It’s very simple: when you think of beautiful beaches, you think of Asia. “Best beaches” is pretty much synonymous with a summer vacation along the picturesque white sand beaches in Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia…the list of countries can go on and on. What we’re really trying to say is, you’re pretty much spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches in southeast Asia. Whilst this means you will always have a reason to go back and explore a new place, choosing that place might be a chore.
So, without further ado, let us name for you the top ten beaches in southeast Asia below (and if you’ve got a suggestion to add, we’d love to hear it in the comment section!).
- Bai Dai Beach (Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam)
- Havelock Island (Andaman Islands, India)
- Sipadan (Malaysia)
- White Beach (Boracay, Philippines)
- Phra Nang Beach (Rai Leh, Thailand)
- Tioman Island (Malaysia)
- Thong Nai Pan Beach (Koh Phangan, Thailand)
- Parai Tenggiri (Palau Bangka, Indonesia)
- Long Set Beach (Koh Rong, Cambodia)
- Siargao Island (Philippines)
1. Bai Dai Beach (Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam)
Phu Quoc in Vietnam is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the entire country, and Bai Dai Beach might be the crown jewel of them all. It’s still relatively uncrowded, so you can expect to head here and be able to find quiet time to just relax by the beach and soak in the sunshine. During sunset, it rivals that of many of the popular beaches from Thailand and Malaysia – without the noise. There are also certain activities you can do here too, such as kayaking, fishing, and diving.
Resort – Vinpearl Resort and Spa Phu Quoc
Literally a stone throw away from Bai Dai Beach sits the Vinpearl Resort and Spa, and it’s simply magnificent. Before we even begin, may we add that it offers a complimentary roundtrip to the airport, a complimentary shuttle bus to Duong Dong town, complimentary Jacuzzi service, and complimentary minibar for first time usage. I mean, do we really need to go on?
This five-star resort has got everything you need, and it will deliver it to the palm of your hand. Boasting a stunning outdoor pool and private beach area, with modern and clean accommodation rooms, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and centrally located between various attractions, Vinpearl Resort & Spa is your one stop shop for pretty much everything. There’s even a karaoke room onsite!
Why Guests Love It: This resort pretty much has everything that you need for the perfect holiday. If you’re looking to visit the zoo safari and the water park, then this is the prime position for you to head to both (they’re highly recommend as well, by the way). Whilst you may not be able to comfortably communicate in English, the staff will go out of their way to make your stay as comfortable as possible, and resolve any issues as quickly as possible. Let’s not forget the fantastic food available at the restaurant as well!
Book It Now: Vinpearl Resort and Spa
By the way, you can get more info about travelling to Vietnam here: Vietnam Travel Blog.
2. Havelock Island (Andaman Islands, India)
This island is home to multiple small beaches that pack a punch. Whilst the Andaman Islands are one of the most prominent visited places whilst in India, the numbers are nowhere near the crowds in neighboring southeast Asian countries.
Havelock Island is the idyllic, picturesque island that you can imagine simply sleeping the afternoon away on. It’s that island that you can close your eyes and imagine just how gentle the wind is, how salty the air is, and how the soft lull of the waves can just put you to sleep in an instant.
Resort – Sea Shell Havelock
To accompany your trip to the perfect beach, we recommend staying at Sea Shell Havelock, the tropical island accommodation that you’ll fall in love with the moment you lay your eyes on it.
Think of rustic wooden bungalows with balconies that open up to the summer air and tropical palm trees. Imagine swimming pools and spas situated right in the middle of the resort, just minutes away from the beach itself, so really, you’re spoilt for choice. Onsite restaurants and bars means you won’t really ever have to leave (until you checkout of course!)
Why Guests Love It: It’s located right near the jetty, so you don’t have to worry about the commute. If you’re looking for accommodation that caters for big groups or families, this may be it, as it offers all the facilities you’ll need right onsite. It’s close to beaches that you can easily visit, and you can bet that you’ll retire from the day back at to clean, well maintained bungalow.
Book It Now: Sea Shell Havelock
3. Sipadan (Malaysia)
Divers, rejoice, for there is an island that is perfect for you. Sipadan Island is known for its stunning waters and extremely accommodating diving and snorkeling conditions. Its marine life and coral habitat is almost second-to-none in the world, so you can bet that there’ll be all sorts of sights to see down below.
From the island itself you can get just as much enjoyment from the gorgeous aqua waters and gentle waves of the ocean. If you’re looking to dive, please note that only 120 diver permits are allowed every day to converse the area.
Resort – Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort
This resort is like something out of a travel magazine. From the almost-blinding clear white sand, to the bright green palm trees of the island, it’s the ultimate destination for people who just want to escape to a resort where time simply stops and you can leave your worries back on the ferry that dropped you off. Dive, swim, sunbake, or do all three, because you can. It is here that you still likely witness the best sunset you’ll ever see in your life. The sky will literally be painted pink, red and orange as it’s setting all around you.
