Top 10 Best Tropical Beaches in Asia
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Time to read 14 min
Best beaches in Asia
Asia boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking tropical coastlines, from secluded coves in Indonesia to golden sands along Thailand’s shores and vibrant island escapes in the Philippines. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly swimming, surfing adventures, or tranquil havens for relaxation, Asia’s beaches offer a truly unforgettable tropical experience. Our curated list of the top 10 best beaches in Asia will guide you toward your next sun-drenched getaway.
Table of contents
Best beaches in Asia 1. Kelingking Beach – Nusa Penida, Indonesia 2. White Beach – Boracay, Philippines 3. Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island, India 4. Ao Leuk Beach – Koh Tao, Thailand 5. Marimegmeg Beach – El Nido, Palawan, Philippines 6. Nacpan Beach – Palawan, Philippines 7. Coral Bay – Perhentian Kecil, Malaysia 8. Pink Beach – Komodo Island, Indonesia 9. Anse Lazio – Praslin, Seychelles 10. Phi Phi Islands – Krabi, Thailand
1. Kelingking Beach – Nusa Penida, Indonesia
Dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters on Bali’s untouched neighbor
Kelingking Beach is a jaw-dropping slice of paradise tucked away on the island of Nusa Penida, just a short boat ride from Bali. Famous for its dinosaur-shaped cliff formation and impossibly blue waters, this beach feels like a hidden world. The steep descent down the cliffside trail is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is a pristine, secluded beach with soft white sand and dramatic scenery that’s straight from a dream.
- 🌍 Location: Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Iconic cliff view, stunning turquoise water, excellent for adventurous travelers and photographers
- 👎 Downsides: Very steep hike to reach the beach; strong waves can make swimming dangerous
Instagram-famous viewpoint
The viewpoint above the beach is one of the most photographed spots in Indonesia. From here, you get a panoramic view of the cliffs and the deep blue ocean. Many visitors come just for the view, which is absolutely worth the trip. Sunrise and sunset offer especially magical lighting if you're aiming for unforgettable photos.
A thrilling descent to serenity
If you're up for a challenge, the steep and rugged trail down to the beach will take your breath away—literally and figuratively. Rope-assisted sections and rough steps demand caution, but the beach at the bottom is an untouched treasure. Few people make it down, so you might just have this slice of paradise to yourself.
When to visit and what to pack
The dry season (April to October) is best for visiting Kelingking Beach. Wear sturdy shoes for the hike, bring water, and use plenty of sun protection. There are no vendors on the beach itself, so come prepared. And don’t forget your camera—this beach is truly unforgettable and one of the best beaches in Asia for tropical explorers.
2. White Beach – Boracay, Philippines
Powdery white sand and postcard-perfect sunsets in the Philippines
White Beach on the island of Boracay is often listed among the world’s best beaches — and for good reason. This four-kilometer stretch of ultra-fine, white sand and shallow turquoise waters is the ultimate tropical escape. The calm sea makes it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and floating lazily in the sun. The beach is lined with palm trees, beach bars, and stylish resorts, yet still manages to feel open and breezy.
- 🌍 Location: Boracay Island, Western Visayas, Philippines (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Ultra-soft sand, calm waters, lively beachside atmosphere, beautiful sunsets
- 👎 Downsides: Can get busy during peak season; prices are higher in tourist areas
Sunrise yoga and morning stillness
Early risers are rewarded with peace and quiet before the island wakes up. Join a beachfront yoga session, stroll barefoot along the empty shore, or take a peaceful swim in the glassy morning sea. It’s the best time to connect with nature — and yourself — before the day’s buzz begins.
The heart of island style
White Beach is not just about the sand and sea — it’s also where tropical style meets boho chic. Local boutiques, artisan stalls, and cozy cafés give the beachfront a fashionable vibe, perfect for slow travelers looking for a stylish and laid-back setting. Beachfront massage huts and bamboo loungers complete the scene.
Magical golden hour
Sunsets here are legendary. As the sun dips behind the horizon, the sky turns pink, gold, and lavender, casting a glow over the water and sand. Locals and visitors alike gather to watch the show, cocktail in hand. Afterward, live music and lantern-lit dinners take over the beach — a perfect way to end a day in paradise.
