Datai Bay

Datai Beach combines exclusive resorts with pristine white-sand beaches and sparkling blue waters. Views from the headland take in the Andaman Sea, and on clear days you can even see Thailand.

A tropical rain forest reaches to the edge of Datai Beach, which means there is plenty of animal life nearby. Monkeys that live in the jungle are often seen on the beach foraging for crustaceans. The area is also home to iguanas, hornbills and peacocks.

If you stay in one of the Datai Bay luxury hotels, you will have access to your own private beach and swimming pools surrounded by jungle. You will also be offered daily guided tours into the rainforest for birdwatching, guides to medicinal plants, mangrove exploration and wildlife photography.

If you’re not planning on staying, the easiest way to get to Datai Bay is to rent a car or motorbike in Kuah, Langkawi’s main settlement. Be aware that the beach is reserved for patrons only but you can visit the resorts’ spas for a relaxing massage in a rainforest hut, or book for lunch or dinner. Golfers will enjoy the Datai Bay Golf Course where sculptured lawns run between patches of rain forest, surrounded by views of mountain and sea.

Take the time to explore the nature park of the surrounding mountain, Mat Cicang. Go for a mountain hike, and cool off in the pool below the Temurun Waterfall, the tallest on the island.

For a different kind of experience of nature, visit the Langkawi Crocodile Farm, and see a huge array of crocodile and alligator species, from babies to adults. The farm harvests crocodiles for their skin and visitors can buy leather products or even a stuffed baby crocodile from the souvenir shop.

Datai Beach is located in the northwestern corner of Pulau Langkawi. To reach the beach from the main road, you’ll need to take one of the trails through the rain forest.