Langkawi, Malaysia, is a destination that promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. As non-Malaysians, my husband and I were excited to experience the “Jewel of Kedah” and uncover its many hidden gems. From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, Langkawi offers an array of attractions that cater to every traveler’s desire. Here’s a detailed account of our unforgettable 4-day, 3-night stay on this enchanting island, complete with practical tips and recommendations to help you plan your own adventure.
Malaysia's Island of Wonders
Getting There
Langkawi is accessible by both ferry and flight. While the ferry offers a scenic journey, we discovered that booking a reasonably priced flight 3-4 weeks in advance can actually be as economical as taking the bus to the ferry terminal. We booked our flights through the AirAsia site, which also provided a convenient option to bundle flight and hotel bookings for a reasonable discount. Alternatively, the Trips app is another reliable platform for booking flights. We managed to book the return flight for as low as RM 104 per person and noticed that there are flights every hour from KLIA 2.
Accommodation
During our stay, we chose the Concept Hotel, located in Kuah. Our 4-day, 3-night stay was comfortable and convenient, offering easy access to the island’s attractions. Many hotels in Langkawi offer accommodation-only packages, but this isn’t an issue as there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. If you’re looking for more luxurious options, consider staying near Chenang Beach or between Chenang and Tun Juh Beach, where most of the fancy hotels are situated. There are lots of Thai and Chinese restaurants, especially during the evenings, providing ample dining choices.
Transportation
Upon arriving in Langkawi, we initially hired a motorcycle from our hotel for RM35 per day. Although we usually enjoy exploring on bikes, this time we felt that renting a car would have been a more suitable choice due to the weather conditions and the convenience of having a car. Car rentals are readily available at the airport, with rates starting from RM70 per day for an automatic Axia. We managed to get a car for RM60 per day. The better the vehicle, the higher the price, but it’s definitely worth the comfort. Most car rental services allow you to rent the vehicles from the airport and return them there, making it a hassle-free option. Even if you arrive in Langkawi before your hotel check-in time, it is suitable to get a car and keep your luggage in the vehicle itself. However, if you’re looking for a cheaper option, then it’s better to rent a bike and keep the luggage at the hotel.
A land where every sunset paints a masterpiece and the sea whispers the secrets of endless adventure.”
Transportation
Upon arriving in Langkawi, we initially hired a motorcycle from our hotel for RM35 per day. Although we usually enjoy exploring on bikes, this time we felt that renting a car would have been a more suitable choice due to the weather conditions and the convenience of having a car. Car rentals are readily available at the airport, with rates starting from RM70 per day for an automatic Axia. We managed to get a car for RM60 per day. The better the vehicle, the higher the price, but it’s definitely worth the comfort. Most car rental services allow you to rent the vehicles from the airport and return them there, making it a hassle-free option. Even if you arrive in Langkawi before your hotel check-in time, it is suitable to get a car and keep your luggage in the vehicle itself. However, if you’re looking for a cheaper option, then it’s better to rent a bike and keep the luggage at the hotel.
Exploring Langkawi
With our motorcycle, we set out to explore the island. Langkawi’s diverse landscapes and attractions kept us captivated throughout our stay. Here are some highlights of our trip:
Day 1:
After settling into our hotel, we took a leisurely ride around Kuah. The town has a charming mix of local shops and eateries, perfect for a relaxed start to our vacation. Eagle Square was closed for renovations, so it’s better to check if it’s open if you plan to travel. We visited the Maha Tower in Kuah, but tickets for the Sky Deck were around RM 70-80 for foreigners. In Kuah, you can also visit Legend Park.
Day 2:
We visited the Langkawi Sky Bridge and Cable Car, offering breathtaking views of the island and beyond. The ride up was exhilarating, and the panoramic vistas from the top were simply stunning. It’s cheaper to buy tickets at the Sky Cab than through a site. The Sky Bridge is worth visiting, but rates vary for non-Malaysians. You might need half a day to spend at the Oriental Village, Sky Cable, and Sky Bridge. Also, Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) is nearby. We enjoyed our time at the 3D Art Museum as well.
Day 3:
A trip to Kilim Geoforest Park was a must. We enjoyed a boat tour through mangrove forests, explored caves, and even saw some wildlife. This natural wonder left us in awe of Langkawi’s beauty. Without realizing it, you might even be in Thai waters at some points during the tour. We highly recommend the Kilim Mangrove tour. Go to Chenang Walk Road, and you will find plenty of places to buy tickets for these tours. We found a tour for RM 50 per person, which covered the Bat Cave, Fish Farm, Eagle Watching, Crocodile Cave, and Gorilla Mountain. A half-day is required for the Kilim Geoforest Park tour. If you are into adventure water sports, the best place is Chenang Beach.
Day 4:
Before heading back, we spent our final day at Tanjung Rhu Beach, known for its tranquil waters and pristine sands. It was the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. We also visited Craft Complex, where you can buy pearl and silver jewelry at very reasonable rates. Additionally, we checked out Underwater World but found it to be a bit of a disappointment for the price (around RM 55-70 for non-Malaysians). If you’ve been to larger aquariums, you might want to skip this one.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Langkawi is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. Avoiding the monsoon season (April to October) ensures you make the most of your trip without the inconvenience of frequent rain. If it is raining, there is not much to do on the island other than a little shopping and drinking.
Langkawi exceeded our expectations with its natural beauty, friendly locals, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you choose to explore by motorcycle or car, the island offers a unique and memorable experience for every traveler. Our stay at the Concept Hotel in Kuah was comfortable, and we found plenty of dining options throughout our journey. For those seeking luxury, the beaches between Chenang and Tun Juh offer some fantastic high-end hotels. We hope our travel blog inspires you to visit Langkawi and create your own incredible memories on this magical island.