Why Guests Love It: It’s like paradise, and most guests just don’t want to leave. The highlight of the trip for many people would be seeing the turtles around the island. Come and stay here if you just want a carefree, relaxing holiday with memories to stay for years to come.
Book It Now: Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort
Read here our full list of amazing Malaysian Islands.
4. White Beach (Boracay, Philippines)
White Beach Boracay does indeed boast white sand. Its laidback atmosphere is what really sets it apart from the other crowded popular beaches, however, it’s beauty has been compared to that of the Caribbean. Whilst you can simply be idle with your time here and lay in the sun napping all day, you can also participate in water sports such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and even horseback riding!
Resort – Lalaguna Villas Luxury Dive Resort and Spa
Relax by the stunning outdoor swimming pool all day, and retire back to your larger-than-average room to get a restful sleep before exploring the beaches the next day. Lalaguna Villas is one of the most popular resorts near White Beach, and for good reason.
Here, you’ll get to meet some of the best dive instructors of the island. The rooms are all equipped with modern facilities and amenities, flat screen TVs, and to top if all off, the thread-count of the linen here is very high.
Why Guests Love It: To find this much leisure here was quote surprising to some guests, but in the best possible way. Their stay here was extraordinarily memorable because of how relaxed the vibe was, how comfortable and accommodating the staff made them feel, and how fantastic and knowledgeable the diving crew were.
Book It Now: Lalaguna Villas Luxury Dive Resort and Spa
Looking for more beautiful beaches in the Philippines? Check this blog post: Best beaches in the Philippines.
5. Phra Nang Beach (Rai Leh, Thailand)
How can we have a list of best southeast Asia beaches without mentioning the idyllic Phra Nang Beach of Thailand? This gem has been a discovered crowd-pleaser for years now, but that doesn’t stop it from being able to draw double-takes at its worst, and being absolutely breathtaking at its best.
The beach offers unobstructed sweeping views of the peninsula or Rai Leh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, head out to the cliffs nearby for some epic rock jumping!
Resort – Railay Princess Resort & Spa
Situated only minutes away from Phra Nang Beach, this 4-star resort is an absolute dream. It offers not one but two outdoor swimming pools with some fantastic views, a well-equipped fitness center, an onsite spa where you can opt to get a relaxing Thai massage, an onsite restaurant serving up delicious authentic Thai cuisine, and even a kid’s club for the families that just want a bit of down time.
Why Guests Love It: The location of this resort is just perfect because it’s not hard to get to, nor is it far away from some of the best attractions. It’s clean, it’s well-serviced, and offers fantastic views from the rooms all the way to the pools. It’s recommended for families and couples.
Book It Now: Railay Princess Resort & Spa
Read more about Thailand here: Best places to visit in Thailand.
6. Tioman Island (Malaysia)
Also known as Pulau Tioman, it’s a beach destination that’s mostly known amongst Malaysians and Singaporeans, however, it’s beauty needs to be recognized worldwide. It’s an island that’s not mainstream enough to draw massive crowds, but at the same time it does have quite a rep amongst domestic tourists.
Here, you’ll be able to spend your time lazing about if you want a leisurely vacation, however, do a day trip around the coast and visit the several villages dotted there to immerse yourself in the culture, or spend a day with the sea turtles if you’re itching for something unique.
Resort – Berjaya Tioman Resort
Located right up close to the beach, this resort is perfect for those after an accommodation that ticks all the boxes – so much so that they might not even have to ever leave the grounds.
The Berjaya Tioman Resort boasts a gorgeous outdoor pool, an 18-hole gold course that overlooks the sea and the surrounding forest, spacious Malaysian-style chalets with incredible views, and two onsite restaurants to choose from. There’s also a well-equipped fitness center as well as a spa center.
Why Guests Love It: Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. For a resort as accommodating as it is aesthetic, this is the place to be apparently! It’s traditional architecture blends in perfectly with the nature surrounding it, so you’ll feel relaxed the entire time you’re there. If you’re looking for a jazzy night, head to the bar for live entertainment and some delicious drinks.
Book It Now: Berjaya Tioman Resort
More travel tips about Malaysia are available here: Malaysia Travel Guide.
7. Thong Nai Pan Beach (Koh Phangan, Thailand)
Koh Phangan is the type of island that you see as people’s desktop backgrounds. With a rep like this, it’s hard to pick the best beach here, but if we had to, Thong Nai Pan Beach is definitely one of the top rated ones. It’s extremely popular for its white sand and stunning blue water.
It’s a great place to relax in the sand, but it’s also offers the opportunity to snorkel and dive as well. However, it’s main attractor factor may be that it’s got a smattering of beautiful palm trees lining up near the coast, creating the perfect picture opportunity.
