1. Pantai Pasir Tengkorak / Sandy Skulls Beach

Best to visit if you rent your own vehicle as this spot is far off from any shops or residential area. It is a 2-minute drive from the famous Temurun Waterfall that is best visited in the early morning to avoid the crowd. Check the waterfall out while you’re here – it’s worth it during the rainy season. Taking a grab here is possible but the way out is where it is a hassle.

This beach can get slightly crowded during the local weekend (Friday & Saturday) as this is THE local spot to swim and do family barbeques. Watch out for the macaques: they can be aggressive and are always out to grab your food and belongings. Do not leave your belongings lying about – they are quicker than you think.

Plan your time smartly – early mornings are always the best times to visit these places. Most mornings till afternoons, this beach has few visitors; making it the perfect place to sunbath and enjoy nature with no disturbances.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/txYbTTFzqpsPS8JV9
Toilet Facility: Not Available

2. Pantai Kok / Kok Beach

A beach named after the sound great hornbills make – this spot is not as remote as the one above, distance wise but it is still a gem with the lack of rowdy crowds. The perfect place to fix your hammock or sunbath in peace among other sunbathers and family on holiday. It is possible to get a grab ride back from here if you do not stay till late evening.

Walk along the beach stretch to the right from the parking lot. It is a fairly long stretch with multiple spots to call your own for the day. Guests from the Danna spend their time there throughout the afternoon till evening so fret not about it being too quiet.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X65scrr5PTxJd9Nq9
Toilet Facility: Available

3. Gunung Raya

This has been my favorite sunset spot to bring friends to – as it is a beautiful and serene drive up on tarred road, sometimes covered in heavy fog. A birders paradise throughout – keep a look out for wildlife like geckos, monkeys, lizards and especially hornbills!

The reason this is placed high up on my list for solo travellers is the ease to do it by yourself with a rented vehicle (but be mindful that it is a quiet ride up and can be quiet at the peak) and the likeliness of seeing great hornbills (or even wreathed hornbills if you are lucky and skilled in spotting them). Learn about how these birds sound first if you are not familiar, so you know when you hear one (best tip to start looking for hornbills).

You can opt to hike up (4287 steps) if you would like higher chances to bump into cool wildlife but start early in the day as the area is not lighted up at night nor is there phone line for the most part.

*Hornbills are easier to be sighted in the mornings.

Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/E4Lc3pyYGwLqitpt8
Toilet Facility: Not Available

1. MawArt, Mukim

When I first visited this cafe in 2022 it was hardly visited by any tourists. Business was tough following the Covid-19 lockdown, which prompted the owner to start operating as a cafe in addition to the batik art studio it used to solely run as.

MawArt is truly a gem – a laid-back kampung cafe among the village, where residents gather to play tunes, busk, make art and share stories among it’s green garden setting. You can do batik painting here while enjoying their special blends – some of the best kampung cafe vibes you can get!

Don’t forget to try their peknga kelapa (similar to lempeng kelapa) served with fish curry. It’s a northern version of a coconut pancake.

Price Range: $
Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CbRwtEX3MgDjpCdB8

2. Umbut Langkawi, Bukit Penarak

Umbut Kelapa has a gorgeous view of the sea, especially in the evenings where is it not too sunny. It can get unbearably hot if you’re there in the afternoon/early evening as it only has an outdoor seating option. But the views and vibes are great – perfect for late evening (just before sunset) tea or dinner before it gets dark.

The food and drinks are good – but the place ranks high in my list due to its views and atmosphere.

Price Range: $$
Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/cya7LTdGUccAW2tk8

3. Warung Hangit, Kedawang

Not actually a fancy cafe concept but come here if you are looking for some authentic malay dishes. The shop may look unassuming from the outside but the food was pretty good and very affordable. The first time I visited, I had to return again the next day – it was truly tasty!

Their western choices are also superb – I tried the chicken chop, carbonara and aglio olio pastas.

Location: $
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UWiSqP7KbBGwqfnW9

4. Brian’s Bar, Cenang

Brian’s Bar is a superb laid-back backpackers bar where you can try some very unique cocktails and shots. Known for Brian’s experimental fusion of local Malaysian flavours (i.e. Milo Vodka)- this bar is to go for if you’re up for trying just that and chilling with their friendly cat often found sitting by the bar window.

I’ve tried their sirap bandung (bailey’s), teh tarik (rum) amongst other local specials which I’d recommend if you do prefer creamy rum / rum generally.

Price Range: $$
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uhEmijUDbq9KRWZu9