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3. Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island, India
Tranquil turquoise waters and jungle-fringed sand on a remote island
Radhanagar Beach, located on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a pristine paradise that feels like a well-kept secret. Widely regarded as one of Asia’s best beaches, it features powdery white sand, gentle waves, and a backdrop of lush rainforest. Despite its growing fame, the beach remains peaceful, clean, and perfect for long, meditative walks or peaceful morning swims.
- 🌍 Location: Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Remote setting, crystal-clear water, soft sand, stunning sunset views
- 👎 Downsides: Limited mobile signal and amenities; access requires a ferry ride
Morning swim in crystal silence
Radhanagar is at its most magical in the early morning. The sea is calm and glassy, the air still, and the only sounds are waves lapping against the shore and tropical birds in the trees. It’s an ideal time for swimming, light meditation, or stretching out with a yoga mat under the shade of the palms.
Untouched and unforgettable
This beach is part of a national park area, so it’s refreshingly undeveloped. No flashy resorts, no jet skis — just the raw beauty of nature. You can walk for what feels like miles without seeing another person. This untouched atmosphere adds to the beach’s spiritual calm and makes it perfect for slow, reflective travel.
Arrive early, stay grounded
Reaching Radhanagar requires planning — a ferry ride from Port Blair, then a drive across the island. But once you arrive, the effort fades into the background. Bring water, reef-safe sunscreen, and a relaxed mindset. This is not a place to rush — it’s a place to pause, breathe, and be present.
4. Ao Leuk Beach – Koh Tao, Thailand
Gentle bay perfect for slow mornings and crystal-clear snorkelling
Ao Leuk Beach on Koh Tao is a serene crescent-shaped bay with powdery white sand and calm turquoise water. Tucked between rocky headlands, it’s a peaceful spot to begin your day with sunrise yoga or a gentle swim before the crowds arrive. Ao Leuk means “deep bay,” and its name reflects the clear, inviting depth of its waters. Ideal for snorkelling, you’ll often spot colorful fish just meters from the shore.
- 🌍 Location: Koh Tao, Surat Thani, Thailand (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Calm bay, great snorkelling, quiet morning atmosphere, yoga-friendly setting
- 👎 Downsides: Limited shade; can get crowded later in the day
Sunrise serenity and ocean mindfulness
The beach faces east, making it a wonderful location to watch the sun rise slowly over the water. Early risers are rewarded with solitude and stillness — perfect for flowing through yoga poses, journaling, or simply enjoying the moment with your toes in the sand.
Shallow reef with vibrant marine life
When you’re ready to dip into the water, Ao Leuk’s reef awaits. Even beginners can enjoy snorkelling here with its easy beach access and clear visibility. Schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and the occasional sea turtle glide through the coral — no boat trip required.
Ease into your Thai island morning
Ao Leuk is low-key and relaxing. A couple of small beachfront cafés offer breakfast and fresh coconuts, while loungers can be rented for a small fee. If you’re seeking a simple, peaceful start to your tropical day in Thailand, this beach is a dreamy pick.
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5. Marimegmeg Beach – El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
Golden sands and calm waters framed by lush jungle hills
Marimegmeg Beach, also known as Las Cabañas Beach, is a peaceful stretch of coastline just south of El Nido town on Palawan Island. Its golden sand and gentle waves make it a tranquil spot for early-morning yoga and a refreshing swim before the afternoon heat sets in. Surrounded by swaying palms and backed by lush green hills, it offers a picture-perfect tropical setting for those seeking a stylish and serene start to the day.
- 🌍 Location: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Calm waters, wide sandy beach, mountain views, early-morning peace
- 👎 Downsides: Gathers crowds later in the day; some beachfront construction
Yoga beneath the palms
As the sun rises, the soft sand and gentle breeze create a perfect environment for grounding yoga practice. Several nearby resorts even offer guided morning sessions right on the beach. The sound of waves, birdcalls, and the rustling of palm leaves set a calming rhythm for breath and movement.
Shallow waters and scenic swims
Ideal for a peaceful morning swim, the water here is calm and clear. You can wade in slowly with hardly a ripple in sight. Floating on your back as the early sun climbs above the cliffs is one of the simplest luxuries you’ll find in El Nido.
