Looking to get away for a weekend or a short stay to unwind and relax? Just a short one-hour flight from KL, and even closer to Penang, Langkawi offers some unique and diverse properties to achieve just that. From a spacious and quiet 4-Star resort to a jungle retreat with impeccable service, these five properties are all uniquely different and provide the perfect destination for a getaway that’s not far from home.

The Century Langkawi Beach Resort

Century Langkawi Beach Resort is located just 10 minutes away from the Langkawi Airport tucked into the coastal hills bordering the fishing village of Kuala Teriang. The first thing that greets you as you enter the vast lobby with its high vaulted ceiling is the fresh breeze off the Andaman Sea. The lobby’s large patio leads down yet another level to where the main restaurant is located. Perched on the rocks overlooking the sea, the lush tropical foliage is home to Dusty Leaf monkeys and hundreds of tropical birds.

The contemporary Malaysian architecture of the resort gracefully accents the tropical forest and lush landscaping that is interspersed with multi-unit chalets dispersed along winding roads throughout the property. Each room has a balcony affording majestic views over the waters of the Andaman Sea, or the abundant flora of the surrounding jungle.

A large infinity pool and surrounding deck also boasts an in-pool bar and plenty of sun loungers on which to while-away the day. Stretching between the smooth rocky outcrops are secluded beaches, for the exclusive use of hotel guests, for a swim in the sea or to launch a kayak for exploring the surrounding coastline. The resort’s fitness centre, with a vast view of the sea framed by its floor to ceiling windows, provides a different twist on your morning exercise routine. And the sauna and Jacuzzi will help you to relax at the end of a long day. There is also a full spa onsite to pamper even the most discerning guest.

Address: Century Langkawi Beach Resort, Jalan Teluk Nibong, Langkawi
Tel: +604 952 8000

The Harbor Experience at The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club

For those sailors or even armchair sailors, divers, snorkelers and just waterfront enthusiasts, the recently opened Langkawi Yacht Club Hotel may be the perfect option for your short island getaway. The recently renovated Royal Langkawi Yacht Club now boasts a 44-room hotel and, the adjacent and new destination point, Fisherman’s Wharf. If arriving in Langkawi by ferry, it could not be more convenient, as it is just a five-minute walk away.

The rooms are minimalist, but comfortable with all the amenities that you need. And the harbourside rooms boast balconies on which to relax and watch the sailboats bob at their moorings and the inland facing rooms offer a jungle view. The hotel has an infinity pool right on the harbour and, as with the entire hotel, has spectacular views.

Incorporated in the hotel’s classical wharf-style expansion is Fisherman’s Wharf. The Wharf is still home to the famous Charlie’s Bar & Grill. Charlie’s has been a favourite, amongst visiting sailors, ‘yachties’, locals and visitors to the island, for years. It is a perfect place for that sunset cocktail. They also now offer a breakfast buffet every morning. You will also find a variety of other dining options at the Wharf. Famous Jake’s Charbroiled Steaks, Scarborough’s Fish and Chips and Hugo’s Pizza and Sunset Bar to mention a few. In addition to dining options, there is also shopping as well as yacht charter and service companies. East Marine Divers is conveniently located here, which makes for a seamless diving experience.

Address: Langkawi Yacht Club Hotel, Jalan Dato’ Syed Omar, Kuah, Langkawi

An Artsy Retreat at Panji-Panji

This former private Malay-style residence has been tastefully expanded to include three new double-storey buildings and the Smiling Buffalo open air café. The term ‘new buildings’ is a bit misleading.

All the additional construction utilises recycled timber, doors, windows, and red brick. The immediate impression upon arrival at Panji-Panji is one of timelessness. Every timber, every window and door, every construction joint was meticulously fitted in the old style of Malay timber construction.With the eclectic accents and the owner’s own penchant for classic cars and motorcycles and a rich and soothing artistic ambiance has evolved. The rooms have open air showers and an abundance of period accents. Add in the inviting swimming pool and the onsite restaurant, and you may find no desire to leave the property during your stay.

Smiling Buffalo offers up some of the best coffee on the island and is often bustling with locals and well as guests. In addition to coffee, the menu lists a comprehensive choice of breakfast, lunch and dinner options all served in the high beamed open air building. Smiling Buffalo is also a favourite place for local and visiting musicians to perform in this intimate café.

Address: Panji-Panji Langkawi, 965, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Langkawi
Tel: +604 952 3319
Email: [email protected]

Owner-Operated La Pari Pari

Located behind the main road in Pantai Tengah, La Pari Pari’s white modern minimalist design serves to accent the lush tropical setting. The six two-unit bungalows face inward on the tropical garden and saltwater pool. The spacious rooms, with cool and modern furnishings, carry the white-on-green theme inside, creating a soothing and relaxing abode. The owners’ attention to detail is also reflected in their personal service. This is their home and they make you feel like it is also yours during your visit.

Being environmentally friendly was a key concern when constructing La Pari Pari, and great care was taken to preserve the original trees and flora. A grey water system utilizes the reeds and plants for natural filtration in the adjacent pond to cleanse the water before it returns to the ground. Even the sand excavated for the pool was recycled to plaster the walls of the bungalows, and energy-efficient lighting is used throughout the property.

A small open-air lobby leads into the intimate bar and dining area of the onsite restaurant, Fat Cupid, the brainchild of three cousins whom wanted to honour their grandmother’s traditional cooking. The restaurant specialises in preparing Nyona (Straits Chinese) and Malay cuisine all created from old family recipes handed down to them by their grandmother. Fat Cupid has become one of the top restaurants in Langkawi since its opening and is a favourite amongst locals.

Address: La Pari Pari/Fat Cupid, 2273 Jalan Teluk Baru, Kampung Tasek Anak, Langkawi
Tel: +604 955 3010
Email: [email protected]

Ambong Ambong: Hillside Jungle Retreat

Ambong Ambong climbs the jungle clad hillside at the north end of Jalan Pantai Tengah. The multi-storey units grip the slopes and were built to preserve every tree and plant possible.Walking out onto the veranda of one of the suites you are in the top of the trees with the local wildlife. And the views of the sea are breathtaking. Down the hill, Ambong Ambong has a small and very private pool area next to their intimate restaurant where guests can dine for breakfast and relax in the evenings over a cocktail.

The real signature card for Ambong Ambong, however, is their personalised service. Upon arriving, all guests receive a handphone that is programmed to speed dial concierge services. And no request is too small. Though the onsite restaurant does not serve evening meals, the hotel offers a selection of restaurants and their menus from which to order a meal delivered to your door – and each unit has a private dining area. If you are a planning a visit here to celebrate a special occasion, let them know in advance and they will surprise you with attentive preparations.

If want to spend a day on the beach, or explore more of the island, the hotel staff can make all the arrangements to meet your specific request. And an added bonus, the handphone is good for local calls, so you can also arrange taxis, make reservations, and book adventures on your own when away from the hotel.

Address: Ambong Ambong, Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, Langkawi
Tel: +604 955 8428

Written by TC Gerrard