When I was first told about Langkawi Island Malaysia I had no idea what it was or what to expect. One person on our Instagram felt very passionately about this beautiful island and gave us a guide on what to do! I read paragraph after paragraph about Langkawi, so I figured we had to at least give it a shot. After having spent a month in the Thai Islands, I was skeptical. There was no way this Malaysian Island I had never heard of could beat Thailand. Well, I was wrong. Langkawi exceeded every one of my expectations without fail. It started out as a 3-day trip and turned into a week trip. For that reason, I could not go another day without writing the complete guide to Langkawi, Malaysia and giving you this Langkawi itinerary!
Related:Â Langkawi Top 10 Things to Do
Where is Langkawi, Malaysia?
Langkawi Island is an archipelago of 99 Islands in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of both Thailand and Malaysia on the Western side. It’s conveniently located to amazing Thai islands like Koh Lipe, but also only a 3-hour boat ride from Penang.
With top attractions like the Langkawi Sky Bridge, and gorgeous waterfalls like Seven Wells I’m surprised there are not more tourists on this tiny slice of paradise. This guide is going to cover everything you need to know about Langkawi and everything you should see! If you have any other recommendations, please don’t hesitate to write me a comment below and I’ll be happy to add them.
Related: 10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand
How to Get to Langkawi, Malaysia
There are two ways to get into Langkawi. The first, and most commonly used one is by airplane, and the other is through the Kuah Jetty Port. We were coming from Krabi, Thailand so we took an early morning van from Ao Nang (which is another incredible place you should visit GUIDE HERE), that dropped us off in Satun. From the Satun Port, we embarked on a two-hour ferry ride, that was pretty rocky if I may add, that dropped us off in the Kuah Jetty.
Langkawi’s Jetty looks and feels more like an airport than a ferry port, so if you’re worried that the transportation is grungy let those fears slip away. Another common concern with the jetty is its distance from Pantai Cenang, but it’s only a 30-minute Grab ride away that cost us less than $5!
Related:Â What to do in Krabi: Koh Phi Phi Island, and Railay Beach Travel Guide
Where to Stay in Langkawi, Malaysia
Pantai Cenang is the main touristic beach strip on Langkawi. There are a few luxury resorts on different parts of the island, but the main accommodations will be located on Pantai Cenang. This is an area that is filled with restaurants, duty-free shops, and bars on the beach. If you are doing any water sports, which I definitely recommend you do, this is the beach those excursions will be departing from.
Word to the wise: Do NOT Stay in Kuah. We thought it would make sense to be close to the Jetty, and booked there originally and had to ultimately cancel our stay and move hotels. It sounds like a good idea, but I mean it when I say there is absolutely nothing to do on that side of town. You will be far from everything worth seeing in Langkawi! On the other hand, if you’re looking for a secluded island getaway, stay away from Pantai Centai!
Hotels in Langkawi Island Malaysia
Langkawi Island has a variety of accommodation options at different price points. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel in Langkawi, and or budget hostel, here are the best accommodations options are 3 different price points.
Luxurious Hotel in Langkawi Malaysia: The Datai Langkawi
The Datai Langkawi Resort is a hotel like no other in the tiny island of Langkawi, Malaysia! Boasting luxurious rooms with indoor pools, stellar customer service, and a private beach, The Datai Langkawi makes it easy to stay in. Though it’s location is away from the majority of the “action”, the resort has anything you could possibly need and more!
Click here to book your stay at the Datai Langkawi in Langkawi Island Malaysia!
Mid-Range Hotel in Langkawi Malaysia: Kunang-Kunang Heritage Villas
These beautiful teak villas are located on their own private beach, away from the hustle and bustle on Pantai Centai. These cute villas are great for honeymooners, and even high-end travelers alike that are looking for a private getaway! You also get the amazing amenities of a high-end resort for the price of a budget hotel back home! Seriously a great reasonably priced option!
Click here to book your stay at Kunang-Kunang Heritage Villas in Langkawi Island Malaysia!
