Heading to Malaysia and looking for the perfect itinerary Langkawi? Perfect! We can help in this Langkawi itinerary blog.
Langkawi, a paradise archipelago in the Andaman Sea off Malaysia’s west coast, is renowned for its mystical legends and world-class beaches. Made up of 99 islands, the largest is also known as Langkawi and is filled with picturesque jungle-clad hills that stretch down to an endless shoreline of beaches.
Powder-fine sand and swaying coconut trees, surrounded by turquoise sea – rich in marine life and a mecca for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts – all combine to make Langkawi our top exotic Malaysian getaway destination.
On land, enjoy natural landscapes – such as at Gunung Raya, the highest peak – expansive parks and iconic structures such as the Langkawi Sky Bridge and Langkawi Cable Car. Visit unique attractions such as Underwater World Langkawi and Langkawi Wildlife Park.
Families are kept busy with these and a plethora of other attractions, while couples adore the pristine beaches, and all age groups enjoy the wide range of water sports and have fun at the outstanding five-star resorts.
With year round consistently hot weather, excellent dining and exciting nightlife – hippie bars to sophisticated lounges – and duty-free shopping malls, it’s no surprise we rate Langkawi high on the list of places to visit in Malaysia!
Below, you will find the ultimate itinerary to Langkawi! We walk you through options whether you want a Langkawi city tour itinerary, a 3d2n Langkawi itinerary, an itinerary Langkawi 4d3n or are lucky enough to have five glorious days in Langkawi.
You can simply stop following our Langkawi tour itinerary if your trip finishes in less than 5 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the Langkawi itinerary 5d4n below.
If you have longer in Langkawi, lucky you! You can take this Langkawi trip itinerary slower with more time to relax by the beach or pool or look for other things to do from our full list here.
Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay depending on your budget and a map of everything included in this Langkawi travel itinerary.
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Contents
Perfect Langkawi Itinerary
Remember, this is a full Langkawi 5 days 4 nights itinerary. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.
This is suitable for a Langkawi honeymoon itinerary or a Langkawi itinerary for family – just take out activities if you want to make it easier or if they don’t seem suitable for your kids.
Day 1: Beach And Relaxation
Today, you arrive in Langkawi. The start of this itinerary is all about enjoying where you are!
- Arrive in Langkawi. On arrival, you can take a taxi or book a transfer here to your hotel.
- Spend the afternoon enjoying where you are – take it easy at your resort or head to the beach.
- In the early evening, head to Pantai Cenang, the main beach on Langkawi, for sunset drinks and dinner. Yellow Cafe or The Cliff Restaurant and Bar are a good place for sundowners.
- Hang around to watch the fire dancers on the beach.
- If you want to party tonight, you are in the right area.
Pantai Cenang
The busiest (and one of the prettiest!) beach on Langkawi Island, Pantai Cenang has a diverse mix of cafes and restaurants, alongside souvenir shops and duty-free outlets.
This picturesque two kilometre beach strip is fringed with coconut trees and offers awesome ocean views, It is just ten minutes from Langkawi International Airport. Ever so popular with families, there are many kid-friendly attractions such as the Underwater World Langkawi and the Rice Garden Museum.
White sands and clear waters mean Pantai Cenang beach is terrific for sunbathing and swimming. Grab a book, rent a beach chair, umbrella and position yourself right on the beach!
After a relaxing morning, get your adrenaline flowing with a wide range of water sports, including jet-skiing (options here) and parasailing. End your afternoon with beach volleyball or soccer and enjoy fabulous sunsets.
Accommodation varies from high-end resorts to budget hotels, mostly with views of the Andaman Sea. The area teems with locals, tourists, expats and backpackers, making the nightlife scene the liveliest on the Island.
Beachfront funky bars and classy lounges offer inexpensive alcohol and snacks, and you’re sure to catch a live band, DJ or cultural performance somewhere along the strip!
Day 2: Langkawi Up High And Down Low: Langkawi Itinerary 2 Days
Day 2 of this Langkawi 2 days itinerary is all about seeing the best of Langkawi quickly! So if you only have time for Langkawi itinerary 2D1N, you can still leave feeling like you saw Langkawi.
- It’s time to see as much of Langkawi as possible. Head to the Langkawi SkyBridge by taking the Langkawi SkyCab to the top (get your discounted tickets here). Enjoy the amazing views.
