It’s easy to see why Langkawi’s secluded Datai Bay is often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Picture this: a sweeping crescent of golden sand flanked by dense jungle on one side and sparkling, ever-changing waters on the other. Steamy rainforest stretches endlessly inland, and tucked deep within this 10-million-year-old ecosystem is the island’s crowning jewel—The Datai Langkawi, a legendary hideaway long considered one of Malaysia’s most luxurious stays.
Designed by the acclaimed architect Kerry Hill, the resort’s structures blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Teak walkways and pavilions melt into the wild tangle, blurring the line between hotel and habitat. Guests are welcomed in the open-air lobby with tea and local treats, before being whisked away by buggy to their villa—where creamy linens, polished woods, and oversized soaking tubs await. Choose between jungle villas where you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife or beachside sanctuaries with waves just beyond your doorstep. Thoughtful extras like complimentary minibars stocked with local snacks and homemade chocolates sweeten the experience.
Days at The Datai unfold at your own pace. The resort’s private bay is a natural starting point, with sun loungers, fresh towels, and house-made ice cream appearing just when you need them. Wildlife lovers can wander the resort’s famed Butterfly Walk or join a resident naturalist for a guided trek through the surrounding mangroves. A visit to the serene spa is a must—Asian-inspired treatments and tension-melting massages offer pure rejuvenation before a dip in one of the hotel’s three jungle-fringed pools. For those craving adventure, zip-lining excursions and nearby golf can be arranged with ease.
Hunger is never an issue here. Mornings start with a lavish breakfast spread—think made-to-order omelets, spicy curries, and flaky roti canai, best paired with a cup of frothy teh tarik. Long beach days melt into laidback lunches at The Beach Club and golden-hour cocktails at the hotel bar. Dinner offers three standout options: Malaysian specialties at The Gulai House, Thai cuisine served treetop-style, and French-meets-Asian fine dining at The Dining Room.
Thanks to its remote jungle setting, The Datai feels worlds away from everyday life. It’s the ultimate fly-and-flop destination with all the frills—where style, serenity, and seamless service come standard.
Top Takeaways
Location: Langkawi, Malaysia
Rating: 5-star
The vibe: Jungle-clad sanctuary where top-tier luxury meets wild nature. Our favorite thing about the hotel: Aside from the show-stopping scenery and luxe villas, it’s the seamless Southeast Asian service that makes this a flawless stay
Food + Drink: Four restaurants offering Malaysian, Thai, French, and international fare; highlights include the standout breakfasts and spice-infused cocktails at the hotel bar
Amenities: Multiple pools (family, adults-only, toddler), spa, gym, nature walks around the estate, watersports, laundry, babysitting services, and complimentary minibars in the bedroom
What’s nearby? This is the kind of resort you’ll struggle to leave, but Langkawi’s untouched beaches, along with the island’s best golf course, are just minutes away.
Rooms: 121 rooms, suites, and villas - some nestled in rainforest, others steps from the beach
Pricing: Rooms start at $597 (RM2,500) per night, plus a 10% service charge, with breakfast included.
Closest Airport: Langkawi International Airport
