Narrowing down the best beaches in Asia is a matter of opinion, purely given that the continent is blessed with an astonishingly diverse array of coastlines. In the Andaman Sea in Thailand, you’ll find beaches flanked by limestone karsts and caves. Head to Bali and you’ll find everything from black-sand beaches to sandy shorelines flanked by vertiginous cliffs. Over in Vietnam, the shores of Danang beckon travelers.
The most beautiful beaches in Asia are filled with both natural and man-made wonders. In Japan, you’ll find a beach with an unimpeded view of Mt. Fuji towering above the mists. On the island of Langkawi in Malaysia, you’ll see water so brilliant you’ll wonder how it’s real. Whether you’re a snorkeler, surfer, or sunbather at heart, you’ll find a sandy patch of paradise for you in this region.
Miho-no-Matsubara, Japan
Miho-no-Matsubara, Japan
Looking for the ultimate brag-worthy vacation snapshot? The regal vision of Mt. Fuji rising over the pine forests and oceanic waves here should do the trick. For centuries, Japanese poets, musicians, and woodblock artists have been inspired by this remarkable beach. To this day, it has an almost otherworldly feel to it.
Unlike some Japanese beaches, Miho-no-Matsubara practically begs travelers to get up and explore. There are bicycle rentals available nearby and the paved bike trails make it a joy to traverse the pine trees in search of sacred shrines.
Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand
Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui, Thailand
There’s a good reason why Koh Samui is perpetually one of the most popular islands in Thailand. With its abundance of coconut palm trees and sandy shores, plus plenty of outdoor activities and an impressive dining scene, there are many compelling reasons to visit.
If you visit Koh Samui, an afternoon on the soft sands of Chaweng Beach is inevitable. At more than four miles in length, this is the longest beach on the island, as well as the most developed. That means if you’re seeking to sunbathe in seclusion, you may want to gravitate to one of the smaller coves.
For active travelers and families with children, however, Chaweng Beach is absolutely perfect. There are watersports galore here, along with longboat operators happy to whisk passengers out for snorkeling adventures. There are also a ton of restaurants and beach bars in the area for when you’re craving lunch or a late-afternoon cocktail.
Bophut Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand
Bophut Beach in Koh Samui, Thailand
If Chaweng Beach is Koh Samui’s main drag, Bophut Beach is a more sedate, although still quite popular, alternative. This sandy spot on the northern coastline boasts a bit more of a boho flair that harkens back to an earlier period in the island’s history.
While you could easily spend the day simply basking on Bophut Beach’s honey-hued sands in a lounger, there are several attractions in the area worth checking out. The first is Wat Phra Yai, colloquially known as the Big Buddha Temple. Located roughly a 10-minute coastal drive away, the namesake golden Buddha stands silhouetted against the waters of the Gulf of Thailand.
You could also simply stroll over to the nearby Fisherman’s Village, a historic enclave that’s managed to retain its character even as this Asian island has evolved. Picture quaint timber buildings housing a variety of eateries, boutique shops, and bars.
My Khe Beach, Danang, Vietnam
My Khe Beach in Danang, Vietnam
A few decades ago, My Khe Beach was mostly associated with the Vietnam War, or the “War of American Aggression in Vietnam” as it’s known here. Fortunately, much has changed in the intervening time. These days, Vietnam has rebounded spectacularly and Danang is a resort boomtown, with lively dining and nightlife scenes to match.
My Khe Beach itself is at the heart of all the action. At over six miles long, this golden-sand beach makes for a gravitational center. Despite its popularity, this Vietnamese beach is kept in pristine shape. The water here is shallow and free from dangerous riptides—perfect for families.
Nusa Dua Beach, Bali, Indonesia
Nusa Dua Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Lovers of the finer things in life will feel right at home at Nusa Dua Beach and its posh surroundings. Although Bali’s Nusa Dua peninsula is crowded with luxury resorts, you don’t need to stay at one in order to enjoy it.
By Indonesian law, all beaches on Bali are public property and open to all. Hotels may put up loungers, but cannot restrict access. That’s a real boon here, as Nusa Dua Beach is considered one of the prettiest sandy beaches on the island.
Jimbaran Beach, Bali, Indonesia
Jimbaran Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Jimbaran Beach, on the south western coast, is easily one of the loveliest in Bali thanks to its golden sand, topaz water, and fiery sunsets. But the scenery isn’t the only draw here. Every morning, Pasar Ikan Kedonganan, or the Jimbaran Fish Market, sees the freshest catch on the island arrive here. The colorful market is a delight to explore.
It’s also, unsurprisingly, one of the best places to dine on top-tier seafood anywhere. Simply pick out whatever seafood looks good that day. You might opt for jumbo prawns, or perhaps barracuda, squid, or snapper. Then take your Neptunian bounty to one of the no-frills eateries nearby. Cooks will happily grill up your haul over coals, then serve you a beachside feast.
Senggigi Beach, Lombok, Indonesia
Senggigi Beach in Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok has never reached Bali’s astonishing level of international fame, which suits locals just fine. Although more developed than it once was, this island retains much of its sleepy charm. It’s also every bit as beautiful as its neighbor.
Senggigi Beach on the western side of the island in particular boasts white sands and clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling. Despite being arguably the most famous beach on Lombok, it’s incredibly well-maintained and the sands here are sparklingly clean. The views from the shore here are nothing short of breathtaking.
Read: Best Beaches in Southeast Asia
Haeundae Beach, Busan, South Korea
Haeundae Beach in Busan, South Korea
The bustling port of Busan is home to a mile-long urban beach. Haeundae Beach’s wide, soft sands and shallow waters would make it popular no matter where it was. It’s a bonus that it’s so conveniently located right in one of South Korea’s most compelling metropolises.
