Weather lowdown
July brings with it a further decrease in average daily temperatures (as compared to June), with similar rainfall and rain days. Leading up to the wet season, July can be considered to be mid-season. Average temperatures in July are the lowest expected for the year, marking this the coldest month of the year for Langkawi. However, don't expect to be packing any winter woollies, the average daily temperature maintains its tropical trend at a toasty average of 27°C.
With evening temperatures dropping to 23°C, combined with an evening sea breeze the nights in Langkawi are very comfortable. During the day, expect the daily high temperature to send the mercury soaring up to the 31°C mark. At this time of year, weather conditions can be unpredictable. Sunshine can turn to rain in minutes, and back to sunshine just as quickly. The cloudy conditions (100% chance of a cloudy day) help give some stability to the atmosphere, and therefore very little wind can be expected during July (only a 1% chance of a windy day). However, an increase of clouds also brings an increased chance of rain so be sure to check the weather forecast for updates.
A 56% chance of rain is expected throughout this period. Rainfall is often moderate at times. July sees an average rainfall of 233mm, and 17 rain days expected throughout the month (more rainfall in fewer days as compared to the previous month). With rain days expected for more than half the month, plan to spend some days indoors or undercover to avoid getting rained on. Whilst most rain does tend to fall later on in the afternoon, there may be days when rain is present for the greater part of the day.
Sunshine hours during the month average at 8 hours per day. An impressive amount considering the proximity of the wet season. The high number of sunshine hours means trips to the beach are still well within reason, as are day trips around the island or up to the higher parts of the island on the cable car.
The daily temperature average is 28°C for the bulk of the month, with several days throughout the month increasing to 29°C. The majority of days with higher average temperatures in July occur approximately mid-month. Therefore, if you are considering visiting Langkawi during the warmest part of July, you should consider visiting the island mid-month.
Expect an average sea temperature of 30°C during July. The warmer sea temperatures combined with the cooler air temperature promotes the formation of clouds and associated rain. Nevertheless, the warm ocean waters are still a great way to spend the day, travelling between your beach chair or towel and the ocean for 'cool-off breaks' is a popular way for tourists to spend their day.
Where to stay
Bayview Hotel Langkawi
The Bayview Hotel Langkawi is a 4-star hotel in the heart of Kuah. The hotel offers great rates and good amenities including: buffet breakfast, swimming pool and a sauna/spa area. The rooms are all non-smoking and air-conditioned. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi to its guests. Its prime location provides you easy access to numerous restaurants, duty free shops, souvenir shops and a night market (every Wednesday & Saturday) - all within walking distance from the hotel. The travel desk located within the hotel will also give travel information and help organize tours. Should you wish to visit the Golf Tournament, Bayview Hotel also promotes tours.
Tropical Resort Langkawi
Tropical Resort Langkawi is a small, budget resort located just 300m (approx. 2 min walk) from one of the most popular beaches in Langkawi - Pantai Tengah. Whilst the resort has only two stars, it is kept clean and quiet and is considered good value for money. The hotel serves some snacks and cold drinks, and is only a 10 min walk to nearby restaurants and bars. The resort offer double-rooms and family rooms. These are mostly bungalows throughout the complex and all rooms have air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. A basic breakfast is included in the room rate. A pool is located in the courtyard of the hotel, with easy walking access to Pantai Tengah beach for people who prefer to have a swim in the ocean.
Hit the beach
Tengkorak Beach
On the Northern Coast of Langkawi, Tengkorak Beach is a 'little off the beaten track' and must be accessed by car. Frequented by locals, less so by tourists (because of the beaches location away from most amenities) Tengkorak is well worth the journey. Public facilities on the beach include picnic benches, bathrooms and toilets.
Eating and Drinking Out
Haroo Restaurant
In Pantai Cenang, opposite the Underwater World, Haroo Restaurant can be found tucked away. The menu here reflects the owner's Korean heritage, along with some western favourites. Haroo is one of the few restaurants on island that is open for breakfast. Strong brewed, aromatic coffee to start your day, or a fancy coffee liqueur blend to conclude it, the choice is yours!
Indian Palace Restaurant
The Indian Palace Restaurant in Pantai Cenang is highly regarded amongst travellers. Slightly more expensive than other restaurants in the area, Indian Palace is popular with tourists in search of an authentic Indian Curry or some fresh naan bread. Cheap beer is also a draw card for this particular restaurant.
Things to do
Kuah
Kuah is Langkawi's most urbanised spot with The Eagle Square, Al-Hana Mosque, CHOGM Park, and Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman, just a few places of interest to take in while you're here. July's weather is still good enough most days to spend walking around exploring attractions around Langkawi.
Dalam Taman
Dalam Taman is a superb theme park open since 1996. It features beautifully coloured statues, various specific sculptures, and a superb garden museum.
If you're a hiking enthusiast and you want to experience an adventurous trip to Langkawi's highest mountain peak, try the Mat Raya - an untouched mountain covered in rainforest vegetation and flora. Consider wearing appropriate footwear and taking a raincoat, conditions can change quickly and pathways can become slippery when wet.
Mu'adzam Shah Trophy Golf Tournament
In early July visitors have the chance to attend the Mu'adzam Shah Trophy Golf Tournament, a popular event that gathers top Asian golfers looking to show off their skills in this lively competition. Take an umbrella with you in case it starts raining your hotel or resort may have a spare one they can lend you!
