1. Pulau Payar Marine Park
Pulau Payara Island is one of the prettiest islands in a special marine park. It’s the biggest of all four islands in the area. The island’s lush greenery gives it a unique look, like a bright green gemstone. You’ll find Pulau Payara Island in the southeast, about 30km from the main Malaysian island.
This island is a protected area for sea creatures, so there aren’t any homes or hotels there. Still, it’s a must-visit place. There’s a cool underwater room you can go into. From there, you can see all sorts of sea animals up close. It’s like nothing else you’ve experienced!
Operation Hours
The Pulau Payar marine park is always open, whether it’s a weekday or weekend. However, it’s important to check if boats are running to get there. It’s a good idea to begin your journey after 9 in the morning. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the park. Plus, try to return close to sunset. Seeing the sunset over the park is a beautiful sight you won’t want to miss.
Entrance Fee
There are different packages available for everyone according to one’s budget and planning of how many days to be spent on there.
Activities
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
What is the recommendation route?
If you want to go there, it’s a one-hour boat trip from Malaysia’s west coast. To get to Pulau Payara, you can take a fast boat or a catamaran from Langkawi. If you’re into adventure, scuba diving is a big hit here.
There are speed boats available in Langkawi, which will help you to reach the wildlife park. The timings of the wildlife park are from 8:30 am to 6 pm. And just watch the eagle feeding exhibition
2. Pulau Dayang Bunting
Just a short distance, less than 3 kilometers, to the west of Pulau Tuba is another island called Pulau Dayang Bunting. People often call it the ‘Isle of the Pregnant Maiden’ because of its unique shape that looks like a pregnant woman lying down. It’s the second biggest empty island in Langkawi. Some locals have a belief that if women swim in the island’s lake, it might help them become more fertile.
Best time to visit
Open daily
Highlights
One of the main highlights when visiting islands in Langkawi is a special lake made from limestone. This lake is encircled by mangrove trees. It’s about 10 meters deep, which is great for swimming. If you’re visiting with kids, don’t worry! You can rent life jackets and paddleboats. But remember, there’s a small fee of MYR 6 for each person to get into the lake.
Activities
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Beach Relaxation
- Underwater Observation Chamber
- Boat Tours
- Nature Walks
- Picnicking
- Photography
- Island Hopping
- Educational Activities
What is the recommendation route?
To reach Dayang Bunting Island, also known as Pulau Dayang Bunting, you have a couple of options:
Water Taxi from Kuah Jetty or Pantai Cenang
Dayang Bunting Island is situated about 12 miles (20 kilometers) away from the main part of Langkawi.
You can take a water taxi, which is a small boat, from either Kuah Jetty or Pantai Cenang.
The boat ride typically lasts around 20 minutes, and it’s a direct way to get to the island.
Island Hopping Tour
Alternatively, you can visit Dayang Bunting Island as part of an organized island hopping tour.
This option allows you to explore multiple islands in one trip, and everything is arranged for you, making it a stress-free experience.
3. Pulau Tepor
Pulau Tepor is a small island that offers visitors a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in a tranquil part of the region, this island has become a favorite spot for those seeking relaxation and a connection with nature. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Pulau Tepor.
One of the first things you’ll notice upon arriving at Pulau Tepor is the lush greenery that surrounds you. The island is covered in dense vegetation, creating a serene atmosphere that instantly transports you away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Best time to visit
Open daily
What to expect?
The beaches
Pulau Tepor has beautiful beaches with smooth, golden sand. Walk by the water, feel the light wind, and listen to the waves. You can swim or relax in the clear blue water or sunbathe on the beach.
Snorkeling
The coral reefs around the island are full of colorful sea creatures. Put on your snorkeling gear and see the amazing things underwater, like bright fish, detailed coral, and maybe even some nice sea turtles.
Tranquil Atmosphere
Pulau Tepor is calm and quiet, not crowded like other tourist places. If you want some alone time, this is a good place to go. You can sit on the beach and think, or read a book under the trees. It’s a peaceful break from busy daily life.
