depending on the phase of the moon (usually between late October and early November).

Also in November is the Langkawi Nature Festival. This new event aims to spotlight the variety of wildlife that makes this archipelago it’s home. For starters, Langkawi boasts 226 species of bird! There’s Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta for sailing fans – an annual sailing race that finishes at Langkawi, usually in November.

When is the Cheapest Time to Visit Langkawi?

September and October are the off-season months for Langkawi. It’s the rainy season, and it will likely rain at least once a day this month. Though it may not be all day, it will likely come later. Because of this, hotel room rates are low.

We visited Langkawi the first two weeks of September, and while the first week was beautiful and sunny, it was raining nonstop by mid-September. It rained so much that we nicknamed the island “Rainkawi.” If I were to do it over again, I would have picked a better time to visit despite the costs.

When is the Best Time to Visit Langkawi for a Honeymoon?

While much of the rest of the world has its best season during the North American summer months of June-August, the best time to visit Langkawi weather-wise is actually from January to March during the dry season.

During this time, you’ll stand your best chance of having endless sunny days. However, this is also when prices are the highest, so be prepared to pay higher rates on hotel rooms and rental cars.

Where to Stay on Langkawi

Casa Del Mar

Hands down, our time in Langkawi was made most memorable by Casa Del Mar on Cenang Beach. We weren’t sure what to expect with Casa Del Mar set on the busiest beach in Langkawi and because it has no major “big brand” name recognition.

The Westin

The Westin is one of the best hotels in Langkawi for honeymoon relaxation. Just outside of Kuah Town in Langkawi lies the Westin Langkawi Resort.

Set on 76 acres with lush gardens and its sister property, The St. Regis Langkawi, the hotel offers a full-service experience without leaving the resort grounds. It is one of the oldest resorts in Langkawi and was built in a charming fusion of Malay architecture.

Ambong Ambong

Ambong Ambong is a small property with just a few villas set on top of a lush jungle-covered hill, ideal for those looking for a quiet place to stay in Langkawi. Birdlife is in abundance, and as we climbed the hill to our room, we saw a troop of cute dusky leaf monkeys waiting to welcome us home. The property is a small collection of rooms and villas with only 11 units set a few minutes outside of Cenang Beach.

Ambong Pool Villas

Following the success of Ambong Ambong, they expanded with a new property across the street with Ambong Pool Villas. The rooms are far more luxurious as they’re massive villas with large pools, multiple bathtubs, a large outdoor seating area, a lounge, and a spacious bedroom. Like Ambong Ambong, they’re in the middle of the jungle and great for those wanting seclusion.

How to Get to Langkawi

Langkawi is a Malaysian Island in The Andaman Sea between the Kedah coast and the Thailand border. The easiest way to access the island is by air at the Langkawi International Airport. Daily flights run from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Penang, Hat Yai, and Phuket. We flew via Air Asia, a low-cost budget carrier throughout Asia for very cheap. Some ferries operate between the mainland and Langkawi. Once at the airport, you can grab a taxi to your hotel if you don’t opt for a rental car.

How to Get Around Langkawi

Langkawi is not huge, but the best way to get around is still by car. You can rent a car at the airport for your holiday. Unlike many other Asian countries, we found there to be order and laws for driving here. Visitors can also rent a moped to get around the island. Check car rental prices here.

Out Favorite Restaurants on Langkawi

We had a lot of meals on Langkawi, but here are the ones that stuck out as amazing!

• Tide Restaurant at The Westin: The theme of this restaurant changes frequently. When we were there, the restaurant was called Bhar and specialized in Middle Eastern cuisine. Yes, it was amazing.
• Tepian Laut and Jala at The Andaman: Tepian Laut is more Malay-inspired food, while at Jala, you can pick from a fresh, open seafood market. Both were among our best meals in Langkawi.
• Wan Thai in Kuah Town: Hands down, the best Thai food we’ve had in a very long time.
• Red Tomato: The best place to grab a pizza in Langkawi!
• Unkaizan Japanese Restaurant: Would you believe we ate here three separate times? Unkaizan specializes in Japanese cuisine, and this is where we got our sushi fix a few times. It’s even one of a few national awards for some of Malaysia’s best food for a decade straight. The staff here are the friendliest!

