Once a haven for pirates and now a sought-after retreat for honeymoon couples and holidaymakers, Pulau Langkawi is the largest (475km²) of 99 tropical islands that lie in the Andaman Sea around 30km off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
Known collectively as Langkawi, and a UNESCO Geopark since 2007, the islands are easily accessible by air from Georgetown in Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore or by boat from Georgetown, Kuala Perlis and Satun in Thailand.
Fringed with idyllic white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees and crystal clear waters that teem with colourful marine life, Langkawi is renowned as one of Asia’s most beautiful tropical islands and the perfect destination for a romantic honeymoon in Malaysia.
Datai Bay and Tanjung Rhu on Langkawi's northern coast boast the island’s most secluded beaches as well as the island’s finest resorts.
Elsewhere, the west coast beaches of Pantai Tengah and Pantai Cenang offer a range of good facilities and a relaxed ambience.
Langkawi's best beaches include the following …
(Pantai Tanjung Rhu) – Fringed by swaying palms and luxuriant casuarina trees, picture-perfect Tanjung Rhu is one of the most stunning beaches in Malaysia.
With scenic views across the bay to lush, jungle-clad karst islets that jut out of the aquamarine sea, it’s easy to unwind on this gorgeous crescent of powder-white sand.
The beach’s crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling and at low tide you can stroll out to the nearby islands of Pulau Pasir and Pulau Gasing for a spot of secluded sunbathing.
Both the Tanjung Rhu Resort (photo) and the Four Seasons Langkawi offer luxurious ringside seats to this gorgeous beach, which is located on the northern cape of Langkawi Island.
(Pantai Datai) – Backed by an exclusive golf course and surrounded by centuries-old virgin rainforest, this gorgeous long crescent of white sand shelves gently into the clear aquamarine waters of a secluded cove.
Relax on the coral sand beach and enjoy a range of creature comforts supplied by a choice of beachfront 5-star resorts including The Datai Langkawi Resort and The Andaman, Datai Bay.
Away from the beach you can choose from several jungle trails or visit the nearby crocodile farm to see more than 1500 saltwater crocodiles.
(Pantai Cenang) – Fringed by palm and casuarina trees, this 2km-long stretch of white sand is probably Langkawi’s most popular tourist beach, with a vibrant nightlife and a range of shopping opportunities.
The beachside road is crowded with al fresco restaurants, pubs, cafes, shops and resorts – none of which are higher than a coconut tree.
Beach vendors offer a variety of watersports equipment: go water skiing, fishing, rent a jet ski or take a-round-the-island tour.
Try planting rice at the nearby rice museum or get close to rays, turtles and sharks at the beachside aquarium – Asia’s largest aquarium, with more than 5000 marine species on display.
(Pantai Tengah) – Separated from Pantai Cenang by a rocky outcrop, Pantai Tengah offers a 1km stretch of fine white sand and provides a quieter alternative to the bustling Pantai Cenang, while also offering a range of good beachside restaurants and comfortable resorts.
(Pantai Kok) – Once considered Langkawi’s most pristine beach, this powder-white sand beach nestles beneath jungle-clad hills and is backed by a boardwalk lined with bistros, restaurants and boutiques.
Relax on the beach, go swimming, admire the yachts in the nearby marina or ride the cable car up to Mat Cincang Mountain for panoramic views over the island.
Pantai Kok is located on the north-east coast of the island and only 2km from the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls. Also nearby sit the remains of the summer palace that was built for the film, Anna and the King (1999).
Away from the pristine beaches and the island’s glittering shopping malls with their duty-free bargains, discover traditional Malay island life in the small villages that lie scattered between picturesque rice paddy fields and lush jungle-clad mountains.
You can experience Langkawi’s natural beauty by hire car, motorcycle and bicycle or follow scenic forest trails on foot to explore picturesque waterfalls and landscapes of lakes and mountain peaks.
Cruise by small boat beneath craggy limestone islets that jut dramatically out of the calm Andaman Sea in this mangrove forest – home to hundreds of native wildlife including Brahminy kites and sea eagles.
Langkawi offers a choice of must-see attractions for inquisitive couples enjoying a honeymoon, including…
Hike through lush rainforest to Langkawi’s highest mountain (881m) and be rewarded with sightings along the way of the regal hornbill as well as magnificent views of the islands of southern Thailand, Mat Cincang Mountain and Kuah Harbour.
A challenging and scenic 200m climb leads you through a lush rainforest to a stream that empties into seven natural rock basins before plunging 90m into a rock pool below.
Along the trail listen out for the cackle-like calls of great hornbills and look out for long-tailed macaques and cream-coloured giant squirrels flitting through the rainforest.
