Datai Bay

Overview

Datai Bay is a secluded crescent of white sand on Langkawi's northwestern coast, consistently ranked among the world's best beaches by travel publications. Backed by 10-million-year-old rainforest and accessible only through luxury resort gates, it offers an exclusive, pristine tropical experience.

Highlights

• Pristine rainforest backdrop: The beach is fringed by ancient tropical forest home to hornbills, macaques, and flying lemurs.
• Crystal waters: The sheltered bay offers calm, clear water ideal for swimming.
• World-class dining: The Datai resort offers acclaimed restaurants overlooking the Andaman Sea.

History

Datai Bay remained virtually untouched until The Datai Langkawi resort was built in 1993, designed by Australian architect Kerry Hill to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding rainforest. The area is part of the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park, containing some of Southeast Asia's oldest geological formations.

Visitor Tips

• Public access: While the resorts dominate, a public path to the beach exists — ask at the resort gates.
• Nature walks: The Datai resort's resident naturalist leads guided rainforest walks (open to non-guests for a fee).
• Duration: 2–3 hours.