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Shimmering blue waters edged by pristine sands, the sun shining strong and the wind in your hair – sounds like fun? Beaches are some of the best holiday destinations not just because they look picture-perfect. They’re utterly relaxing and compel you to forget your cares and live in the moment. Asia has a list of terrific beach destinations, each offering exactly what you would expect them to. Whether it’s an ultra-modern, cosmopolitan country like Singapore or one that’s long been known for its beach fun such as Pattaya – there’s a whole list to visit and explore. Come with us on a journey to find the best beach destinations and find out what more they have to offer. Tick them off one by one until you’ve checked everything on your bucket list!
1) Singapore
Highly urbanized Singapore is perfect for anyone who loves the vibrancy and energy of a bustling city. Restaurants and bars, terrific shopping districts and man-made wonders dominate. Together with cuisines drawn from various cultures, you have a melting pot of excitement and adventure. Explore the best it has to offer with our list of places and activities.
Best Beaches to Visit
Singapore may not have natural beaches but it more than makes up for it with its stunning artificial ones! It’s hard to imagine that they’re man-made because they’re so picturesque and look just like the real thing. Check out some of the most popular –
- Sentosa Beach
- Palawan Beach
- Punggol Beach
- Changi Beach
- Tanjong Beach
Recommendations for staying
Stay at This High Rise Apartment with Modern Amenities
This holiday home embodies what Singapore is to many – chic, modern and ideal for today’s travel savvy individual. It’s well-planned and close to attractions like VivoCity, Marina Bay and Chinatown. It’s located in a condo that offers plenty of facilities including a huge swimming pool and a gym.
Three bedrooms and a living room with sweeping views of the city, two bathrooms, a dining area and a kitchen make up the holiday home. Clean lines, a minimalistic design and a white color scheme keep everything looking wonderfully contemporary. Balconies provide a chance to take in the view and marvel at this urbanized city. Popular fast food joints and restaurants serving ethnic cuisines are located nearby so you have plenty of dining opportunities.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
There’s a lot to do in Singapore so much so that you’ll never get bored. However, some attractions are simply better than others and cannot be missed at any cost!
- Visiting Gardens by the Bay
- Seeing the city sights on the Singapore Flyer observation wheel
- Shopping at Orchard Road
- Spending time at Universal Studios Singapore
- Dining and bar-hopping at Clarke Quay
Best time to visit
February to April is the best time to visit Singapore although the weather is warm all-year round.
2) Panjim, Goa
Best Beaches to Visit
Goa is the ultimate beach destination in India. It mimics many of the beaches abroad with a laid-back vibe, water sports and cool hangout places where you can listen to music and have a drink. Most of the beaches near the capital of Panjim see a steady throng of visitors and you can expect a lively ambience and a mix of locals and tourists. These are some of the best –
- Dona Paula Beach
- Miramar Beach
- Candolim Beach
- Calangute Beach
- Bambolim Beach
Recommendations for Staying
Artsy Holiday Home Loaded With Character
Ally’s Arty Abode is a holiday home that embodies oodles of character and charisma. The eclectic décor lends a very interesting element and you’ll be drawn to examining and marveling the many items on display. Colorfully framed mirrors, vintage-looking mantelpieces and shelves lined with books reflect the tastes and love of the homeowner.
The holiday home is located in the heart of Panjim so you’ll be close to many attractions. Kala Academy and the art gallery Sunapanatra are also nearby. If you love a morning jog, there’s a joggers’ park you can head to.
The holiday home consists of two bedrooms with attached bathrooms, a living-cum-dining room and a kitchen. It can accommodate up to four guests so it’s perfect for a group of friends. Lounge zones have been set up in places where you can chill out, get in a little work or chat with your travel companions.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Visit Campal Gardens
- Scour the street markets
- Check out Fundacao Oriente art museum
- Visit Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church
- Catch an exhibition at Sunaparanta, Goa Centre for the Arts
Best time to visit
Goa is hot and humid for most of the year. November to early February are cool and pleasant.
3) Pattaya, Thailand
Pattaya is one of those places to visit if merrymaking is high on your list of to-dos. Sex tourism is huge here and there are scores of bars and parties that set the scene. Nevertheless, there’s little seediness left and it has become a top destination for all types of travellers including families.
