Best Hidden Beaches in Asia
Asia, with its vast coastline and numerous islands, is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches. From the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea to the vibrant coral reefs of the Philippines, Asia’s beaches offer a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. However, many popular beach destinations in Asia can get crowded, with throngs of tourists and overdeveloped resorts. If you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful beach experience, you’re in luck! Asia is also home to many hidden gems – secluded beaches, untouched islands, and secret paradises waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to six of Asia’s best-kept secret beaches, from the Philippines to India. Get ready to escape the crowds, relax in a tropical paradise, and experience the ultimate beach getaway.
El Nido, Philippines
El Nido is a tropical paradise in the Philippines, famous for its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear lagoons. This hidden beach destination is a must-visit for any traveler looking to escape the crowds. Explore the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Beach, and enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing in paradise.
The town of El Nido is small and quaint, with a few restaurants and shops. However, the real beauty of El Nido lies in its stunning natural scenery. Take an island-hopping tour to explore the surrounding lagoons and beaches, or rent a kayak to paddle through the crystal-clear waters.
Some popular activities in El Nido include:
- Island-hopping tours
- Snorkeling and diving
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Beach relaxation and sunbathing
- Hiking and trekking to nearby viewpoints
Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
Koh Rong Samloem is a peaceful island in Cambodia, boasting pristine white-sand beaches and a vibrant coral reef. Relax in a beachside bungalow or explore the island’s lush interior. Take a boat trip to the nearby islands, go snorkeling or diving, or simply enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem.
Beaches: The island is home to several pristine white-sand beaches, including:
- Saracen Bay: A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- Lazy Beach: A secluded beach with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
- Sunset Beach: A beach with breathtaking views of the sunset.
Activities:
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the vibrant coral reef and spot tropical fish and other marine life.
- Boat trips: Take a boat trip to nearby islands, such as Koh Rong, and explore their beaches and coves.
- Hiking: Explore the island’s lush interior and hike to the top of the hill for stunning views.
- Relaxation: Simply relax in a beachside bungalow or hammock and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
Accommodation:
- Beachside bungalows: Simple, rustic bungalows with stunning views of the beach and ocean.
- Eco-lodges: Environmentally-friendly lodges with comfortable rooms and stunning views.
- Resorts: Luxury resorts with modern amenities and stunning views.
Food and drink:
- Fresh seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Local cuisine: Try traditional Cambodian dishes, such as fish amok and nom banh chok.
- Beach bars: Relax with a cocktail or beer at one of the many beach bars.
Getting there:
- By ferry: Take a ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem.
- By speedboat: Take a speedboat from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem.
Tips:
- Best time to visit: November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Be respectful: Respect the island’s environment and local culture.
- Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays.
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
The Perhentian Islands are a hidden archipelago in Malaysia, featuring untouched beaches, coral reefs, and lush forests. Snorkel or dive to explore the underwater world, or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding islands. Enjoy the local seafood and relax in a beachside chalet.
Location: The Perhentian Islands are located off the coast of Terengganu, Malaysia, in the South China Sea.
Islands: The archipelago consists of two main islands:
- Perhentian Besar (Large Perhentian)
- Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian)
Beaches:
- Petani Beach: A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- Long Beach: A secluded beach with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
- Coral Bay: A beach with breathtaking views of the coral reef.
Activities:
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the vibrant coral reef and spot tropical fish, turtles, and other marine life.
- Boat trips: Take a boat trip to explore the surrounding islands and coves.
- Hiking: Explore the islands’ lush interior and hike to the top of the hill for stunning views.
- Fishing: Try your hand at fishing and catch some fresh seafood.
Accommodation:
- Beachside chalets: Simple, rustic chalets with stunning views of the beach and ocean.
- Eco-lodges: Environmentally-friendly lodges with comfortable rooms and stunning views.
- Resorts: Luxury resorts with modern amenities and stunning views.
Food and drink:
- Fresh seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Local cuisine: Try traditional Malaysian dishes, such as nasi lemak and char kway teow.
- Beach bars: Relax with a cocktail or beer at one of the many beach bars.
Getting there:
- By ferry: Take a ferry from Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands.
- By speedboat: Take a speedboat from Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands.
Tips:
- Best time to visit: March to October, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Be respectful: Respect the islands’ environment and local culture.
- Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays.
- Book in advance: Accommodation and ferry tickets can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Con Dao Islands, Vietnam
The Con Dao Islands are a historic archipelago in Vietnam, offering stunning beaches, coral reefs, and a rich cultural heritage. Explore abandoned prisons, coral reefs, and stunning beaches. Visit the Con Dao National Park, and learn about the islands’ history and culture.
Location: The Con Dao Islands are located off the coast of Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, Vietnam, in the South China Sea.
Islands: The archipelago consists of 16 islands, with the largest being:
- Con Dao Island (also known as Great Con Dao)
- Con Son Island
- Hon Tre Island
Beaches:
- Dat Doc Beach: A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- Ong Lang Beach: A secluded beach with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
- Nhat Beach: A beach with breathtaking views of the coral reef.
