The new Family Beach Villas at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi combine all the ingredients of the quintessential beach house: steps from the sand with their own gardens, plunge pools, endless sea views and a whole 220 square metres (2300 square feet) of dedicated family-space. But those expecting a “fly and flop” destination might just find more than they bargained for.

“Langkawi offers a very different family beach vacation,” explains General Manager Alastair McAlpine. “It combines an unspoilt, tranquil retreat with natural adventure and adrenalin-fuelled discovery. It’s the ideal first eco-experience for families of all ages.”

At Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, families can embark on Mangrove & Monkey Safaris on a private boat from the Resort’s beach. Lead by the Resort’s naturalist, each excursion winds deep into the labyrinthine heart of the Kilim Karst UNESCO Geopark and brings families up close and personal with soaring eagles, playing macaques, sleeping bats and, if they’re very lucky, busy sea otters. Away from the mangroves, the Resort’s Secrets of the Sea tour reveals the hidden gems of 400 million years’ worth of natural heritage, from the Cave of Legends to Eagle Square to a dip in a secluded waterfall straight from a fairytale. Those seeking more adrenalin can brave the Langkawi Sky Bridge suspended over the dense rainforest 700 metres (2300 feet) above sea level, or kayak to deserted islands for a castaway picnic.

Back at the Resort, each Family Beach Villa is accessed via a quiet garden path that leads to a private plunge pool and reflecting pond overlooking the Andaman Sea. The outdoor deck caters for lazy days with a large dining area and a sprawling daybed. And the airy interiors accommodate two large living areas, a four-man spa bath, indoor and outdoor tropical shower rooms and a family-size walk-in closet.

The children’s bedroom has an LCD screen television with a PS3 game console, with additional family-friendly amenities extending from beach toys and sandcastle-making kits to toiletries and board games.

Bicycles for all are available on request, although each Family Beach Villa is just a short stroll from free-form landscaped Family Pool, Watersports Centre and three beachfront restaurants. The Kids For All Seasons club entertains with nature excursions, batik painting, kite making and Kids Yoga, allowing mum and dad a few peaceful hours in the oceanfront Adult Quiet Pool or the iconic Spa. And it’s all set within 48 acres of lush tropical gardens.

Then there’s the beach. All 1.5 kilometres (1 mile) of it, private, white and practically empty by day. By night it transforms into the ideal place to rediscover the joy of quality time together over barbecues, bonfires and toasted s’mores. A family beach holiday, yes – but not as you know it