Best Beaches to Visit
This is Pattaya, after all, and beaches galore. Sun, surf, sports and delicious food make them one of the best places to spend the days. What’s more, there are islands scattered close by so you can hop on a ferry and immerse yourself in their beach scene. Here are the top beaches on this side of Thailand –
- Pattaya Beach
- Naklua Beach
- Jomtien Beach
- Wong Amat Beach
- Ko Lan
- Dongtan Beach
Recommendations for Staying
Luxury Pool Villa with a Private Lake
There’s no better place to stay in Pattaya than at this luxurious villa set beside a lake. It’s spacious, beautifully designed and offers some of the best amenities you’ll find. The sprawling villa caters up to 10 guests in its five bedrooms. The contemporary kitchen is fitted with the latest appliances and also has a breakfast bar. A large living room with an entertainment system and huge windows looking out onto the garden and pool offer a comfortable space to unwind.
The two-storey villa is set in a landscaped garden with a lawn and tropical plants. A large infinity pool is available for use anytime of the day or night while a Jacuzzi at one end lets you pamper yourself thoroughly. The other end features a pagoda. An outdoor dining area downstairs and a lounge area on the first floor are set up in case you want to enjoy the cool night breeze.
That’s not all; bookings for three nights or more entitle you to a car that you can use for free!
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Visit Walking Street
- Visit the all-wooden Sanctuary of Truth
- Attend a cabaret show
- Get a Thai massage
- Check out the floating market in Jomtien
Best Time to Visit
The best time to holiday in Pattaya in from mid-November to early February.
4) Boracay, Philippines
The island of Boracay is a gorgeous slice of heaven with beaches and the vast sea creating a tempting setting for all things fun and exciting. It’s so picturesque that it’s even received awards! Despite being tiny, it packs everything a modern traveler would want. Bars and restaurants, shops, hotels, live music and water sports are just some of the things to watch for. There’s a whole lot more that you’ll discover.
Best Beaches to Visit
Expect some of the best beaches here. They personify everything you imagine dreamy beaches should be. From fine white sands to turquoise waters, here are the top picks –
- White Beach
- Bulabog Beach
- Ilig Iligan Beach
- Balinghai Beach
- Puka Beach
Recommendations for staying
Luxurious Den Pasar Boracay Beach Villa
Boracay offers plenty of accommodation choices to travelers but our favorite has to be this stunning beachfront villa. Bathed in luxury, it also boasts numerous amenities to make your holiday even more special.
The lavish villa comprises five bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, an Italian brick oven set outside and an open plan living room with views of the coast. Each room has been carefully designed so that you feel pampered and can sink into incredible comfort. The Balinese-inspired design gives you a taste of the capital in an Eden-like setting.
Outside, the tropical surrounding and infinity pool lure you to soak in the sun and enjoy the surf. You’ll be torn between exploring the outdoors and relaxing indoors!
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Go beach-hopping
- Try cliff-jumping
- Play water sports
- Check out the club scene
- Sample local food
Best Time to Visit
Boracay is great for visiting all-year round but is at its best from November to April.
5) Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok has much to offer visitors especially those looking for beach fun. Surfing spots are plenty here and you’ll spend most of your time on the coast. But despite the sand and the surf being the top attractions, the island’s interiors boast wonders in the form of the mighty Gunung Rinjani volcano. Trekking this stunning icon, summiting and seeing the island and ocean from above is one of the most rewarding experiences.
Best Beaches to Visit
Lombok has a mix of well-visited and secluded beaches. The latter is perfect for escaping the crowd but the former offers more in the way of amenities. Whichever your pick is, here’s our list of the best beaches.
- Tanjung Aan
- Selong Balanak
- Mawun Beach
- Pink Beach
Recommendations for Staying
Pool Villa Enclosed by Nature
Lombok’s gorgeous hillscape is spread out in all its glory at this chic pool villa. Dense tropical surroundings enclose the holiday home so that you feel cut off from the rest of the world. Whether you’re taking a swim in the infinity pool, lounging on the porch or relaxing in the pagoda, green is the main color scheme!
The villa features two bedrooms that sleep up to eight guests, en-suite bathrooms, a kitchen and a pretty viewing area on the top of the building. It’s a great place for engaging in some holiday photography and seeing the landscape in more detail. There’s also an outdoor shower with views of green all around.
