Natural wonders of Langkawi Island with turquoise waters and majestic limestone cliffs, hidden tropical gem, Malaysia
Malaysia

Langkawi

Duty-free archipelago, including jungle cable cars, Langkawi Sky Bridge and Pantai Cenang beach, mangrove kayaking and pristine beaches.

  • #island
  • #beach
  • #nature
  • #affordable
  • #mangroves
  • #duty-free
  • #legends
Great time to visit!

Langkawi, Malaysia is a destination with a tropical climate, perfect for Sky Bridge and duty-free beaches. The best time to visit is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, & Apr, when weather conditions are ideal. Budget travel costs around $82/day, while mid-range trips average $212/day. Entry rules depend on your passport.

$82
/day
J
F
M
A
M
J
Best Time to Visit
Check entry rules
Check requirements →
Tropical
Airport: LGK Currency: MYR (1 $ ≈ 3.89 RM) Top picks: Langkawi Cable Car & Sky Bridge, Seven Wells Waterfall Trek
On This Page

"Step out into the sun and explore Langkawi Cable Car & Sky Bridge. February is an ideal time to visit Langkawi. Lace up your boots for epic trails and stunning landscapes."

Our take

We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.

Why Visit Langkawi?

Langkawi enchants as Malaysia's premier duty-free tropical archipelago and beach resort destination, where the dramatically curved Sky Bridge at approximately 660m above sea level on Gunung Mat Cincang offers absolutely vertigo-inducing Andaman Sea panoramas, Pantai Cenang's expansive white-sand beach hosts sunset beach bars and water sports operators, and 99 islands (officially though counting varies, only 4 inhabited) scatter picturesquely across northwest Malaysian waters creating perfect island-hopping paradise. This UNESCO Global Geopark (pop. about 100,000 spread across Langkawi Island and smaller inhabited islands) successfully balances laid-back beach resort relaxation with jungle adventures and unique geological wonders—while importantly, tax-free status attracts Malaysian mainlanders and Singaporeans stocking up on chocolate, alcohol, and tobacco at significant discount prices unavailable on taxed mainland.

The thrilling Langkawi Cable Car (SkyCab, about $20 / RM80 for standard adult tickets for international visitors; ~$9.99 / RM39 for Malaysians, combos that include SkyBridge are more, typically $30–$32 / RM117–RM126 for internationals) ascends steep Gunung Mat Cincang through three stations: Oriental Village shopping base station, middle station with viewpoints, and Top Station area for SkyBridge access at 708 meters providing stunning 360° views spanning southern Thailand's islands, Tarutao marine park, and on exceptionally clear days even distant Sumatra. Yet Langkawi absolutely rewards active exploration beyond resort beaches: guided mangrove kayaking tours through Kilim Karst Geoforest Park (around $33–$47 / RM128–RM183 per person, 4 hours) paddle narrow channels where Brahminy kites and white-bellied sea eagles soar overhead, monitor lizards sunbathe on branches, and limestone caves shelter bats and swiftlets, with fish farm platforms feeding wild stingrays by hand. Island-hopping boat tours (around $28–$38 / RM110–RM147, half-day) visit Pulau Dayang Bunting's remarkable Pregnant Maiden Lake (freshwater lake mysteriously trapped within island), Pulau Beras Basah's swimming beach, and eagle feeding demonstrations where hundreds of eagles swoop (though ethical concerns exist about baiting wild birds).

Developed Pantai Cenang dominates as main tourist beach zone with parasailing, jet skiing, beach bars serving cocktails, and popular Friday-night Sunset Bar attracting crowds, while northern Tanjung Rhu Beach offers peaceful luxury resort quietude, pristine sand, and casuarina tree shade. The scenic Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh) cascades through seven natural tiered pools carved in granite (swimmable though rocks extremely slippery—accidents common), while Underwater World Aquarium (roughly $14–$15 / RM53–RM58 online for adults, more at the walk-up counter) features walk-through tunnel beneath sharks, rays, and 5,000+ marine creatures. Duty-free shopping fills Kuah town's massive malls and shops where imported Chivas Regal whisky, Toblerone, and perfumes sell at prices rivaling Singapore's, though selection disappoints expecting variety.

