Getting there and choosing your base
- Langkawi International Airport (LGK): At Padang Matsirat, a short taxi ride from Pantai Cenang, with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Singapore and Johor Bahru. Taxis use fixed fares bought at a desk, and Grab also works.
- Kuah Jetty: Ferries from Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah on the mainland arrive here, as do some boats from Ko Lipe in Thailand. Kuah is on the opposite side of the island from the main beaches, so allow for a taxi transfer.
- Telaga Harbour: Some speedboats to Ko Lipe use this marina near Pantai Kok in the west, which is convenient if you are staying on that side of the island.
Areas to consider
Pantai Cenang
Suits first-time visitors who want the island's most popular beach, with restaurants, bars and car-hire shops along it. Beachfront bars stay open late, so ask for a room set back from the main strip if you sleep lightly.
Pantai Tengah
Suits families, with all-inclusive resorts on a quieter stretch immediately south of Cenang. If you book an all-inclusive package, read exactly which meals and drinks are covered.
Pantai Kok and Telaga
Suits travellers who want a calmer beach near the cable car and Telaga Tujuh waterfalls. Restaurants are fewer and further apart than in Cenang, so check whether you will need a car for dinner every night.
Tanjung Rhu and Datai Bay
Suit a resort-based stay on the north coast among limestone crags, mangroves and the island's most expensive hotels. Part of Tanjung Rhu beach is kept for resort guests only, so confirm the beach access that comes with your room.
When to go
The short dry season from December to February is the busiest time, as the island is sheltered from the north-east monsoon that soaks Malaysia's east coast. The rest of the year is wetter, with September usually the rainiest month; rates are often lower then.
Before choosing a room
- With no real bus service, ask whether the hotel can arrange car or scooter hire from a licensed operator, or a transfer to the airport and jetty.
- Langkawi's duty-free status changes some charges on hotel stays compared with the mainland. Compare final prices with all taxes included rather than base rates.
- Rip currents occur off some beaches. If you plan to swim, check whether the hotel's beach has lifeguards or posted warnings.
Sources and planning resources
- Wikivoyage: Langkawi
- Naturally Langkawi (official tourism site)
- Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark
- How Hotel Unfiltered uses guest reviews
Facts checked on . Transport services, taxes and hotel offers can change. Confirm the details for your trip before booking.