Where to Find the Best Beaches in Asia – A Traveler’s Dream List

Discover the most highly-rated beaches across Asia, based on Tripadvisor’s latest Travelers’ Choice rankings.

Whether you’re looking to laze on soft sands or dive into new adventures, this year’s Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards winning beaches promise a dreamy escape. Asia boasts some of the world's most breathtaking beaches, each offering unique experiences for travelers seeking sun, sand, and serenity.

The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title is awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of the 8 million listings present on the website, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.

Here are the top 10 beaches in Asia that should be added to every traveler's bucket list.

#1 Banana Beach, Phuket (Thailand)

Banana Beach, nestled on Phuket’s Coral Island (Koh Hey), was awarded the best beach in Asia and second best beach in the world (beaten by Elafonissi beach in Crete, Greece) for its untouched nature, crystal-clear waters, and soft golden sands. Unlike many crowded tourist hotspots, Banana Beach offers a serene escape, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation. Only accessible by boat, this hidden gem feels like a private paradise.

#2 Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida (Indonesia)

Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Indonesia, is the second-best beach in Asia and ranked #9 in the world. Its signature T-Rex-shaped rock formation, towering over the turquoise waters, creates a truly awe-inspiring landscape. Unlike typical beach destinations, Kelingking offers a sense of adventure—reaching the shore requires a steep hike down rugged cliffs, but the reward is a secluded paradise untouched by mass tourism.

#3 Haeundae Beach, Busan (South Korea)

Haeundae Beach in Busan, South Korea, is famous for its soft golden sand and stunning views of the East Sea. This lively beach offers a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment. With a wide shoreline, gentle waves, and a variety of water activities, it's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The surrounding area is packed with cafes, seafood restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Busan Aquarium, making it an ideal destination for both beach lovers and urban explorers.

#4 White Beach, Panay Island (Philippines)

White Beach on Panay Island is renowned for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. Located in the heart of Boracay, this world-famous stretch of shoreline offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Visitors can lounge under swaying palm trees, take a dip in the calm, turquoise sea, or enjoy thrilling water activities like parasailing and snorkeling. As the sun sets, White Beach transforms into a lively hub with beachfront bars, fire dancers, and vibrant nightlife.

#5 Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island (India)

Radhanagar Beach is surrounded by lush tropical forests and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The gentle waves make it perfect for swimming, while its stunning sunsets paint the sky in shades of orange and pink, creating a picture-perfect paradise.

#6 Bentota Beach, Bentota (Sri Lanka)

Bentota Beach is nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwest coast and offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can unwind under swaying palm trees, take a refreshing dip in the warm Indian Ocean, or enjoy thrilling water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Bentota is also famous for its stunning sunsets and nearby attractions, including the Bentota River safari and turtle conservation projects.

#7 White Sand Beach, Khao Lak (Thailand)

Tucked away from the bustling tourist crowds, White Sand Beach is an unspoiled paradise that offers the perfect escape for travelers seeking relaxation and nature. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, while the surrounding palm trees provide plenty of shade for lounging. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants or take a peaceful stroll along the shore, soaking in the breathtaking sunset views.

#8 Nacpan Beach, Palawan Island (Philippines)

Nacpan Beach golden sands and crystal-clear waters come together for a incredible day trip. Located just a short drive from El Nido, this unspoiled beach offers a serene escape from the crowds, where visitors can can snorkel, ride the waves, or simply bask in the beautiful sunset. They can also hike to the nearby Twin Beach viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views. To savour the moment and linger in this tropical haven a bit longer, travelers can check out the beach resorts nearby.

#9 PhraNang Cave Beach, Ao Nang (Thailand)

PhraNang Cave Beach's towering limestone formations offer an unforgettable day out in the sun. These rocks offer a stunning backdrop for swimming and sunbathing. Located near Railay Beach, this stunning spot is accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded charm. The beach is famous for the iconic Phra Nang Cave, a sacred site filled with unique wooden offerings, as well as its dramatic rock formations, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.

#10 Pantai Melasti Ungasan, Ungasan (Indonesia)

Pantai Melasti Ungasan in Bali, is located in the southern part of the island and offers a tranquil escape away from the crowds, making it perfect for relaxation and photography. Spectacular cliffs rolling into white sand and blue water set the scene for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. It's also a perfect spot for water sports and enjoying the waves. The scenic winding road leading to the beach adds to its charm, offering panoramic ocean views.