If you are looking for a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of Langkawi, look no further than Tanjung Rhu Beach. This stunning beach is located on the northern tip of the island, and boasts of white sand, turquoise water, and lush greenery. It is also home to some of the most amazing natural attractions and activities in Langkawi, such as mangrove forests, limestone caves, and island hopping. Whether you want to relax, explore, or have fun, Tanjung Rhu Beach has something for everyone.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Tanjung Rhu Beach, such as how to get there, when to go, what to do, and more. Read on to discover why Tanjung Rhu Beach is Langkawi’s hidden gem, and how you can make the most of your visit.
How to Reach Tanjung Rhu Beach
Tanjung Rhu Beach is about 22 km from Kuah Town, the main town and ferry terminal in Langkawi, and about 19 km from Pantai Cenang, the most popular beach and tourist area in Langkawi. It is also about 25 km from Langkawi International Airport, the main airport in Langkawi.
There are several ways to reach Tanjung Rhu Beach from these locations, depending on your budget, convenience, and preference. Here are some of the options:
By car or bike:
This is the most flexible and convenient way to reach Tanjung Rhu Beach, as you can drive or ride at your own pace and stop at any place you like along the way. You can rent a car or bike from various outlets in Kuah Town, Pantai Cenang, or the airport, for about RM 50 to RM 100 per day. The road to Tanjung Rhu Beach is well-paved and signposted, and takes about 30 to 40 minutes from Kuah Town or Pantai Cenang, and about 45 minutes from the airport. You can park your car or bike at the designated parking area near the beach, for a small fee of RM 2 to RM 5.
By taxi:
This is the most comfortable and hassle-free way to reach Tanjung Rhu Beach, as you can sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way. You can hail a taxi from Kuah Town, Pantai Cenang, or the airport, or book one in advance through a hotel or an app. The fare to Tanjung Rhu Beach is about RM 40 to RM 50 from Kuah Town or Pantai Cenang, and about RM 60 to RM 70 from the airport. The journey takes about the same time as by car or bike, depending on the traffic. You can ask the taxi driver to wait for you at the beach, or arrange a pick-up time for your return trip.
By bus:
This is the cheapest and most eco-friendly way to reach Tanjung Rhu Beach, but also the least convenient and reliable. There is only one bus service that operates in Langkawi, called Bas Kilim Geoforest Park, which runs from Kuah Town to Tanjung Rhu Beach, via Kilim Geoforest Park, a popular attraction in Langkawi. The bus fare is only RM 4 per person, and the journey takes about an hour from Kuah Town. However, the bus frequency is very low, and the schedule is unpredictable. You can catch the bus from the main bus terminal in Kuah Town, or from any of the bus stops along the route. You can get off at the last stop, which is near the entrance to Tanjung Rhu Beach.
Best Time to Visit Tanjung Rhu Beach
Tanjung Rhu Beach is open all year round, but the best time to visit depends on the weather conditions and peak seasons in Langkawi. Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:
Weather:
Langkawi has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The average temperature is around 30°C, and the average humidity is around 80%. However, there are two distinct seasons in Langkawi, based on the rainfall pattern: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season runs from November to March, and is the best time to visit Tanjung Rhu Beach, as the weather is dry and sunny, and the water is clear and calm. The wet season runs from April to October, and is the worst time to visit Tanjung Rhu Beach, as the weather is rainy and humid, and the water is murky and choppy. The rainfall is usually heavy and frequent, especially in September and October, and can cause flooding and landslides. The water activities and tours may also be cancelled or limited due to the rough sea conditions.
Peak seasons:
Langkawi is a popular tourist destination, and attracts visitors from all over the world, especially from Malaysia and Singapore. The peak seasons in Langkawi are usually during the school holidays, public holidays, and festivals, such as December, January, February, June, July, August, and Chinese New Year. During these times, Tanjung Rhu Beach may be crowded and noisy, and the prices of accommodation, transportation, and tours may be higher and more competitive. You may also need to book in advance and queue up for some of the attractions and activities. However, the peak seasons also offer more events and celebrations, such as fireworks, cultural shows, and parades, which can add to the festive atmosphere and fun of your visit.