Resort – Panviman Koh Phangan
Panviman Koh Phangan is seriously world class. It’s dreamy yet jaw-dropping at the same time, and it absolutely demands your time if you’re visiting Koh Phangan. It boasts access to a gorgeous private beach, but if we’re being honest here, your time will probably be spent in the infinity pool and hilltop spa which overlook the island and are the prime spots for catching the sunrise and sunset. Everything here is luxury, so if you’re looking to ball out, then here’s your chance.
Why Guests Love It: Location, perfect. Design, beautiful. Staff, friendly and helpful. Views, out of this world. What can we say, past guests have been left speechless by just how accommodating this resort is.
Book It Now: Panviman Koh Phangan
8. Parai Tenggiri (Palau Bangka, Indonesia)
This exotic beach is the pride and joy of Bangka Island. Whilst its views are quite breathtaking during the day, it’s not completely unobstructed. Rather, the varying boulders along the coast of the beach adds to its unique characteristics and beauty – it’s something you don’t see very often along beaches in southeast Asia.
This beach is truly one where anyone can just relax and not have to worry about sounds of motorboats jerking them awake at random times of the day. It’s got a slow vibe that calms even the most frantic of travelers.
Resort – Parai Beach Resort & Spa
This resort actually looks over at Parai Tenggiri! The beach is literally right at your doorstep – it can’t get much better than that. If you’re not spending time at the beach, you can take advantage of the outdoor pool, the spa, and participate in the water sports activities hosted by the resort. Book in a massage after a long day of sunbaking.
Why Guests Love It: The rooms at this resort are kept immaculate, and after a long day under the hot humid sun, what else would you want to do besides head back to your cool, air-conditioned clean room and relax?
Book It Now: Parai Beach Resort & Spa
9. Long Set Beach (Koh Rong, Cambodia)
Long Set Beach may be one of the most unassuming beaches on this list. Koh Rong has long been a popular beach destination for those visiting Cambodia, however, Long Set Beach has still (somehow) remained out of the grasp of the crowds, although by the looks of it, it won’t be too long now.
It’s located in the southernmost cove of the island. The white sand of the beach is soft and forgiving, and the gentle lull of the waters can put a giant to sleep. Spend your days here sunbaking, crabbing, and collecting sea shells. At night, make sure you keep an eye out on the ocean for the illuminating of the planktons in the water!
Resort – Long Set Resort
Long Set Resort is a top pick across all the accommodation on Koh Rong Island…that’s saying something. All of its rooms feature breathtaking views of either the ocean or overlooking the pool, whilst others host private bathrooms with its very own hot tub. The onsite restaurant does amazing Asian and Western cuisine, and you can organize to do water activities right at the hotel, including island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. Not into water spots? Not a problem! Hire a pushbike or a motorbike and zip your way around the island to explore on your own terms!
Why Guests Love It: The highlights of some guests include the food! Move over island restaurants, the Long Set Restaurant & Bar is here to compete. Otherwise, the beauty of this resort is something most people enjoyed immensely, as is swimming pool.
Book It Now: Long Set Resort
More info about Cambodia here: Cambodia Travel Blog.
10. Siargao Island (Philippines)
Located on the much less touristy east side of the Philippines, Siargao Island is a little pocket rocket that doesn’t turn up on search results often, and that is a good thing.
This stunning white sand beach is breathtaking, and if you’re looking for a beach where you can take advantage of epic waves to go surfing, find a nice quiet spot to go swimming, and hire a van to drive around the island to explore its hidden gems such as the Magpupungko rock pool (pro tip: this epic area is full of fun jumping spots but the rocks at the bottom tend to be sharp so wear some shoes, make sure the tide is low, and spend the afternoon bombing the waters), the Tayangban Cave pool, and the Coconut Palm Forest.
If you’re down for some more island hopping after hopping onto this island, remember to include Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island to your list.
Resort – Isla Cabana Resort
Located at General Luna, this resort is often booked out, and for good reason. Boasting a private beach area only accessible to guests, the Isla Cabana Resort is one your summer vacation daydreams are made of. It features a gorgeous outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a sun terrace which overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
It’s decked out with gorgeous wooden flooring, and each villa comes equipped with an en-suite bathroom, free toiletries, and flat screen TV. Free Wi-Fi is available at all public areas. Indulge in a massage and spa treatment at the Cabana Spa.
Why Guests Love It: This is one of the best resorts on the island due to its amazingly convenient location, attentive staff, gorgeous pool and accompanying pool bar, and overall comfortable vibe of the entire resort.
Book It Now: Isla Cabana Resort
For more travel tips about the Philippines, check this out: Philippines Travel Blog.
Well, here’s our extensive (but hopefully not exhausting!) list of the best beaches in southeast Asia. Some you probably would have heard of, some might be new additions for you to add to your ‘to visit’ list, but all, we assure you, are worth the time to explore. The crowds at some of these places might be something you’re keen to avoid, but if you can look pass that, the unique beauty of these stunning beaches is second to none, and you’ll be glad you made that effort.
PS: We didn’t mention them but they are also amazing beaches in Myanmar so make sure you also read this blog post for more information: Best beaches in Myanmar.