- Now you’ve seen Langkawi from above, see it at sea level – go on an island hopping tour for the afternoon (book it online here).
- Tonight, head to one of Langkawi’s night markets. They change location each night. See the schedule here.
Langkawi SkyBridge
Enjoy an amazing walk around this spectacular 125-metre curved pedestrian cable-stayed bridge – the longest free-span and curved bridge in the world! Built at the top of the Machinchang mountain, some 660 metres above sea level, and suspended approximately 100 metres above virgin jungle, if you’re scared of heights, this is one to miss!
To reach the SkyBridge, first take a ride on the Langkawi Cable Car/SkyCab to the top station. It takes around 15 minutes from the Oriental Village at Teluk Burau through three stations to the top. On the way, you get a wonderful aerial view of the surrounding forest, the Telaga Tujuh (Sevens Wells) waterfall, as well as out across the sea.
At the top, jump in the Sky Glide inclined lift taking you in two minutes directly to the bridge. Alternatively, walk 10-20 minutes along a steep mountain track to the Sky Bridge.
The SkyBridge’s curved design maximises your viewing experience as your perspective constantly shifts!
Get discounted SkyBridge and SkyCab tickets here.
Address: Jalan Telaga Tujuh
Langkawi Island Hopping Tour
Probably the most popular activity in Langkawi, island-hopping takes you out around the archipelago, exploring some stunning islets. Trips usually last for 4-5 hours and, weather permitting, can be enjoyed all year round.
Local tour companies offer pick up services from most hotels at 9 am. You’ll be dropped at a Jetty, ready to catch your boat. Choose to join a group tour or private tour. They are very affordable.
There are a handful of nearby popular island-hopping stops including Pulau Dayang Bunting (from afar said to resemble the silhouette of a reclined pregnant lady). Langkawi’s second largest uninhabited island, it’s easily reached in a 15-minute boat ride. Take a short hike, via a concrete stairway through dense forest, to a lovely freshwater lake where you can swim, kayak and more.
Also popular is Pulau Beras Basah, for its beautiful beach, great scenery and lush forests, suitable for jungle-treks or an adventurous overnight camp!
Third on our list of recommended stops is Pulau Singa Besar, a wildlife sanctuary home to eagles, monkeys, hornbills, monitor lizards and more!
Book your discounted Island Hopping tour here.
You can read our full guide to Langkawi Island Hopping experiences here.
Night Markets
There’s a night market in Langkawi on every night of the week.
From around 5:30pm, they start popping up, continuing late into the night or until the vendors sell out. Each day of the week, a different and designated location opens for a market with makeshift stalls. They sell all kinds of local items ranging from food and snacks, fresh produce, clothes, souvenirs and trinkets, watches, sunglasses… and more!
Tourists and locals visit for the food alone with tempting Malay dishes and great smells filling the air. Soak in the friendly atmosphere, sample delicious street-snacks and haggle for bargains.
For those following the Langkawi 2d1n itinerary, you may need to fly out this evening and miss out the wonderful Night Markets… or better still, consider extending your trip for our wonderful itinerary Langkawi 3d2n!
Day 3: Langkawi Nature & Wildlife Delights: Langkawi Itinerary 3 Days
It’s time to get out and about. This 3 days Langkawi itinerary takes you to some of the best attractions on the island.
- Today, hire a car or driver. Book your car rental here.
- Start with a visit to the Langkawi Wildlife Park for hand feeding monkeys.
- Next up, travel 20 minutes to the Kilim Geoforest Park to spot glorious birds of prey and enjoy a boat ride through the mangroves – book your discounted tickets here.
- Now, it’s a super quick drive or walk to Tanjung Rhu Beach for lunch and a swim.
- Refreshed, head off for a quick stop at Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi – book your discounted tickets here.
- If you have any time left, end your afternoon at Seven Wells Waterfall for a lovely trek and swim
Langkawi Wildlife Park
A five acres animal sanctuary, located in the Kilim area – only 15 minutes drive from Kuah Town – this Park has a tropical rainforest ambience. Discover over 150 different species of animals and birds, from all corners of the globe.