The food scene serves Malay seafood specialties: ikan bakar (whole grilled fish with sambal chili, around $6.24–$15 / RM24–RM58 depending on size and restaurant fanciness), nasi lemak coconut rice with anchovies and sambal, and sunset beach restaurants at Pantai Cenang offering fresh catch at reasonable prices. Best weather is generally December-March, with a relatively drier period Dec-Feb (27-32°C / 81-90°F). The rest of the year is wetter, with heavy downpours especially around September, though showers are often short and resorts are cheaper—Chinese New Year and school holidays (March, June, November-December) see Malaysian family crowds.

With most Western and many Asian visitors getting 30-90 days visa-free on arrival (check current Malaysian entry rules for your passport), English widely spoken in tourism though Malay dominates, affordable beach resorts (around $33–$143 / RM128–RM555 per night typical), beautiful beaches, jungle cable car thrills, and island-hopping, Langkawi delivers accessible Malaysian tropical island escape, duty-free shopping, and relaxed beach holiday without Thailand's crowds or Maldives' prices—perfect for families, couples, and beach lovers seeking Malaysian hospitality.

What to Do

Aerial Adventures

Langkawi Cable Car & Sky Bridge

Take the cable car (around $20–$22 / RM78–RM87 return for a standard gondola, typically 09:30–18:00—check operation calendar) up 708m to Gunung Mat Cincang summit. Visit the Top Station area for the curved Sky Bridge—125m suspended walkway at approximately 660m above sea level offering vertiginous views. Access to Sky Bridge costs about $7.07–$9.42 / RM28–RM37 extra, depending on package and whether you book online or on site. On clear days see Thailand's islands. Best visited early morning (09:30–11:00) or late afternoon (16:00–18:00) to avoid midday clouds and crowds.

Seven Wells Waterfall Trek

Hike 30-45 minutes through jungle to Telaga Tujuh's seven-tiered cascades (entry fees may apply for hiking/peak access). Lower pools are swimmable—bring water shoes as rocks are slippery. Visit morning after rain for best flow. Continue steep climb to upper pools for fewer crowds and panoramic island views. Monkeys frequent the area—secure bags.

Island & Water Activities

Island-Hopping Boat Tour

Full-day tours ($20–$29 / RM78–RM115, 09:00–17:00) typically visit three spots: Pulau Dayang Bunting's Pregnant Maiden Lake (freshwater lake for swimming), Pulau Beras Basah beach stop, and eagle feeding demonstrations. Tours include lunch. Book through hotels or boat operators at Kuah jetty. Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen—much of day on water.

Kilim Geoforest Park Mangrove Kayaking

Half-day guided kayak tours ($25–$37 / RM97–RM146, 09:00–13:00 or 14:00–18:00) paddle through ancient mangrove forests. Spot monitor lizards, eagles, monkeys, and mudskippers. Visit bat caves and fish farms where stingrays feed from platforms. Calmer than open-sea kayaking, suitable for beginners. Wear clothes you don't mind getting muddy.

Pantai Cenang Beach Life

Langkawi's most developed beach offers parasailing ($20 / RM78), jet skis ($38 / RM147/30min), and beach bars. Free beach access, sunbed rental $4.71–$7.07 / RM18–RM28. Sunset Bar hosts Friday night crowds with live music (18:00 onwards). Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood BBQ—whole fish $7.07–$15 / RM28–RM60. Best swimming at high tide.

Local Experiences

Underwater World Aquarium

Walk through 15m tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish ($15 / RM58 adults, 10:00–18:00). One of Southeast Asia's largest aquariums with 5,000+ marine species. Feeding times vary—check visitor info on arrival. Good rainy-day option, air-conditioned escape from heat. Allow 1-2 hours.

Duty-Free Shopping

Langkawi's duty-free status means chocolate, alcohol, and tobacco are discounted. Kuah town has malls and liquor shops. You may be asked to show your passport/travel document for duty-free purchases. Popular with Malaysians stocking up, but compare prices as not everything is cheaper than home country.