Budget Hotel in Langkawi Malaysia: Shell Out Cenang Beach Resort
Now, THIS is the place to be if you want to be right on the beach! Pantai Centai has tons of beach bars, hookah lounges, restaurants, and shops. This hotel offers nice private rooms with AC, that are right on the beach! This room includes an ensuite bathroom, toiletries, and a comfy area in the perfect location! It makes it super convenient to enjoy the nightlife in Langkawi and even walk to some of the night markets.
Click here to book your stay at Shell Out Cenang Beach Resort in Langkawi Island Malaysia!
How to Get Around Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi Island, in general, is pretty small. We circled the entire island multiple times on our scooter in the week we were there. Though it is very easy to catch a Grab (The South East Asian Uber) to get you from place to place, it can expensive and you will be stuck in traffic jams. With our scooter, we never rode longer than 30 minutes and it gave us the flexibility to stop on the side of the road whenever we saw something beautiful! Scooters have the benefit that they’re cheap and easy, and you can park them anywhere. We paid about $6 a day, and only $1 in Petrol every 3 days, even with driving around Langkawi ALL day!
Traveling to other parts of South East Asia? Check out our Ultimate Thailand Guide!
Where to Eat in Langkawi, Malaysia
Restaurant Kampung Siam
This restaurant is located right in the heart of Pantai Cenang and is absolutely delicious! The portions were enormous, and the food was between $2-$5 US dollars. You have your pick of various fresh seafood in tanks, and you can find some of the cheapest crab and lobster right here! I personally recommend their yellow curry, papaya salad fried chicken (maybe subbed for Green Apple which was just as good), and their pineapple fried rice!
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Langkawi Night Markets
I can’t think of a single day that we missed the Langkawi night markets! There is a night market in a different part of the island each night of the week. Our favorite out of all of them was the Ayer Hangat Market because it was the largest and had the most variety in Langkawi Island! There are tons of stalls selling anything from food and drinks, to clothing and accessories. It’s fun to just walk around, but an incredible place to indulge in traditional Malay and Indian food. When you go you MUST try the Nasi Kandar, Roti Canai, Murtabak, and the Rice flour fried donuts! We actually loved it so much we did a night market food review for our Youtube Channel, Chase for Adventure!
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Here’s the Langkawi Island Night Market Schedule with the Directions linked
Monday: Ulu Melaka Night Market
Tuesday: Kedawang Night Market (Near Pantai Cenang)
Wednesday: Kuah Town Night Market
Thursday: Bohor Temoyong Night Market
Friday: Ayer Hangat Night Market (Our Favorite!)
Saturday:Â Kuah Town Night Market
Sunday: Padang Matsirat
Things to do in Langkawi, Malaysia
Waterfalls in Langkawi
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Durian Waterfall
I’m so surprised I didn’t find this waterfall in more blogs when I was looking up Langkawi Island Malaysia. It was completely free to go into the Durian park where you are surrounded by enormous Durian trees! We even found one on the floor and took it home! After about 15 minutes of climbing upstairs and streams, you get to the top of the waterfall where you can swim and have the water splash on your head. It was gorgeous, and we had the place to ourselves for almost an hour! We were in shock.
Temerun Waterfall
This waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Langkawi! Although we personally didn’t go to this one and opted for some more secluded ones (like Durian), it wouldn’t be a fair and complete guide if I didn’t include it. I’m sure it’s gorgeous, but it is far from off the beaten path. Also, make sure you go in the rainy season for a more impressive waterfall. Other travelers we’ve spoken to have mentioned that the stream is very small during the dry season.
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Seven Wells Waterfall
Seven Wells Waterfall in Langkawi Island actually has two different places for swimming and is by far the most beautiful waterfall in Langkawi. When you arrive at the car park, you will pay 1 Ringgit (25 cents) and start walking up a pretty steep hill. After about five minutes you will see a sign on the left that will send you down a woodsy path that opens up to this gorgeous waterfall. Here you can swim, cliff jump, and just stare at the gorgeous cascading water.
