12 Most Beautiful Beaches in Southeast Asia That Will Make You Book Your Ticket ASAP
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Having spent the last three months traveling around Southeast Asia, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit some of the best beaches in the world. From the crystal-clear waters of Thailand to the hidden coves of the Philippines, this corner of the globe is chock-full of beach paradises just waiting to be discovered.
But with so many options, it can be difficult to decide which beaches to tick off on your next trip. To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. These selections go beyond the typical tourist spots, highlighting hidden gems and must-see locations that promise an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re looking for a serene getaway, an adventure-filled day, or a place to kick back and relax, these beaches offer something for everyone. So grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the most stunning shores Southeast Asia has to offer!
1. White Beach, Boracay, Philippines
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Boracay’s White Beach personifies a tropical paradise: 2.5 miles of powder-white sand bathed by crystal clear waters. Often named one of the best beaches in the world, this spot should definitely be part of your Southeast Asia travel wishlist. Lined with palm trees and home to stunning sunsets and sunrises, White Beach is the perfect spot to get some beautiful photos.
White Beach is divided into three stations, each offering a unique vibe. At Station 1, you’ll find plenty of high-end resorts and shallow water, ideal for swimming. Station 2 is where the hustle and bustle can be found, with plenty of shops and nightlife options. Finally, Station 3 is the more chilled area, with fewer crowds and a mix of budget accommodations.
Read also: Top Exotic Beach Destinations
2. Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand
Railay Beach has a special allure to it. Found in Krabi, Thailand, the beach can only be accessed via boat and is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, giving off a secluded, ‘escape from the world’ kind of atmosphere. Even though it has grown in popularity over the years, it has managed to maintain its pristine beauty, with clear turquoise waters and beautiful surrounding areas.
Split into two sections: East Railay and West Railey, the latter is where most people choose to visit due to the dense mangroves that make swimming difficult on the eastern side. The beach is famous for rock climbing, with routes catering to beginners and experienced climbers. Other popular activities include kayaking, snorkeling, and caving. If you just want to unwind, its soft sands are perfect for a lazy afternoon snooze.
Read also: Best Hidden Beaches in the World
3. Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Thailand
Made famous by a young Leonardo DiCaprio and the 2000 adventure-hit, ‘The Beach,’ Maya Bay is an iconic destination that attracts visitors from around the world. Found within the beautiful island of Koh Phi Phi Leh, the bay is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and features soft white sand and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Unfortunately, the fame that came with The Beach brought a dark side to this beautiful region of the world—overtourism. In 2018, Thai Authorities closed Maya Bay due to the extensive environmental damage caused by up to 5,000 visitors a day. Fear not, however. In 2022, the bay was reopened and now has strict regulations to protect its natural beauty. You can rest easy knowing your entry money (around $11) is going to an important conservation cause.
Read also: Top Tropical Destinations Across The World
4. El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
El Nido, a municipality on the Philippine island of Palawan, looks like something straight out of James Cameron’s Avatar. Its turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches put it high up there on the list of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia.
There are tons of activities to enjoy here, from island-hopping tours that take you to the most remote beaches and secluded lagoons to snorkeling in coral-rich spots. We recommend heading to the Bacuit Bay Archipelago for its world-famous diving spots and the largest marine sanctuary in the Philippines.
Read also: Stunning Beaches in the World
5. Sihanoukville Beaches, Cambodia
Sihanoukville is in the south of Cambodia and lays claim to some of the nation’s finest, yet undiscovered set of beaches. Starting its life as a quiet coastal town, Sihanoukville has become one of the best hubs for beach lovers and people desiring a combination of chill and party scenes.
If you’re looking for a quieter spot to relax and unwind, Otres Beach is known for its calmer atmosphere away from the crowds. If partying is on the agenda, Srependipty Beach, Ochheuteal Beach, and Victory Beach are your best for a good night out. For activity options, you can choose from kayaking, snorkeling, and island hopping to nearby Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
Read also: Best Beach Destinations Each Month
6. Long Beach, Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Long Beach, located on the island of Phu Quoc, is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and serene beaches. Stretching over 12 miles, Long Beach is known for its soft golden sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets. The beach is lined with coconut palms and offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist destinations.
