My Escape to Paradise: The Best 3-Day Langkawi Itinerary

Welcome to Langkawi Island, a tropical paradise located off the coast of Malaysia!

The Malaysian archipelago is comprised of 99 islands, each one offering picturesque beaches, dense rainforests and a huge range of outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for a quick getaway filled with adventure, relaxation, beautiful beaches, and stunning scenery, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ve put together a 3-day Langkawi itinerary that’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of the island’s top attractions and experiences.

Langkawi is known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests, and this itinerary will take you to some of the most breathtaking spots on the island. But don’t worry, I’ve also included one of my favourite activities to do while travelling – relaxing!

I visited Langkawi island on my Asian travels, which also included Singapore, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Thailand, and it’s somewhere I’d definitely go back to explore more of. And I hope this itinerary inspires you to head to Langkawi too!

I’m going to share quite a bit about Langkawi first, but if you want to head straight to the itinerary, click here.

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Where is Langkawi

If you haven’t heard of it before, Langkawi is a true gem of Southeast Asia, located in the Andaman Sea, off the northwest coast of Malaysia.

Langkawi is actually part of the state of Kedah, Malaysia, but it’s so unique and special that it feels like its own little world.

The main island is home to the majority of the population and that’s where you’ll find the most tourist infrastructure, but there are plenty of other islands to explore too, each with their own unique vibe.

How to get to Langkawi

If you’re traveling from abroad, the easiest way to get to Langkawi is by flying into Langkawi International Airport, which is served by numerous airlines from cities throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.

The airport is conveniently located just over 20 minutes away from Kuah town, the island’s main commercial hub.

Another option is to take a ferry from the mainland. There are ferry terminals located in Kuala Perlis, Kuala Kedah, and Penang, with frequent departures throughout the day. This is definitely the most scenic way to arrive in Langkawi, as you’ll get to enjoy the turquoise waters and lush scenery of the Andaman Sea along the way.

There’s also the option of driving to Langkawi if you’re coming from within Malaysia. There are car ferries that depart from Kuala Perlis, and the journey takes around 1.5 hours.

How to get around Langkawi

Langkawi is pretty easy to get around and some of the options are pretty fun!

• Scooter/motorbike: The absolute best way to explore Langkawi has to be by renting a scooter or a motorbike. It’s cheap, easy, and gives you the freedom to go wherever you want at your own pace. You just need to have an international or local driver’s licence, and you’re all set.

• Bicycle: Another way to get around Langkawi is by bike (and it’s eco-friendly). You can find plenty of shops in Kuah town and Cenang beach that offer daily and hourly rentals, making it a great option if you’re looking for some gentle exercise while sightseeing. Alternatively, join this mountain bike tour with others if you’d like some company!

• Taxi: If you’re not comfortable driving a scooter or a motorbike, don’t worry (it can be a little terrifying at first), there are other options too. Taxis are readily available, and you can easily flag one down on the street or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. Be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey, as some drivers may try to overcharge you if you’re a tourist!

• Grab: Another great way to get around Langkawi is by using the Grab app, which is just like Uber or Lyft in other countries. Download the app before you travel, and use it to book a ride from anywhere on the island. The rates are usually very reasonable, and you’ll have the convenience of paying with your credit card through the app.

When to visit Langkawi

Langkawi is a beautiful destination that can be visited all year round, but there are a few factors to consider when deciding on the best time to go.

The best time to visit Langkawi weather-wise is from November to March – the dry season. During these months, you can expect clear skies, sunshine, and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping.

While this is typically the dry season, remember that Langkawi is a tropical destination, so you may still experience some crazy downpours during these months, but they usually don’t last long and at times they’re even welcomed!

If you’re interested in experiencing Langkawi’s culture and festivals, the best time to visit is during the months of January and February. These months are when the Chinese New Year and the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) are celebrated.

The Chinese New Year is a major event in Langkawi, and you can expect to see colorful decorations, dragon dances, and firecrackers all over the island. LIMA, on the other hand, is a biennial event that showcases the latest in aviation and maritime technology, with cool air shows, exhibitions, and conferences – perfect for aviation fanatics.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Langkawi is from April to October. During these months, Langkawi sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for a quiet getaway. But this is the rainy season so the weather during these months is more unpredictable, with more rain and occasional thunderstorms.