In Pulau Tepor, it’s the simple pleasures that make the experience memorable. Enjoy a picnic on the beach, watch the sunrise or sunset, and savor the quiet moments surrounded by nature’s beauty. The island encourages you to unwind and appreciate the uncomplicated joys of life.
4. Rebak Island
Nestled in the Langkawi archipelago, Rebak Island stands as a tranquil haven for travelers seeking a serene escape. This lesser-known gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Best time to visit
Open daily
What to expect?
Marvelous Landscape
Resorts
Marine Adventures
Nature Trails
Culinary Delights
Sunset Views
What is the recommendation route?
Rebak Isle can be reached from Langkawi via the Cenang Point, which is roughly a 10-minute drive from Langkawi’s main airport. Any local taxi or Grab driver should be familiar with this drop-off point.
Cenang Point operates a private vessel service to and from Rebak Isle, and you can review the timings on their official website. We sent an email ahead of time to inform the lodge about our boat departure from Cenang Point, a wise move since our trip to the island was fully booked.
Although Cenang Point is compact, it’s sheltered, and Rebak Lodge staff are on-site to assist with your requirements, from boat registration to luggage handling. Don’t worry about rain, the point is covered with a protective roof.
you can visit this website for maps:
https://www.rebakislandresort.com/get-directions/
5. Pulau Singa Besar
Activities
Nature Trails
Boat Tours
Picnicking
Snorkeling
How to Get There
Singa Besar Island is situated roughly 10 miles (17 kilometers) away from Kuah, positioned between Beras Basah and Dayang Bunting. The journey to the island by boat takes about 45 minutes. Boat tours for island hopping set off from either Teluk Baru Jetty or Awana Porto Malai Jetty. Additionally, you have the option to hire a private boat for your visit.
Getting to Pulau Singa Besar is straightforward, with boats available from various locations in Langkawi. Numerous tour providers offer comprehensive packages, including transport to and from the island, along with activities like snorkeling and hiking trails.
What to Expect
Upon arriving at Pulau Singa Besar, you will be greeted by a serene natural environment characterized by dense forests, pristine beaches, and clear waters. The island’s tranquil ambiance makes it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a connection with nature. You can expect to encounter a diverse range of wildlife, including various bird species and marine creatures.
Entrance Fee
The statement from January 2022 mentions that there could be a fee to enter Pulau Singa Besar. This fee likely helps with preserving the island and maintaining its facilities. However, the specific amount of the fee might change. It’s a good idea to ask local officials or tour companies about the current price and any other rules for visiting.
To sum it up, Pulau Singa Besar is a fantastic place with both stunning natural sights and fun things to do. Whether you want to see the island’s unique plants and animals, try out water activities, or just unwind in a peaceful spot, you’ll have a great time on Pulau Singa Besar.
6. Pulau Tuba
The first island to visit on your island-hopping in Langkawi is Pulau Tuba, the closest island to Kuah Jetty. It is just 5 kilometres or 20 minutes from the Jetty. Pulau Tuba is home to a traditional fishing village, making it one of the few inhabited islands apart from the main Langkawi island. Since it is less popular than the other islands of Langkawi, Pulau Tuba is not always included on island hopping tours. Hence, it receives lesser tourist footfall than the other islands.
What to expect?
A unique experience here is to stay with a host family who will introduce you to the fishing village lifestyle for a day or two. This is an official activity coordinated by the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia. You’ll get to fish, gather herbs, and farm with the locals of the island.
Pulau Tuba is part of Langkawi’s Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park, one of three geoforest parks in Langkawi’s UNESCO Geopark. It’s often mistaken as one with Dayang Bunting due to their bridge connection, but they’re separate islands with distinct local councils and village chiefs. Tuba has six villages, each with its own chief.
What is the recommendation route?
There are two jetties serving both Tuba Island and nearby Dayang Bunting Island at Kampung Selat Bagan Nyior. However, the main jetty now is Jeti Dato Syed Omar, formerly known as Marble Jetty, located between the Kuah Ferry Terminal and the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club. The fare is RM10 per person for each trip (non Malaysian).
