Boasting an extensive array of scenic wonders and impressive attractions, Langkawi is well-known as the Jewel of Kedah and a prominent tropical haven in Malaysia. This lovely archipelago consists of 99 islands enclosed by the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea. Whether you want to get a dose of the island life or explore its diverse natural splendor, make the most out of your travel by discovering these top 10 Langkawi tourist spots.
Also known as the SkyCab, the famous Skybridge cable car is a must-do in Langkawi. Situated on top of Mount Mat Cincang, the ride to the top offers over 1.7 kilometers of the breathtaking scenery of the Langkawi islands. It is best enjoyed from a glass-floor gondola where you can marvel at the flora and fauna on the ridges, overhanging cliff walls, isolated pinnacles, and even the waterfalls. You can also visit the 3D Art Museum at the base station or try the skywalk once you reach the top to level up your experience!
Brimming with Langkawi beach activities, Pantai Cenang offers an amazing sunset view and a white sand beach perfect for sunbathing. Located in the western shoreline and approximately a 10-minute drive from Langkawi airport, this beach town is known for its thrilling water sports including jetski, parasailing, banana boat, and more. You also shouldn’t miss Pantai Cenang’s nightlife scene, duty-free shopping outlets, souvenir shops, and relaxing spa treatments from luxury hotels and resorts.
If you prefer to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Tanjung Rhu beach is perfect for you. It is one of the most beautiful places in Langkawi, sitting on the main island’s northern shoreline that is divided into a public and private beach section. The milky white sand and emerald blue waters of the Andaman Sea complemented with the breathtaking sunset views, provide solitude, serenity, and relaxation. A tour of the well-protected mangrove forest is also a must-try!
Laman Padi Langkawi or Rice Garden Museum is an open-air gallery and an eco-tourism attraction situated in Pantai Cenang across Meritus Pelangi. The 14-acre environmental site consists of different sections where you can experience and learn about rice cultivation, from seed selection to planting and harvesting. You can also roam around the paddy fields, see the rooftop rice garden at the viewing deck, or enjoy traditional Malay dishes at the Seashells Restaurant.
Feel invigorated by the cooling freshwater of Temurun, which flows down from the northern part of Mount Mat Cincang down to the sandstone and shale cliffs. Found in the Datai Bay area, you can take a dip in the natural pool and slide down the rocks just like the locals. Macaque monkeys and small animals like butterflies and squirrels can also be spotted through the rainforest. Just make sure to check the weather before coming as the waterfall can be dry or slow-moving during the dry season.
Treat yourself to a relaxing spa getaway in Ayer Hangat Village, a contemporary cultural complex lying just 14 kilometers north of Kuah. Go for a dip in the three-tiered natural saltwater hot spring or enjoy having your own private space with a bubbling jacuzzi pumped with hot water from the wells. You can also try the massage and body scrubs, visit the landscaped gardens, or check out the gift stalls for souvenirs.
Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi is a farm in the Datai Bay area, northwest of the main island. It houses one of the largest collections of Malaysian saltwater crocodiles and alligators in different species and sizes. The attraction is divided into educational zones and various entertaining shows where you can experience feeding the baby crocodiles. Take a photo with these ferocious creatures and learn how they live and behave in the wild.
Discover the refreshing Seven Wells Waterfall located in the Pantai Kok area. As the name suggests, it features seven natural pools created by water streams cascading from Mount Mat Cincang. You can take a dip at the lower section of the waterfalls, but be careful with the rocks as they can be slippery. If you are feeling adventurous, you can choose to climb the 600 steep stairs through the dense jungle and be rewarded by the amazing views on top. Just watch out for playful monkeys along the way!
Explore the breathtaking flora and fauna of Langkawi on a boat through the UNESCO Geopark Mangrove Cruise. The journey takes you to some of the famous ecological sites in the northeast part of Langkawi island for mangrove ecology awareness, cave exploration, and wildlife observation. Marvel at the limestone cliffs, fiords, and sea stacks and discover exotic plants and bizarre animals like kingfishers, otters, mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and brahminy kites. Don’t forget to visit the floating restaurant for their freshly caught seafood!
If you are looking for a snorkeling and diving site in Langkawi, Pulau Payar is just an hour away from the main island via speedboat. This well-preserved marine park gives you a glimpse of the island’s underwater beauty and abundant marine life with colorful corals and exotic fishes. If you are not into snorkeling or diving, you can also try the glass bottom boat ride or experience the underwater marine observation chamber.
Known as the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Escape the city life and cruise along the waters of the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, or discover the diverse wildlife in the park and even visit bats at their humble abode. You can even take a trip to the Crocodile Adventureland to see these ferocious beasts up close!
Trek the rainforest and keep your eyes peeled for the furry critters scurrying from tree to tree, or indulge in an afternoon kayak down the Kubang Badak Mangrove. Brimming with duty-free shops across the island, a shopping spree is bound to happen when in Langkawi!
Langkawi is extravagant in natural wonders and exciting activities that you can explore! Some of these include the pristine beaches, crystal clear waterfalls, lush rainforests, mesmerizing landscapes, nature parks, historical landmarks, duty-free shopping outlets, and thrilling nightlife!
The peak season in Langkawi is during the dry season (November to March), but the city has a tropical climate so it is still hot and humid all year. You can also visit Langkawi for its festivals during April and August.
Langkawi offers many great places where tourists can stay including Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok, Tanjung Rhu, and Kuah, but Pantai Cenang is the most popular location for its nightlife. It also has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, and of which are near restaurants and cafes, souvenir stores, duty-free shops, and beachfront bars.