Nonetheless, Langkawi is still a beautiful destination during the off-peak season, with lush greenery and stunning waterfalls to explore. It’s actually the perfect time for nature lovers when the island is at its most tranquil.

Where to stay in Langkawi

Langkawi may feel like a paradise island, but you don’t have to spend the big bucks to enjoy it. Of course you can do if you want! Here are my top picks for highly rated luxury, middle of the road and budget hotels in Langkawi:

Luxury

• The Danna Langkawi – A Member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World
• Four Seasons Resort Langkawi
• The Datai Langkawi

Middle of the road

• Ambong Rainforest Retreat
• Panji Panji Tropical Wooden Home
• Kunang Kunang Heritage Villas

Budget friendly

• Bed Attitude Hostel Cenang
• Kapal Terbang Guest House Langkawi
• Sabandy Guesthouse

More Langkawi travel tips

Here are some tips to make your trip to Langkawi smooth and enjoyable:

1. Language: Malay is the official language of Malaysia, but English is widely spoken in Langkawi. You’ll be able to get by just fine with English, but it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Malay like “hello” (salam) and “thank you” (terima kasih).
2. Currency: The currency used in Langkawi (and the rest of Malaysia) is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). You can exchange your currency at the airport, hotels, or at one of the many money changers on the island. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops also accept credit cards.
3. Safety: Langkawi is generally a safe destination, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep your belongings safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables in a safe or locked in your hotel room.
4. Food: Langkawi is known for its delicious seafood, but there are plenty of other tasty options to try as well. Don’t miss out on the local Malay cuisine, which features dishes like nasi lemak (coconut rice with spicy sambal) and laksa (spicy noodle soup).
5. Respect the culture: Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Langkawi Itinerary – Day 1: Island Hopping and Sunset Cruise

Start your day with a refreshing swim at Pantai Cenang beach.

Pantai Cenang, located on the western coast of the island, is one of the most popular and vibrant beaches in Langkawi, and it’s the perfect spot to kick off your island adventure.

This 2-kilometer-long beach is lined with palm trees and dotted with beach bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops, making it the ideal place to soak up some sun, enjoy a refreshing swim, or indulge in some retail therapy.

The turquoise waters and white sand beach make Pantai Cenang a paradise for beach lovers, and the gentle waves are perfect for swimming or floating lazily on the water. If you’re feeling more active, there are plenty of water sports available, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. With so many options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants at the jetty

After working up an appetite, you can grab some lunch at one of the beachside cafes or restaurants.

My recommendation is the Red Tomato Restaurant. They serve a delicious selection of Malaysian, Western and European dishes, all freshly prepared with local ingredients.

And best of all, they offer some great gluten free food!

Island-hopping tour to Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa Besar and Pulau Beras Basah.

Next up, head to Pekan Rabu Jetty to begin an unforgettable island-hopping tour around some of the most beautiful islands in the Andaman Sea, including Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Beras Basah, and Pulau Singa Besar.

First up on this boat trip is Pulau Dayang Bunting, which is the second-largest island in the Langkawi archipelago. The island is known for its pristine freshwater lake, Tasik Dayang Bunting (or Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), which is believed to have magical powers that can help couples conceive. It’s just a short trek up to the lake, where you can take a dip and admire the stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and forest.

Next, you’ll pass by Pulau Singa Besar for a chance to spot some of Langkawi’s majestic wildlife. The island is home to many species of birds, including eagles and ospreys, as well as sea turtles which nest here. You don’t actually stop here but it’s still great to sail past.

Last on the island hopping tour is Pulau Beras Basah, a picture-perfect island with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun, or take a swim in the refreshing sea.

Go on a sunset cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea

Carrying on the theme of the day, your last activity is another water activity. And what better way to end the day than by taking in the stunning sunset views of the sea with a relaxing dinner cruise?

You’ll be taken to some of the most beautiful spots in Langkawi, while nibbling authentic Malaysian BBQ and sipping your favourite beverage.

Get in the water on the ‘net jacuzzi’ – which is just a fancy way of saying there’s a net in the water you can chill on. But it’s fun and a great way to get some uninterrupted sunset shots!

