The Datai Langkawi, lies within a 10-million-year-old rainforest on the mystical island of Langkawi, is a luxurious sanctuary where nature meets refined elegance. This 5-star eco-resort seamlessly integrates with its pristine surroundings, offering rooms, suites, and villas with private verandas overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Located along Datai Bay, rated among National Geographic’s top ten beaches globally, the resort provides an intimate encounter with native wildlife, including Dusky langurs and Tokay geckos. The visionary architecture by Kerry Hill preserves the rainforest’s sanctity while celebrating Malaysian cultural heritage, creating an unparalleled eco-luxury experience.
Their story
The Datai in Langkawi emerged from architect Kerry Hill’s vision in 1993, when he discovered the breathtaking Datai Bay. Against conventional wisdom, he placed the main building 300 meters back from the beach to preserve the pristine coastline and showcase the rainforest. The resort was built with minimal environmental impact, using sustainable methods and locally-sourced materials.
After a major renovation in 2018 led by original designer Didier Lefort, The Datai Langkawi reinforced its commitment to nature and sustainability through The Datai Pledge initiative. Today, it stands as a luxury eco-retreat where ancient rainforest meets award-winning architecture, offering guests an immersive natural experience while maintaining the highest standards of conservation and Malaysian hospitality. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Trees were manually felled and sustainably reused in construction, with immediate replanting where clearing was necessary. The resort uses natural materials that complement the rainforest setting and implements extensive recycling programs.
- Their zero-waste initiatives have achieved 96% efficiency, diverting 48,140 kg of waste from landfills in 2023.
- The property features water conservation systems, an organic garden, and natural filtration methods.
- Through careful design and operation, The Datai Langkawi demonstrates how luxury hospitality can coexist with environmental stewardship, reducing its carbon footprint while preserving the surrounding ecosystem.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The property prioritizes energy efficiency through thoughtful architectural design that minimizes environmental impact. The main building’s strategic placement 40 meters above sea level preserves the natural coastline while maximizing natural ventilation. The resort’s construction avoided heavy machinery. Building materials were sustainably sourced and reused, demonstrating eco-conscious practices before sustainability became mainstream.
- The property continues its energy-efficient operations through natural lighting, passive cooling systems, and integrating with the surrounding rainforest ecosystem, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining luxury standards.
Pioneer in waste management
- The Datai Langkawi implements comprehensive zero-waste initiatives, achieving 96% landfill diversion in 2023 by recycling 88,241 glass bottles, 357 kg of Styrofoam, and 21 kg of plastic. Their waste management includes an in-house water bottling system, and innovative upcycling of materials. The resort prevented 263 tons of CO2 emissions through these practices.
- All food waste is transformed into soil or donated as animal feed, while 92% of dry waste is processed through plastic-free policies and recycling programs. Their waste management system includes wastewater treatment and continuous monitoring of carbon footprint reduction efforts.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Their garden cultivates a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in their kitchens and spa treatments. The resort maintains beehives for organic honey production and employs a closed-loop waste management process.
- The resort’s spa incorporates traditional Malay Ramuan healing practices using purely organic ingredients sourced from their gardens, ensuring a completely chemical-free wellness experience for guests.
Actively protects nature and community
- The Datai Langkawi champions nature protection through thoughtful integration with its ancient rainforest setting. The resort practices comprehensive sustainability initiatives including zero waste management, carbon footprint reduction, and wildlife conservation.
- Through The Datai Pledge program, they actively preserve marine ecosystems, protect endangered species, and support local communities.
- By partnering with NGOs and engaging guests in eco-activities, The Datai Langkawi fosters environmental education while maintaining luxury hospitality standards. Their commitment to conservation earned them multiple green certifications, including the prestigious EarthCheck ECO Silver certification.
Most Popular Activities Near The Datai Langkawi
- Nature walks in 10-million-year-old rainforest.
- Sustainable cooking classes at The Dapur.
- Golf at Els Club championship course.
- Luxury yacht cruises on Gadis Pulao catamaran.
- Tennis and padel programs with professional coaches.
- Non-motorized water sports including snorkeling and sailing.
- Holistic spa treatments in rainforest setting.
- Fitness sessions at beachfront health club.
- Wildlife and hornbill spotting tours.
- Marine conservation and coral nursery activities.
- Sustainability workshops at The Lab.
- Traditional craft workshops at The Atelier.
- Organic gardening in zero-waste food system.
- Dolphin research excursions.
Best Time To Visit The Datai Langkawi
- The best time to visit The Datai Langkawi is during the dry season from November to April when temperatures average between 25°C (77°F) and 32°C (90°F). This period offers optimal conditions for outdoor activities, beach relaxation, and exploring the ancient rainforest.
- The Andaman Sea remains relatively calm year-round, making water activities possible even during the wet season from May to October, though occasional rainfall can be expected.
- The resort’s positioning within a 10-million-year-old rainforest provides natural shelter and comfortable conditions throughout the year.