When you’re done there, you can continue hiking up for another 30 minutes and reach the top of Seven Wells Waterfall. Here there is a natural “waterslide” made out of the rocks, pools you can swim in and a lookout over the falls. Be VERY careful when you are up there and don’t try to go past the barricades. This cascade has taken the lives of many who don’t respect its power.
Adventurous Things to Do in Langkawi Island, Malaysia
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Langkawi Jet Ski Island Hopping Tour
We had an incredible time with Seeman Watersports on our Jetski tour and it was only 500 Ringgit ($150) for 1 Jetski with two riders. We arrived at Cenang Pantai where we boarded our Jetskis and spent the next three hours visiting three islands, feeding eagles, and just having fun! Our tour guides were knowledgeable and even took pictures of us on the tour. Also, they were literally the cheapest jet ski tour on the Island!
Click here to book your 4 hour Jet Ski Island Hoppin Tour through the Langkawi Archipelago!
Trek to the Summit of Mount Mat Cincang Langkawi
If you’re at the top of Seven Wells Waterfall, you’ve actually already started the trek to the top of Mount Mat Cincang. From here you can do a steep trek to the top of the mountain which is another hour and a half. On a clear day, you can see almost all of the islands and get an excellent view of the Langkawi Skybridge.
Ziplining at Matchingchang Cambrian GeoPark
If you’re looking for adventure, look no further than this zipline trip through Langkawi’s waterfalls! Get ready to get strapped up, and zip through Langkawi’s gorgeous landscapes. Getting glimpses of the islands dotted across turquoise waters, and watching the water run through Seven Wells waterfall is certain to be an unforgettable experience!
Click here to book your Ziplining adventure in Langkawi!
Sight-Seeing in Langkawi Malaysia
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Kilim Geoforest Park
Guys, this was by far our FAVORITE part of Langkawi! We paid $30USD per person to go on a four-hour tour of the Kilim Geoforest Park. We went through Mangrove Forests, entered a bat cave, fed stingrays, had monkeys invade our boat, and ended the day swimming on a private beach. It was fun, informative, and seriously beautiful! If there is one tour you pay for, let it be this one. Yes, even more than the jet ski tour!
Click here to book your guided tour through the Kilim Geoforest Park in Langkawi Malaysia!
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Langkawi Skybridge
A trip to Langkawi simply wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Langkawi Skybridge. The suspension bridge is the tallest in the world sustained by a single pylon! It boasts panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Langkawi’s many islands. The entrance to get on the bridge is $5, which is well worth the experience.
Langkawi Cable Car
To get to the Skybridge, you have to get on the Skycab, which is the world’s steepest cable car and one with absolutely incredible panoramic views. Once you get to the top, there are several platforms that you can walk along for those Instagram worthy shots. The Skycab entrance is similar to that of a theme park. There are restaurants located outside of the carpark, and once you get inside there is a 3D art museum, simulators, gift shop, and of course the Skycab, The price for all of the attractions is $10 but does not include the price for the Skybridge. If you are going to come here, bring your bathing suit because Seven Wells Waterfall is just a 2-minute drive away.
Skip the line and Prebook your tickets to the Langkawi Cable Car and Skybridge here!
3D Art Museum
The museum entrance is included in the price of the Skycab and you cannot miss it! The halls take you to several themed rooms covered in 3D art from floor to ceiling. Make sure you bring your camera and a willing friend because you’re going to want to stop in every room!
Leaving soon? I’ve created an awesome carry-on only packing list made just for Langkawi! !
How Many Days Should I Spend In Langkawi, Malaysia?
Great question! You could honestly do it all in 3 days, but we enjoyed it so much we stayed a week. There’s plenty to do and see, but if you hire a guided tour of the city, you can knock out a lot of the main things to do in Langkawi Island in one day! This day trip covers all of the biggies, and is a great option if you’re running short on time and have a large group! I hope you guys enjoyed this Langkawi guide! If you guys have discovered any more spots on this wonderful island, let me know in the comments below!
Click here to book your private Langkawi tour!Â
Need more Langkawi inspiration? Check out our entire Langkawi Malaysia playlist below!
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