Chill cafés and hammock vibes
Before or after your swim, settle into one of the beachside cafés that open early with espresso, smoothies, and breakfast bowls. Hammocks strung between coconut trees invite you to linger, journal, or simply gaze out at Bacuit Bay’s islets — no agenda, just ease.
6. Nacpan Beach – Palawan, Philippines
Endless palm-lined serenity just north of El Nido
Nacpan Beach is a long, breathtaking stretch of powdery sand and clear blue water located about 45 minutes north of El Nido. Its undeveloped charm, swaying coconut palms, and gentle waves make it an ideal destination for sunrise yoga and a peaceful morning swim. With very few crowds in the early hours and views that stretch for kilometers, Nacpan feels like a tropical escape frozen in time.
- 🌍 Location: Palawan, Philippines (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unspoiled stretch of beach, peaceful mornings, great for yoga and long walks
- 👎 Downsides: Somewhat remote; rough road access; few shaded areas
Stretch out with the sunrise
Few places are as magical as Nacpan at dawn. The beach’s vast openness and quiet vibe make it perfect for sun salutations as the sky changes color. Whether you practice solo or with friends, the early hours offer an uninterrupted connection to the rhythms of nature.
Wade into calm, turquoise water
The water stays calm and shallow close to the shore, ideal for a relaxing morning dip. With hardly another swimmer in sight, you’ll feel as if you’ve found your own private slice of paradise. It’s the kind of swim where time slows down and everything feels simple and peaceful.
Simplicity and soul
There’s something profoundly grounding about Nacpan’s lack of noise, crowds, or distractions. A few local beach huts offer fresh coconuts and simple breakfasts after your swim. Bring a mat, a good book, and nothing else — this beach is all about savoring the present moment.
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7. Coral Bay – Perhentian Kecil, Malaysia
Tranquil cove with turquoise water and gentle island rhythm
Coral Bay, located on the quieter side of Perhentian Kecil in Malaysia, is a peaceful retreat known for its calm waters, soft golden sand, and relaxed island vibe. It’s the perfect spot to begin your day with sunrise yoga followed by a refreshing morning swim. The bay’s stillness, especially in the early hours, offers a restorative atmosphere ideal for mindful movement and slow, soul-soothing moments.
- 🌍 Location: Perhentian Kecil, Terengganu, Malaysia (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Calm clear water, peaceful sunrise views, easy snorkeling access, relaxed vibe
- 👎 Downsides: Limited shade and few morning food options; can get busy by midday
Sunrise stillness and island energy
Wake up early and find your balance on the sand as the sun peeks over the lush island. Gentle waves provide the perfect soundtrack for a yoga session, and the occasional fishing boat glides silently by, adding to the meditative mood. Coral Bay is quiet, making it easy to connect with the moment.
Swim with reef life before breakfast
The shallow, warm waters are great for swimming and even better for early-morning snorkeling. Slip into the sea and watch colorful fish dart around coral patches just a few meters from shore. It’s a magical way to start the day — totally weightless and unplugged.
Simplicity is the style
Coral Bay isn’t about frills. It’s about hammocks strung between trees, breakfast on the beach, and salty morning breezes. Take a walk along the coast or relax on a wooden jetty with your feet dangling over the water. The simple charm of this bay encourages you to slow down and stay grounded in the present.
8. Pink Beach – Komodo Island, Indonesia
Blush-tinted sands and untouched morning serenity
Pink Beach on Komodo Island offers one of the most visually stunning and peaceful sunrise experiences in Southeast Asia. The sand gets its rare rose hue from crushed red coral mixed with white sand, creating a dreamlike shoreline. Early mornings here are especially magical—often completely deserted save for the sound of waves and rustling palms. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime setting for a sunrise yoga session or meditative swim in crystal-clear water.
- 🌍 Location: Komodo Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unique pink sand, clear snorkel-friendly water, peaceful mornings, part of Komodo National Park
- 👎 Downsides: Remote location requires boat access; no facilities or food nearby
Yoga in a pink paradise
Set your mat on the sand just as the sky starts to glow. The soft pastel hues of sunrise blend with the pink sand for a breathtaking backdrop. The area’s natural quiet makes it easy to slip into flow—no distractions, just waves and wide-open beauty.
