Langkawi, Malaysia's Legendary Islands

This Group of 99 Islands Takes its Name from the Main Island

Mar 14, 2009

Blessed with miles of sandy white beaches and lush green paddi fields, Langkawi offers peace and quiet as well as great shopping, good nightlife and bustling markets.

Langkawi’s beaches are renowned, not just among serious travelers, but among local Malaysians as well - they are simply Malaysia’s best. Most of the 99 islands are uninhabited but a few have been developed with a keen eye for tourism and are well worth visiting.

Pantai Cenang, Langkawi (Pantai means Beach)

The most popular tourist destination is Pantai Cenang, just 25 km. from Kuah Town and duty-free heaven. Most of the tourist resorts are concentrated on this one island, together with shopping facilities, nightlife and tourist attractions. Pantai Cenang is known for its 3 km. stretch of stunning beach, along which are lined convenience stores, shops and stalls selling souvenirs in the form of clothes, beads and handicrafts.

Pantai Tengah, Langkawi

This lovely beach runs along from Pantai Cenang but it is only 1 KM. It is a more serene beach than its bigger sister and offers a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of Pantai Cenang.

There are excellent hotels along the shore and a good selection of upmarket dining spots. The nightlife is not quite so boisterous as that of Pantai Cenang.

Pantai Datai, Langkawi

This well know and exclusive retreat is hidden by a tropical rainforest and holds some of Malaysia’s most expensive resorts. From the secluded beach there is a view of Thailand’s coast line. Little to do except relax and take walks in the surrounding rainforest. Perfect for people requiring an utterly quiet holiday.

Pantai Kok, Langkawi

Pantai Kok is a beautiful beach in the north east of Langkawi island with mountains forming the backdrop, a relatively undisturbed location that is perfect for lovers of natural scenery. There is a Marina (Telaga Harbour) and a cable-car which takes people to the peak of Mat Cincang Mountain for an view of the whole island.

Shopping on Pantai Cenang, Langkawi

If it all gets too much during the day you can opt for the night market in nearby Temoyong on Thursdays. The Temoyong Pasar Malam (night market) is a local bazaar that takes place at night, selling a wide variety of goods from fashion to electronics..

Shopping on Pentai Tengah, Langkawi, Malaysia

Plenty of souvenir shops along the beach for day to day items, but for something special then a trip to the Zon Duty Free Shopping Complex in Underwater World Langkawi is called for. The Thursday night market (see above), is nearby.

This resort is mainly geared to yachting and quiet relaxation but the Oriental Village located near Pantai Kok has a duty-free and souvenir shopping area.

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