Focusing on easy to maintain species – no big cats here – the Park has some funny creatures and you’ll enjoy close interaction with daily feeding sessions offered for many of the animals and birds. Have you ever hand-fed an ostrich?
From the entrance, macaws, flamingos, crocodiles and colourful peacocks lead you through to the highlight – the walk-in aviary. Love birds buzz over your head or sometimes perch on your shoulder! The bird of prey section has vultures from South Africa and white bellied sea eagles from Kilim Geopark.
You’ll want to arrive here right on opening to have time to get to your mangrove tour.
Address: Lot 1485, Kampung Belanga Pecah, Jalan Ayer Hangat
Kilim Karst UNESCO Geoforest Park Langkawi
Spanning almost 100 square kilometres, this park is famous for its mangrove swamps, pristine beaches and vertical karstic hills that jut out towards the Andaman Sea. There’s wildlife galore here, from otters and monitor lizards, to macaques and tree crabs in the thick mangroves.
Take a leisurely riverboat cruise along Kilim River, around the coast on the Andaman Sea and more with an experienced nature guide, in search of wildlife, visit a floating fish farm and keep an eye out for colourful birdlife such as kingfishers, and majestic birds of prey including kite eagles. Visit caves and more.
We loved this tour as it’s an easy way to see some beautiful parts of Langkawi which are worth exploring.
A standout attraction on your Langkawi 3 days 2 nights itinerary.
Book your discounted tickets here.
Address: Kampung Kilim, Mukim
Tanjung Rhu Beach
Surrounded by evergreen forest, this remote nook in the island of Langkawi is a beautiful bay.
Emerge from the rainforest jungle to find a milky-white sand beach and calm crystal-clear waters, making it a lovely place for a refreshing swim before setting off for more island exploration. Note that there are no changing facilities at this beach.
Rustic, cheap, restaurants offer Malaysian and Thai dishes – ideal for a quick lunch. There are also souvenir stalls and water sports. And, across the bay in good weather, spot the mountains of Thailand.
The best place to go is right next to the Tanjung Rhu Resort near the Tanjung Rhu Jetty. It’s not that popular, but so great.
Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi
A lovely farm, nestled in lush greenery with mountains at the backdrop, here you’ll find one of the largest collections of Malaysian saltwater crocodiles.
Different species, different sizes, with over 1000 crocodiles and alligators bred here. Try to catch the daily talk show, where there’s a chance to have your photo with a 13ft crocodile… If you dare!
Book your discounted tickets here.
Address: Mukim Air Hangat, Jalan Datai, Kampung Kubang Badak
Seven Wells Waterfall
Known locally as Telaga Tujuh, Seven Wells Waterfall has – unsurprisingly – seven natural falls at different levels, formed by water flowing down from the second highest mountain of Langkawi, Mount Machinchang.
The most picturesque and dramatic waterfall on the island with a 91 metres drop, you’ll need to endure a short hike from the car park. It is quite steep, but it doesn’t take more than 10 minutes. Along the way, look out for macaque monkeys, giant squirrels and great hornbills.
At this stop, you can easily enjoy the falls. There are toilets and some sheltered pagodas.
If you’re heading to the top – a 1 hour walk – you’ll find some natural pools great for cooling off and a lovely way to end your visit following our Langkawi 3d2n itinerary blog!
Address: Mukim, Jalan Telaga Tujuh
Day 4: What Langkawi Does Best!: Langkawi Itinerary 4 Days
Making the most of today, experience nature, ecotourism, spectacular marine life and duty free shopping!
- It’s an early start on your Langkawi 4 days 3 nights itinerary – before breakfast is ideal – with a taxi to the peak of Gunung Raya for an exhilarating rainforest downhill trek – book your discounted tickets here.
- Self-drive or take a taxi to explore Malaysia’s largest aquarium, Underwater World Langkawi – book your discounted tickets here.
- Walk next door to the Zon Shopping Paradise, Langkawi, for duty-free shopping and lunch.
- Next, visit the peaceful Rice Garden Museum (Laman Padi).
- End your activities on this 4 days itinerary in Langkawi with an iconic Sunset Cruise, with bbq and drinks – book your discounted tickets here.
- Back on dry land, check out some of the beachfront bars and lounges for cool tunes and sea breezes.