Tips:
To make the most of your visit to Tanjung Rhu Beach, we recommend that you plan ahead and book in advance for the best deals and availability. You can also check the weather forecast and tide chart before you go, to avoid any unpleasant surprises or disappointments. You can also avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Tanjung Rhu Beach by going early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is not too harsh and the beach is not too busy.
Things to Do at Tanjung Rhu Beach
Tanjung Rhu Beach is not only a beautiful beach, but also a hub of activities and attractions that cater to different tastes and interests. Here are some of the things you can do at Tanjung Rhu Beach:
Swimming:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is ideal for swimming, as the water is shallow, calm, and clean. You can swim in the crystal-clear water, and enjoy the refreshing breeze and the stunning views of the islands and the mountains. The beach is also safe and family-friendly, as there are lifeguards and security guards on duty, and no vendors or hawkers to bother you. However, you should be careful of the jellyfish and the sharp rocks that may be present in the water, and wear protective footwear and clothing. You should also follow the rules and regulations of the beach, and respect the privacy and property of the nearby resorts and villas.
Snorkeling:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also great for snorkeling, as the water is clear and rich in marine life. You can snorkel in the shallow water, and see the colorful corals, fish, and other creatures that inhabit the underwater world. You can also snorkel in the deeper water, and explore the shipwrecks and caves that lie beneath the surface. You can bring your own snorkeling gear, or rent it from the nearby shops or resorts. You can also join a snorkeling tour or package, which will provide you with the equipment, guide, and boat transfer. Snorkeling is best done during the dry season, when the water is calm and clear, and the visibility is high.
Kayaking:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also perfect for kayaking, as the water is calm and smooth. You can kayak in the open water, and enjoy the scenic views of the beach and the islands. You can also kayak in the mangrove forest, which is one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Langkawi. The mangrove forest is a natural wonder, where you can see the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the brackish water. You can also see the amazing geological formations, such as limestone cliffs, caves, and arches, that dot the landscape. You can rent a kayak from the nearby shops or resorts, or join a kayaking tour or package, which will provide you with the equipment, guide, and boat transfer. Kayaking is best done during the high tide, when the water level is high and the current is low.
Boating:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also a gateway to boating, as it is close to some of the most beautiful and interesting islands in Langkawi. You can take a boat from the beach, and visit the nearby islands, such as Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa Besar, and Pulau Beras Basah. These islands offer stunning views, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. You can also enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and picnicking on these islands. You can rent a boat from the nearby shops or resorts, or join a boating tour or package, which will provide you with the equipment, guide, and boat transfer. Boating is best done during the dry season, when the weather is good and the sea is calm.
Jet skiing:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also a hotspot for jet skiing, as it offers an exhilarating and adventurous way to explore the water and the islands. You can jet ski in the open water, and feel the thrill of speed and wind. You can also jet ski in the mangrove forest, and experience the beauty and mystery of nature. You can rent a jet ski from the nearby shops or resorts, or join a jet ski tour or package, which will provide you with the equipment, guide, and boat transfer. Jet skiing is best done during the high tide, when the water level is high and the current is low.
Mangrove tours:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also the starting point for mangrove tours, which are one of the most popular and recommended tours in Langkawi. Mangrove tours are guided tours that take you through the mangrove forest, and show you the amazing flora and fauna that live there. You can also see the spectacular geological formations, such as limestone cliffs, caves, and arches, that are part of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit some of the attractions within the mangrove forest, such as the Bat Cave, the Crocodile Cave, the Fish Farm, and the Eagle Feeding. You can book a mangrove tour from the nearby shops or resorts, or online. Mangrove tours are available in different durations, prices, and modes of transportation, such as boat, kayak, or jet ski.
Sunset viewing:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Langkawi, as it offers a breathtaking view of the sky and the sea. You can watch the sunset from the beach, and see the sun dip into the horizon, painting the sky with shades of orange, pink, and purple. You can also watch the sunset from a boat, and enjoy the romantic and serene atmosphere. You can also watch the sunset from a nearby hill, and get a panoramic view of the beach and the islands. You can also take some stunning photos and videos of the sunset, and capture the memories of your visit.
