Although Pulau Langkawi has come in for some criticism for having become overdeveloped in recent years but in actual fact Langkawi nightlife and entertainment remains excellent. On all the major beaches there are some top-rate bars and restaurants - some of the best in Malaysia in fact.

Pantai Centang

Pantai Centang is known as the more happening, busier part of the island. Located at it sheart, the Reggae Bar has to be the outstanding nightspot on this beach. Beautifully decorated in the colours of the Jamaican flag, the Reggae Bar offers great drinks promotions in a part of the world where booze can be expensive due to the restrictions of the Muslim faith and high taxation. The Reggae Bar also serves domestic and international food of a very high standard. Many a backpacker has had a great night out here. There are many other bars in Pantai Centang both open-air and under-roof and restaurants offering a truly international panoply of food: Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Thai and Western. During the peak season these kinds of establishments are packed with vast numbers of both domestic and foreign tourists.

Pantai Tengah

Langkawi nightlife and entertainment tends to be a touch quieter on Pantai Tengah beach, with its small but excellent selection of cafes, restaurants and bars offering great natural views rather than party animal antics. You can enjoy cocktails while looking out across the sea as the sun sets or listen to soft jazz played by a live quartet. With its rustic, bohemian look, many people's favourite bar is Sunba Retro Bar, located at Jalan Teluk Baru. Here you can relax with a wide selection of drinks and enjoy the company of locals and tourists alike. More contemporary in feel is Sunkarma Chillout Lounge, another favourite haunt of visitors to Langkawi.

Padang Matsirat

For the real budget Langkawi nightlife and entertainment you should head to Padang Matsirat. However, you will feel a tad shortchanged on ambience and atmosphere. It's an undeveloped area a little too close to the airport for most, so better you head to Pantai Centang or Pentai Tengah.

Pantai Kok

Many people's top-rated Langkawi nightlife and entertainment destination is Pantai Kok, where you can enjoy a nice drink while admiring the mountainous background and gorgeous ocean. Not exactly a party spot, Pantai Kok will appeal to families and corporate groups. Its gorgeously landscaped and great fun Oriental Village is the stand-out nightlife attraction in the whole of Pulau Langkawi.