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Pantai Chenang is probably the most
visited beach area in Langkawi. From
just a sleepy and tropically-correct
long stretch of white sandy beach,
which it
was about two decades ago, today's
Pantai Chenang has taken a life of
its own. Gone are most of the
coconut trees, except for a few that
are being preserved to set the
tropical island mood by the many
resorts and hotel operators who have
taken up almost every inch of
land available. The range of accommodation starts from the most
basic to the medium and
five-star establishments. Today's Pantai Chenang is a bustling
beach thoroughfare that comes to
live during the afternoons and
evenings.
Dont
expect a quiet deserted beach as the
operative word here is excitement -
whatever that may mean to you. With
the beach being the anchor feature,
the land fronting it is almost all
hotels and resorts, while whatever
is left in between have been taken
up by shops sellling garments,
trinkets and souvenirs,
restaurants, stalls, bistros,
convenience stores and almost
anything to share the roaring
tourism trade.
Pantai Chenang has been equated to
the beach thoroughfares of Phuket,
Thailand. Sharing the same waters of
the southern Andaman Sea, geological
features and even persona, Pantai
Chenang is
considered by many visitors as a
more family-friendly destination
that does not tout glitzy night life
and bacchanalian abandon despite the
duty free beers and liquor. There is
no sex trade -- just a wholesome
tropical island destination.
One
of the most popular beach
destinations among tourists and
locals alike, Pantai Chenang is known
not only for its delightful sunsets
but also for its long and sandy
beach. Located about 18 kilometres
from Kuah town and only three
kilometres from the airport, it
offers all kinds of water sports and
opportunities to go "island hopping"
to the other Langkawi islands.
Just
what do you do at Pantai Chenang? You
can just hangout on the beach (there
are still quiet spots to be alone).
You can gravitate to the beach
bistros for some cold beer during
hot afternoons, hangout at the beach
bars in the evenings, station
yourself at one of the warungs and
do some people watching or walk over
to Laman Padi or Underwater World.
 At
Underwater World, visitors
will get to come up close with
freshwater and marine life without
getting wet. Currently the largest
aquarium in Asia with a walk-through
tunnel, more than 5000 marine and
freshwater species are on show here.
Also showcased are the African
Penguins, Rockhopper Penguins and
Harbour Seal within the sub-arctic
adventure section. Visitors
can experience the wonder of
literally being in the midst of
these graceful and awe-inspiring
creatures, from the majestic to the
small, everyday from 10 in the
morning until 6 in the
evening. An experience not to be
missed, for approximately RM10 per
child and RM18 per adult.
Alternative, you can go for a foot
massage, pamper yourself with a good
full spa treatment or explore the
area on a rented motorbike, car or
bicycle. For
walks and exploration, you can go
beachcoming or collect seashells.
Boats are available for hire if
you'd like to go over to explore
Pantai Tepor, that inviting island
with a stretch
of white sandy beach, which you can
see from Pantai Chenang.
On certain days you can go to the
weekly pasar malam (night market) at
Temoyong, about three kilometres
away.
As for
food, Pantai Chenang probably has the
most to offer to suit your budget
and taste. Take your pick from
Chinese, Thai, Thai-Malay, western,
Indian, or fusion restaurants.
Should you want to go local on a
shoestring (no less delicious),
try the nasi lemak bungkus (a
favourite local breakfast) stall
opposite the Underwater World. Go
early as they sell out fast. For
tea, lookout for the girl who sells
a variety of Malay kuih (cakes) in
the afternoon somewhere opposite
Debbie's Irish Restaurant. Whataver
you do, shop around before deciding,
as ambiance, prices and offerings
differ from outlet to outlet.
For
shopping, you can try the Zon
Duty-free Shopping Complex housed
within the Underwater World
building. But, for your convenience,
like that urgent bottle of wine or
whatever sundry needs, step in to
Zyman's Craft Stoppe next to the
beach. They sell just about anything
- from beers and spirits to cheese
crackers and bread. As
for people, well, despite the
bustling nature of the place, you'll just fall
in love with Pantai Chenang. Everyone's
friendly and accommodating. |