Gunung Raya
Gunung Raya Forest Reserve spans over 5,000 hectares spread across Gunung Raya mountain, the highest peak in Langkawi. Take a taxi in the early morning to the top of the peak and walk back down a stairway of 4000+ steps to the village.
You’ll pass through dense rainforest, home to many wildlife and birds. Sheltered by a canopy of old, gigantic trees, listen out for monkeys, and keep an eye out for birds of prey and hornbills. Spot smaller creatures such as colourful butterflies, caterpillars and enjoy the non-stop bird tweets.
A great way to start your day!
Book your discounted tickets here.
Underwater World Langkawi
Underwater World Langkawi is spread across almost six acres and is Malaysia’s largest aquarium. The aquarium is home to more than 200 different species of marine and freshwater fish, including harbour seals, sharks, giant rays and the largest freshwater fish in the world- the gigantic Amazonian arapaima!
Check-out everyone’s favourite section, the Sub-Antarctic with the “penguin-arium” full of cute rockhopper and black-footed penguins. Make sure you walk through the stunning underwater tunnel tank as sharks and manta rays swim all around you.
Try to aim for one of the feeding times. This is a great, well presented aquarium.
Book your discounted tickets here.
Address: Jalan Pantai Chenang
The Zon Shopping Paradise Langkawi
Pantai Cenang’s duty-free shopping mall is a massive complex next to Underwater World. Shop to your heart’s content for jewellery, souvenirs, watches, leather goods, perfume, branded sunglasses and more! An impressive collection of beers, whiskies, wines and spirits can also be purchased at significantly discounted rates.
Numerous cafes, restaurants and bakeries make this an easy place to grab lunch.
Address: Pantai Cenang
Rice Garden Museum
This little gallery makes for an interesting visit, with its collection of artefacts, photos, charts and tools on the history of rice cultivation in Langkawi.
Divided into the Heritage Gallery, Paddy Gallery, Herb Garden and Garden of Variety, you’ll learn about rice planting and then can admire views from a deck, overlooking a multi-tiered rooftop rice garden. Give it a go yourself at the Herb Garden by trying your hand at rice farming.
Address: Jalan Pantai Cenang
Langkawi Sunset Cruise
Departing mid-afternoon, available from many tour operators, your trip takes you sailing on the Andaman Sea. Kick back and relax onboard a yacht or catamaran, usually enjoying a four hour sail with BBQ dinner and unlimited drinks. Hotel pick-up and drop offs can be negotiated into the deal.
For those following our Langkawi itinerary 4d3n blog, you will need to fly out this evening. Try to book a late flight to enjoy the Sunset Cruise before ending this itinerary trip to Langkawi.
Book your discounted tickets here.
Day 5: Finish On A High, Relax And Enjoy Part II: Langkawi Itinerary 5 Days
Today, let’s start with finishing your time in Langkawi on a high! Then, take the foot off the pedal and relax, enjoying some pampering treats and the best beaches of Langkawi.
- Start your day at Skytrex Adventure Langkawi zipping through the rainforest and climbing over obstacles. You can find discounted tickets here OR have the ultimate view from a helicopter ride here.
- Feeling refreshed, head to Pantai Tengah beach for a lazy beachside lunch and afternoon sunbathing, catching the gorgeous sunset.
- End your day with a treatment at Alun-Alun Spa – book your treatments online here.
Skytrex Adventure
Skytrex Adventure Langkawi is the place to go for thrill seekers as you can zipline and conquer obstacles with 35 obstacles to pass at great heights.
Take your pick of how thrilling you want to go with beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. The advanced is extreme.
Whatever adventure you decide to take, at this park, you’ll get to enjoy the tropical rainforest which is home to over 220 species of birds and also have the opportunity to spot other wildlife.
Approximately 30 minutes drive from Pantai Cenang, it’s lots of fun.
Address: Jalan Teluk Yu, Kampung Kok
If you’d rather something higher without having to climb, consider a helicopter ride here.
Pantai Tengah
Around the southern road bend of Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah is really just a continuation of the same beach. Together, this is the longest stretch of beach in Langkawi and scattered with chalets and a few of the larger resorts.
Kick back and relax, enjoying the cool island breeze. Take a swim or snorkel in the calm waters or try your hand at several water sports.
For lunch, there’s a handful of dining options including authentic Malaysian, Chinese and western cuisine.