Travel Information

Getting There

  • Airports: LGK

Best Time to Visit

November, December, January, February, March, April

Climate: Tropical

Entry Requirements

Entry rules vary by passport

Check requirements

Weather by Month

Best months: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, AprHottest: Feb (31°C) • Driest: Jan (7d rain)
Monthly weather data
Month High Low Rainy days Condition
January 30°C 25°C 7 Excellent ((best))
February 31°C 26°C 7 Excellent ((best))
March 31°C 26°C 14 Excellent ((best))
April 31°C 26°C 25 Excellent ((best))
May 30°C 27°C 25 Wet
June 30°C 26°C 22 Wet
July 30°C 27°C 19 Wet
August 29°C 26°C 25 Wet
September 29°C 26°C 23 Wet
October 29°C 26°C 26 Wet
November 29°C 26°C 28 Excellent ((best))
December 29°C 26°C 13 Excellent ((best))

Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2025) • Historical avg. 2020–2025

Travel Costs

Budget
$82 /day
Typical Range: $71 – $94
Accommodation $35
Food & Meals $18
Local Transport $12
Attractions & Tours $12
Mid-range
$212 /day
Typical Range: $183 – $241
Accommodation $112
Food & Meals $41
Local Transport $24
Attractions & Tours $29
Luxury
$530 /day
Typical Range: $454 – $613
Accommodation $295
Food & Meals $100
Local Transport $59
Attractions & Tours $59

Per person per day, based on double occupancy. 'Budget' reflects hostels or shared accommodation in high-cost cities.

💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (February 2026): February 2026 is perfect for visiting Langkawi!

Practical Information

Getting There

Langkawi International Airport (LGK) is central island. Taxis to Pantai Cenang $5.89–$8.25 / RM23–RM32 (15 min). Grab works for app-based rides. Ferries from Kuala Perlis (1.5hr, $6.24 / RM24), Penang (3hr, $15 / RM58). Langkawi is island—flights from KL (1hr, $25–$75 / RM97–RM292), Singapore. No land connections. Since January 2024, most foreign travelers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) shortly before arrival.

Getting Around

Rent scooters ($7.49–$9.99 / RM29–RM39/day, most popular) or cars ($25–$45 / RM97–RM175/day)—island spread out, public transport limited. Taxis expensive. Grab app works. Bicycles for flat areas. Tours include transport. Resorts provide shuttles. Most tourists rent scooters—drive on left, helmet required.

Money & Payments

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR, RM). Exchange rate: $1 ≈ RM3.89. Cards at hotels/malls, cash for hawkers/markets. ATMs widespread. Duty-free: chocolate, alcohol cheaper than mainland. Tipping not expected—round up for good service.

Language

Malay official. English widely spoken in tourism—tourist island. Communication easy. Signs often English/Malay. Locals accustomed to tourists.

Cultural Tips

Duty-free: bring passport when shopping (required for alcohol/tobacco). Beaches: Pantai Cenang touristy, Tanjung Rhu quieter. Muslim island: modest dress off-beach, alcohol available but expensive outside duty-free. Scooters: helmet laws enforced, drive carefully. Monkeys: don't feed, secure bags at some attractions. Cable car: book online (skip queues). Sunset: Pantai Cenang beach bars vibrant. Friday quieter. Island time: relaxed pace. Seven Wells: bring water shoes. Seafood: pick at tanks, they cook.

Get an eSIM

Stay connected without expensive roaming. Get a local eSIM for this trip starting from just a few dollars.

Claim Flight Compensation

Flight delayed or cancelled? You might be entitled to up to $707 in compensation. Check your claim here at no upfront cost.

Perfect 3-Day Langkawi Itinerary

Cable Car & Bridge

Morning: Langkawi Cable Car ($21 / RM83) to summit, SkyBridge ($8.74 / RM34), panoramic views. Oriental Village lunch. Afternoon: Seven Wells Waterfall hike and swim. Evening: Pantai Cenang beach, sunset at Sunset Bar, seafood dinner ($15–$30 / RM58–RM117).

