Weather lowdown
February is the hottest month of the year. Being at the centre of the dry season, the daily temperatures soar to an impressive 34°C, conversely, the average rainfall plummets to an average of just 47mm, and a meagre average 5 rain days expected. If you enjoy sunshine and outdoor activities with minimal rain, February offers you the best chance to get out and about. Langkawi Island is small enough that weather extremities do not vary to any great degree at different locations on the island.
If you wish to visit Langkawi during the cooler days of February, it is recommended you travel there during the first half of the month. Average daily temperatures are relatively cooler between the 2nd and 8th of February at 29°C. This spout of relatively cooler temperatures then ends with a slight increase in average daily temperatures to 30°C, for several days, before alternating between 29°C and 30°C for the remainder of the month. However, evenings lows are consistent at a milder 23°C offering some welcome relief from the heat.
Rainfall is scarce during February, with an average of just 47mm, and only 5 rain days expected throughout the month. This is the lowest average rainfall for the entire year. A low 17% chance of rainfall, and an 84% chance of a cloudy day combine to offer a very generous number of sunshine hours, averaging at 9 hours per day.
Average sea temperatures in Langkawi are generally very steady throughout the year. An average sea temperature of 29°C is expected throughout the month of February. February's average sea temperature is very slightly cooler as compared to the rest of the year the cooler ocean temperatures promote water based activities and will offer many tourists and locals some relief from the high mid-day temperatures.
Where to stay
Desa Motel
If you're travelling on a budget but do not want to compromise on quality, earmark Desa Motel. The family-owned Desa Motel is a 2-star hotel next to the East Golf Club and the Rice Museum. It is located approx. 10 minutes from the beach as well as close to different tourist attractions such as the Underwater World and the Langkawi Sky Bridge.
The Motel has 9 rooms available, all equipped with TV, air conditioning, water kettle and a small fridge. The rooms have basic furnishings, however they are spacious and clean. The Desa Motel also boasts a pleasant garden setting.
Easy Crystal Hotel
The Easy Crystal Hotel is situated 5 minutes' walk from the beach and located approximately 15 minutes' drive from Langkawi International Airport. Providing you with a choice from 68 rooms, furnished with either King Sized or Twin beds, all rooms are air conditioned and have hot water. Most regular in-room facilities are provided (Tea/coffee, Wi-Fi, hair dryer etc.) and a daily international breakfast is included in your room rate.
Hit the beach
Pantai Tengah
Located on the western coastline of Langkawi, Pantai Tengah is a 700-odd metre stretch of white sand beach fringed with hotels, shops and restaurants. A popular spot with tourists for both its close proximity to accommodation and its beautiful scenery. With very little cloud cover and with few shade options available on Pantai Tengah, a hat/umbrella and a pair of sunglasses will also make your beach time more enjoyable.
Eating and Drinking Out
Cliff Bar & Restaurant
When it comes to dining out, the Cliff Bar & Restaurant is an excellent choice. Moderately priced and featuring an Asian/Malaysian themed menu, with a hint of Western influence to tempt the taste buds. If you are looking for somewhere to grab a drink and have a laugh, arrive there at any time. If you are looking for somewhere to dine, whilst enjoying views of the beach, try to be there before sunset.
Sun Café
If you are looking for somewhere a little more contemporary, call into Sun Café, open from midday until late. Located in Pantai Tengah, Sun Café's menu consists of western styled food items, including sandwiches, soups, pastas and Pizzas. Whether it's a quick bite or a sit down meal, Sun Café caters for all occasions. The cafes setup includes ceiling fans and open style dining.
Things to do
Bird Paradise
One of the island's top places of interest to visit is Bird Paradise, a 5 acre tropical garden with over 2,500 species of birds.
Mount Mat Cincang
If you're feeling brave, consider the Langkawi cable-car experience. You'll be taken all the way to Mount Mat Cincang, from where you'll have the chance to admire a superb panorama of the island, the sea, and the overall surroundings.
Boat Trips
If you are looking to make the most of the sunny, warm weather a popular tourist activity in Langkawi is boat trips with some snorkelling. Grab your sunscreen (the sun is hot this time of year!) and a towel and sign up for a day tour to one of the popular snorkel spots around the island. Pulau Payar Marine Park is a prime example, offering visitors a chance to snorkel or scuba dive in and around the marine park and letting you get up close and personal with a large variety of marine life.
Ironman Malaysia Triathlon
Other things to look out for include the Ironman Malaysia Triathlon. It might inspire you to train for one back home!