The islands showcase the best of tropical rainforests, white-sand beaches, and unique geological formations. To see the large bays filled with lush islands transports you on to the set of a movie filmed on a lost island.

Only it is not lost, and is quite a popular destination for Asian tourists from nearby countries. There are a plethora of things to in Langkawi for every type of traveler. We were stoked to arrive and spend just over two weeks exploring all of the activities and beaches the archipelago has to offer.

1. Eat Local

Eating the local food is hands down one of the best things to do in Langkawi. Ten minutes after we left the Airport in Langkawi we were sitting at a local restaurant with our hosts ready to eat a delicious and filling lunch. There are local lunch spots all over Langkawi. Often they will be open air with a long buffet table dishing up spicy fish, crabs, chicken, and beef curries.

Grab a plate and dig in, someone will be around to tally up your total when you sit down. It will be one of the cheapest lunches you can have on the island. It’s a pretty local experience and you won’t find many foreigners here. However, never worry as Langkawians are happy to welcome you to eat with them.  

2. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park in Langkawi feels like a world away. It’s one of those must-visit places in Langkawi! It’s around 100 square kilometers of beaches, mangrove swamps, and stunning mountains that spread out in a maze to the Andaman Sea. It’s accessible for anyone and a must do while on Langkawi. A whole excursion here will take around half a day, but the entire time you will feel as though you have been cast in the next King Kong film.

Once you arrive at the car park of Kilim Karst you and your group will be able to hire our a boat on an hourly or half day basis. The small boat is your best and only way to get through the mangroves and see all the beautiful wildlife. Our favorite stop was to see the white-bellied fish eagles and kite eagles feeding. However, it’s also likely you will see mangrove snakes and kingfishers.

Located within the Kilim Geopark are the bat caves (also known as Gua Kelawar) where you can view a bunch of Malaysian fruit bats inside a dark and damp cave – just what you came to Langkawi for! Another popular thing to do in Langkawi is to eat lunch at the floating restaurants here. They serve up delicious local food for an affordable price.

3. Join in a Yoga Session

You didn’t think we would travel all the way to Langkawi and not bring a yoga mat did you? In our 12 days on Langkawi, I knew I had to get myself on the yoga mat and into a yoga session. On the morning of my birthday, I went to one of the most well-reviewed yoga studios on the island at Ambong Ambong (which also happens to be an amazing place to stay on Langkawi).

It’s not really a yoga studio as it’s more like a beautiful wooden platform in the middle of the tranquil rainforest. For one hour a small group of us enjoyed the serenity and peacefulness of the Langkawi rainforest while stretching and breathing on the open-air platform.

Yoga sessions at Ambong Ambong run on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 8:15. It’s best to book in advance as the deck space isn’t massive and can only accommodate around 12 people. Afterward, you can have breakfast and a delicious cup of coffee at The Good Earth cafe on the Ambong Ambong property.

(Psst it’s also possible to continue your zen mood and stay at Ambong Ambong on your holiday like we did and we loved it!). Don’t forget to read all these amazing yoga quotes to get inspired.

4. Get a Massage

You can’t go to Southeast Asia and not get a massage. They’re an amazing experience and affordable compared to Western prices. We may or may not have had more than a few massages while on Langkawi. Okay, we had a lot of massages.

It’s well worth the investment to have at least one while in Malaysia. For cheap ones, you can easily find a few women to give you one while slipping into a small spa on the popular streets. However, to really indulge I suggest booking a massage at one of the resorts on Langkawi. The Westin had a fantastic spa!

