2 Vietnamese Beaches make any list of the 10 best Southeast Asian Islands

08/06/2014

By ATA

Southeast Asia has some of the finest beaches in the world. Those amongst you who like to kick back and chill on an idyllic beach, will have no trouble finding your ideal combination of golden soft sand, pristine, clear waters and some peace and tranquility. Some of course have reached legendary status for the activities that take place rather than the beach itself.

Thailand

Koh Phangan just off from Koh Samui in Southern Thailand is home to the legendary Full Moon Parties, when thousands of young people flock to the beach to indulge in the now world famous hedonistic all night parties on the beach. The tiny village of Haad Rin has been totally overwhelmed by the crowd that comes each month to party the nights away.

Koh Lipe off the Andaman Coast of Thailand is an extremely secluded island and home to just 500 local people. There are not many concessions to modern living here, including no cars and no wi-fi. The white sand and aqua marine sea, make an idyllic setting and one that surprisingly remains something of a secret.

Indonesia

In the Gili Islands of Indonesia the largest island is called Gili Trawangan. It is a tiny blip of paradise in the midst of pristine water. With a population of only 800, it is possible to circumnavigate it in just three hours. This really is a case of getting away from it all. Extremely isolated and with barely any wi-fi connection, it is secluded and tranquil.

The most popular surfing beaches in Southeast Asia are those on Lombok Island in Indonesia. The town of Kuta is the main spot to stay and has nice hotels and restaurants, but not enough to spoil the quiet ambience. Because of the underwater layout here the waves are more often than not between 3 and 5 metres, great for surfing.

Vietnam

Mui Ne in Vietnam is a truly beautiful place. This beach is taking over as Vietnam’s primary beach and it is not hard to see why. The local fishing port of Phan Thiet is superb and serves the finest seafood imaginable. Just a few short hours drive from Ho Chi Minh City, this is a great weekend getaway for many.

Phu Quoc is an island of the coast of Cambodia, though it belongs to and is administered by Vietnam. This has been the cause of much annoyance between the two countries. A small island it is well served by both air and hydrofoil and has superb beaches all around its coastline. The best way to explore these wonderful beaches is to hire a local motorbike and simply potter around until you find one.

Malaysia

At the northern most point of Langawai in Malaysia, you’ll find the exquisite resort of Tanjung Rhu. This extremely luxurious, perfect, private beach is available only to guests of the resort here. Housing less than 140 rooms and several private swimming pools, the beach is tranquil and secluded at all times. Modern watersport activities are not allowed, this really is about rest and recuperation.

Philippines

Coron has grown in popularity in recent years. Thankfully though, it is the main town that seems to have attracted the developers attention, whilst the beautiful beaches and languid lagoons, seem relatively unspoiled. Surrounded by mountainous jungle, the beaches here really are as pretty as a picture.

One of the smallest islands in the Philippines is Camiguin, having only one smaller neighbour. There is not even room to build a resort here, never mind a full on tourist town. Thus, it has remained much the same as it has always been, quiet and peaceful, with stunning views.

Cambodia

Not known for it’s beach tourism, Cambodia none the less does have Koh Rong, a small island of the coast to the east of Sihanoukville. Not developed as a main tourist centre in any way, it remains pristine and beautifully tranquil.