Alun-Alun Spa
Perhaps the island’s premier spa, indulge in a relaxing oriental or a holistic Asean healing massage, a body or facial treatment or glam up your nails ready for your trip home!
Select from rejuvenating packages aimed at relaxing your body and mind, or healing aromatherapy treatments that help reduce anxiety and give you a well deserved energy boost!
Book your treatments online here.
Address: Tropical Resort, Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, Mukim Kedawang
Itinerary Langkawi Map
Find all the things to do in this itinerary Pulau Langkawi on the map below.
Best Places To Stay In Langkawi
The Malaysian paradise island of Langkawi boasts many luxury 5-star resorts with private beaches, but there is something for every budget. This ranges from inviting backpacker accommodation, mid-range hotels with pools to luxury resorts tucked away between rainforest and the beach.
Whether travelling with family, with your partner for a romantic stay or solo, Langkawi has options for everyone. To help, below we’ve listed a few different places to consider – including a budget, mid-range and luxury option.
BEST – The Datai Langkawi Review
A sparkling 5-star resort, 28 kilometres from the airport, The Datai is surrounded by tropical rainforest, with the Machinchang Mountain and turquoise Andaman sea on either side. The private beach, four dining options and three pools help to make this our stand out choice.
A peaceful location, within easy reach of the heart of Langkawi Island, the resort has many room types and villas perfect for romance or families. This beachfront hotel even has villas which come with private pools for extra enjoyment. You can pick a rainforest or beach location.
There are also water sports, a health club and many nature activities both for children and adults. There are two shops, included breakfast and private butlers with some villas. The downside is that it is removed from most attractions so factor in taxi rides if you want to explore the island.
It deserves its 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor. This place is just superb!
Click here for the latest prices.
MID-RANGE – Arch Studio Cenang Review
At the heart of popular Pantai Cenang, this hotel’s location is ideal if you’re looking to immerse yourself in this lively area with activities, shopping and the most popular beach on the island right at your doorstep.
Across the road from Underwater World Langkawi, this smaller hotel has suite and room options that are beautifully designed and furnished. There are great options for both couples and families. Some rooms have kitchenettes and separate living areas.
The on-site pool is a nice place to relax if you ever tire of the beautiful beach across the road. It is small though. There is no on-site dining, but the surrounding area has many restaurant and bar options with lively evening entertainment. They also do serve a lovely a-la-carte breakfast.
Click here to check current pricing and availability or click here to read our full review.
BUDGET – Adya Hotel Review
In the heart of Kuah Town, this budget hotel has 217 rooms with flatscreen TV, mini-fridges, kettles and ensuite bathrooms with showers. Basic standard, deluxe, executive and suites are available. Most have small balconies offering ocean views.
The Adya has three swimming pools – including a women-only and a children’s pool – on-site spa and fitness centre (with limited equipment). You’ll find an on-site 24-hour restaurant (with buffet breakfast), a coffee shop, 24-hour front desk, parking and WiFi.
Do be aware that smoking is allowed on some floors and no alcohol is served at this Muslim hotel.
The location of this hotel is ideal for exploring attractions such as Eagle Square, Kuah Jetty and the Kuah night market. It’s only a short 20 minute drive from the airport.
The hotel’s facilities are good value and the location is ideal, surrounded by restaurants and a shopping centre next door. Thus, we make this our stand-out budget choice of accommodation.
Click here to check current pricing and availability.
Click here to see all our recommendations for the best resorts in Langkawi.
Final Words
If you’re looking to unwind on an exotic Southeast Asia island Langkawi is hard to beat. Alluring and idyllic in its natural beauty with mangroves, wetlands, rainforests, lakes and waterfalls, it’s no wonder people return again and again!
Trek ancient rainforest in search of wildlife, relax on wide sandy beaches, partake in water sports and enjoy duty-free shopping. With accommodation available at every level, Langkawi promises you a memorable vacation.
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We hope you enjoyed this Langkawi 5 days itinerary, perfect whether you are looking for a Langkawi itinerary 4d3n or a Langkawi itinerary 2 days 1 night. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Langkawi in our complete travel guide to Langkawi here. Interested in jet skiing? Check out the best Langkawi jet skiing tours here. You can also find our complete list of things to do in Langkawi here.
Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