Enjoy panoramic views of Langkawi from the top of the waterfall and, during the rainy season, slide from pool to pool along the moss-covered sides – the last pool is sufficiently deep to prevent you from being swept over the falls!
Cruise by small boat beneath craggy limestone islets that jut dramatically out of the calm Andaman Sea in this mangrove forest – home to hundreds of native wildlife including Brahminy kites and sea eagles.
Watch these majestic birds soar overhead or swoop into the water for food – often provided by tour guides or your boatman.
Get a bird's eve view of virgin rainforest from the 125m-long curved pedestrian cable-stayed bridge located 700m above sea level at the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang.
Discover a wide range of Malaysian handicrafts, including delicate hand-drawn batik, meticulously crafted wooden figures, delicately crafted bamboo carvings and intricately carved silverware at the Heritage Museum.
Admire traditional Malay wedding costumes and accessories at the Wedding Museum.
For an exhilarating experience and breathtaking island views, ride the cable car from Oriental Village near Pantai Kok to the main observatory platform on the peak of Mat Cincang Mountain.
Take a guided boat tour through this wilderness region of green mangrove wetlands, bat caves, isolated white beaches and blue lagoons.
The 100km² park teems with wildlife, including 2m-long monitor lizards, several kinds of eagles, iguanas and macaques.
Take a day trip to explore one of the most beautiful marine parks in the area, a pristine environment surrounded by the largest coral garden in Malaysia.
Go snorkelling, diving and swimming to see huge schools of colourful reef fish and black-finned sharks.
(Mahsuri’s Mausoleum) – This white marble shrine was erected in honour of a legendary 19th century maiden who was unjustly accused of adultery – one of Langkawi’s most famous legends.
Admire sharks, stingrays, groupers and green turtles from a 15m-long glass tunnel in Asia’s largest aquarium, a showcase of more than 5000 species of marine and freshwater fish located at Pantai Cenang.
A touch pool allows you to get up close to starfish, sea slugs and sea cucumbers.
Langkawi is a duty-free shopping area with a wide choice of items available, including perfumes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, leather goods and fashion wear. The main town of Kuah hosts several shopping centres.
Langkawi offers an excellent choice of resorts to suit most honeymoon budgets, including the following 5-star resorts…
Four Seasons Resort Langkawi
Location: Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD905 per pavillion
Description: Four Seasons Resort Langkawi offers 5-star luxury within landscaped beachfront gardens, along a mile long stretch of Tanjong Rhu. It features a family pool, an 55-metre adult pool with private cabanas, the multi-award winning Geo Spa, 3 restaurants and the Middle East-inspired Rhu Bar. Rooms are a unique blend of traditional Malay architecture and Moorish design influences. State-of-the-art amenities include a DVD player, flat-screen TV and iPod dock. Bathrooms come with premium toiletries and bathrobes. Adventurous guests can try water-sports like X-Jetblades, jet skis, wakeboards, water-skis, windsurfs, kayaks and Topcats. Other adrenaline fueled activities include on-site rock climbing, archery and Blokarts. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre and tennis court. With the Andaman Sea as a backdrop, the resort's dining options serve award-winning Malay, Asian and Mediterranean cuisines. Speciality options include tented ocean front dinners and beach barbecues. The resort's surroundings include vibrant rainforests and spectacular sea and mountainscapes. It is 20 km or about a 25-minute drive from Langkawi International Airport. It is a 30-minute drive from Kuah Town.
The St Regis Langkawi
Location: Jalan Beringin, Kuah
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD438 per room
Description: Located on a beachfront and offering a swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre, The St. Regis Langkawi offers comfortable accommodation in Kuah, Langkawi. There is an on-site restaurant where guests can enjoy both local and international cuisine. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Featuring many lounge and rest areas, guests can choose between romantic evening at the Cabana area or enjoy time with family at the Drawing Room lounge. The air-conditioned rooms are fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, seating area, desk and safety deposit box. Equipped with shower facilities, the private bathroom comes with a bathrobe, hairdryer and free toiletries. At St. Regis Langkawi you will find a a 24-hour front desk, a business centre and luggage storage. International travelers can use the currency exchange services available at the property.
