There are many reasons to seek out top beach holiday destinations in Asia. Common among the resorts that make the list are fabulous cuisine, beautiful natural surroundings, adventure and an abundance of stunning coastlines. To get you started I’ve made a list of a few of my favourites. If you’re planning to explore some of this vast continent’s most special places then Expedia’s travel guide will help you plan your trip of a lifetime.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang is fast growing in popularity with holidaymakers searching for that true Vietnamese beach experience. With a fascinating, evolving city to explore and three main beach areas to enjoy, it’s a great choice. The Hyatt Regency Da Nang Resort and Spa, for example, offers the ultimate in luxury with a range of watersports and other activities to enjoy.
Phu Quok, Vietnam
Phu Quok Island, on the Gulf of Thailand, is a Vietnamese island paradise, with around 20 stunning palm-fringed beaches with coral reefs and a backdrop of lush tropical forest. There are secluded beachside hotels with boutique accommodation, mouth-watering cuisine and an air of tranquillity. This is a place which will sooth the most fevered of brows.
Bentota, Sri Lanka
Bentota, on Sri Lanka’s west coast, is one of the top destinations on the island. Squeezed between the Laccadive Sea and the lagoons of the Bentota Ganga, the area boasts a number of Geoffrey Bawa designed resorts including the Avani Resort and Spa, which offers more than just a beach holiday. There are watersports galore, but thanks to its location you can also take a Madu Ganga Safari in search of crocodiles.
Goa, India
Goa is an intoxicating blend of Indian and Portuguese culture on the southwest coast of India. It’s churches and convents are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 50 kilometres of beautiful beaches it’s also the ideal place for a relaxing holiday. Santana Beach Resort overlooking the Arabian Sea in North Goa is one of many hotels in the area that offer a mix of watersports and excursions.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket, the largest of Thailand’s many islands, lies in the Andaman Sea and is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations. It offers a wide variety of things to do and see. In addition to the many beautiful beaches, which are the principal attraction, there are also national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the north. Meanwhile, Phuket Town offers a heady mix of entertainment and is a must-visit.
Phuket has more than 30 beaches ranging from the boisterous Patong on the west coast to Mai Khao beach, a beautiful laid back resort in the northwest of the island. The more remote Banana Beach also sits just a little off the Phuket coast – if it’s perfect peace you’re looking for then this is the place to go.
Krabi, Thailand
If you’re heading to Thailand then Krabi is a great option. Located on the west coast the province has a number of beach destinations to consider. The Phi Phi Islands, one of a number of Krabi resorts, are an excellent choice for a beach holiday. With diving, swimming and snorkelling on the agenda it’s a mecca for watersports enthusiasts.
Ao Nang is another of Krabi’s delicious beach resort towns. It’s the buzzing centre of attention in the region with a wide range of accommodation, bars and restaurants in addition to its beach and all that goes with it.
Which of these beach getaways have you visited? Can you recommend any others?