5. Langkawi Cable Car

The Langkawi Cable Car is probably the most popular thing to do in Langkawi and if you only have a few days in Langkawi this needs to be on your list. Also known as the Langkawi SkyCab it provides direct access to the top of Gunung Machinchang, showcasing amazing views over the island. The journey takes about 15 minutes, but during peak season you’ll have to wait in a rather long line to access the cable car.

Before you reach the top, you can hop out at the midway station which also provides 360-degree views. The top is also where the famous Langkawi Skybridge is located. It’s here you’ll be able to get many photos of you showing off your bravery in the open sky. There are even a few glass-bottom points on the bridge to look down. Tickets start at 55 Malaysian Ringgit for international adults.

6. Oriental Village

At the base of the cable car is Langkawi’s Oriental Village. The Oriental Village is a tourist complex filled with activities, shops, and restaurants. If you’re looking to get any souvenirs or do some shopping this is a popular place to head. It’s one of the best things to do in Langkawi for families. They have a few arcades and activities like 5d immersive rides.

7. 3D Art in Paradise Langkawi

At the base of the Langkawi Skycab is the 3D museum. If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Langkawi then definitely head to Art in Paradise. It’s the perfect place to take photos and selfies, so if that’s not really your thing perhaps give this a skip. The museum has plenty of fun murals that will transport you to another time and place. If you’re traveling alone you may want a tripod as it will be hard to resist photos here.

So essentially you could plan to spend a whole day between the 3D museum, oriental village, and SkyCab as well as the other attractions in the area. It’s a one-stop shop kind of place!

8. Go Waterfall Trekking

Unlike Bali, Langkawi isn’t an island filled with an endless amount of waterfalls. However, for those looking for a break from the beach and looking for a free thing to in Langkawi, there are a few nice hiking paths that lead to waterfalls.

A few notable ones are:

• Seven Wells Waterfall: Also known as Telaga Tujuh has a total vertical of 91 meters. It’s named Seven Wells because of the seven natural pools that have formed at different levels by water streams flowing down.
• Temurun Waterfall: Located near Datai Bay this is a three-tier waterfall with shallow and deep pools to enjoy. At 200 meters this is the tallest waterfall in Langkawi. Watch out for all the monkeys and don’t feed them – they get aggressive!
• Durian Perangin Waterfall: A large waterfall in the middle of the forest on the northern part of the island complete with a series of pools and bridges. Great for families!

9. Eagle Square 

Dataran Lang or Eagle Square is essentially a huge eagle statue looking out to sea ready to take flight. The eagle is the emblem of Langkawi. It’s said that the name “Langkawi” actually came from the Malay words “helang” for eagle and “kawi” for reddish-brown.

It’s easily the islands most recognizable monuments and draws in crowds especially during sunset. You’ll see the beautiful bird all over the island, but as mentioned one of the best places to watch them feed is the Kilim Geopark.

10. Take a Sunset Cruise

Langkawi has so many beautiful islands (99 to be exact) the whole place almost looks unreal. One of our best nights we had was spent cruising around the islands on a sunset dinner cruise. This gives you a chance to see the islands in the evening light and get to know other tourists staying on the islands.

The dinner cruises last around three hours and include a local dinner with drinks. It’s possible to get in the water and enjoy a “saltwater jacuzzi” so bring your swimsuits! The sunsets seen from The Andaman sea are truly magical and something to remember.

11. Jet Ski Around the Islands

Langkawi is made up of 99 islands and they are all drop-dead gorgeous. A popular thing to do on Langkawi is to go on an island-hopping adventure. There are two main ways to see all the different waters. By boat and by jet ski. For thrill-seekers, I highly recommend hopping on a jet ski and seeing the islands on a guided tour. The jetski allows you to get up close to the crazy rock formations and to actually jump in the water!

I would suggest looking at the weather when choosing on a date to do the tour. We went on a rainy day when the water was incredibly choppy and it made for a less than ideal ride. I would much prefer to go jet skiing on a day where the water looks like glass!

Our jet ski tour left from Pantai Cenang Beach with Mega Water Sports. Our guide was fantastic and easy to get along with. Prices are RM 750 for a single rider and RM900 for two people on one jet ski for a four-hour tour.

