Langkawi: Malaysia's Island Paradise
About Langkawi
Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, is Malaysia's premier beach destination and a UNESCO Global Geopark. Known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and duty-free shopping, Langkawi offers the perfect tropical getaway just 30km off the mainland coast.
Langkawi International Airport (LGK)
The main gateway to the islands located in Padang Matsirat, about 20 minutes from Pantai Cenang.
Flight Connections
| Route | Flight Duration | Airlines | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuala Lumpur (KUL) | 1 hour | AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air | 15+ daily flights |
| Penang (PEN) | 35 mins | Firefly, AirAsia | 4 daily flights |
| Singapore (SIN) | 1.5 hours | Scoot, AirAsia | Daily flights |
| Bangkok (BKK) | 2 hours | AirAsia, Thai Smile | Seasonal (3 weekly) |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | 3.5 hours | Cathay Pacific | Charter flights |
Airport Facilities
- Duty-free shopping (alcohol, chocolates, perfumes)
- Car rental counters (recommended for island exploration)
- Taxi counter with fixed rates to major areas
- VIP lounge (for business class passengers)
Top Attractions in Langkawi
Location: West coast
Highlights: Langkawi's most popular beach with water sports, beach bars, and stunning sunsets. The 2km stretch is lined with resorts and restaurants.
Best Time: December-March for calm seas
Location: Oriental Village, northwest
Highlights: 125m curved pedestrian bridge with panoramic views, accessed via steep cable car ride (2,300m long).
Hours: 9:30am-7pm | Ticket: RM85 (foreign adults)
Location: Northeast coast
Highlights: Mangrove river tours to see eagles, bats, and fish farms. Includes visit to hidden beach and limestone caves.
Tour Price: RM150-250 (4-hour boat tour)
Location: Kuah Jetty
Highlights: Iconic 12m tall eagle statue (Langkawi means "reddish-brown eagle" in Malay). Great photo spot with views of nearby islands.
Hours: 24/7 | Entry: Free
Location: Northern tip
Highlights: Secluded white sand beach with crystal clear waters. Famous for its sandbars during low tide.
Tip: Visit Four Seasons Resort's beach bar for sunset cocktails
Water Sports & Activities
Locations: Dayang Bunting, Beras Basah, Singa Besar
Activities: Swimming, eagle feeding, freshwater lake visit
Duration: 4 hours | Price: RM60-100
Locations: Pantai Cenang or Pantai Kok
Activities: Guided jet ski tours to hidden beaches and islands
Duration: 2-4 hours | Price: RM200-400
Best Sites: Payar Island Marine Park, Coral Garden
Season: November-April (best visibility)
Price: RM250-400 (2 dives including gear)
Locations: Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah
Experience: 5-10 minute flight with beach takeoff/landing
Price: RM80-120 per person
Locations: Departs from various beaches
Features: Luxury catamaran with dinner, drinks, and swimming stops
Price: RM200-300 per person
What to Buy in Langkawi
As a duty-free island, Langkawi offers excellent prices on:
Best Souvenirs & Purchases
- Chocolates - Imported brands at 30-50% cheaper than mainland
- Alcohol - Whisky, wine, and beer at duty-free prices
- Batik - Traditional hand-dyed fabrics and clothing
- Local crafts - Pewter items, wood carvings, and songket textiles
- Langkawi sea salt - Artisanal salt harvested traditionally
- Dried seafood - Anchovies, fish crackers, and shrimp paste
Best Shopping Spots
- Teow Soon Huat Duty Free - Largest duty-free store in Kuah
- Coco Valley - Best for chocolates and alcohol
- Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall - Local products and souvenirs
- Pantai Cenang Night Market - Wednesday nights for local crafts
Recommended Tours
Half-Day Tours (4-5 hours)
- Island Hopping - 3 islands with eagle feeding (RM80)
- Mangrove Kayaking - Kilim River exploration (RM120)
- Sunset Dinner Cruise - With swimming stops (RM220)
Full-Day Excursions
- Geopark Combo - Cable Car + Skytrex Adventure (RM250)
- Day Trip to Koh Lipe - Thailand's island paradise (RM350)
- Private Island Charter - Custom boat trip (From RM800)
Recommended Accommodation
Location: Datai Bay
Features: Award-winning rainforest resort with private beach
Price: From RM1,500/night
Location: Pantai Kok
Features: Luxury beachfront with stunning pools
Price: From RM800/night
Location: Pantai Cenang
Features: Spanish-style beachfront hotel
Price: From RM400/night
Location: Pantai Cenang
Features: Social hostel near beach and restaurants
Price: From RM50/night