We recently spent 4 days and 3 nights on the island of Langkawi, just off the coast of northern Malaysia in the Andaman sea. We spent the days relaxing on the beach, reading by the pool, eating delicious Malay food, and exploring all the nature the island has to offer. It was the perfect island getaway.
How to get there
Langkawi is a short and inexpensive flight away from Kuala Lumpur and other major cities in SE Asia. We flew in from Singapore and out to KL on Air Asia and paid about $60 CAD per person round trip. You can also reach Langkawi by ferry from several spots on mainland Malaysia.
Where to stay
We stayed at the Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa and loved our time there. The property is located conveniently close to Kuah, the main town on the island. It sits on a beautiful stretch of beach with stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands.
Sunset at Westin Langkawi The gorgeous spa pool Lounging at the main pool View from the hotel lobby
We were graciously hosted in a Villa with our own plunge pool. It was so relaxing that we never even wanted to leave our room. The hardest decision we had to make each day was whether to eat breakfast at the buffet or have it delivered to our room – tough life I know.
Floating breakfast The delicious hotel buffet Poolside breakfast
Thankfully the hotel offered several activities for us to work off the feasts we were consuming. One morning we took advantage of their Gear Lending program to rent running shoes and outfits in order to go for a 6km run to the nearby town of Kuah.
Click here to book your stay at the Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa.
What to do
Langkawi is known for its abundant natural beauty and status as a UNESCO World Geopark. The best way to get a good look at the jungle-clad hills and pristine beaches is to take a ride up the Langkawi Cable Car. Everyone we met in Langkawi told us this is a “must-do” and we would probably agree. The views are stunning from the top and really make you appreciate the beauty of the island. The SkyBridge is located at the top of the Cable Car and is a pretty cool experience.
Langkawi SkyBridge Langkawi Cable Car
Island hopping is another popular activity. You can easily join a tour to take you out to the surrounding islands for half day or full day adventures. There are also jungle treks and kayaking trips that are offered through several tour companies on the island.
Langkawi has several popular beaches that you can visit. Pantai Cenang is a large stretch of developed beach lined with hotels, shops, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience try Tengkorak Beach or Tanjung Rhu Beach. Since we were staying at the Westin with our own beach, we didn’t end up venturing out to these ourselves.
Langkawi was a perfect chance for us to relax in between our hectic itinerary in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. If you find yourself in Malaysia or Southeast Asia and looking for a quick island getaway, then this is the place for you!
Thank you to The Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa for hosting my stay. All opinions are my own.
Hi Jessica,
I love to travel and I am a full time engineer and a mom. I still try to find time to travel with my friends. Your blog is inspiring! Just like you, I am also based in Toronto. Feel free to visit my blog if you get chance and hopefully that you find us like minded :p!
Cheers,
Olivia