Snorkel in kaleidoscope reefs
After yoga, walk right into the turquoise water for a dip. Just offshore, you’ll find colorful coral gardens teeming with reef fish. Morning light creates perfect visibility, and you might even spot a sea turtle cruising by. The underwater world here is as serene as the beach itself.
Slow, sacred, and spectacular
There’s something spiritual about Pink Beach. It’s not just the unique color or remote setting—it’s the feeling of complete immersion in nature. Come early, bring everything you need for the day, and treat the land and sea with care. It’s a privilege to visit a place so untouched and unforgettable.
9. Anse Lazio – Praslin, Seychelles
Postcard-perfect bay for peaceful sunrise swims
Anse Lazio, tucked away on the northern tip of Praslin Island in Seychelles, is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. At sunrise, it transforms into a tranquil paradise. The smooth granite boulders, lush palm trees, and turquoise waters create a dreamlike backdrop for a peaceful morning swim or sunrise meditation. The beach remains relatively quiet in the early hours, letting visitors soak in the serenity before the day’s visitors arrive.
- 🌍 Location: Praslin Island, Seychelles (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Crystal-clear water, soft white sand, giant granite rocks, peaceful mornings
- 👎 Downsides: Limited shade during peak sun; remote access requires planning
Sunrise serenity at its finest
Arriving at Anse Lazio before 8 AM means you’ll likely share it with only a few others. The gentle sound of waves, birdsong from the nearby jungle, and the sight of light slowly spilling across the bay makes it one of the most serene places to greet the day.
Perfect waters for morning dips
The water is exceptionally clear and calm in the morning, making it ideal for swimming or simply floating in silence. If you're into snorkeling, the rocky edges of the bay are rich with marine life.
Yoga under palm trees
The natural curve of the bay and soft white sand make this a perfect open-air yoga setting. Lay down a towel beneath a swaying palm and move through your flow to the rhythm of the sea.
10. Phi Phi Islands – Krabi, Thailand
Tranquil mornings in a Thai island paradise
The Phi Phi Islands, located in Krabi Province, Thailand, are known for their stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and soft sandy beaches. While they’re often bustling with tourists during the day, early mornings offer a peaceful, magical experience. Head to one of the quieter beaches like Ao Nui or Long Beach for sunrise yoga and a calming dip in warm, glassy waters as the sun rises behind dramatic cliffs.
- 🌍 Location: Phi Phi Islands, Krabi, Thailand (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Iconic limestone formations, quiet morning vibe, warm water, vibrant marine life
- 👎 Downsides: Crowded later in the day; some beaches only accessible by boat
Secluded sunrise spots
To escape the crowds, catch a boat to one of the lesser-known beaches like Ao Nui or Loh Lana Bay. These hidden gems are perfect for slow starts—stretching with a view or meditating to the sound of waves lapping at the shore.
Swim with the sun
Jump into the clear Andaman Sea just as the sky turns pink and gold. The calm morning sea is ideal for floating, snorkeling, or taking a refreshing lap along the shore. The water clarity at sunrise is unbeatable.
Morning magic before the buzz
By 10 AM, boats and tourists begin to arrive, but early risers are treated to a rare sense of stillness. Bring a mat, your swimsuit, and perhaps a smoothie from a local beach shack, and savor the best of Phi Phi in peaceful solitude.
“To travel is to live.”
You chase the sun and live for perfect beach days!
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Table of contents
Best beaches in Asia 1. Kelingking Beach – Nusa Penida, Indonesia 2. White Beach – Boracay, Philippines 3. Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island, India 4. Ao Leuk Beach – Koh Tao, Thailand 5. Marimegmeg Beach – El Nido, Palawan, Philippines 6. Nacpan Beach – Palawan, Philippines 7. Coral Bay – Perhentian Kecil, Malaysia 8. Pink Beach – Komodo Island, Indonesia 9. Anse Lazio – Praslin, Seychelles 10. Phi Phi Islands – Krabi, Thailand
