Weather lowdown
Average November temperatures are synonymous with it being the end of the rainy or wet season. 28°C is the average temperature in Langkawi during the month, with midday highs hitting an average 32°C, and lows averaging 23°C. The high temperatures can make being outdoors in direct sunlight during noon unbearable when it is humid but these temperatures are generally comfortable for most people after a few days of acclimatising. Nonetheless, with or without direct sunlight, or even during rainy periods, swimming in the ocean is possible at all times thanks to an average sea temperature of 29°C.
The sharp reduction in rainfall (as compared to the previous two months of September and October), brings a welcome change to the islands climate. Alas, while the average rainfall has reduced to 214mm for the month so has the average sunshine hours per day. Just 6 sunshine hours are expected daily, the least amount of sunshine Langkawi receives all year. The cloudy periods can provide relief to many, except those who wish to absorb as much sunlight as possible in a short time (i.e. sunbathers). A relatively cloudy month, with 24 days of the month having a chance of rain, November is not ideal for those hoping to add some colour to their skin. A better month for sunbathers to visit Langkawi is February, where sunshine hours are at their peak.
Still, November marks the end of the wet-season in Langkawi. Throughout this period, rainfall can be moderate with occasional passing thunderstorms, most other days experience mild rain showers. It is not uncommon to have several days of fine weather, followed by several days of cloud and rain (or vice versa). Therefore it is important to plan accordingly, be prepared to change plans as a result of unfavourable weather.
As the wet season draws to a close for the year, expect rain and cloud to decrease as the month progresses. For the driest days in the month (on average), it is best to visit Langkawi in the latter half of November. Be sure to check the weather forecast to help plan the days ahead during your visit.
Where to stay
Federal Villa Beach Resort
Langkawi features a plethora of accommodation facilities. However, if you're looking for a comfortable yet convenient hotel, try the Federal Villa Beach Resort . The 3-star hotel is located on the beach (Pantai Tengah) next to its sister resort Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi (4-star resort). Both resorts share facilities, such as: 2 swimming pools, children's pool, open-air Jacuzzi, tennis courts, gym and a spa area (incl. sauna & steam room). All rooms and suites at the Federal Villa Beach Resort are equipped with Air conditioning, TV, IDD phones and coffee & tea making facilities, with a total of 88 rooms.
Holiday Villa Beach Resort
The sister resort of the Federal Villa Beach Resort, Holiday Villa Beach Resort is located on over 13 acres of land and has a total of 258 guest rooms and suites with a range from simple elegance to truly extravagant. Both establishments share a number of restaurants and bars with different dining options and cuisines.
Hit the beach
Payar Island
A short boat ride south from the main island in Langkawi, Payar Island is a marine park that offers tourists the opportunity to dive and snorkel in pristine waters filled with marine life. Several sandy beaches are on the island, setup for picnics and day guests to enjoy. Options to access the island include either a catamaran or a speed boat. The catamaran is a slightly faster option, taking approximately 45 minutes to reach the island the speed boat takes approximately an hour. Be sure to check the forecast a day before confirming your booking, clearer days are the best to appreciate the island and ensuring the ocean clarity is good for snorkelling.
Eating and Drinking Out
Sugar
A great tapas restaurant, also in Pantai Tengah, is Sugar. Open from 1 pm until 9:30pm, Sugar is a great place to visit at dusk to enjoy the sunset and views across the beach. A Spanish and Asian themed menu works well to create delicious meals that complement the scenery. The restaurant offers a BBQ menu on the weekends (Friday Sunday), that is popular and provides a decent meal at a low price.
Serai Restaurant
Although a distance from the main town area of Kuah, if you are on the Northern Coast of Langkawi you will find the Serai Restaurant (a part of the Four Seasons Resort). With indoor and outdoor seating options, Serai is a suitable dining choice regardless if raining or not. An Italian styled menu is complemented by a magnificent views of the Andaman Sea. For a special occasion, the restaurant offers a beach dining experience in a royal tent imported from India (this option may not be advisable during a heavy rain shower, be sure to check the weather forecast before making a reservation!)
Things to do
Skycab Cable Car
If the weather is forecast to be fine, a trip to higher ground on the Skycab Cable Car is well worth it. Claiming to be "the steepest cable car on earth", the ride itself to the top is an interesting experience. The Skybridge is also a popular attraction on fine days, offering visitors views of the island that are second-to-none.
International Fishing Tournament
When it comes to November events, check out the International Fishing Tournament. The event is organised on Tukun Perak Island and attracts over 400 hundred people looking to exhibit their fishing skills. Weather conditions in November can present a few challenges, so be sure to prepare accordingly if planning to spend the day on the water.