The Datai Langkawi
Location: Jalan Teluk Datai
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD354 per room
Description: Located on the island of Langkawi, along a private beach, The Datai offers luxurious accommodations with free Wi-Fi. It boasts a golf course, well-furnished spa and swimming pool. The rooms at The Datai Langkawi overlook a tropical landscape and feature a living area with a private balcony. Private bathrooms are equipped with a dressing area and bathtub. The hotel’s spa offers a menu of massage and body treatments. Other facilities include a fitness center and tennis courts. Mountain bikes are also available for rent. Situated from the hotel in a rainforest, The Gulai House is an open-air restaurant serving Malay and Indian dishes. The Dining Room serves western and local favorites, while The Pavilion offers Thai food in an outdoor setting. The Datai is a 30-minute drive from Langkawi International Airport. The Datai Bay Golf Course is a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort, Langkawi
Location: Jalan Teluk Datai
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD266 per room
Description: Located on the tropical Langkawi Island, The Andaman, has 5-star facilities that include a variety of elegant and well-furnished rooms and suites reflecting contemporary Malaysian style, with sweeping views over Andaman Sea and Gunung Mat Chinchang rainforest. Every room at the property has a TV, sofa bed, and a private bathroom with a bathtub. A buffet breakfast and menu options are available at the all-day dining The Restaurant. International dishes are served at Tepian Laut, and Japanese specialties at the Japanese Restaurant. Hotel guests can choose to snorkel, windsurf or go canoeing. Bicycle and car rental services are also provided. The V Integrated Wellness located at The Andaman, Langkawi offers quality whole-person approach in Spa & Wellness. It provides for holistic therapies, beauty treatments, fitness classes, healthy cuisine, educational & lifestyle workshops/retreats. The Andaman is located just 4 miles from Temurun Waterfalls and 17 miles from Langkawi International Airport.
The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa
Location: Kuah, Langkawi
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD257 per room
Description: Facing the Andaman Sea, the beachfront Westin Langkawi provides luxurious 5-star accommodations with flat-screen TVs. Featuring over a quarter mile of private beach, its facilities include 6 dining options, a spa and free Wi-Fi in public areas. All the elegant rooms have modern interiors, and are decorated with a soothing color palate. Each well-furnished unit includes a personal safe, a flat-screen TV, minibar and a private bathroom with a bathtub. Guests can play a game of tennis, work out at the gym, or simply relax on the private beach. Car and bike rental services are available at the tour desk. The Tide restaurant serves a variety of fresh seafood and gourmet pizzas, and Seasonal Tastes provides a buffet spread of international cuisine. Light snacks and refreshing drinks can be enjoyed at Breeze Lounge and Splash, the poolside bar. Surrounded by lush greenery, The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa is just over half a mile from Langkawi Harbour and 2 miles from Kuah’s duty-free shopping centers. Langkawi International Airport is a 20-minute drive away.
Tanjung Rhu Resort
Location: Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD229 per room
Description: On Langkawi Island, this resort features outdoor pools, multiple dining options and a spa. Activities provided include cruises and water sports. Spacious rooms feature garden, pool or sea views. Tanjung Rhu Resort houses tennis courts and a fitness center with sauna rooms and steam baths. Other activities available include fishing trips and eagle-feeding sessions. With timber floors, rooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV with a DVD player. Private bathrooms have a bathtub and shower facilities. Tea/coffee making facilities and a minibar are included. 24-hour room service is available. Sands serves local and Western specialties on the beachfront. Guests can browse through books or magazines and having tea and snacks in the Reading Room. After a swim, they can have light meals and beverages at Sunset Pool Bar. The resort is less than 2.5 miles from Air Hangat (Hot Springs) Village and just a 30-minute drive from the Langkawi International Airport.
Anytime. Langkawi is blessed with warm and humid temperatures throughout the year, ranging from an average high of 32°C (90°F) to a low of 24°C (75°F).
Sheltered by the mountains of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi escapes the worst of the north-eastern winter monsoon from November through to January. The island receives the occasional short tropical downpour during September and October.
More information about Langkawi weather…
Pulau Langkawi is the largest of 99 tropical islands that lie in the Andaman Sea around 30km (18mi) off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The island is separated from mainland Malaysia by the Strait of Malacca.
The most convenient route to Langkawi is by air to Langkawi International Airport (LGK), located around 16km (10mi) from the island's capital town of Kuah.
From many overseas destinations this requires first flying into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) or Singapore's Changi Airport (SIN), followed by a connecting flight to Langkawi International Airport (LGK).
Malaysian Airlines operates daily flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur, and AirAsia offers daily flights from Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Singapore.
Note: Singapore's Changi Airport (SIN) receives more direct international flights than Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
By sea, a regular ferry service operates from Georgetown in Penang, Kuala Perlis on the Malaysian mainland, and from Satun in Thailand, with connections from Hat Yai and Phuket.
More information about how to get to Langkawi…
Latest update: Honeymoon in Langkawi: 13 June, 2022
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