As you might imagine, especially during the warmer months of the year, Haeundae Beach can get packed on the weekends. If you’re looking to stake out a lounge chair or plant your umbrella, be sure to arrive as early in the day as possible to secure a space.
Should you find yourself getting antsy while lounging, don’t worry—there’s lots to see and do in the immediate area. The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the region and a real treat for kids. Check out the tank of ethereal moon jellies or see penguins splashing around.
A major highlight of the aquarium is the Shark Zone, where visitors can learn all about the ocean’s most misunderstood predator through interactive exhibits. Brave travelers may even have the opportunity to dive into a tank with sharks—with proper supervision of course.
Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh, Phuket, Thailand
Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh, Thailand
Chances are high you’ve already seen this beach on the silver screen. Although much has changed since Leonardo DiCaprio put them on the map, the Phi Phi Islands are still spectacular. With these sheer rock faces crowned with tropical foliage rising from the waters in the backdrop, it’s no wonder Hollywood scouts were so taken with Maya Bay.
While most visitors refer to Ko Phi Phi as if it were a singular entity, it’s actually two: Phi Phi Don, which is larger and inhabited, and Phi Phi Leh, which is not. Both islands consist of the limestone karsts that visually define this corner of the Andaman Sea.
It’s also easy to hop between the two islands by longtail boat. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring the beaches on both. There are plenty of spots for snorkeling along the way.
Read: Best Beaches in Phuket
Hamdeok Beach, Jeju Island, South Korea
Hamdeok Beach in Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island is perhaps best known as the home of the haenyeo, South Korea’s utterly fearless female free-divers. Many of these ladies are in their 60s and even 70s, yet still able to hold their breath for astonishing stretches while hunting underwater for seafood.
The island is also renowned for this dazzling sugar-sand beach. With its shallow, vivid turquoise waters perfect for wading, it makes for an ideal relaxing afternoon. A fringe of pine trees along the edges of the beach rounds out the postcard-ready scenery.
Katsurahama Beach, Kochi, Japan
Katsurahama Beach in Kochi, Japan
This devastatingly dreamy sandy crescent has inspired poets and folk singers over the generations. Katsurahama Beach in Kochi prefecture is all laid-back, easygoing charm. A statue of Sakamoto Ryōma, a famous samurai, gazes thoughtfully out at the windswept Pacific here. Pause to admire the sculpture, while taking in the highly evocative view.
Note that swimming is strictly prohibited in these waters due to powerful, potentially dangerous currents. That doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things to do around here. In addition to a sprawling park nearby, there’s also the Katsurahama Aquarium.
Negombo Beach, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Negombo Beach in Colombo, Sri Lanka
For sheer practicality, Negombo Beach in Colombo is hard to beat. After exploring the city’s markets, temples, and shops, adjourn to this exceedingly pleasant sandy beach. With its warm, golden sands and waving palm trees, it’s ideal for escaping the city without going too far. It’s just a one-hour bus ride from downtown.
Interestingly, the area known as Negombo Beach really consists of a series of smaller Sri Lankan beaches strung together. Although adjacent, each has its own slightly different character. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, head to Morawala Beach.
Batu Bolong Beach, Bali, Indonesia
Batu Bolong Beach in Bali, Indonesia
Part of Bali’s enduring appeals with travelers lies in the fact that you can find all sorts of vibes here. If you’re looking to get rowdy, Kuta is ground-zero for the hard-partying set, with raucous beach bars pumping out house music all day and night.
Canggu, to the north of Kuta, is one of the best places to go in Bali for a chilled-out, bohemian vibe. While Canggu covers a wider area than just the coastline itself, Batu Bolong Beach is generally considered to be the core of it. It’s named for a nearby temple, although many refer to it by its colloquial nickname: Old Man’s Beach. If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to longboard, this is the place to do it.
Decades ago, surfers put this spot on the map; it boasts some of the best waves on the island. Whether or not you surf, though, you’ll be able to appreciate the friendly atmosphere and rustic seaside eateries.
Odaiba Beach, Tokyo, Japan
Odaiba Beach in Tokyo, Japan
An artificial sand beach in the heart of Tokyo might seem like an odd choice. Certainly, no one would claim that Odaiba Beach can match the white sands and azure waters of some beaches. Yet what it lacks in raw natural splendor, it more than makes up for with a different kind of scenery and eccentric charm.
Visiting Odaiba, which lies across the Rainbow Bridge from the rest of the city, feels a bit like stepping into a trippy, alternative Tokyo. From this shore, you can see a looming, life-size Gundam robot that “transforms” through a show at regular intervals throughout the day. You also have an incredible view of the Tokyo Tower.
Read: Best Beaches Near Tokyo
Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, Malaysia
Pantai Cenang in Langkawi, Malaysia
When it comes to Malaysia’s beautiful beaches, the island of Langkawi is truly blessed. Pulau Langkawi, as it’s known here, resides inside an archipelago within a UNESCO World Geopark. These protected waters are home to an amazing level of biodiversity. It doesn’t hurt that they happen to be an achingly lovely shade of cerulean too.
Pantai Cenang, the most popular public beach in Langkawi, is usually one of the first sights that greets travelers to this paradise. At more than a mile long, with alabaster sand and shady palm trees, it’s practically perfect in every way. It’s located towards the western side of the island, about a half-hour drive from Eagle Square.
Maya Bay in Phi Phi Leh, Thailand
Take in several of the most beautiful beaches in Asia in one thrilling vacation. Browse Celebrity’s cruises to Asia and plan your escape today.
