Luxury Escapes Guide to Langkawi

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Introduction - Langkawi

Waves rushing over pristine beaches, the sizzle of barbequed meat on skewers, pleasing birdsong to accompany your morning cup of kopi-o, and warm Malaysian hospitality: welcome to Langkawi, a breathtaking archipelago of 99 islands off the west coast of Malaysia.

Rich in ancient geological formations and magnificent geoparks, the islands of Langkawi have become a natural paradise. The stunning landscape, recognised as Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, is home to unique wildlife both on land and in the water, including majestic eagles, black-tip reef sharks, and rare flying lemurs. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters at the numerous scuba dive sites, or cruise through the twisting mangroves while exploring secluded caves and beaches. Dwell on the folklore surrounding the archipelago, with cascading waterfalls used as bathing pools by fairies, the freshwater Lake of the Pregnant Maiden blessing women with fertility, and the hidden Cave of Legends linked to mystical battles.

The extraordinary mosaic of Chinese, Indian and Malay influences is present in the delicious street food, historic architecture, and heartfelt welcome from locals. Experience most of the attractions on the main island, Pulau Langkawi, but no trip is complete without day expeditions to the smaller surrounding islands. With direct flights connecting the islands to the rest of the world, along with ferries from Thailand and the rest of Malaysia, Langkawi is the perfect addition to your bucket list.

Please note that due to current restrictions some operators may be temporarily closed. Check their websites for the most up-to-date information.

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Things to see and do

Island-hop with a speedboat experience

What better way to discover the archipelago than with high-speed island-hopping? Begin at the aptly named Lake of the Pregnant Maiden in Pulau Dayang Bunting and enjoy a natural catfish foot spa. After admiring the unique landscape, head to the rugged Pulau Singa Besar, or Big Lion Island, where you can marvel at majestic eagles swooping down for food mere meters away from you, a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Then, soft white sands and azure waters await at Pulau Beras Basah. Top tip: be wary of cheeky monkeys that might try to steal your food.

Walk among clouds on the Langkawi SkyBridge

Get your adrenaline pumping with a walk on the Langkawi SkyBridge, one of the highest suspended bridges in the world. The trip to the bridge is just as thrilling in the Langkawi SkyCab cable car, with stops at three different viewing platforms on the towering Machinchang mountain offering panoramic views of Pulau Langkawi. The SkyBridge’s spectacular vistas will distract you from the dizzying drop as you pace the swaying 125m bridge suspended almost 700m above the sea, feeling as though you’re journeying through the misty clouds.

Cook a local dish at The Datai Langkawi

Immerse yourself in local cuisine with a farm-to-table cooking class experience at The Dapur in The Datai Langkawi, with the help of resident chefs. Hand pick fresh ingredients in the renowned hotel’s garden before grabbing your apron and choosing between a mix of traditional Malay, Thai or Indian cuisine. Learn the secrets to signature dishes, that you then get to enjoy paired with a glass of specially chosen wine and scenic views in the comfort of the rustic kitchen. What better souvenir of Langkawi than being able to recreate your favourite Malaysian dishes at home?

Spot fairies at the mystical Seven Wells Waterfalls

The striking vertical waterfall is what catches your eye when you first arrive at the gorgeous Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls. Take a breather at the lower pools before a hike to the seven interconnected pools that give the waterfall its name. According to a local legend, these are the bathing pools of fairies with healing powers – certainly an ideal place to cool off after your hike. Mind your step on the smoothly polished rockface, as well as when taking a dip in the natural infinity pool at the mouth of the waterfall. Strong swimming skills are highly recommended, as the current can be deceptively strong.

Snorkel and scuba dive with vibrant marine life in the Andaman Sea

The crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea invite everyone, amateur or professional, to explore Langkawi‘s renowned marine life. With scuba dive sites located all around Pulau Payar Marine Park, there’s no telling what underwater wonders you might uncover. Float over multicoloured underwater landscapes at the Coral Garden Dive Site, swim with giant shoals of fish at the Grouper Farm Dive Site and delve into wrecks with black-tipped reef sharks at the Kaca Sunken Boat Wrecks Dive Site.

