Langkawi is the largest of a multitude of islands that lie off the coast of Kedah state, in the far northwest of Peninsular Malaysia. The island comprises a archipelago of 99 islands. Langkawi is a versatile holiday destination with world-class infrastructure and facilities – a modern international airport, excellent roads, state-of-the-art marinas, a wide range of accommodation options from budget hotels to award-winning luxurious resorts, superb golf courses and a host of recreational activities.
Visitors arriving by sea will disembark at the jetty in the main town of Kuah. Located southeast of the island, the town houses many hotels and shopping centres. A large prominent statue of an eagle, situated at the popular Eagle Square, is visible from afar when approaching the island. According to local folklore, Langkawi derived its name from the eagle or helang (lang).
Langkawi’s idyllic beaches are perfect settings for a fun-filled vacation. Tanjung Rhu Beach, 22 km north of Kuah, is fringed by casuarinas from where the beach gets its name. A perfect place for a picnic, this wide sandy beach offers unmatched pristine tranquility. The sunset here at dusk, in a blaze of orange and red, is a truly spectacular sight.
On the western coastline of Langkawi lie the beaches of Datai, Kok, Burau Bay and Tengah. Enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole course at Datai Bay and tee off against Langkawi’s scenic backdrop. Those who wish to spend their day at Burau Bay can enjoy horseback riding while visitors to Tengah Beach can hire a boat and go island hopping. Kok Beach is the location of Telaga Harbour Park, a marina-cum-resort with ample facilities.
Cenang Beach is approximately 7km from Langkawi International Airport and is the most developed of the beach areas housing several luxury-class hotels and dozens of budget chalets and restaurants. There are plenty of water sports available on this popular beach providing fun and excitement for all.
First-class accommodation in modern hotels or comfortable chalets is available around the island. Restaurants serve a variety of local and international fare with live music and energetic ambience.
Go snorkelling and diving in the Payar Island Marine Park, 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi. Segantang Island, Kaca Island and Lembu Island are other islands that make up the Marine Park. For those shy of the sea, hop into a glass-bottomed boat and watch the underwater world unfurl below. Speedboats takes about 30 minutes and catamarans takes one hour.
Langkawi offers a back-to-nature experience for all. From waterfalls to mysterious caves, visitors will discover that Langkawi is more than a beach lovers’ paradise.
There is a host of themed attractions in Langkawi providing excitement for young and old travellers alike. Come and discover the variety of aquatic life at the Underwater World Langkawi. One of the largest public aquariums in the country, it features stingrays, sharks, moray eels and green turtles together with exotic fishes and sea plants.
