With fine powdery sand that’ll make anyone feel like they’re walking on clouds, crystal-clear waters that glisten under the sun, and the gentle rustle of palm leaves swaying in the ocean breeze, Southeast Asia is a region blessed with more than its fair share of paradisiacal beaches. If you’re in pursuit of pristine seclusion when it comes to beachy getaways, join us as we uncover the best-kept treasures of coastlines across the region.
In need of a little travel inspiration to spark your your year-end holiday plans? As the year winds down and the holiday spirit comes to life, there’s no better time to embark on a quest for serenity and seclusion than on the shores of Southeast Asia!
Beyond the bustling cityscapes and tourist hotspots, the region is a mecca for adventurers who crave tranquil escapes, unspoiled beauty, and the soothing embrace of nature. A treasure trove of hidden gems, it boasts multiple secrets along its coastline — often accessible only to the most intrepid explorers. These secret beaches offer a different kind of spiritual cleansing and enlightenment that rekindles your sense of wonder and awe of the world. So, as the year draws to a close, why not let the allure of Southeast Asia’s hidden beaches inspire your dreamy your-end getaway? Read on for our list of top eight secret beaches in Southeast Asia you might not have heard of 👇
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8 Secret Beaches to Check Out in Southeast Asia:
1. Tanjung Aan, Lombok, Indonesia
Image Credits: TripAdvisor
With its powdery white sands stretching out in a majestic horseshoe shape and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean gently lapping at the shore, Tanjung Aan offers an oasis of tranquillity away from the bustling crowds of Bali. Just a short hop across the water, this hidden gem is nothing short of a tropical daydream brought to life.
Divided by a large rock called Bukit Antara, this viewpoint offers the most breathtaking panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. Travel down to the western part of the beach to enjoy some local delights and relax in public daybeds at the warungs (a local term for the stores around Bali). Unlike most Instagram-famous beaches in Lombok, Tanjung Aan remains secluded for the better part of the day. The eastern part of the beach is less developed and is best for swimming in the shallow waters while watching local fishermen go about their day.
The best way to get around the Kuta area, which is south of Lombok, is to hire a Gojek or Grab to get to Tanjung Aan. The beach is just a 10 to 15-minute ride away from central Kuta, which gives you plenty of time to explore the area and hop onto other beaches later in the day.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Tanjung Aan Beach, West Nusa Tenggara
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Tanjung Aan Beach here
2. Sao Beach, Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Image credits: TripAdvisor
Hidden away like a precious secret on the enchanting Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam, Sao Beach is a haven for those in the know. Named the “Most beautiful beach on Phu Quoc Island”, the area has a history of serving as a pirate haven centuries ago and we can see why.
With the whitest vanilla sand in the country, the delightful curve of beautiful Sao Beach bends out alongside a sea of mineral-water clarity just a few miles from An Thoi, the main shipping port on the southern tip of the island. Untouched by mass tourism, Sao Beach offers an escape from reality as you can lounge in hammocks, swim in the inviting waters, or stroll along the peaceful shoreline.
The easiest way to get around the island (and to Sao Beach!) is by motorbike, either as a private hire or a moto taxi. For families or those wary of riding on motorbikes, you can book a taxi or take the Phu Quoc Bus Tour, which is a hop-on/hop-off shuttle that loops around island hotspots every 40 minutes.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Sao Beach, Klen Giang
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Sao Beach here
3. Plankton Beach, Koh Ta Kiev, Cambodia
Image credits: Defy the Joneses
Tucked away in the Gulf of Cambodia, Koh Ta Kiev is a slice of unspoiled heaven where your troubles melt away with the rising sun. The artsy island paradise with jungle treehouses and endless beaches has long been one the of kingdom’s best-kept secrets and is part of an ancient volcanic archipelago with a long varied history.
With rumours of vast troves of buried treasure left by ancient pirates and glimpses into the past, Plankton Beach is a reminder that there is beauty in everything. Stretching between two headlands, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, and late-night swimming. True to its name, the waters are filled with ethereal bioluminescent plankton that shines blue and green during dusk — a sight you definitely can’t miss! For those who are interested in the island’s history, you can visit the traditional fishing villages (still on stilts) at the northwest end of the island, or check out old wells and ancient pots from the island’s oldest-known village at Crusoe Island.
The best way to get to Koh Ta Kiev is to hop onto one of the resort’s longtail boats from Otres Beach, which departs every morning from 11 AM to 11:30 AM. The boat ride takes an hour, and tickets can be easily booked online.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Plankton Beach, Koh Ta Kiev, Cambodia
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Plankton Beach here
4. Turtle Beach, Perhentian Island, Malaysia
Image credits: Travel Triangle
If you’re yearning for an island paradise that combines natural beauty with unforgettable experiences, you’ve hit the jackpot with Turtle Beach on Perhentian Island! This beach is not just a destination; it’s an enchanting escape where soft powdery sands meet captivating shades of blue, beckoning you to take a dip and enjoy the magic of the island.
As you probably have guessed, the beach gets its name from the gentle giants that nest on its shores and lay their eggs in the sand. The resident sea turtles, including the elusive green and hawksbill species, offer visitors a unique chance to witness these incredible creatures up close in their natural habitat. A tip for those who are interested in catching the turtles, be sure to visit early in the morning!