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Long Beach is a perfect place to either relax, swim, or participate in water activities like kayaking and snorkeling. Beachfront restaurants and bars, where you can have your seafood and cocktails fresh with the view, are also available at the beach.
Read also: Amazing Tropical Beaches
7. An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam
An Bang Beach is quiet, beautiful, and just 3 miles away from the ancient town of Hoi An. It is favored by both foreign and local visitors due to its white sand, shallow waves, and especially peaceful atmosphere.
The beach offers up plenty of fun, from swimming, sunbathing, and a good surf during the right season. Seafood restaurants and cafés line the beach, where you can enjoy fresh local dishes while taking in the ocean view. During your visit, it’s well worth making the short journey to Hoi An in the evening to catch a glimpse of its beautiful lanterns lighting up the old town.
Read also: Budget-Friendly Beach Destinations Around the World
8. Tanjung Rhu Beach, Langkawi, Malaysia
Tanjung Rhu Beach is one of the most beautiful, pristine, and quiet beaches on Langkawi Island, known for its fine, white sands, clear blue waters, and serene atmosphere. Located at the northernmost tip of Langkawi Island, it’s a little more secluded than other beaches in Malaysia, so is the perfect place to get away from the crowds.
An ideal spot for some swimming, sunbathing, or generally taking in its natural beauty, you’ll want to wake up early during your visit to catch the sunrise here. If you’re looking to experience the high life on your trip, you’ll find plenty of luxury resorts around Tanjung Rhu Beach, including the 5* Four Seasons Resort Langkawi.
Read also: Awesome White Sand Beaches
9. Pink Beach, Komodo Island, Indonesia
With only a handful of them in the world, Indonesia’s Komodo Island is home to a famous pink-sanded beach. Named, you guessed it, Pink Beach, it is one of the most surreal yet beautiful beaches you’ll find on any continent.
It gets its unique hue from the color-causing microscopic organisms known as foraminifera, which produce a reddish pigment on the white sands. Not only beautiful, the Pink Beach offers good snorkeling and diving possibilities, with impressive coral coverage and plenty of beautiful marine life to spot. The beach is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Komodo National Park, so it’s well worth exploring other areas of the park such as Padar and Rinca Islands.
Read also: Incredible Underwater Experiences
10. Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, Malaysia
We’re back in Malaysia and Langkawi with pick number 11 to visit Pantai Cenang. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, wide stretch of soft sand, and stunning blue waters. It has it all and is, therefore, a favorite destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
During the day, swimmers, sunbathers, and watersport aficionados dominate the beautiful beach, while the evenings bring drinks, good food, and great company. Sat on the east coast of the island of Langkawi, sunrises at Pantai Cenang are really something else and worth the early rise to catch them.
Read also: Most Beautiful Beaches Worldwide
11. Ao Nang Beach, Krabi, Thailand
Ao Nang Beach is one of the most famous destinations in Krabi. It is known for its lively atmosphere, stunning views, and proximity to beautiful islands such as Ko Phi Phi Lee and Ko Lanta. With its long stretch of golden sand, clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs as a backdrop, as well as plenty of accommodation options, Ao Nang Beach is a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit here, as most of the activities involve taking a dip, whether it’s snorkeling, boat tours, or kayaking. After a day out in the sun, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to relax and re-energize for another day of adventure in this little slice of heaven.
Read also: Secluded Beaches Worldwide
12. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
To round off the list, we’re finishing off with yet another coastal paradise found in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands. Divided into two main islands, Perhentian Besar (Greater Perhentian) and Perhentian Kecil (Lesser Perhentian), these two offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Perhentian Kecil is popular among backpackers for its affordable accommodations and lively atmosphere, while Perhentian Besar caters to those seeking a more peaceful and family-friendly environment. Both islands are ideal for snorkeling, diving, and swimming, with abundant marine life just a short swim from the shore.
Read also: Sun-Kissed Exotic Beaches
