Travelling with kids is like embarking on an adventure with tiny, unpredictable pirates who demand snacks every 10 minutes, jump on every puddle and disappear out of sight within a second. Packing to visit Langkawi can be stressful with 10 sets of clothes for toddlers, their favourite blanket and their entire toy collection while getting ready to endure the endless interrogation of “Are we there yet?”. But once you reach Langkawi, you can enjoy the vacation unless the peaceful sunset by the beach morphs into a frantic search for the nearest restroom to contain a diaper emergency. The point being, travelling with kids is unpredictable, at times challenging, but amidst the chaos, there are moments of pure magic: the squeals of joy, heartwarming hugs and hilarious moments that remain in our heart as a warm and fuzzy feeling long after the vacation is over.
Ensuring a memorable and fun-filled trip to Langkawi with kids boils down to preparation, careful planning and flexibility. By prioritising their comfort and enjoyment, you can have a great time and create lasting memories and discover Langkawi together. Here are our tips on how to have the best time at Langkawi with your little pirates.
Planning
Thoughtful planning can make all the difference between an awesome and disastrous trip. Start by looking for family-friendly accommodations that have kids’ clubs, swimming pools and spacious rooms for the kids to bounce around. The Danna Langkawi has a separate kids’ pool for little ones to splash around. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa has a kids club that offers beach exploration and educational tours while the parents enjoy some well-deserved relaxation massage.
When booking accommodation, also consider the proximity to attractions and beaches to avoid the “Are we there yet” bonanza. When planning activities, balance the adventurous and relaxing for maximum enjoyment. Spend a relaxing day on the beach after a day of jungle trekking. Booking activities in advance can also save time and reduce the stress of planning the vacation on the go. But do not commit yourself with large deposits and no cancellation policies. Kids are unpredictable and a flexible plan would work best to deal with sudden issues.
Kid-friendly activities
Langkawi offers many fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. Splashing in water tops the list of things kids love to do. Spend a day at Pantai Cenang Beach, making sandcastles and frolicking in the waves. For a more adrenaline-filled water adventure, head to Splash Out Langkawi. This water park features exciting water slides and wave pools for the whole family.
For relaxing days, take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Mat Cincang for panoramic views of the island. Underwater World Langkawi is another great option for a fun and leisurely day. This aquarium houses over 4,000 marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and turtles, and features a walk-through glass tunnel. Another relaxing activity is a mangrove tour by riverboat to explore bat caves and feed fish.
Safety and Awareness
When having a dip in the ocean or enjoying the forests of Langkawi, maintaining general awareness to ensure safety is paramount. When with kids, always swim in designated areas and keep a close watch on children near water. Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah may have lifeguards on duty during peak hours. Also be wary of jellyfish stings between the months of January and June.
When out in the forest look out for wild monkeys. Monkeys in Langkawi are smart and not scared to mingle with humans. They are known to attack children carrying food and can bite if provoked. Hide your food if monkeys are around and make sure to maintain a safe distance. Mosquitoes are also prevalent in Langkawi in the wet season. Carry a good insect repellent, especially if you venture into the jungle. Mosquito bites can cause Dengue Fever which can become serious in small kids. Be sure to wear clothing that covers the body and stay away from areas with standing water.
In Case of Emergency
It is wise to be prepared for an emergency. Familiarise yourself with the location of the medical facility. The Sultanah Maliha Hospital is the main medical facility in Langkawi, and it offers outpatient and emergency services. There are several pharmacies in Kuah, Cenang and Pantai Tengah but most of them close after 8 pm. Keep the phone number for emergency contact handy.
Ambulance/Police: Dial 999 from any phone for immediate medical assistance.
Police: Dial 999 for emergencies requiring police assistance.
Fire and Rescue Services: Dial 994 for fire emergencies.
Travelling with kids in Langkawi is an unforgettable experience. Amidst the sandcastles, forest trails and adventure rides, you will renew your bonds with your loved ones and create memories for life. Make the most of it by planning it perfectly and having a great time.
