Besides beaches in the legendary Pulau Langkawi, the beaches of mainland Kedah are equally spellbinding. Most popular is Pantai Merdeka which has been an ideal tourist venue even long before Langkawi's fame.

Pantai Merdeka could be the only tourist beach attraction on the mainland Kedah. Located in Kuala Muda district, about 60 km south of Alor Setar, or about 26km from the town of Sungai Petani.

Pantai Merdeka is famous for its white sandy beach with seaside picnic spot among the locals and the neighbouring states of Penang and north Perak. Facilities found here include chalets, rest house, campsite, swimming pool and food outlets.

There are adequate facilities for watersport activities. The beach is also excellent for swimming at high tide.

Nearby are fishing villages of Tanjung Dawai, Telok Nipah and Kampung Pulau Sayak, which are also tourist attractions especially during the weekends.