Jeti Dato Syed Omar , Marble Jetty:
Pulau Tube Main Jetty:
It’s best to leave for Pulau Tuba early. You’ll want to make the most of your time there, especially if it’s just a day trip. Plus, the boat journey offers beautiful views! Consider sitting at the front or back for some great photo opportunities, perfect for Instagram.
Activities
Bird-watching, jungle treks, and caves to explore.
Entrance Fee
Apart from the homestay programme, Pulau Tuba also has bird-watching, jungle treks, and caves to explore. There are half-day tours to Pulau Tuba for around MYR 80 to 100 while a private speedboat would cost around MYR 600 to MYR 800.
7. Pulau Beras Basah
Located in the southern part of Langkawi, Beras Basah Island is a pristine, uninhabited spot famous for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Most visitors stick to the beach areas and seldom explore its forested center. The island offers a range of activities such as banana boat rides, parasailing, and snorkeling. Additionally, you can find some basic snacks available for purchase during your visit.
The fourth stop while island hopping in Langkawi should be to Pulau Beras Basah which translates to ‘Wet Rice Island’.
What to expect?
It is known for its jungle-trekking, picnicking, and swimming opportunities. The water is shallow, making it an ideal stop for families with children. There are also jet-skis, parasails, and banana boats available to rent.
Activities
If you enjoy snorkelling, the beaches of Pulau Beras Basah offer amazing snorkelling opportunities although you will have to bring your own equipment. Keep in mind that the island is fairly under-developed so there aren’t public toilets or food stalls available.
Since it is a reasonably popular island destination, there are speedboats available straight to Pulau Beras Basah for a day trip.
Entrance Fee
They are priced at around MYR 600 to MYR 900 for the day. From here, you can return inland to Teluk Baru Jetty, Kuah Jetty, or move onwards to Pulau Payar Marine Park.
What is the recommendation route?
Here’s several transportation options to choose from:
By Car
Pulau Beras Basah is about 15 km from the city center. You can rent a car, book an online cab, or hop into a local taxi to get there.
By Cab to Pantai Tengah Resort
You can take a cab directly to Pantai Tengah Resort, the starting point for island hopping tours. These tours typically cover Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singha, and conclude at Pulau Beras Basah.
By Speedboat
Consider renting a speedboat with friends to share costs, making the journey both affordable and convenient.
By Boat from Pantai Cenang or Awana Porto Malai Resort
Boats are readily available at Pantai Cenang and other spots like Awana Porto Malai Resort to ferry you to Pulau Beras Basah.
Best Time To Visit
When planning a trip, people usually check the weather first. For Langkawi and nearby islands, the best time to visit is from January to March. During these months, the weather is just right, and you’ll see a lot of sunshine.
By Boat
You can’t drive straight to Langkawi because there are no roads connecting it to the mainland. So, you need to take a boat. Boats leave from places like Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis, and Penang. If you drive to these places, they charge MYR 15 a day for parking.
By Plane
Langkawi Airport is in Padang Matsirat. You can fly from there to big places in Malaysia like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, and even to countries like Thailand and Singapore. Many flights go straight there regularly.
Where to Dive in?
To travel between Langkawi’s islands, you can’t just take a regular ferry. Instead, you need to rent a boat. You can start your journey from two main places: Teluk Baru Jetty in Pantai Tengah or Kuah Jetty in Kuah Town, which is Langkawi’s main city. There are different boats to choose from: bigger ones that fit up to 20 people or smaller ones that fit 8-10 people.
You can go hopping between Langkawi’s islands all year round, as long as the weather is good. The trip usually takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each island.
Here are the costs:
A half-day island hopping: MYR 80 to MYR 100 per person.
If you want a faster ride with a speedboat, the prices range from MYR 650 to MYR 1200.
Once come to Langkawi you can use Langkawisky.com as your car rental provider. Its easier to explore any places at Langkawi.
