We've been to the Caribbean, and Americas, across Europe and on the beaches of Africa (we wish!). In our fifth and final part of our beach getaways, we are taking you to the top ten beaches of Asia.
Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand
Chaweng Beach is one of Koh Samui’s most popular resort areas. The 5km stretch boasts white sandy beaches, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling or simply relaxing on the beach. Located on the north-eastern tip of the island, it stretches south to the scenic Coral Cove.
Kuta Beach – Lombok, Indonesia
Not the main beach in Lombok, but the peaceful stretch of sand that you need to take a motorbike to reach. Pass by some small villages, dodge water buffalos and enjoy the rice paddies along the way. You’ll end up at a very quiet, very beautiful cove with clear waters and white sands.
Haad Rin Beach – Koh Phangan, Thailand
We hear that this has to be one of the best beaches in Asia. The water is crystal clear, the sand is white and the vibe here is fun fun fun.During the Full Moon Party, this place is packed, but outside of that time, you will have the beach almost to yourself. Grab a beer, a book and a frisbee and enjoy a day at this gorgeous beach.
Perhentian Kecil – Malaysia
There are two Perhentian islands but we would definitely advise checking out Pulau Perhentian Kecil; the funky island with clear waters and sandy shores. Boasting some good beach bars that become a lively hot spot in the evenings while during the day you have volleyball nets and a cool backpacker vibe flowing.
Looking for something a little bit more luxe then visit the bigger of the island Pulau Perhentian Besar which offers in the best in quiet and calm relaxing beaches. Visit between the months of June and October, the only time there is life and that anything is relatively open on these islands.
Koh Rong – Cambodia
The sand on Koh Rong is as white as it gets and the water is crystal clear with a turquoise glow that makes it hard to take your eyes off of it! The beach stretches on for 8 kilometers and dips down into the sea at a gradient perfect for swimming. There’s not a rock or piece of seaweed in sight and the water is a perfect temperature. In our opinion, this ranks at the top of the best beaches in Asia.
Unawatuna Beach – Sri Lanka
This cove of blue water is heaven. Depending on the time of year, the waters can be wavy - perfect for boogie boarding or surfing - or completely calm ideal for relaxing and floating. It has to be said that this beach is quiet but there are a few restaurants and guesthouses and a beautiful temple at the far end to keep you entertained if you need a slight change of scenery, or just a little bit more going on than just chilling out
El Nido – Philippines
The islands around tiny El Nido are gorgeous; the beach has everything one might be looking for and then some. On top of the sandy shores and crystal-clear blue waters, visitors to Palawan in the western Philippines can also explore waterfalls, prehistoric caves and admire some 50 species of coral.
The lagoons and limestone formations create a breathtaking backdrop to a relaxing break. Oh and did we mention that this is just the perfect for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing. Spend the night on one of the neighbouring deserted islands, sleeping under a mosquito net and living like a castaway for a couple of days for the ultimate beach getaway.
Phra Nang Beach – Railay, Thailand
Thailand really has its beautiful beaches in abundance. From the limestone karsts to the gorgeous caves you can swim through to rock climbing that can be done, you’ll be spoilt for choice for what to do on this beach. Whether you’re looking to take some artsy pictures to just having a good time and maybe a picnic Phra Nang Beach carters to all.
Palolem Beach, Goa, India
Palolem Beach in south Goa is a picture-perfect, semicircle beach flanked by coconut palms on one side and the glistening blue sea on the other, who said the coconut palm tree could only be found in the Caribbean? Fun fact; the beach provided the setting for the opening scenes of the 2004 film The Bourne Supremacy.
Maluk Beach – Sumbawa, Indonesia
If you love getting away from everyone and everything then Maluk Beach is exactly where you need to be. Sumbawa is an off the beaten path island in Indonesia. Typically known for its excellent surfing! But worry not the beach isn’t all about surfing; come here and if you’re looking for peace and quiet and stunning views as the beach tends to be relatively quiet and calm – minus the surfers every now and then.