12. Enjoy the Beaches

Chances are you came to Langkawi to enjoy the beaches. The island has some pretty beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise water. Although it’s a bit too murky for great for diving or snorkeling, it’s still nice to relax by the shore and take a paddle every once in a while.

Pantai Cenang is the most popular area of Langkawi and where you will find many resorts and restaurants. The beach here is beautiful but crowded especially at sunset. We stayed at Casa Del Mar which was located literally steps away from the water, but it was one of the last hotels on the stretch so it was fairly quiet.

Datai Bay has been named by Nat Geo as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and after relaxing here I can’t say they are wrong. Datai Bay is quiet and tucked away from most of Langkawi. So if you want a quiet beach escape Datai Bay is perfect. However, it’s only accessible by staying at either The Andaman or The Datai.

13. Shop Till You Drop

Still wondering what to do in Langkawi? Why not go shopping? I didn’t know this before arriving in Langkawi, but the island is actually duty-free. Since 1987 when the island was declared duty free foreigners and Malaysians have been traveling to Langkawi to stock up on chocolate, beer, cigarettes, perfume, and other goods. Note that not every store on Langkawi is duty-free, and the tax-free prices only apply to specific items.

There are many duty-free shops around the island to shop till you drop. We are not big shoppers but popped into a few just to check out the scene and were surprised with how busy the shops always were. It’s not great consumer products and it’s more targeted towards mainland Malaysians and expats who come for cheap booze. If you’re looking for something to do in Langkawi at night, you will be able to shop in the stores till the late hours.

14. Other Amazing Things to do in Langkawi

• Go on a Sunset Party Yacht Cruise
• Explore the Beaches By Electric Car
• Rock Climbing on Jong Island
• Go Snorkeling and Diving at Pulau Payar Marine Park
• Go on a Parasailing Adventure
• Ziplining in Matchinchang Cambrian GeoPark

Best Things to do in Langkawi Map

Where to Stay on Langkawi

Casa Del Mar

Hands down our time on Langkawi was made most memorable by Casa Del Mar on Cenang Beach. We weren’t sure what to expect with Casa Del Mar set on the busiest beach in Langkawi and because it has no major “big brand” name recognition.

However, it surpassed every expectation we had and turned out to be one of our favorite boutique resorts in a long time. The most stand out features of the hotel is the staff, vibrant gardens, and super inviting rooms.

The Westin

The Westin is one of the best hotels in Langkawi for honeymoon relaxation. Just outside of Kuah Town in Langkawi lies the Westin Langkawi Resort. Set on 76 acres with lush gardens and it’s sister property, The St. Regis Langkawi, you have a full-service experience with little need to leave the resort grounds. The hotel is one of the oldest resorts on Langkawi and was built in a charming fusion of Malay architecture.

There are four pools at the Westin with the first three on a series of terraces that include a kids pool. We didn’t have enough time to properly explore the pools, but if we had to pick a pool it would have to be the pool attached to the Heavenly Spa as it was quiet with few guests.

Ambong Ambong

Ambong Ambong is a small property with just a few villas set on top of a lush jungle-covered hill ideal for those looking for a quiet place to stay in Langkawi. Birdlife is an abundance and we climbed the hill up to our room we saw a troop of the cute dusky leaf monkeys waiting to welcome us home. The property is a small collection of rooms and villas with only 11 units set a few minutes outside of Cenang Beach.

Ambong Pool Villas

Following the success of Ambong Ambong, they expanded with a new property across the street with Ambong Pool Villas. The rooms are far more luxurious as they’re massive villas with large pools multiple bathtubs, a large outdoor seating area, lounge, and spacious bedroom. Similar to Ambong Ambong they’re in the middle of the jungle and great for those wanting seclusion.

How to Get to Langkawi

Langkawi is a Malaysian Island situated in The Andaman Sea between the coast of Kedah and the border of Thailand. The easiest way to access the island is by air into the Langkawi International Airport.

