The best beaches in Asia for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing

Malaysia is easily the most underrated beach destination in Asia. Gorgeous beaches can be found on Malaysia’s islands in the South China Sea, but our pick is Pulau Redang, a remote island just south of the more popular Perhentian Islands. Redang is the largest of several marine park islands in the Terengganu state, and because it’s protected and regulated, it remains wonderfully pristine.

Time Out tip The beaches on the south of the island by Wisana Village boast crystalline waters, powdered sugar soft white sand, and dozens of Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Green sea turtles.

This horseshoe bay is one of Sri Lanka’s most pristine beaches. It’s a popular spot for surfing. If you’re not up for catching a wave, you can enjoy the day snorkelling in the shallow waters amongst coral reefs and rich aquatic life. The palm-tree-lined shore provides the perfect amount of shade to relax as you watch surfers too. The sunsets at Hiriketiya are phenomenal, so prolong your stay by having a snack at Salt House or La Playa.

Time Out tip The best snorkelling is on the eastern side of the beach, and the best place to swim is in the center of the beach where there’s less coral.

The Maldives has endless options for incredible islands, and the destination’s most revered region is the Dhaalu Atoll which is home to the award-winning St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. Guests can experience the atoll’s serene beaches by joining guided snorkelling tours around the island. By day, you’ll come across black-tip sharks and, at night, massive marble sting rays. Other highlights include yoga classes at a shala built over the sand, parasailing high above the Indian Ocean, and relaxing on the perfect beach just outside your villa.

Time Out tip If you love the beach but hate getting sandy, you’re in luck, as the villas have private plunge pools with undisturbed vistas of the beach.

While there are plenty of free beaches to visit on Koh Tao, Taah Toh Lagoon is worth the small fee. The aquamarine water in the shaded bay is super shallow and safe for swimming. Snack at the on-site restaurant throughout the day as you enjoy one of Thailand’s most relaxing beaches. The entry ticket includes access to Freedom Beach – it’s a bit lacklustre and extremely loud and busy, so you can safely skip it. 

Time Out tip Skip renting snorkel gear here, as it’s not the best place to observe the underwater world.

Indonesia is ripe with beautiful beaches, and Gili Air never fails. It’s easy to access with the public ferry and the entire island can be circumnavigated in an hour. Rent snorkel gear from any shack on the beach and head to the east side of the island.  Here,  you can swim out into the Indian Ocean to the reef wall in less than 10 minutes and be amazed by the vibrant coral, frequent wild green and hawksbill sea turtles sightings, and parrotfish, angelfish, Moorish idols, and puffer fish swimming by you.

Time Out tip On this small Indonesian island, you can watch both the sunrise and the sunset from the beach.

Palawan is renowned for its beaches, especially those in El Nido. Surrounded by dozens of islands, the destination offers a series of boat tours — known as A, B, C, and D. Beach lovers will want to opt for Tour C to experience one of the best beaches in the region at Helicopter Island. The virgin beaches are only accessible by boat, which keeps the area pristine. The water is so translucent that you appear to be lying on a mirror when you float. You’ll also visit Hidden Beach, Star Beach, and Secret Beach on this boat tour.

Time Out tip Tours A, B, and D are better suited for those who want to kayak in lagoons or explore caves in addition to visiting a few beaches.

Hidden Beach is a stunning beach just south of the more popular Ao Nang Beach – it tends to be much quieter and is fully equipped with lounge chairs and umbrellas. Snap a picture of the iconic bowl-shaped coracle basket left by traditional Vietnamese fisherpeople on the shore. Islands can be spotted in the distance making for a picturesque and uniquely Hoi An beach experience.

Time Out tip Get a massage at one of the bungalows on the beach and enjoy the serene sounds of waves caressing the shore as your muscles relax.