The villa offers daily housekeeping and mopeds and cars for hire.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Trek Mount Rinjani and visit Air Kalak Hot Springs
- Visit nearby Gili Islands and go bar-hopping in the middle of the night
- Visit Pusuk Monkey Forest
- Hike to Benang Kelambu Waterfall
- Check out Gunung Tunak National Park
Best time to visit
The dry season is the best time to visit Lombok. It runs from May to October.
6) Maldives
Maldives is paradise on earth. This isn’t an exaggeration; it’s fact! Islands that were once uninhabited have now become thriving resorts that draw a steady flow of visitors eager to experience everything it has to offer. Hundreds of coral islands and lagoons create magnificent locales rich with adventure. Snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving are huge but there are other exciting things to do too as we reveal later.
Best Beaches to Visit
Resorts are set on individual islands and quite frankly, it’s difficult to pick the best one. They’re all stunning, as you’d expect, so it really boils down to personal choice. However, these beaches are hugely popular with many travelers –
- Lily Beach (Huvahendhoo Island, Ari Atoll)
- Kandolhu Island Beach
- Kurumba
- Hulhumale’ Beach (Kaafu Atoll)
- Bikini Beach (Rasdhoo Island)
Recommendations for staying
Private Residence on Baa Atoll
The Great Beach Villa Residence is one of the best places to stay in Maldives. It’s located on Baa Atoll, which consists of three glorious natural atolls. Baa Atoll is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and is incredibly rich in flora and fauna. Staying here means you get to see it up close!
The Great Beach Villa Residence is one of eight private residences and is the largest. The entire property comprises eight wonderful luxuriously designed bedrooms, a huge living room, fully functional kitchen and a dining room that seats 10. Step outside and there’s a large swimming pool with a deck featuring a comfortable seating area. You can dine outdoors too.
The holiday home makes sure guests are properly entertained by providing opportunities for water sports, land sports, spa and even a playground for kids.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Explore the reefs and marine life
- Go dolphin-watching
- Go island-hopping
- Visit the National Museum in Male
- Visit the Maldives Philatelic Museum in Male
Best time to visit
May to November is the best time to visit Maldives. The tourist season peaks from December to April.
7) Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa has some of the most beautiful places in Japan. The erstwhile Ryukyu Kingdom enjoys a tropical climate that serves to make it the perfect beach holiday destination. It’s easy to forget you’re in Japan and will feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. Yet, beaches aren’t the only attraction here. World Heritage castles and war memorials offer even more to explore.
Best Beaches to Visit
Okinawa has gorgeous beaches that you absolutely must visit. In fact, try to cover them all to see what each has to offer. From swimming to diving and snorkeling, there’s plenty to do!
- Okuma Beach
- Moon Beach
- Busena Beach
- Emerald Beach
- Toyosaki Chura SUN Beach
- Maehama Beach
- Sunayama Beach
- Yoshino Beach
Recommendations for Staying
Chilled-Out Holiday Home in Yomitan Son
This is a terrific place to stay during your time in Okinawa. The two-bedroom holiday home is located in the village of Yomitan Son and features two bedrooms that sleep six guests. An open plan living room provides a relaxing space to unwind at the end of the day while the compact kitchen has everything you need to cook. There’s a breakfast bar where meals can be enjoyed. A small seating area on the balcony offers a cozy spot for outdoor dining.
The neighbourhood is a residential area that has local cafes and restaurants. Step out and explore it anytime you crave a delicious Japanese meal or want to see the sights. You’ll love the calm vibe of the place and the friendly locals.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Visit the ruins of Nakagusuku Castle
- Visit Shuri Castle
- See spectacular views of the sea and sky from Cape Manza
- Have fun in Murasaki Mura
- Attend a pottery class
- Visit Ryukyu Glass Village
- Go island-hopping
Best Time to Visit
March to April and October to December are the best times to visit Okinawa.
8) El Nido, Palawan
Probably one of the most picturesque destinations in the Philippines, El Nido on Palawan island boasts some of the most stunning scenery from tall limestone cliffs to clear waters. Much of your time will be spent swimming and exploring the marine life and walking the hiking trails leading up to rocky peaks. Head to the town and you’ll find restaurants, bars and shops. Don’t expect much nightlife but you can try to catch full moon parties that are held during the full moon.
