Famous for turquoise waters teeming with exotic marine life, endless stretches of beautiful beaches, hidden lagoons, and swoon-worthy island sunsets, Southeast Asia is a tropical paradise seeker’s dream destination. Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines lure with incredible landscape and culture infused in their beach experiences—and coconuts galore, too.
From secluded coves and family-friendly sea swimming to watersport opportunities and lively atmospheres, there’s a stretch of sand for every kind of beachgoer in Southeast Asia.
These are some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia just waiting to be discovered.
Nha Trang Beach in Nha Trang, Vietnam
Nha Trang Beach, Vietnam
Nha Trang Beach stretches over 3.5 miles long with hotels and restaurants opposite the sand and sea. Amenities like lounge chairs and umbrella rentals are available, as well as the famous oceanside promenade where you can stroll, shop for Vietnamese souvenirs, indulge in a spa treatment, or just enjoy a drink with the sea breeze.
For an easily accessible beach, this one just requires a hop and a skip across the street to the white sand, making it one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia to visit while you’re visiting Vietnam. If you want to carve out some time to explore the city itself, the Nha Trang Cathedral, National Oceanographic Museum, and Thap Ba natural hot springs with an option for a mud bath are all popular choices.
Khao Kalok Beach in Pran Buri, Thailand
Khao Kalok Beach in Pran Buri, Thailand
Approximately three hours from the bustling city of Bangkok, you’ll find a peaceful beachside escape at Khao Kalok Beach in Pak Nam Pran. This quiet beach has chairs for rent, as well as large trees that provide ample shade.
White sand and a mountain backdrop make for gorgeous scenery, and if you’re feeling ambitious, a 20-minute trek up the neighboring mountain provides fantastic views of the area. The nearby Khao Kolok Temple is also worth a visit before or after your dip in the warm sea, and you can sample some local treats from the food carts at the beach if you’re in need of some refreshments.
Sabang Beach in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Sabang Beach in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Sabang Beach is located a little over an hour from the city of Puerto Princesa in Palawan. While it’s a great jumping-off point for visiting the famous underground river right next door, this white-sand haven is an enjoyable destination in and of itself.
With boat trips departing right from the beach, it’s possible to visit both the beach and the four-mile-long subterranean river in one extraordinary day trip. Backed by lush rainforest, you can also opt to venture on one of the many hiking trails within the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park followed by a swim in the sea to cool off.
Known as one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and will have your inner explorer pumped to adventure along the Cabayugan River and intricate limestone cave system.
An Bang Beach in Hoi An, Vietnam
An Bang Beach in Hoi An, Vietnam
One of the best things to do in Vietnam is visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and bike-friendly city of Hoi An for the trifecta of history, culture, and beachside bliss. Just 10 minutes outside of the historic city center and reachable by bicycle, the area of Cam An is host to An Bang Beach.
Restaurants offering local cuisine line this beautiful beach with outdoor seating in the sea breeze and lounge chairs available for rent to help achieve ultimate relaxation. Swimming and paddleboarding are popular activities at this lively Vietnamese beach, bringing the experience full circle.
Bophut Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
Bophut Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
With numerous idyllic islands, Thailand is a dream destination for beach lovers everywhere. In the southeastern group of the country’s islands, Koh Samui is surrounded by white sand beaches and palm trees.
At Fisherman’s Village, situated just behind the beach, you’ll find shops selling some of the best Thailand souvenirs, along with restaurants and bars. Sign up for SCUBA lessons or join a guided group tour to one of the well-known dive sites like Koh Tao Island, Sail Rock, or Ang Thong Marine Park.
Nusa Dua Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Nusa Dua Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia is well known for having some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia, and a diverse group at that. On the island of Bali, you’ll find a multitude of blue-green shades of sea, a laid-back atmosphere, and friendly people.
A top spot on the southern coast, Nusa Dua is a gorgeous stretch of sand with amenities for visitors with two iconic Balinese temples on either side. Gaze at the shimmering water from a local warung (cafe) after a day of lounging and swimming, and get your fill of Balinese cuisine. During your visit, head to nearby Water Blow, one of the island’s most interesting natural attractions.
White Beach in Boracay, Philippines
White Beach in Boracay, Philippines
Perhaps the most popular beach on the alluring island of Boracay, White Beach’s powdery sand and pristine, clear water is an ideal destination for beach lovers. Restaurants and bars are readily available along the edge of the beach, and it’s a well-known spot for spectacular sunsets.
The calm sea beckons for a swim and, if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at water sports. Balance relaxation with beach-fueled activities in the sunshine at one of the best white-sand beaches in the Philippines.