Relaxing:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is also a place to relax, as it offers a peaceful and tranquil environment. You can relax on the beach, and enjoy the soft sand, the gentle waves, and the cool breeze. You can also relax in a hammock, a swing, or a gazebo, and read a book, listen to music, or take a nap. You can also relax in a spa, a massage, or a yoga session, and pamper yourself with some wellness and rejuvenation. You can also relax in a cafe, a restaurant, or a bar, and savor some delicious food and drinks. You can also relax in a resort, a hotel, or a villa, and enjoy some luxury and comfort.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting Tanjung Rhu Beach
To make the most of your visit to Tanjung Rhu Beach, here are some tips and suggestions that you should keep in mind:
What to wear:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is a casual and laid-back place, so you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in. However, you should also respect the local culture and customs, and avoid wearing anything too revealing or offensive. You should also wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, to protect yourself from the sun. You should also wear swimwear, water shoes, and a life jacket, if you plan to do any water activities. You should also bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag, to keep yourself dry and clean.
What to carry:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is a remote and secluded place, so you should carry everything you need for your visit. You should carry water, snacks, and a picnic basket, if you plan to spend a long time on the beach. You should also carry cash, as there are no ATMs or card machines on the beach. You should also carry a camera, a phone, and a power bank, to capture and share your moments. You should also carry a map, a guidebook, and a contact number, to navigate and communicate. You should also carry a first aid kit, a mosquito repellent, and a flashlight, to deal with any emergencies or inconveniences.
Where to eat:
Tanjung Rhu Beach has a few options for eating, ranging from street food to fine dining. You can eat at the Tanjung Rhu Hawker Centre, which is a food court that offers a variety of local and international dishes, such as nasi lemak, roti canai, satay, pizza, and burgers. You can also eat at the Sands, which is a restaurant that offers a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines, such as laksa, mee goreng, chicken curry, and tandoori. You can also eat at the Rhu Bar, which is a bar that offers a selection of drinks and snacks, such as cocktails, mocktails, juices, and fries. You can also eat at the Four Seasons Resort, which is a resort that offers a range of dining options, such as Ikan-Ikan, which is a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Malay cuisine, such as rendang, sambal, and ulam; Serai, which is a casual dining restaurant that serves Mediterranean cuisine, such as pasta, pizza, and salad; and Kelapa Grill, which is a beachfront dining restaurant that serves grilled seafood, meat, and vegetables.
Where to stay:
Tanjung Rhu Beach has a few options for staying, ranging from budget to luxury. You can stay at the Tanjung Rhu Resort, which is a 3-star resort that offers cozy and comfortable rooms, with amenities such as air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy facilities such as a swimming pool, a gym, a spa, and a garden. You can also stay at the Tanjung Rhu Villas, which are private and spacious villas, with amenities such as a kitchen, a living room, and a balcony. You can also enjoy facilities such as a barbecue, a jacuzzi, and a gazebo. You can also stay at the Four Seasons Resort, which is a 5-star resort that offers luxurious and elegant rooms, with amenities such as a minibar, a coffee maker, and a DVD player. You can also enjoy facilities such as a golf course, a tennis court, a yoga studio, and a kids club.
What to avoid:
Tanjung Rhu Beach is a safe and friendly place, but there are some things that you should avoid to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free visit. You should avoid littering, as it is not only disrespectful, but also harmful to the environment and the wildlife. You should also avoid feeding, touching, or disturbing the animals, as they may be endangered, protected, or aggressive. You should also avoid swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking during the low tide, as the water may be too shallow, rocky, or muddy. You should also avoid going to the beach during the night, as it may be dark, deserted, or dangerous.
Tanjung Rhu Beach is one of the best and most secluded beaches in Langkawi, Malaysia. It offers a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the island, and a hub of activities and attractions that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you want to relax, explore, or have fun, Tanjung Rhu Beach has something for everyone.
We hope that this article has given you a comprehensive and practical guide to Tanjung Rhu Beach, and has inspired you to visit this hidden gem in Langkawi. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to share them with us. Thank you for reading, and happy travels!