Langkawi Holidays

Despite the increasing popularity of Langkawi holidays, the island’s beaches remain largely unspoiled. On the west coast, Pantai Cenang is Langkawi’s most-loved beach, made up of pure-white sands and clear waters. You can swim, snorkel and try out a range of watersports, including jet-skiing and parasailing. A variety of restaurants and laidback bars line the sands, too, so you’ll have plenty of choice if you fancy a plate of seafood or an ice-cold beer.

If you’d prefer to unwind somewhere a little quieter, peaceful Pantai Tengah is just around the corner from Pantai Cenang. This lovely long stretch of sand is dotted with beach huts and palm trees, while the shallow waters are ideal for children. Plus, family-friendly aquarium Underwater World Langkawi is only a 10-minute walk away.

Alternatively, if you journey to Langkawi’s northernmost tip, you’ll find Tanjung Rhu. Flanked by dramatic limestone karsts and thick mangroves, this sugary beach is one of the most secluded and picturesque spots in Langkawi.

Langkawi and its surrounding islands offer all kinds of things to do, both on land and in the water. The bright coral reefs are teeming with marine life, so if you don a snorkel and flippers you’re bound to see colourful damselfish and butterflyfish. Or, if you have bigger fish to fry, why not go on a diving trip? In deeper waters, you’ll be able to see barracuda, grouper, moray eels, and even small sharks. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to keep dry, book a glass-bottomed boat trip and discover the underwater worlds without even having to dip your toes.

Inland, meanwhile, the SkyBridge is a must-visit on your Langkawi holiday. Hanging from a single pylon atop Gunung Machinchang, this is the world’s longest curved suspension bridge. As you walk along, take in the sweeping panoramas over the lush landscape below. And you’ll have fantastic views on the way up and down, too, as you traverse the peak in the SkyCab cable car.

Langkawi’s collection of 99 isles, coupled with its rich diversity and cultural value, has earned the archipelago the distinction of being Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark. Although it comprises more 90 protected sites, there are three that really stand out – Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park, and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park.

Each park boasts a unique combination of natural attractions, so you should try to visit at least one during your holiday to Langkawi. In the northeast, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a mishmash of karsts and stalactite-filled caves, while the bright blue sea and exotic jungle are both filled with wildlife. Over in the northwest corner, meanwhile, Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park is home to time-stamped rainforest and Malaysia’s oldest mountain range. And finally, on the southerly island of Dayang Bunting, you’ll find a freshwater lake and green-clad hills in Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park.

This tropical archipelago enjoys warm weather all year round, with temperatures averaging 32°C. But if you want dry, sunny days, it’s best to plan your Langkawi holiday between November and March. There’s less rainfall at this time of year, and the sea is really calm – ideal for swimming and snorkelling. As you’d expect, though, the dry season is also the most popular and most expensive time to visit Langkawi.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, consider going away between April and August. You’ll see afternoon showers and the occasional thunderstorm, but temperatures will remain in the high-twenties. The rainforest will be lovely and lush from the rain, and the beaches are much quieter at this time of year. September and October are best avoided, though, as this is when Langkawi’s rain is heaviest.