Mangroves & Islands

Morning: Mangrove kayaking tour in Kilim Geoforest ($25–$37 / RM97–RM146, half-day)—paddle through mangroves, eagle watching, bat cave. Afternoon: Beach relaxation at Tanjung Rhu or hotel pool. Evening: Sunset cruise, dinner at beach restaurant.

Island Hopping

Full day: Island-hopping boat tour ($20–$30 / RM78–RM117)—Pulau Dayang Bunting Pregnant Maiden Lake swim, Pulau Beras Basah beach, eagle feeding. Lunch included. Return evening. Final beach time, duty-free shopping, farewell ikan bakar dinner.

Where to Stay

Pantai Cenang

Best for: Main beach, nightlife, restaurants, budget to mid-range options

Pantai Tengah

Best for: Quieter beach, upscale resorts, couples, less crowded

Kuah Town

Best for: Ferry terminal, duty-free shopping, local food, budget stays

Datai Bay

Best for: Ultra-luxury resorts, pristine beach, rainforest, seclusion

Tanjung Rhu

Best for: Pristine beach, mangroves, kayaking, peaceful luxury

Popular Activities

Top-rated tours and experiences in Langkawi

View All Activities
Loading activities…

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Langkawi?
Entry requirements for Malaysia depend on your nationality, purpose of travel, and length of stay. Requirements can include visas, electronic travel authorizations (ETAs), or visa-free entry for certain passport holders. Always verify the current rules on official government websites such as https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my/ before booking your trip, as policies change frequently.
What is the best time to visit Langkawi?
November-March is dry season (28-33°C / 82-91°F) with calm seas—peak season. April-October is monsoon with rain (28-32°C / 82-90°F), rougher seas, and some resorts closed September-October. December-February busiest. Year-round hot and humid. November-April best.
How much does a trip to Langkawi cost per day?
Budget travelers need $77–$94 / RM298–RM367/day for guesthouses, hawker food, and scooters. Mid-range visitors should budget $200–$236 / RM780–RM917/day for beach resorts, restaurants, and tours. Luxury stays start from $507+ / RM1,972+/day. Cable car costs $19 / RM73, island tours $18–$33 / RM69–RM128, scooter rentals $6.48–$11 / RM25–RM41, and hawker meals $2.71–$11 / RM11–RM41. Langkawi remains very affordable.
How many days do you need in Langkawi?
3 days is perfect for Langkawi's main attractions. 2 days works for a quick visit, while 4 days gives you time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Is Langkawi expensive?
No, Langkawi is quite affordable for most travelers. You can explore comfortably on $82 / RM321/day, which is below average for Malaysia. Good value accommodation, inexpensive local food, and free attractions keep costs down. Street food, local markets, and free walking tours make it easy to travel on a budget.
Is Langkawi safe for tourists?
Langkawi is very safe with low crime. Island and resort areas safe day and night. Watch for: scooter accidents (roads winding), jellyfish at beaches occasionally, monkeys stealing food (some areas), and petty theft (secure valuables). Snorkeling/swimming: check conditions. Generally worry-free island.
What are the must-see attractions in Langkawi?
Cable Car + Sky Bridge ($21 / RM83 + $8.74 / RM34). Mangrove kayaking tour in Kilim Geoforest ($25–$37 / RM97–RM146). Island-hopping ($20–$30 / RM78–RM117)—Pregnant Maiden Lake, eagle feeding. Pantai Cenang beach. Seven Wells Waterfall (free). Tanjung Rhu beach. Underwater World ($15 / RM58). Duty-free shopping. Try ikan bakar, nasi lemak. Sunset beach bars. Telaga Tujuh waterfall hike.

Why you can trust this guide

Headshot of Jan Křenek, founder of GoTripzi
Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

Data Sources:
  • Official tourism boards and visitor guides
  • GetYourGuide and Viator activity data
  • Booking.com and Numbeo pricing data
  • Google Maps reviews and ratings

This guide combines personal travel experience with comprehensive data analysis to provide accurate recommendations.

Ready to Visit Langkawi?

Book your flights, accommodation, and activities