Weather lowdown
Weather conditions in December are relatively dry as compared to the months preceding (September November) which are considered to be the wet season in Langkawi. Whilst rainy days remain relatively high at an average 21 rainfall days, the amount of rain is reduced from previous months, to an average of just 94mm expected. Anticipate most rainy days to occur earlier in the month, with rain showers lasting an hour or more. Mid-season conditions (mid-season being a transitional period between the wet and dry seasons) are most likely expected throughout the month. It is not uncommon to have a day of intermittent squally, thunderstorms followed by clear days with light breezes and little to no rain.
If visiting Langkawi during December, you can expect an average of 7 sunshine hours per day. The increase in average sunshine hours and decrease in average rainfall is a clear indication of the oncoming dry season (beginning in January). The changing weather conditions play a significant role in tourist numbers steadily increasing during the month of December. If you are planning to visit the island during this time, bear in mind you may need to book accommodation well in advance of your trip to ensure your first choice of hotel/location is available.
The warm sea temperature is a big draw card for many tourists visiting the shores of Langkawi. Although average sea temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year, the more stable atmospheric conditions expected in December encourages visitors to visit the island and spend their days relaxing at the beach or in the ocean. Average sea temperatures during the month of December is 29°C.
With plenty of sunshine and rainfall steadily decreasing throughout the month, December presents a balance between the two seasons that offers you the best of both worlds. Rainfall ensures the rivers and waterfalls will be flowing with a healthy quantity of water, creating spectacular waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife by the river edges whilst the ever increasing sunshine hours ensures treks and pathways to view the water attractions are not overly slippery from excessive rainfall.
Where to stay
Meretus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa
Meretus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, in Pantai Cenang is a first class option for those seeking a 5-star resort and spa experience whilst in Langkawi. Designed to replicate a traditional Malay village, the resort offers 355 guestrooms and suites, each with a balcony overlooking the ocean or surrounding gardens. The rooms feature most amenities expected in a 5-star resort, along with complimentary Wi-Fi, a children's club to keep the little ones entertained, transport/transfer assistance, tennis and squash courts and tour and sightseeing coordination. The resorts close location to Pantai Cenang beach make trips to the beach a breeze for those preferring to swim in the ocean instead of the resorts pool.
Sunset Beach Resort
Also located in Pantai Cenang, Sunset Beach Resort offers tourist an affordable accommodation option whilst not sacrificing quality. The resort is nestled in a tropical garden with easy access to the beach and shops/restaurants that are close by. Approximately 20 rooms are available, ranging in size from the smaller 'sunset' rooms featuring a double bed, to the larger family room with 2 double beds and an extra slide out bed. Room amenities include; a private balcony, air-conditioning, coffee/tea making facilities, mini fridge and TV. December's weather is perfect for spending the day at the beach Sunset Beach Resorts prime location on Pantai Cenang offer guests' beach access, almost at their doorstep.
Hit the beach
Pentai Cenang
Pantai Cenang beach is popular with tourists because of the large number of restaurants and bars accessible within walking distance of the beach. Pantai Tengah is also a popular tourist destination, however, it has more hotels then bars/restaurants and the evening crowds are markedly smaller than those found in Pantai Cenang. Most people will be in the Pantai Cenang area during the lead up to New Years, as it offers the shortest distance between the popular night spots, where they will be counting down with fellow revellers before the walk back to their hotels in the early hours.
Eating and Drinking Out
Sagar Restaurant
Sagar Restaurant in Pantai Tengah, is a popular Indian cuisine restaurant. Sunset views and dining in air conditioned comfort are just some of the luxuries on offer, not to mention the tasty Northern Indian Food and friendly hosts. The restaurant is air-conditioned which will provide you some relief from the heat and humidity during meal time.
Troppo Co Restaurant
If you are in need of some good delicatessen food, look no further then Troppo Co Restaurant, in Pantai Tengah. Good coffee and freshly prepared sandwiches make Troppo an ideal spot to stop by for a quick brunch/lunch, or to grab something to eat on the run. Consider stopping and buying a sandwich to take with you if you are heading out to a secluded beach for the day. Open 09:00-17:00 daily except Tuesday. The restaurants open style dining allows cool breezes to flow through on those extra warm days!
Things to do
Craft Festival
Langkawi celebrates the Craft Festival in December. The celebration is a great opportunity to appreciate various artwork displays at the Crafts Complex at Kedah. Most visitors find shopping in Langkawi an enjoyable experience, also offering the opportunity to find out more about the local customs and traditions of Langkawi.
Although the vast majority of the island's community is Muslim or Hindu, Christmas is still celebrated in honour of the significant number of tourists who choose to spend the festive period in Langkawi.
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve is celebrated in Langkawi with large turnouts of tourists flocking to fill the bars and restaurants. It may be worth organising your accommodation early to avoid possibly not having the accommodation you would like, due to limited or no vacancies. Once there, try to decide on a venue and be there earlier on in the evening, ensuring you are allowed in before the venue reaches capacity. Be sure to check the weather forecast on the big night to help decide the best mode of transport (walking or taxi) and if an umbrella might be required.
