The best Langkawi getaway for every type of traveller
Langkawi Island, the Jewel of Kedah, is known for its white-sand beaches and jungles that are home to over 200 bird species and monkeys. Many Malaysians and tourists worldwide also flock to this island, thanks to its duty-free status, awarded in 1987.
It's so easy to travel to Langkawi from Singapore, as many airlines offer a direct route which only takes about an hour and 25 minutes. As I've just returned from Langkawi with tons of travel tips to share (see suggestions for food and activities below), it would also be in your best interest to know the cheapest months to travel to Langkawi this year are August and September. According to Skyscanner, if you fly with Scoot on 23 August and 19 September, one-way fares are only S$49 and S$53, respectively.
Explore activities in Langkawi
Here are some coveted stays you should bookmark for your next great trip.
For the luxe nomad
The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi
Set within a 10-million-year-old rainforest on the edge of the Andaman Sea, five-star resort The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi steers travellers into a pocket of the world where luxury and nature intersect. Hike through the dense, dynamic jungle or listen to the forest's whispers from your sundeck. If you're into water activities, kayak or try the stand-up paddling through mangroves.
Ed's notes: I stayed here for three nights and was surprised to be given a room upgrade to a suite. The staff were very attentive to your needs; from making sure we had buggy rides to our villa to topping our breakfast spread. It's a little oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Cenang area, for sure.
The Datai Langkawi
The 5-star resort The Datai Langkawi is located in the heart of the rainforest, with nature, sustainability, wellness and fine dining celebrated at its core. The resort has 121 rooms, suites and villas, all with enchanting views of the lush tropical rainforest, some with the breathtaking vista of the Andaman Sea and Tarutao Island on the horizon.
Four Seasons Resort Langkawi
Tucked away within a UNESCO World Geopark, the resort’s Malay-style pavilions and villas offer quiet, romantic havens for lovebirds and as versatile family-oriented retreats. Wake up with a morning swim in your plunge pool before enjoying breakfast on the deck, then head out to explore the mysterious mangrove forests, winding rivers and ancient sea stacks that create the unique landscape.
Ed's notes: I never left the resort during my stay here. Its lush scenery and well-maintained tropical gardens on the resort's grounds were truly a highlight for me. The Geo Spa is also a must-visit during your stay.
St. Regis Langkawi
The St. Regis Langkawi is a 5-star luxury resort in Langkawi, Malaysia, offering elegant suites and over-water villas with direct access to the beach and a spectacular sunset vista. The resort offers 4 private overwater villas and 85 luxuriously-appointed rooms, with unobstructed views of the sea from the terraces. It's truly a luxury escape for all travellers!
The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa
Nestled on a pristine beach by the Andaman Sea, the family-friendly resort places you near Langkawi Jetty Point for weekend excursions to the mainland. With over 221 rooms, suites and villas for you to pick from, you'll be left in the good hands of the on-ground staff who will tend to your every need. Enjoy various water sports or pick up golf at the exclusive golf course.
The Danna Langkawi Luxury Resort & Beach Villas
With a stay at The Danna Langkawi Luxury Resort & Beach Villas in Langkawi, you're just a 4-minute walk from Pantai Kok Beach and a 2-minute drive from Langkawi Cable Car. This 5-star resort attracts a lot of overseas tourists and family travellers for its facilities, including the kid's club and pool. Overall, travellers commended the staff's friendliness and hospitality throughout the resort.
For boutique resort fans
Bon Ton Resort Langkawi
Bon Ton Resort Langkawi is one of the island's most stylish, unique and intimate resorts. With eight individually styled antique Malay villas over 100 years old, it is the perfect small boutique hotel. Replenish at Nam Restaurant at Bon Ton, which is regarded as one of the best on the island.
Temple Tree Resort Langkawi
Temple Tree Resort offers 20 beautifully appointed suites, each with its own unique character, heritage and history. In addition, you'll find two swimming pools on their gorgeous grounds, one in the shade of the famous tree from which the boutique resort takes its name. Beautiful four-poster beds are a feature of the resort, with the highest quality mattresses and bed linen for a perfect night's sleep.
Ombak Villa Langkawi
Ombak Villa Langkawi is conveniently located just 3km or approximately a 5-minute drive from the Langkawi International Airport and Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre. The hotel offers remarkable views of the Andaman Sea and the Mat Chinchang Mountain range. Guests may choose to stay at the Ombak Suite, Seroja Suite or the Villa Seri Kastu, spaciously designed with private lanais facing the Andaman Sea.
Ambong Pool Villas
There are about nine Ambong Pool Villas, each equipped with a 12-metre pool, lanai, and kitchenette with outdoor dining. Indoors, guests can enjoy a spacious bathroom with an outdoor tub, a king-sized bed, and a lounge area with a daybed that opens to the pool. Mod cons such as a Nespresso machine and 42-inch HD TVs with satellite channels complete the villas.
Telaga Terrace Boutique Hotel
Telaga Terrace Boutique Hotel houses 20 rooms and four suites for guests to choose from, if a place of relaxation, rest and tranquillity are what you're looking for. Conveniently located at Jalan Pantai Cenang, you'll be at arm's length of some of the vibrant cafes and restaurants in town.
For the budget-conscious
Chill Suites Langkawi
Chill Suites Langkawi is located in Kuah, a neighbourhood in Langkawi. There are about 48 air-conditioned accommodations, which are accessible via exterior corridors. If you're looking for a clean, basic, no-frills place to stay, then you may want to consider Chill Suites Langkawi. Rates start from S$32.68 per night.
Aseania Resort Langkawi
The Aseania Resort Langkawi has over 21 luxuriously furnished guestrooms, including the Superior Room, Deluxe Room, Super Deluxe, one bedroom Family Suite, two bedrooms Family Suite, and three bedrooms Family Suite. Kids will love the Mini Water Theme Pa, which houses Malaysia's longest swimming pool and the lazy river. Rates start from S$50.28 per night.
Royal Agate Beach Resort
The Royal Agate Beach Resort is a decent 3-star hotels located near Cenang Beach, just three minutes away from Cenang Mall by foot. Travellers have commented on the hotel's strategic location and hospitality, with one customer even sharing, "The staff is friendly enough and giving us clear instruction and willing to wait up late for us for late check-in by the counter without prior notice as our flight was delayed." Rates start from S$37 per night.
Where to eat
Here are some of my favourite places to go when I'm in Langkawi:
Gallo Nero Italian Restaurant (highly recommended!)
Kapal Layar Restaurant for all things seafood
Wonderland Food Store for all things seafood
Straits & Co, The Danna Langkawi for afternoon hi-tea
Nam Restaurant at Bon Ton Resort for Asian fusion dishes