This tour has the option of just doing a cruise without dinner, or doing the full dinner cruise. There’s also the option for hotel pick up and drop off – so no having to navigate your way home at night.

Langkawi Itinerary – Day 2: Oriental Village, Langkawi Sky Bridge & Waterfalls

A morning stroll through the Oriental Village

Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Mount Machinchang, the Oriental Village is a quaint open-air shopping and dining complex that offers visitors a glimpse into the heart and soul of Malaysia.

As you wander through the cobblestone streets and traditional wooden buildings, you’ll be transported back to an era of ancient Malay customs and traditions. The village is home to a wide variety of shops and stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to traditional clothing and souvenirs. It’s the best place in Langkawi to get all your souvenirs.

But the Oriental Village isn’t just a shopping destination. It’s also a cultural hub where visitors can learn about the history and heritage of Malaysia through various exhibits and performances, so be sure to catch some of those.

Take the Langkawi Cable Car up to the Sky Bridge

Next up, you’ll hop on the Langkawi Skycab and make your way up to Langkawi Skybridge, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

The bridge itself is an impressive structure that stretches for 125 meters across a deep ravine and suspended 660 meters above sea level.

As you step onto the bridge, you’ll get a rush of excitement as you gaze out at the stunning views of the lush rainforest canopy and turquoise waters below.

The Langkawi Sky Bridge isn’t just a feat of engineering but it’s also an architectural masterpiece. Its curved bridge is suspended by one single pylon, which gives it a kind of floating on air appearance. As you walk along the bridge, you’ll feel like you’re walking on air!

Hike to the Seven Wells Waterfall

Last up on today’s Itinerary is to cool off after a short hike through rainforests up to the beautiful Seven Wells waterfall!

Just a short distance from the SkyBridge is Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, otherwise known as Seven Wells Waterfall. Of all the stunning things on the island of Langkawi, this is the most beautiful.

The Seven Wells waterfall gets its name from the seven natural pools connected to a nearby river. The hike to the lower pools is just 200 steps, whereas to get to the top is 638. However, the views of Burau Bay and Pantai Kok from the top is a magical reward.

As you approach the falls, you’ll be struck by the roar of the water and the misty spray that fills the air. These pools are perfect for swimming and splashing around, and offer a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of Langkawi. Take a dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters, but note that there’s no changing rooms available so you’ll need to dry off there.

The Seven Wells waterfall isn’t just a great place to swim. It’s also a natural wonder, surrounded by dense rainforest and teeming with wildlife. Keep an eye out for macaque monkeys swinging through the trees, but be warned – some of them have sticky fingers so keep your belongings close!

All in all, day two of our Langkawi 3 day itinerary should be an unforgettable experience. With the Oriental Village, Langkawi Sky Bridge and Seven Wells Waterfall all in one day, you’ll be sure to have a packed itinerary full of amazing experiences!

By night, head back to your hotel – or perhaps even catch a traditional cultural show at The Aseania Resort & Spa – and get ready for day three of your Langkawi adventure!

Langkawi Itinerary – Day 3: Water Sports, Eagle Square & Mangrove Forest Tour

Adrenaline rush water sports at Pantai Tengah Beach

There’s no better way to get the adrenaline pumping than a morning full of water sports.

It doesn’t matter if you’re not a seasoned thrill-seeker (although it helps!). If you’re just looking to try something new and exciting, Pantai Tengah has it all.

One of the most popular activities at Pantai Tengah Beach is jet skiing. Hop on a jet ski and feel the wind rushing through your hair as you zoom across the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea.

For a more laid-back option, I recommend trying the stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). It’s fun and not as heart-racing as jet skiing.

If you’re feeling really brave (I was not!), hop onto a banana boat and get pulled along at great speed. Hold on tight!

Apparently, while parasailing is available on the beach, it’s not entirely legal and these operators don’t have the proper licences. There have been a few accidents in recent years, so I don’t recommend doing this.

But, for those who prefer to stay on land and take it handy, there are plenty of spas and massage parlors dotted along the beach too.

Connect with nature and go on an exciting mangrove tour

Next up, it’s time to get back to nature and head out on an exciting boat tour though mangrove forests!

This Langkawi Mangrove Tour takes you along the tranquil Kilim River in the Kilim Geoforest Park, a UNESCO-recognized Geo Park, home to some of the island’s most beautiful and diverse wildlife.