Activities:
- Explore abandoned prisons: Learn about the islands’ history as a former French colonial prison.
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the vibrant coral reef and spot tropical fish, turtles, and other marine life.
- Visit Con Dao National Park: Explore the islands’ lush interior and spot rare wildlife.
- Cultural experiences: Learn about the islands’ rich cultural heritage and history.
Attractions:
- Con Dao Museum: Learn about the islands’ history and culture.
- Phu Hai Prison: Explore the former French colonial prison.
- Con Dao National Park: Explore the islands’ lush interior and spot rare wildlife.
- Van Son Pagoda: Visit a beautiful Buddhist pagoda.
Accommodation:
- Resorts: Luxury resorts with modern amenities and stunning views.
- Hotels: Comfortable hotels with stunning views of the ocean.
- Guesthouses: Simple, rustic guesthouses with a relaxed atmosphere.
Food and drink:
- Fresh seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Local cuisine: Try traditional Vietnamese dishes, such as pho and banh mi.
- Coffee: Enjoy Vietnamese coffee at a local café.
Getting there:
- By plane: Take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Con Dao Airport.
- By ferry: Take a ferry from Vung Tau or Soc Trang to Con Dao Islands.
Tips:
- Best time to visit: March to September, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Be respectful: Respect the islands’ environment and local culture.
- Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays.
- Book in advance: Accommodation and ferry tickets can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Siargao Island, Philippines
Siargao Island is a teardrop-shaped island in the Philippines, famous for its powerful waves, secluded beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Surf the waves at Cloud 9, relax in a beachside hut, or explore the island’s natural beauty. Take a boat trip to the nearby islands, or simply enjoy the island’s chill vibe.
Location: Siargao Island is located in the province of Surigao del Norte, Philippines, in the Caraga Region.
Beaches:
- Cloud 9: A world-famous surf spot with powerful waves.
- Naked Island: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- Daku Island: A beach with stunning views of the surrounding islands.
- Guyam Island: A small island with a beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters.
Activities:
- Surfing: Ride the waves at Cloud 9 or take a surf lesson from a local instructor.
- Island hopping: Take a boat trip to the nearby islands, such as Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island.
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the island’s vibrant coral reef and spot tropical fish and other marine life.
- Hiking: Explore the island’s lush interior and hike to the top of the hill for stunning views.
- Relaxation: Simply relax in a beachside hut or enjoy the island’s chill vibe.
Attractions:
- Magpupungko Rock Pool: A natural rock pool with crystal-clear waters.
- Tayangban Cave Pool: A cave with a natural pool and stunning rock formations.
- Siargao Island Hopping Tour: Take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands.
Accommodation:
- Beachside huts: Simple, rustic huts with stunning views of the ocean.
- Resorts: Luxury resorts with modern amenities and stunning views.
- Guesthouses: Comfortable guesthouses with a relaxed atmosphere.
Food and drink:
- Fresh seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Local cuisine: Try traditional Filipino dishes, such as adobo and sinigang.
- Coffee: Enjoy Filipino coffee at a local café.
Getting there:
- By plane: Take a flight from Manila or Cebu to Sayak Airport.
- By ferry: Take a ferry from Surigao City or Cebu to Siargao Island.
Tips:
- Best time to visit: September to November, when the waves are at their best.
- Be respectful: Respect the island’s environment and local culture.
- Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays.
- Book in advance: Accommodation and ferry tickets can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory in India, boasting turquoise waters, coral reefs, and pristine beaches. Explore the islands’ unique culture and natural beauty. Visit the Cellular Jail, and learn about the islands’ history. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing in this tropical paradise.
Location: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory of India, located in the Bay of Bengal.
Islands:
- Port Blair: The capital city, known for its historic Cellular Jail.
- Havelock Island: Famous for its pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities.
- Neil Island: A peaceful island with stunning beaches and coral reefs.
- Little Andaman: A small island with a beautiful lagoon and coral reefs.
Activities:
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the islands’ vibrant coral reefs and spot tropical fish and other marine life.
- Visit Cellular Jail: Learn about the islands’ history and the freedom struggle of India.
- Island hopping: Take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands.
- Beach relaxation: Simply relax on the pristine beaches and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.
- Trekking: Explore the islands’ lush interior and hike to the top of the hill for stunning views.
Attractions:
- Cellular Jail: A historic prison turned museum, showcasing India’s freedom struggle.
- Ross Island: A small island with historic ruins and stunning views.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters.
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: A protected area with coral reefs and marine life.
Accommodation:
- Resorts: Luxury resorts with modern amenities and stunning views.
- Hotels: Comfortable hotels with stunning views of the ocean.
- Guesthouses: Simple, rustic guesthouses with a relaxed atmosphere.
Food and drink:
- Fresh seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Local cuisine: Try traditional Indian dishes, such as curries and biryani.
- Coconut water: Refresh yourself with fresh coconut water.
Getting there:
- By plane: Take a flight from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair.
- By ship: Take a ship from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair.
Tips:
- Best time to visit: October to May, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Be respectful: Respect the islands’ environment and local culture.
- Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays.
- Book in advance: Accommodation and ferry tickets can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
