Langkawi, Malaysia: Monkey Encounters, Stunning Beaches, and Essential Travel Tips
We arrived on Langkawi Island via a thrilling propeller plane under the cover of night, eager for a much-needed beach escape after months of intensive travel. The big question: Would Langkawi deliver the paradise South East Asia's beaches had so often promised but failed to provide?
Just 30 minutes after landing, we discovered Langkawi is far larger than anticipated. After a few days at bustling Cenang Beach, we rented a car through our hotel and set off to explore the island's reputed white-sand havens.
An Unconventional Rental Adventure
The next morning, our 'rental' car arrived courtesy of a petite local driver in his personal compact vehicle—complete with KitKat wrappers, Chinese cassette tapes, and pistachio shells. Unaware at first amid our excitement to drive after months without, we soon refueled the empty tank and hit the road.
Blasting the quirky tapes before switching to silence, we marveled at sunlight piercing the jungle canopy and glimpses of turquoise waters. Suddenly, we both yelled, 'Monkeys!' A family of over 30 lined the roadside railing, foraging, playing, and eyeing us curiously as we passed.
World-Record Skywalk and Cable Car
Our first stop: the iconic Langkawi Cable Car, ascending to panoramic views of the Andaman Sea stretching toward Thailand's northern islands. At the peak, the world's longest free-span curved suspension bridge—a 125-meter Skywalk—sways gently, gripping visitors with awe (and a bit of fear).
North of the cable car, Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls awaited via an 800m steep hike. Despite the dry season's low flow, inviting pools at the top beckoned for a refreshing dip amid the intense heat.
Monkey Mayhem at the Waterfalls
But within minutes, monkeys struck again—this time aggressively, spitting and chasing us from their territory. Retreating to a picnic shelter, we watched them tumble, wrestle, and swim. Though wary, the spectacle was captivating. We tiptoed back down to evade them and continued our beach quest.
Prime beaches proved elusive on the northwest coast, tucked away behind exclusive resorts. Instead, a sign led to 'Langkawi Falls'—a whimsical fake rock overpass revealing chicken wire and papier-mâché up close, like a Flintstones set.
A quirky detour, redeemed by a cheeky monkey eyeing our car. Starving ourselves, we shooed her away (barely) and pressed on for food and sands.
Discovering Tanjung Rhu Beach
Thirty minutes later, hunger pangs intense, we reached Tanjung Rhu Beach: endless white sands, crystal waters, and few visitors. Restaurants lacked vegetarian options, so we lounged beachside before heading back to Cenang, skipping mangrove boat tours.
Food Heaven at Cenang
Back at Cenang, we confirmed it as Langkawi's premier beach—powdery white sands softer than anywhere else, with diverse dining. That night: upscale Italian. Other days: organic eats or $1 rice-and-egg stalls near our Mali Perdana Hotel.
The rest of our stay? Pure relaxation on Cenang, choosing dinners and sunset spots—a perfect island getaway.
Langkawi Travel Tips
Tip 1: Skip Public Transport
Minimal options exist. Taxis work for short hops ($20–$35 one-way to distant beaches) but limit exploration.
Tip 2: Rent a Car
For freedom, opt for a local rental like ours—RM70 ($23) for two days plus fuel, despite the casual vibe.
Tip 3: Getting There
Ferry from Penang: 3–4 hours, RM60 ($20) one-way. We flew Firefly (25 minutes from Penang/Subang Jaya) for $30 each, booked last-minute.
Where to Stay
Choices span luxury to budget, centered on lively Cenang Beach.
Backpacker: D’Bayleaf (dorms RM25/$8.50)
Mid-range: AB Motel (RM80–200/$26–67); Melati Tanjung (RM140/$43 beachfront bungalows)
Luxury: Casa Del Mar boutique hotel
Our Favorite: Temple Tree, 5-min taxi from Cenang—top pick ever!
Cenang Beach Dining
Hidden Langkawi (Tengah Beach south end): Cocktails, salads, burgers, seafood—prime sunset spot.
Yellow Beach Cafe (Cenang south): Western fare, breakfasts, healthy options, pasta, pizza, BBQ.
Visited Langkawi? Share your tips below!