You’ll meander through a winding path of mangrove forests, limestone hills and mudflats – perfect for spotting rare species like the white-bellied sea eagle, kingfishers, Brahminy kites, monitor lizards and more.

During the tour, you’ll also stop at a floating fish farm and explore spooky bat caves, as well as have the opportunity to hand feed rays and other marine life.

As you wind your way through the mangroves, your guide will regale you with fascinating stories and facts about the mangrove ecosystem and its importance to the island – from influencing the climate to providing a nursery for baby fish.

Explore Eagle Square

No Langkawi itinerary would be complete without a visit to one of Langkawi’s most famous attractions – Eagle Square (or Dataran Lang)!

This iconic landmark is the perfect way to cap off your 3 day trip. Take in sweeping views of the Strait of Malacca and marvel at the 12-meter tall statue of an eagle poised for flight.

The eagle is a symbol of Langkawi, and the square has become a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike. The square is surrounded by a lush park filled with shady trees and benches, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the amazing views of the harbor and the surrounding islands.

As you walk around Eagle Square, be sure to take a close look at the statue of the eagle. The intricate details of the feathers and claws are truly remarkable, and the sheer size of the statue is just incredible!

Grab some dinner at Langkawi Night Market

Spend your last night of island paradise at Pasar Malam, or the Langkawi Night Market, for a truly unforgettable evening! Located in Kuah, the bustling capital of Langkawi, this night market is a hub of activity and excitement, offering visitors a chance to sample delicious street food, pick up souvenirs, and mingle with locals.

As you stroll through the lively market, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and smells of exotic foods, colorful clothing, and handmade crafts.

From satay skewers to roti canai, the food options are endless, and everything is freshly prepared right before your eyes. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and served with spicy sambal sauce.

The Langkawi Night Market isn’t just about food, though. It’s also the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs and gifts to bring home. From handmade jewelry to traditional clothing, the market offers a wide range of unique items that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t forget to try your hand at bargaining with the friendly vendors to score a great deal – it’s almost expected!

But the real highlight of the Langkawi Night Market is the vibrant atmosphere. The market is a hub of social activity, with locals and tourists alike mingling and enjoying the sights and sounds of the bustling scene. Take a seat at one of the outdoor tables, order a cold drink, and soak up the lively energy of the market.

Got more time to spend in Langkawi

While there’s plenty to keep you entertained in Langkawi during your three day stay, if you happen to have a little more time, or wish to swap out some of the things on my 3-day Langkawi itinerary, here are some of the other gems on the island.

• Spend the afternoon at Tanjung Rhu Beach: This stunning beach in the northern part of Langkawi is a hidden paradise, with stretchy shoreline and crystal clear waters. The white sand beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, or just soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

• Take a birdwatching tour: If you’re a bird fanatic, Langkawi is the perfect spot for you. The island’s diverse habitats make it a great place to watch over 200 species of birds, from peregrine falcons and white bellied sea eagles to oriental darters and chestnut-necklaced partridges.

• Trek up Gunung Raya: Langkawi’s highest peak, Gunung Raya is the perfect spot for a challenging hike. Upon reaching 881 meters, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the island and sea below.

• Visit Galeria Perdana: This cultural museum is a great place to learn about the local culture and traditions of the island. It houses an impressive collection of gifts that have been bestowed upon the Malaysian Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, over his lifetime.

• Mahsuri Tomb & Museum: In the heart of Langkawi lies a tomb believed to house the remains of the legendary princess, Mahsuri. Learn about her tragic story and explore her mausoleum, which is filled with artifacts from her life.

• Bike around the island with a local: One of the best ways to explore Langkawi is on two wheels! Join a local guide for a bike tour and get an insider’s view of the island while biking through paddy fields, fruit orchards and stopping for a waterfall swim.

FAQs about Langkawi

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3 days Langkawi Itinerary: What’s the Verdict

And just like that, our 3-day Langkawi itinerary has come to an end. I hope you were able to take some inspiration from this piece on how to make the most of your time in paradise.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, you would have found them both on this paradise island.

From the breathtaking beaches and mouthwatering food to the vibrant night markets and cultural attractions, Langkawi is ready for you to plan your escape!