The only way to get to Turtle Beach is by a taxi boat, which can be found at any beach or jetty or can be arranged with your accommodation or activity provider. Since it is a paradise beach, there are no hotels, restaurants, or bars on the island, so do remember to pack a few light snacks if you’re planning to spend some time here.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Turtle Beach, Pulau Perhentian Besar, Malaysia
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Turtle Beach here
5. Long Beach, Koh Chang, Thailand
Image credits: The Lost Passport
Often overlooked in favour of Thailand’s more famous islands, Koh Chang offers quiet, pristine beaches like Long Beach, where you can enjoy nature without the crowds.
When it comes to water activities, there’s no end to the excitement. Fancy some snorkelling? The coral reefs under the sea are a living kaleidoscope of colours, and they’re just waiting for you to jump in and explore. Or perhaps you’re itching to paddle out on a kayak, with limestone cliffs and lush jungles serving as your backdrop. And if that’s not enough, how about trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, where balance and laughter come together in perfect harmony?
Like its name, Long Beach takes a while to get to — at least an hour by motorbike from Lonely Beach and even longer by car or taxi. While the distance keeps the hordes of tourists away, reaching the gorgeous beach is not that hard with a bit of planning beforehand! Make sure you get a private hire vehicle and arrange a schedule so that you are able to enjoy this secret destination to its fullest potential.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Long Beach, Ko Chang District, Trat, Thailand
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Long Beach here
6. Pearl Beach, Mabul Island, Malaysia
Image credits: Mabul Island
Just off the coast of Borneo, Mabul Island is a hidden gem that glistens in the heart of the Celebes Sea. If you’re a traveller in search of a tropical paradise that’s as idyllic as it is pristine, Pearl Beach is your answer.
Imagine the clearest waters you’ve ever seen, teeming with marine life, coral gardens, and vibrant underwater vistas. Snorkelling here is a surreal experience — it’s like stepping into a real-life aquarium filled with turtles, colourful fish, and mesmerizing coral formations. Through the clear waters, you’re able to catch a glimpse of tiny creatures, such as pygmy seahorses and harlequin shrimp, and swim side by side with majestic giants such as giant turtles, parrotfish, and whale sharks.
The best way to get to Pearl Beach on Mabul Island is to take a boat ride from Semporna, a town in Sabah. This ride takes 45 minutes and Semporna can be reached by land transfers from Tawau Airport.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Pearl Beach, Mabul Island, Sabah
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Mabul Island here
7. Duli Beach, Palawan, Philippines
Image credits: TripAdvisor
For the adventurous souls and wave chasers among us, there’s an uncharted haven on the horizon — the captivating Duli Beach off the coast of the Phillippines. This secret stretch of coastline may not be as widely known as its famous neighbours, but that’s precisely what makes it the perfect escape for those seeking the thrill of the surf and the serenity of solitude.
Framed by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, Duli Beach is a sanctuary for surfers in search of uncrowded waves. The beach’s untouched allure and laid-back atmosphere are an invitation to explore a different side of paradise. Surf enthusiasts will be delighted by the powerful, consistent waves that roll in from the open sea and the greenery allows for hikers to get to panoramic viewpoints of the entire island.
Depending on your travelling needs, the best way to get to Duli Beach is by bike or tricycle from El Nido town. For those who are familiar with the roads, you can also rent a private car to drive up to the beach for the day.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Sitio Duli Barangay Bucana, El Nido, Palawan Island 5313, Philippines
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Duli Beach here
8. Ngapali Beach, Myanmar
Image credits: Eviva Tour
Famous amongst locals, Ngapali Beach sits along the Bay of Bengal and boasts a clean coastline adorned with soft, powdery white sands that call for sun-soaked relaxation.
While most locals might know about this spot, Ngapali Beach is pretty much untouched and free from crowds and commercialisation that you might find at more popular destinations. Here, the pace of life is unhurried, allowing you to savour the serenity and peace of a tranquil escape. You can enjoy a range of activities such as swimming, snorkelling, diving, and sunbathing. The diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs under the clear waters make for captivating underwater exploration.
The easiest way to reach Ngapali Beach is either a flight from Yangon or Bagan. The nearest airport is Thandwe Airport, which is conveniently located a mere 15 minutes away from the soft white sands. For those who are looking to stop by a beach on a road trip, you can attempt to drive but it will take about 14 hours to reach this secluded spot!
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Ngapali Beach, Burma, Myanmar
YouTrip’s Secret Beaches in Southeast Asia You Might Not Have Heard Of: Find out more about Ngapali Beach here
Here’s To Your Next Beach Getaway 🍸
As we close the book on our secret beach adventures in Southeast Asia, there’s one more key to ensure your journey is smooth and unforgettable. To make the most of your trip, consider booking your accommodations and flights through reliable platforms like Trip.com, Agoda, Booking.com, and Expedia. And here’s the icing on the cake – you can do it all via YouTrip Perks to enjoy fantastic cashback and discounts, making your dream getaway even more affordable.
Now, before you embark on your coastal odyssey, remember that a good travel insurance plan is your safety net. Trust HLAS to keep you covered as you explore these hidden paradises with peace of mind.
And for those who know that the best travel experiences go hand in hand with the best exchange rates, don’t forget to bring along your handy YouTrip card. With it, you’ll enjoy unbeatable rates all day, every day, no matter where you roam. If you’ve yet to get your hands on your own YouTrip card, sign up now with promo code <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account! For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.
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Happy travels!
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