I booked a dorm bed at The Crowded House, Pantai Tengah, for two nights, extended to four, went to Koh Lipe after eight and then came back for another four. It would be fair to assume that I enjoyed Langkawi, but that doesn’t mean I can tell you about the island as a whole. I was happy in the SW corner; pavements to run on, a couple of beaches to chill out on, cheap accommodation (it’s up to 25 now, but was 20rm a night when I was there) and restaurants, and a social vibe that meant I referred to it as ‘home’ when we returned from Koh Lipe, and didn’t bother to correct myself.
This was a favourite spot, near to the paragliding experience (long or short, different prices), in the shade of the trees. On some days it was too hot even in the shade, but when not, I spent many hours here.
On a run, turning left out of my accommodation and running over the hill to the next resort, another left brought me here, a jetty with boats lined up. In the high season, they might be in use. But in May, very little activity.
The picture doesn’t really show it, but each unit is painted a different colour. At the moment, the road is a single track, but on the day I left, the site on the right was extended, to be the basis of a new road. With construction just out of picture, on the right, this spot will not be quite so quiet in time.
This is a different construction site. It is partly hidden by trees, but at the least will make the road busier.
Never mind the construction, though – wander to the beach for sunset and soak it up.
This last picture was taken from the pavement/sidewalk. Just behind the plantlife is a resort, and on the other side of the road a new one is going up, while that side of the road also has restaurants and shops. But the place is not too busy. Pantai Cenang, by contrast, is thronging. It is certainly not a big town, but being there might seem a little hectic, particularly given just how quiet the beach is. I’d recommend Pantai Tengah – you can always walk, Grab or bike to Pantai Cenang.
Round the world tour 