Many of the world’s finest beaches are located in Asia which is the largest continent in the world according to Countryaah. The continent’s many coasts offer tremendous opportunities to spend a relaxing beach vacation on fine white sand beaches by the turquoise or emerald green waters. The palm trees that line the beaches make the landscape green and provide protection when children play in the sand.
We’ve put together less than seven tips for stunning beaches to get to enjoy on your trip to East or Southeast Asia.
1. Sanur, Bali – quiet and child friendly
The Indonesian island of Bali is a real paradise on earth.
The long coastline of Sanur borders the southeastern part of the island for as much as eight kilometers. The trip accommodates several stunning sandy beaches, collectively known as Sanur.
The beaches are calm and child-friendly thanks to the coral reefs that surround them. The beaches attract a lot of tourists, but nevertheless Sanur is known as a peaceful destination with space for everyone and lots of opportunities for your own peace. The best beaches are located in the southern part of the coast.
If you want a variation of beach lounging, you can take a day trip to the city to explore Balinese culture.
You can combine a beach holiday in Sanuri with a tour of Bali, Java or Sumatra.
2. Mirissa, Sri Lanka – picturesque sunsets
On a tour of the fabulously beautiful Sri Lanka, you can relax on many of the finer beaches.
Located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, Mirissa Postcard Beach is known for its light sand, swaying palm trees and blue water. The magnificent sandy beach looks almost deserted as the hotels are further away from the beach. The lack of hotels creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Mirissa is located just 200 km from the equator and is especially suitable for those who like a peaceful and quiet holiday. The loudest ice is made by the glistening ice in your Pina colada glass!
Mirissa is at its most beautiful at dawn and sunset.
Miri is also known for her whale safaris. On the whale safari you can spot a wide variety of fascinating sea animals from dolphins to the world’s largest whale, the blue whale. The high season for whale safaris is between October and April.
3. Koh Hai, Thailand – first class relaxation
Thailand is a mecca for paradise islands and beaches.
Koh Hai Beach, also known as Koh Ngai, is the perfect stage for a sun holiday with Thai island hopping. Crystal clear water, beautiful corals, lush palm trees and soft white sand create a wonderful setting for leisurely beach days. The idyllic sandy beach offers first class relaxation on an island where time has come to a standstill and nothing is in a hurry. Koh Hai is simply a little paradise.
The view from the sun lounger is classical Thai. Long-tailed boats float on the water’s edge, a light wind makes the palm leaves sway and the sparkling sea water invites you to swim.
There is no traffic, stress or hurry on the island – just time and a nice time together.
However, if you want more activity, the beautiful coral reefs are perfect destinations for a diving or snorkeling trip. You can also go hiking in the jungle and climb the vantage point to enjoy the magnificent sea views.
4. Hoi An, Vietnam – authentic experiences
Much of Vietnam is coastal, and a trip to Vietnam offers many opportunities for a relaxed beach life.
An Bang Beach in Hoi An represents authentic Vietnam. Vietnam has developed by leaps and bounds, but An Bang has hardly changed over the years. The soft and white sands of the beach are nice to relax and recharge your batteries for your next trip to the small streets of Hoi An.
An Bang also offers a wide range of beach activities. For example, you can surf, try paddling or just swim in the wonderfully clear water.
If you live in Hoi An, you can rent a bicycle from your hotel and ride it to the beach. If you drive along Hai Ba Trung Road and pass fields and wetlands, you can happily see a buffalo!
5. Tiger Beach, Okinawa, Japan – a quiet and pristine paradise beach
Few come to mind first when it comes to a trip to Japan. However, Japan offers huge opportunities for a sunny beach vacation. One example is the picturesque island of Okinawa, located southwest of the main island of Japan.
Located in Okinawa, Tiger Beach is a scenic beach with white sand embraced by emerald green water.
Yet the relatively pristine and well-maintained sandy beach is a great place to relax and recharge your batteries.
There is also a wide range of activities on the beach, including sunset cruises and snorkelling trips. If you prefer to stay dry, you can admire colorful fish from the glass bottom boat without the risk of getting wet!
6. Ngapali, Myanmar – a piece of paradise
Ngapal’s three-kilometer-long sandy beach is located on the west coast of Myanmar in the Bay of Bengal. Ngapali is Myanmar’s most popular beach resort and a great place to relax for a few days at the end of an exciting Myanmar trip.
Like Myanmar in general, Ngapali is still relatively unspoilt and offers authentic experiences in a relaxed environment.
Take a dip in the stunning turquoise water or take a stroll along the palm-lined sandy beach.
Ngapali is an old fishing village. Even today, local fishermen sail from shore to sea to catch their catch. That’s why you should try fish and seafood dishes at local restaurants, which are always sure to be fresh and delicious.
In 2017, Ngapal was awarded the Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Award as the third best beach in Asia.
7. Gili Trawangan, Indonesia – the wonderland of beach life
If you dream of chalk-white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and enchantingly beautiful sunsets, the Gili Islands are for you.
Gili Trawangan is perfect for those who like to go easy. Namely, vehicles are not allowed on the island, so the visitor is forced to slow down. Instead of cars, the island is reached on foot, by bicycle or in the traditional way by horse-drawn carriages.
If you want a variation of beach lounging, you can go diving or snorkelling. The island is surrounded by incredibly beautiful coral reefs, so Gil can rightly be said to be a paradise both above and below sea level. The best snorkeling spots can be found on North Beach.