Daily flights run from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Penang, Hat Yai, and Phuket. We flew via Air Asia, a low-cost budget carrier throughout Asia for very cheap. There are also ferries that operate between the mainland and Langkawi.

Once at the airport you can grab a taxi to your hotel if you don’t opt for a rental car.

How to Get Around Langkawi

Langkawi is not huge, but the best way to get around is still with a car. It’s possible to rent a car at the airport for your holiday. Unlike a lot of other Asian countries, we found there to actually be order and laws to the driving here. Visitors can also rent a moped to get around the island. Check car rental prices here.

Where to Eat on Langkawi

We had a lot of meals on Langkawi, but here are the ones that stuck out as amazing!

• Tide Restaurant at The Westin: The theme of this restaurant changes frequently. When we were there the restaurant was called Bhar and specialized in Middle Eastern cuisine. Yes, it was amazing.
• Wan Thai in Kuah Town: Hands down the best Thai food we’ve had in a very long time.
• Red Tomato: The best place to grab a pizza on Langkawi!
• Unkaizan Japanese Restaurant: Would you believe we ate here three separate times? Unkaizan specializes in Japanese cuisine and is where we got our sushi fix on a few times. It’s even one a few national awards for some of the best food in Malaysia for like a decade straight. The staff here is the friendliest!

When is the Best Time to Visit Langkawi?

We visited Langkawi in early September and by mid-September, we had nicknamed the island “Rainkawi.” Don’t make the same mistake we did and visit when it’s the dry season. The best time to visit Langkawi is between January and March when you stand the best chance at a sunny day!

Langkawi lies in the Northeast of Malaysia. It’s not an island but an archipelago of 99 stunning islands cloaked in ancient jungles. When doing research, we found the island is most well known for being a resort island and beach escape for people around the world

While there are many public beaches the majority of travelers will find solace in resorts around the island, we spent our time in several resorts around the island and can safely recommend some great places to stay on your holiday, or at the very least regions. If you’re looking for where to stay in Langkawi, this list will have you putting up some serious debate as all are incredible options.

Where to Stay in Langkawi

When deciding where to stay in Langkawi, you should narrow down what you want to do in Langkawi and how many days you are spending there first. The island has several distinct sections, each with its own distinct characteristics.

The majority of travelers stay on the Southern side of the island which can be divided into two sections Kuah Town and Pantai Cenang. Kuah Town is the more developed city. If Langkawi had a capital, it would be Kuah Town. With a few resorts and hotels, Kuah offers a selection of restaurants, a harbor, and even a couple of bars.

Pantai Cenang is the largest beach on the island and has a long stretch of restaurants, hotels, hostels, small shops, and beach bars. Cenang is a short drive from the airport and is the one area on the island with a good backpacker scene and cheap spots to stay.

The Northern section of the island is not as developed with a number of resorts, most notably The Andaman and The Datai Langkawi. They are both five-star resorts and fetch a high price; however, we found a good deal that can be found at The Andaman based on room type.

Where to Stay in Langkawi – Kuah Town

Westin Langkawi

The Westin is one of the best hotels in Langkawi for honeymoon relaxation. Just outside of Kuah Town in Langkawi lies the Westin Langkawi Resort. Set on 76 acres with lush gardens and its sister property, The St. Regis Langkawi, you have a full-service experience with little need to leave the resort grounds. The hotel is one of the oldest resorts in Langkawi and was built in a charming fusion of Malay architecture.

While the hotel’s age shows outside, the interiors have been renovated. We found wonderful touches in the new restaurants, facilities, and rooms throughout the hotel. The main bar offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and is the focal point once you enter the resort. It was our introduction to the resort as we enjoyed some afternoon mocktails before we set off to explore.

There are four pools at the Westin, with the first three on a series of terraces, including a kids pool. We didn’t have enough time to properly explore the pools, but if we had to pick a pool, it would have to be the pool attached to the Heavenly Spa as it was quiet with few guests.