Cruise through the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark

Langkawi’s hidden natural treasures await you on a river cruise from the Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Jetty, through the mangroves of the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark . As sheer limestone cliffs and sea stacks rise out of the water, keep your eyes peeled for exotic wildlife and plants unique to this part of the world. Explore darkened bat caves and visit a secluded floating fish farm, all while manoeuvring through the twists and turns of the Kilim River. Take a moment to absorb these spectacular sights while looking out for fish that walk on land, impressive kingfishers, and much more.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant night markets

If you’re looking for an authentic souvenir, tasty street food, or simply want to experience the hustle and bustle of Malaysian shopping culture, the energetic pasar malam (night markets) are your next stop. Rifle through wares ranging from colourful children's toys to knockoff sunglasses or grab some delicious local fare amongst the numerous stalls lining the street. The Pekan Kuah Night Market and the Padang Matsirat Night Market are our top picks, but all the night markets will provide you with a wide array of food and shopping options.

Kayak through Tanjung Rhu Geoforest Park at sunset

Paddle out to sea on your own kayak from the Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Jetty in time to catch the sky changing colours before your eyes. As the sunset reflects on the sparkling waters, be awed by the rugged landscape and the beauty of the Tanjung Rhu Geoforest Park. Travel to hidden places impossible to reach by other means while appreciating the gorgeous scenery, before trying out a beachside restaurant for a delectable seafood dinner. Don’t worry if you have no kayaking experience, as this adventure is suitable for first-timers and seasoned kayakers.

Island-hop with a speedboat experience

Walk among clouds on the Langkawi SkyBridge

Cook a local dish at The Datai Langkawi

Spot fairies at the mystical Seven Wells Waterfalls

Snorkel and scuba dive with vibrant marine life in the Andaman Sea

Cruise through the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark

Immerse yourself in the vibrant night markets

Kayak through Tanjung Rhu Geoforest Park at sunset

Top places to eat and drink

Seashells Restaurant

Sample traditional Malaysian food in the middle of a paddy field at Seashells Restaurant in Cenang, where you’re able to dine in a kampung (village) setting underneath a thatched roof. Share a platter of Nasi Kukus, a classic Malay dish comprising of steamed rice topped with fried shallots, sambal belacan (chilli paste), and your choice of lamb, fish, chicken, or beef marinated in turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger. Served on banana leaves, this exquisite yet simple dish paired with the unique dining location makes this an unforgettable experience. Note: the restaurant emulates authenticity to the point where they don’t have a website, so give them an old-fashioned ring for any queries.

The Gulai House

Nestled deep within the rainforest is The Gulai House at The Datai Langkawi, a refined restaurant serving only the best Malaysian dishes. With only the freshest ingredients used, satiate your tastebuds with fragrant, flavourful cuisine plated to perfection. Featuring a Malay and Indian classics with a twist, you’ll be able to try delicacies like their signature beef rendang made with Wagyu short ribs, red snapper with chilli and tamarind gravy, and an assortment of rice and roti. The authentic floor seating and rustic décor will only captivate you further as you dine accompanied by the sounds of nature.

Kayaputi Restaurant

Showcasing complex dishes influenced by the land and the sea, elegant pan-Asian haute cuisine awaits you at the sophisticated Kayaputi Restaurant at the St. Regis Langkawi. With understated white and neutral tones, the restaurant evokes a sense of intimacy with antique furniture and ocean-inspired décor. The open-air kitchen adds to your dining experience, as you’re able to watch the chefs at work preparing sensational meals – not to mention the world-class wine list and stellar cocktails to match.

fatCUPID Langkawi

If you’re craving some Australian-inspired brunch options or want an authentic Nyonya breakfast, fatCUPID is the place to check out. Long-time connoisseurs of traditional Nyonya cooking, a blend of Chinese and Malay food, the owners have also incorporated their appreciation of modern Australian cuisine. From smoked salmon croissant sandwiches to a spicy coconut-cream Northern Malaysian laksa and a chicken dish derived from Grandma’s own recipe, the family-owned restaurant is perfect for that casual lunch before exploring what Langkawi has to offer.

Street Food

Embark on a culinary scavenger hunt to find the best authentic Malaysian dishes at local food stalls around Langkawi. One easy stop would be the ubiquitous night markets, featuring food such as satay, Nasi Lemak, curry puffs, and many other staple snacks. Kuih, bite-sized street desserts made with glutinous rice, coconut, pandan, and other traditional ingredients, are extremely popular with both locals and tourists – just the thing to keep you going after a long day. Find a variety of freshly prepared colourful kuih and other fried, steamed or barbequed local delicacies for a low price anywhere on the islands.

Seashells Restaurant

The Gulai House

Kayaputi Restaurant

fatCUPID Langkawi

Street Food

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