You enter The Datai Langkawi with high expectations. As you should. After all, it has a reputation of being a secluded 5-star beach resort tucked away in the heart of an ancient rainforest. It overlooks the Andaman Sea, boasts perfectly panoramic island views, has direct access to one of the best beaches in the world, and is home to an adorable species of primate: the dusky leaf monkey. To good to be true? We experienced three nights firsthand and we certainly weren’t disappointed. Here’s why we liked it so much.
At a glance: Top 3 reasons to stay
Quiet & secluded
Perfect for couples and honeymooners, The Datai is cocooned in the heart of a 10 million-year-old virgin rainforest, located far away from the populated areas of Langkawi. With canopy-view rooms, sea-view suites, and spacious villas to choose from, you can customise your desired level of privacy.
Award-winning beach
The resort has a private footpath that leads down to the white-sand beach of Datai Bay — one of the Top 10 Beaches in the world as awarded by National Geographic. The Thai island of Ko Tarutao can clearly be seen in the distance, making a precious backdrop for anyone looking out towards the Andaman Sea.
Nature & wildlife
The resort’s secluded location means the wildlife here can be left in peace. Within the ancient rainforest, you’ll find cheeky monkeys, giant squirrels, magnificent hornbills, and much more. The Datai also has a resident naturalist who takes interested parties on excursions to learn more about the area’s biodiversity.
Island views, unparalleled privacy
Located on the northwest tip of Malaysia’s Langkawi, The Datai stands elevated 40 metres above sea level on a forest ridge overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. The sea itself is a mere 300 metres away, and in the distance, you can easily spot the island of Ko Tarutao, home to Thailand’s Tarutao National Park. Yes, Thailand is just there. Nothing quite beats a private beach with panoramic island views and an ancient rainforest as your backyard.
The resort seamlessly integrates itself into its surroundings. It pulls inspiration from its lush environment, respects the culture of the country it makes its home in, and very much embraces its standing as a lavish romantic retreat reserved for adults. Gorgeous rooms and suites sit high in the Canopy Collection, giving guests excellent views of the lush rainforest below. Those seeking pure privacy away from the main buildings will enjoy the solitude that the Rainforest Collection and Beach Collection villas provide.
Where wild dusky leaf monkeys come to play
Being in the middle of a rainforest has its perks. Nature lovers will have the opportunity to observe a treasure trove of flora and fauna thriving in their natural environment. You’ll be surrounded by the homes of long-tailed macaques, black giant squirrels, oriental-pied hornbills, and more. We personally witnessed a large family of dusky leaf monkeys appear out of the trees to sit by one of the swimming pools. That was definitely a sight to behold. Keep those balcony windows closed, though. You probably won’t want cheeky monkeys getting into your room!
The Datai Langkawi way: Excellent food, warm service
Nice beach, good views, lots of peace and quiet. How about the food and service at The Datai? For one, breakfast is stellar. Think free-flow champagne and cocktails at the DIY bar, à la minute signature dishes on top of a buffet spread, and tranquil views overlooking the beautiful main pool.
Keeping to the warm and quiet nature of the resort, everyone is helpful yet not at all intrusive, maintaining the resort’s peaceful air. The attention to detail and small touches, such as fresh orchid blossoms thoughtfully placed throughout the bedroom and bathroom each day, personal pre-dinner recommendations on which of their restaurants to choose from, and an unprompted helping hand with setting up the perfect sunbathing spot down by the beach, gives The Datai the feeling of being completely welcome. Providing complimentary water sports equipment to all guests is also a bonus.
How to get to The Datai Langkawi
The Datai Langkawi is a 40-minute drive from Langkawi International Airport. Major airlines that fly into Langkawi include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Malindo Air, and Scoot.
Approximate flight times to Langkawi…
Singapore to Langkawi: 90 minutes
Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi: 60 minutes
Penang to Langkawi: 30 minutes.
2019 Update: A Brand New Chapter
We had the pleasure of enjoying The Datai Langkawi in 2017. Towards the end of that same year, the resort underwent a massive 12-month renovation programme and unveiled its newly refurbished estate in late-2018. While the resort stays true to its signature look, facilities and interiors have been meticulously refreshed.
The Datai Langkawi
Jalan Teluk Datai
07000 Langkawi
Kedah, Malaysia
www.thedatai.com
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