Don’t worry we did have enough time for two spa treatments. They were fantastic with wonderful private rooms suites that included everything you could need before and after our massage. The professionally run spa is tastefully decorated with high-end products and a wide range of services.

Come sunset we made it straight to the long jetty for views over the bay and neighboring islands. It was one of the most impressive sunsets we’ve ever seen. No crazy edits were needed to make the sky pop, as it was a fiery cotton candy orange with a vivid blue compliment.

We had one evening free to check out the resort’s main beach restaurant. Year-round it typically serves international island grill food. However, we were lucky as they had Bhar, a middle eastern pop-up restaurant, in its place.

The restaurant is intended to cater to Arabic clients, but we could not have been happier dining with mint tea, spiced olives, dukkah, dates, zataar aubergine. I’m particularly fond of Middle Eastern cuisine with its wide use of spices and the fact it steers away from heavy oils like many Asian cuisines.

If you want comfort and style with a familiar brand that you can trust in Langkawi. The resort is also close to many activities around the area. The only drawback we could see would be the beach since it is rocky and close to the main part of town. It also has the classic resort feel, which could be a drawback for some.

Where to Stay in the North of Langkawi

The Andaman

One of our favorite resorts in Langkawi would have to be The Andaman. After years of travel and participating in all sorts of tourist activities, we like intimate resorts. The Luxury Collection property is just that, as it is set in a ten million-year-old jungle in Datai Bay.

This mysticism of the spot enables the resort to break away from that large resort feel despite having 180 rooms. If you’re looking for where to stay in Langkawi with a family, The Andaman is a great choice as they had a complimentary kids club.

What amazed us was the luxurious offerings in the wild setting. We’re massive fans of small eco-resorts, and we understand why they’re not for everyone.

However, when it came to The Andaman, we subbed a beach cottage with a fan and no A/C for a spacious suite with multiple TVs, a large bathtub, a mini bar, a Nespresso machine, a closet, an outdoor shower, and a plunge pool. Needless to say, we welcomed the change.

We were upgraded to an executive pool suite, which was spacious and had its own plunge pool steps away from the ocean. We loved our welcome drinks here, a refreshing make-your-own drink set with a fresh coconut shaker.

The beach here delivers stunning views of verdant mountains and wonderful white sand. Since the rooms are set just off the surrounding beach, no matter your room choice, you’re always a few steps away from Datai Bay. There is no mystery as to why National Geographic named it the 9th best beach in the world.

The large forested bay feels wild and remote with birds, monkeys, giant squirrels, and monitor lizards going about their daily lives. We were even introduced to an animal we’d never seen before, the flying lemur. All these amazing animals can be spotted on The Andamans free wildlife walk every morning.

While most people want to sightsee, we want a spot where we can relax. That’s not to say The Andaman is without a plethora of activities it just means we don’t have to hop in a car to enjoy them. The large main pool is set in the jungle and blends seamlessly between the hotel and the beach.

Food at The Andaman has to be some of the best in Langkawi. We ate at two of their restaurants, Jala and Tepian Laut. Jala is primarily a seafood restaurant that displays the wonderful local catch and allows diners to select their fish and style of cooking.

Our meal consisted of wonderful prawns, squid, and whole fish along with some tantalizing side dishes. The setting was wonderful for a seafood meal as we the restaurant sits right along the beach with sand floors. In fact, we didn’t wear shoes for dinner.

Tepian Laut is a modern interpretation of Malaysian dishes. There are many options, from roasted lamb to curries and noodle dishes. Just about everyone could find something on the menu. We weren’t sure what to expect since we’d had local Malaysian food before, but we were blown away by the high quality and had a very memorable meal.

On our last evening at The Andaman, we were pampered at their V spa. When we entered our open-air treatment room, we found ourselves on top of a hill surrounded by lush vegetation high above the beach below. The view was stunning, and we proceeded to have a 2.5-hour spa treatment that included a pain-inducing belly massage (we’re told it’s very good for you).

