The Best Time to Go to Langkawi
Langkawi by seasons
Langkawi has a tropical climate, bringing year-round hot and wet weather to the island. However, due to its location, hemmed in by the Malaysian peninsula on one side and the island of Sumatra on the other, it is more protected than the rest of the country, bringing more sun, less rain and more stability to its climate. To help you choose when to visit, we’ve split Langkawi’s year into its two seasons:
November to March
Langkawi’s dry season is a great time to get outdoors, whether it’s to the beach, the hills or the forests. Days are beautifully sunny and dry, with temperatures hitting 30-35°C, and even nights stay at around 29°C. Rain can occur, but it is usually very light and quick, although does cause humidity levels to remain high. To escape the heat, follow the locals to Pantai Cenang or Pantai Tengah beaches.
Go for…
Water sports: the calm, dry weather makes this the ideal time to try one of the many water sports on offer on Langkawi’s beaches, or to have a go at diving or snorkelling its reefs.
Christmas: if you’ve always dreamed of Christmas on a warm beach, far removed from the crowded shopping centres and cheesy Christmas tunes at home, then Langkawi is the place to do it.
April to October
The wet season brings lower temperatures– around 25°C – and a higher chance of rain to Langkawi. The rains are heaviest in September and October, but even then, a storm lasting an hour or two, often with thunder and lightning, is usually followed by bright sunshine. Don’t let the puddles put you off either; the abundance of water brings blooming flowers and plenty of green to Langkawi’s landscapes, and prices are lower at this time.
Go for…
Langkawi International Water Festival: in April, get down to Langkawi’s beaches for this water sports competition featuring kayak racing, sandcastle building and an underwater treasure hunt.
Langkawi Food and Fruit Fiesta: for a week in July, get your tastebuds ready as the whole island prepares exotic dishes, holds cooking competitions and eats and awful lot.
