Since Langkawi is an island, the most convenient way to get here is by plane. Most visitors fly into Langkawi International Airport, which is located 20kms from Kuah and eight kilometres from Pantai Cenang in the Padang Matsirat district.

This small but efficient airport handles daily flights from several regional cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and a number of Malaysian destinations. Malaysian Airlines is the main carrier operating on the island, followed by Silk Air and AirAsia. International travellers can find easy connections from most global destinations using any of these regional carriers.

The airport’s single terminal is spacious, with comfortable Arrivals and Departures halls and all the essential facilities any traveller will need upon arrival in Langkawi. In addition to a couple of restaurants, ATMs, and currency exchange kiosks, there are an astounding 22 duty-free shops. Taxis are the only transportation from the airport to your hotel, but most resorts offer free pick up services for guests.

If you are already in the area, it is possible to get to Langkawi by ferry. Travelling by ferry is the most popular form of transport on and off the island, with daily service from Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis and Penang in Malaysia and from Satun in Thailand. Several companies offer ferry service, so there’s rarely a problem getting a seat. All boats arrive at the main ferry terminal in Kuah, where there are taxis waiting to take you to your hotel.

Langkawi is a fairly large island, so you’ll need some form of transportation if you want to get around. Many resorts offer their own private shuttle vans, but you’ll be limited to their schedule and routes. The roads are in good condition, so renting a car or motorbike is a convenient option if you want the freedom to explore all the sights along the coast and inland. Taxis are the most common transport option for getting between destinations and can be found in all of the resort areas on the island.

There is a bus service, although the stops are few and the wait between buses quite long. Once you reach your beach or the town of Kuah, it’s easy to explore on foot.