I could probably write a whole post on the feeling of a stomach massage, but I’ll spare you the image of my wincing face. However, the rest included a head and shoulder rub, full body oil massage, natural salt scrub, and lemongrass wrap. It was all tantalizing and encapsulated the resort’s message of total wellness. To which they name five pillars hence the spas name is V.

Where to Stay in Langkawi – Pentai Cenang

Casa Del Mar Langkawi

We weren’t sure what to expect with Casa Del Mar set on the busiest beach in Langkawi. However, it surpassed every expectation we had and turned out to be one of our favorite boutique resorts in a long time. The most stand-out features of the hotel is the staff, vibrant gardens, and super inviting rooms. All of this combined makes Casa Del Mar one of the best hotels in Langkawi.

Service at the hotel is a clear priority, and it is not something unique to our stay. Take one look at their reviews on Tripadvisor, and you’ll see thousands of glowing five-star reviews. We felt so at home here, and it starts and ends with great staff and management.

The hotel is located on Cenang Beach, the primary tourist hub in Langkawi, with many restaurants and beach bars. It is the busy hub of the island, but Casa Del Mar’s location at the end of the strip allows for complete guest relaxation.

Our room was a sumptuous deluxe room with a small courtyard leading right out to the beach. It was spacious with comfortable seating, a table, and a desk. We work from the road and love a large comfortable desk, so we feel at home.

It only improved with an espresso machine and a TV with HBO/Showtime (we love movies). To make us even more at home, the bed was wonderfully comfortable, and the towels were some of the most plush we’ve ever had in a hotel room.

A service that stood out to me was the turndown service. To turn down they dim the lights, play jazz music, light candles, spray a relaxing room spray, and have mugs ready to go with your choice of chamomile tea or hot chocolate – It is instant relaxation.

The gardens and exteriors of the resort carry a lot of Spanish influence, with bougainvillea working their way over tan building edges. It’s an attractive property which would explain why outside guests love to walk onto the property to snap their photos.

We spent much time relaxing at the resort gourds and swimming in the central pool. I don’t know what it is, but something about a sparkling blue tile pool looks so inviting and luxurious. It’s a spot where you can unwind and catch up on a book.

Tasha and I both got time to read our books, The Great Alone & Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind (Tasha loves novels & I love nonfiction books).

The bar and restaurant are probably the nicest in Pantai Cenang, so it’s well worth having lunch or a romantic dinner here. We were lucky enough to have several meals at the restaurant and were able to try a wide range of their food. It was all great, and we loved sitting at the bar on a sunny day in between dips in the pool.

Where to Stay in Langkawi – Pantai Tengah

Ambong Ambong

Ambong Ambong is a small property with just a few villas set on top of a lush jungle-covered hill, ideal for those looking for a quiet place to stay in Langkawi. Birdlife is in abundance, and we climbed the hill to our room and saw a troop of cute dusky leaf monkeys waiting to welcome us home.

The property is a small collection of rooms and villas with only 11 units set a few minutes outside Cenang Beach.

Its location never presents any issues as guests are provided a mobile phone to call a free ride service. It shuttles guests up and down the property’s large hill and to the central part of Cenang. We were surprised at the ride service’s speed and never had to wait more than a few minutes.

We had one of their suites on top of the hill with great views of the jungle and Langkawi’s stunning coastline. All of this was best enjoyed from the elevated Japanese wood bathtubs.

A standout feature here is there a yoga platform and classes. Unlike many popular spots in Southeast Asia and eco-destinations, Langkawi has not caught onto the yoga craze. Ambong Ambong helps fill the gap with classes three times a week. It’s perfect for a guest to head down the hill before breakfast and wake up with a morning yoga class.

We struck out when it came to Ambong Ambong, and the Langkawi decided to turn into “RainKawi.” However, we persevered on account of it being Natasha’s birthday. We were in good luck, though, as the property is a neighbor to Unkaizan, a Japanese Restaurant, which is likely the best independent restaurant on the island and considered one of the best in Malaysia.