Lang Co Beach in Hue, Vietnam
Lang Co Beach in Hue, Vietnam
Located between the historical cities of Hue and Hoi An, Lang Co Beach offers a beach experience away from the crowds with some fun photo opportunities. This Central Vietnam gem offers an inviting lagoon perfect for a dip in the calm waters.
The waves on the opposite side of the lagoon encourage bodysurfing or just some light-hearted wave hopping. Fuel up on local fare at one of the restaurants after a full day of beach activities.
Siloso Beach, Singapore
Siloso Beach, Singapore
Singapore is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with modern architecture and amenities that stretch all the way to the sand. Lively Soloso Beach is perched on Sentosa Island and connected to the city by road and accessible by public transport.
This Singapore beach has no shortage of adrenaline-pumping adventures to enjoy, like ziplining, bungee jumping, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Visit one of the resident spas or hop on the cable car for a spectacular view of the sandy playground below. Restaurants and themed bars abound along the boardwalk, with seemingly endless refreshments available.
Nagtabon Beach in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Nagtabon Beach in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Enjoy one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia, Nagtabon Beach, located about 45 minutes from the city of Puerto Princesa in Palawan. Nagtabon’s lack of resorts and amenities add to the rustic charm and local feel but certainly don’t take away from the beauty. Experienced surfers can rent a surfboard and ride the waves.
Lamai Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
Lamai Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
Perched on Koh Samui’s southeastern coast, Lamai Beach manages to combine everything we love about going to the beach in one location. This beach is popular without being crowded, and the natural rock formations to the south add to the already beautiful backdrop.
Jet-ski rentals are an option for an adrenaline-inducing whip around the Gulf of Thailand, and swimming is perfect for families with younger children. Delicious authentic Thai food is abundant at the seaside restaurants and watering holes nearby.
Puka Beach in Boracay, Philippines
Puka Beach in Boracay, Philippines
Seashell lovers take note; this is the beach for you on the island of Boracay. Puka Beach, on the northern part of the island, is an off-the-beaten-path treasure adorned with little white shells. Less crowded than the famous White Beach, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the peace and quiet while admiring the clear, blue waters.
Food huts are available if you’d like to organize a beach picnic, or pick up a memento at one of the small shops selling souvenirs nearby. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the small beach called Bil-at Beach which is just to the right of the entrance of Puka Beach. The two beaches connect at low tide, so be prepared to wade or swim if the tide is coming in.
Canggu Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Canggu Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Canggu Beach is a surfer’s paradise, making it one of the best beaches in Bali. Laid-back vibes and plenty of cafes make Canggu an ideal destination on the western side of the island. Grab a healthy snack at a local cafe and head to the beach to hang ten yourself, or just watch the surfers in the ocean.
Starfish Island in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Starfish Island in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Nestled in Honda Bay near Puerto Princesa is a smattering of small islands perfect for sand-hopping. Starfish Island, famous for its starfish population, is accessible via boat tour from Sta Lourdes Wharf just north of the city.
Swimming and snorkeling are popular activities in the clear blue waters, as well as enjoying a picnic lunch on the white sand. If you feel like exploring, venture to the eastern side of the island to see the mangroves.
My Khe Beach in Da Nang, Vietnam
My Khe Beach in Da Nang, Vietnam
My Khe Beach is a paradise located just 10 minutes outside the coastal city center of Da Nang. The 20-mile stretch of sand is perfect for a beach stroll to the relaxing soundtrack of ocean waves. Sunbeds are available for rental, and you can find restaurants and bars nearby.
Choeng Mon Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
Choeng Mon Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
Calm, shallow water is a big draw for families with young children at this Koh Samui beach on the northern portion of the island. The protected bay makes for small waves and leisurely swimming.
Amenities are bountiful with food options like fresh fruit and seafood, drinks, and lounge chair rentals along the white sand cove. For an extra level of relaxation, you can even book a massage. If tranquil is what you’re after, Choeng Mon Beach is the ideal destination.
Bulabog Beach in Boracay, Philippines
Bulabog Beach in Boracay, Philippines
Bulabog Beach on the eastern side of the island of Boracay is famous for kite-surfing, a spectacle to behold and a fun sport learn if you’re interested in trying it.
This beach also serves as a jumping-off point for many different water activities that depart on boats like diving, fishing, parasailing, and much more. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, head to the top of Mt. Luho nearby, where you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire island.
Celebrity Millennium
With an expansive selection of ports available, you can choose any of these spectacular beaches to visit on one of our cruises to Southeast Asia. Visit our website and book your next tropical vacation today.