Best Beaches to Visit
El Nido’s beaches are located a short distance from town so you can go back and forth without wasting time. Their amazing beauty is a big draw so you can expect to see tourists eager to immerse themselves in it. While they can get a little crowded, they lose none of their allure!
- Marimegmeg Beach
- Nacpan and Calitang
- Papaya Beach
- Seven Commandos Beach
- Pinagbuyutan Island
Recommendations for Staying
Wonderful Beachfront Cauayan Resort
Picture-perfect is what describes Cauayan Resort. The villas exude elegance and style and envelop you in comfort. Views of the sea, lake and garden add to the idyllic setting and all you need to do is gaze out and feel your senses revive.
The villas are set right on the shore. Each features one bedroom with sea views and an en-suite bathroom. A spacious lounge area allows for socializing while outdoor dining facilities let you enjoy meals with the sea stretching out before you.
The resort provides amenities such as equipment for snorkeling, kayaking and trekking, an infinity pool, gym and massage therapies. Roundtrip van and boat transfers are also available.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Explore the hiking trails of Taraw Peak and Nagkalit-Kalit Falls
- Visit Ille Caves
- Explore Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon
- Go island-hopping
Best Time to Visit
November to May is the best time to visit El Nido.
9) Phuket, Thailand
Phuket has to be one of the most visited islands in Thailand and for good reason. The rain-forested region is home to spectacular beaches and seaside resorts. As you move into Phuket City, the scene comes alive with upscale nightclubs, bars, shopping centers and spas. This mix of natural beauty and vibrant city life make it one of the most interesting beach destinations.
Best Beaches to Visit
There are numerous beaches in Phuket and all seem as attractive as the next. But the best are those that offer a little solitude without sacrificing modern comforts. Here is our list of the top beaches –
- Surin Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Patong Beach
- Freedom Beach
- Kata Beach
- Kamala Beach
- Mai Khao Beach
Recommendations for Staying
Pool Villa in a Jungle Setting
Situated in Kathu, this pretty three-bedroom villa offers beautiful views of the jungle and zip lining facility nearby. The bedrooms open onto the swimming pool for instant access to a leisurely dip. A modern fully equipped kitchen with a dining area creates a cozy setting for meals. Outside, sunbeds frame one side of the pool while the rest are surrounded by dense greenery.
What sets the villa apart is its location. It’s perched on top of a hill so that green is everywhere you look. The secluded location means you’re well away from throngs of tourists and can really appreciate the surroundings.
Best Experiences to Indulge In
- Go beach- and island-hopping
- Explore Bangla Road at night
- Check out the night market
- Catch the FantaSea Show
- See the Big Buddha
- Visit Phuket Trickeye Museum
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Phuket is from November to April.
10) Colombo, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s bustling capital is every bit the city you think it is. It’s vibrant, energetic and full of life. Colonial buildings whisper of its past while upscale stores and restaurants introduce you to its modern persona. The cosmopolitan fabric of this culturally rich city make it a favorite among travelers looking to experience various flavors.
Best Beaches to Visit
Head out of the capital and there are wonderful beaches to explore. Keep in mind that you do have to travel a ways to find the best ones like these below –
- Beruwala and Bentota
- Hikkaduwa
- Unawatuna
- Weligama
- Induruwa
- Koggala
Recommendations for Staying
Urban King Suite at Villa Raha
Villa Raha is a luxurious holiday home that guarantees to make your Sri Lankan holiday unforgettable. It’s centrally located so that you’re close to modern conveniences but quiet enough that you enjoy a relaxing stay.
The Urban King Suite is one of the best rooms in Villa Raha. The décor is contemporary and striking with a black color scheme and earthy accents. Contrasted with white linen and beige upholstery, the result is tasteful contemporary interiors with hints of luxury.
The villa provides access to a pool, garden and reading lounge. Breakfast can be arranged at a charge and consists of sumptuous Sri Lankan, vegetarian and continental cuisine.
Best Experiences to Indulge in
- Visit the National Museum
- Explore Viharamahadevi Park
- Visit the Dutch Period Museum
- Spend time at Galle Road
- Visit Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
- Visit the planetarium
Best Time to Visit
January to March and November to December are the ideal times to visit Colombo.