Ambong Pool Villas

Following the success of Ambong Ambong, they expanded with a new property across the street with Ambong Pool Villas. The rooms are far more luxurious as they’re massive villas with large pools, multiple bathtubs, a large outdoor seating area, a lounge, and a spacious bedroom. Like Ambong Ambong, they’re in the middle of the jungle and great for those wanting seclusion.

The villas, like Ambong Ambong, are located outside Cenang Beach, and you can take advantage of their complimentary shuttle service. However, if you don’t mind a short walk, you can head to Pantai Tanjung Rhu on your own.

We loved our villa and room so much that we hardly left during our time at the Ambong Pool Villas. It did help that it was our second week on the island, and we had already got some great beach time and seen the major sites on the island. We were more than happy to hang out in our villa and spend the day playing in the pool and relaxing with the forest monkeys.

The pool villas offer a higher level of service with a nice breakfast spread that can be delivered to your room. We love having breakfast in our private garden while listening to the sounds of nature and monkeys.

They also offer room service for lunch and dinner from their restaurant, but we never had a chance to try out the restaurant, with several places in Pantai Cenang calling our names. We found the WiFi to work great here and were completely comfortable in the lush rainforest.

How to Get to Langkawi

Langkawi is a Malaysian Island situated in The Andaman sea between the coast of Kedah and the border of Thailand. The easiest way to access the island is by air at the Langkawi International Airport.

Daily flights run from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Penang, Hat Yai, and Phuket. We flew via Air Asia, a low-cost budget carrier throughout Asia for very cheap. Some ferries operate between the mainland and Langkawi.

Once at the airport, you can grab a taxi to your hotel if you don’t opt for a rental car.

How to Get Around Langkawi

Langkawi is not huge, but the best way to get around is still with a car. It’s possible to rent a car at the airport for your holiday. Unlike many other Asian countries, we found there to be order and laws for driving here. Visitors can also rent a moped to get around the island. Check car rental prices here.

The Best Places to Eat in Langkawi

We had a lot of meals on Langkawi, but here are the ones that stuck out as amazing!

• Tide Restaurant at The Westin: The theme of this restaurant changes frequently. When we were there, the restaurant was called Bhar and specialized in Middle Eastern cuisine. Yes, it was amazing.
• Tepian Laut and Jala at The Andaman: Tepian Laut is more Malay-inspired food, while at Jala, you can pick from a fresh open seafood market. Both were among our best meals in Langkawi.
• Wan Thai in Kuah Town: Hands down the best Thai food we’ve had in a very long time.
• Red Tomato: The best place to grab a pizza on Langkawi!
• Unkaizan Japanese Restaurant: Would you believe we ate here three separate times? Unkaizan specializes in Japanese cuisine and is where we got our sushi fix a few times. It’s even one of a few national awards for some of Malaysia’s best food for a decade straight. The staff here is the friendliest!

Plan and Pack for Langkawi

Our Recommendation For Travel Insurance

We don’t travel without travel insurance, and neither should you. You never know what can happen in a foreign country, and it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo offers excellent short and long-term travel insurance policies.

HeyMondo

Book a Tour

Sometimes it’s nice to let someone else do the work! 

Hiking Sandals

These were great to have! You’ll do a lot of walking around Bali in the extremely hot sun. Hiking sandals allow your feet to breathe and do not collect sand when trudging through the desert. You bet we’ve reviewed the best hiking sandals for travelers!

Rainbow Sandals

Want to fit in in Bali? Get yourself some Rainbow brand sandals. Seriously, everyone around you will be wearing them – and for a good reason. They are uber comfortable once you break them in and last forever!

Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Don’t forget your SPF when traveling around Bali. We recommend ordering some online before leaving the house, as you will need them underneath the sun in the summer.

We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sunscreen that does not contain harmful chemicals.

Adapter

Remember that Bali uses the Type C adaptor. Make sure you find a good universal adapter like the one I have to keep you charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land.