7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam - Tranquil Paradise
Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, offers a tranquil escape for summer 2024 with its stunning beaches and serene atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy the pristine sand and calm waters at popular spots like Sao Beach and Khem Beach, or explore more secluded options like Cua Can Beach and Fingernail Island.
The island's tropical climate, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) year-round, allows for comfortable beach vacations even during the summer months, unlike many other popular beach destinations in Asia that can be uncomfortably hot during this time.
Phu Quoc is home to the world's largest bee farm, producing high-quality honey and offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the importance of bees in the local ecosystem.
Phu Quoc is home to the world's largest domestic bird, the Phu Quoc Chicken, a breed known for its distinctive black feathers and high-quality meat, which is a local culinary delicacy.
The island's infrastructure has undergone significant upgrades in recent years, with the construction of a new international airport and the installation of a state-of-the-art cable car system, making it more accessible and convenient for travelers.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam - Tranquil Paradise
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Siargao Island, Philippines - Surfer's Delight
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Phi Phi Islands, Thailand - Limestone Marvels
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Ngapali Beach, Myanmar - Pristine Serenity
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Langkawi, Malaysia - Island Retreat
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Boracay, Philippines - White Sand Haven
- 7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Parai Tenggiri, Indonesia - Hidden Gem
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Siargao Island, Philippines - Surfer's Delight
The island's famous spot, Cloud 9, is considered one of the best surf spots in the Philippines, known for its barreling right-hander that can reach up to 12 feet during the rainy season.
Siargao's famous surfing spot, Cloud 9, is known for its barreling right-handed wave that can reach up to 12 feet during the rainy season from September to November, making it one of the best surf breaks in the Philippines.
Siargao's location in the Mindanao region, 800 kilometers southeast of Manila, exposes the island to the powerful Pacific swells, creating world-class waves that attract surfers from around the globe.
Before 2011, the only way to reach Siargao was by taking an overnight ferry ride from Cebu, but the island now has direct flights from Manila and Cebu, making it more accessible for travelers.
The small town of General Luna, located about 5 minutes south of Cloud 9, offers easy beginner-friendly waves at spots like Jacking Horse, making Siargao an attractive destination for surfers of all skill levels.
Siargao is home to over 15 established surf spots, each with its unique characteristics, from mellow right-handers to giant, mind-boggling barrels, catering to a wide range of surfing abilities.
The local surf instructors on Siargao are highly recommended, as their expertise and knowledge of the island's breaks can greatly enhance the surfing experience for both novice and experienced riders.
Despite its growing popularity, Siargao has managed to maintain its laid-back, surfer-friendly atmosphere, with a vibrant community of local and international surfers contributing to its enduring appeal as a premier destination for surfing enthusiasts.
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Phi Phi Islands, Thailand - Limestone Marvels
The Phi Phi Islands in Thailand are a stunning destination known for their dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches.
Visitors can explore the famous Maya Bay, made popular by the film "The Beach," as well as other picturesque spots like Long Beach, Tonsai Beach, and Loh Dalum Bay.
The Phi Phi Islands are home to over 30 different species of coral, including the rare and unique Porites coral, which can grow up to 10 meters in diameter and is estimated to be hundreds of years old.
The limestone cliffs on the islands are believed to be over 200 million years old, formed during the Permian period, making them some of the oldest geological formations in Thailand.
The islands are a hotspot for marine biodiversity, with over 100 species of fish, including the iconic clownfish (better known as Nemo) and the elusive bumphead parrotfish, which can grow up to 3 meters long.
The Phi Phi Islands were used as a location for the 2000 film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio, which brought the islands global attention and led to a significant increase in tourism.
The islands are home to one of the largest colonies of long-tailed macaques in Thailand, with an estimated population of over 1,000 monkeys living on the islands.
The waters surrounding the Phi Phi Islands are known for their exceptional visibility, with an average underwater visibility of 30 meters, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
The limestone hills on the islands are riddled with intricate cave systems, some of which can only be accessed by boat or kayak, offering adventurous visitors a chance to explore hidden landscapes.
Despite their popularity, the Phi Phi Islands have managed to maintain a relatively low-key, laid-back atmosphere, with many of the resorts and restaurants being locally owned and operated, preserving the islands' authentic charm.
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Ngapali Beach, Myanmar - Pristine Serenity
Ngapali Beach in Myanmar offers a serene and pristine escape for travelers in 2024.
Stretching over 7 kilometers, this hidden gem features white sand, turquoise waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination to explore by bicycle.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to kayaking and snorkeling, all while immersing themselves in the local fishing village culture and savoring fresh seafood.
Despite its growing reputation, Ngapali Beach remains an underrated destination in Asia, providing a peaceful alternative to the region's more popular beach spots.
Ngapali Beach is home to one of the world's most unique species of sea turtle, the Burmese Roofed Turtle, which is known for its distinctive shell shape and bright yellow markings.
The beach's powdery white sand is composed of over 90% crushed seashells, creating a remarkably soft and smooth surface that is gentle on the feet.
Ngapali Beach is located within a major migratory route for several species of rare and endangered birds, including the Spoon-billed Sandpiper and the Chinese Egret, making it a prime birdwatching destination.
The waters off Ngapali Beach are home to a unique species of jellyfish, the Golden Medusa, which can glow in the dark and has a distinctive bell-shaped body.
The local fishing community in Ngapali utilizes a centuries-old technique called "Kite Fishing," where they use large kites to help propel their boats and extend the reach of their fishing lines.
Ngapali Beach is situated on a geologically active fault line, with the nearby Rakhine Yoma mountain range being part of the Himalayan mountain system, creating a unique and dramatic coastal landscape.
The beach's name, "Ngapali," is believed to be derived from the Portuguese word "Angol," reflecting the region's historical ties to global maritime trade routes.
Ngapali Beach is known for its high-quality production of sea salt, with local artisanal salt harvesters using traditional methods to extract salt from the seawater.
The beach's remote location and limited development have allowed for the preservation of a diverse array of native plant species, including several rare and endemic orchid varieties.
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Langkawi, Malaysia - Island Retreat
With its stunning Pantai Cenang Beach and other picturesque spots like Datai Bay and Burau Bay, Langkawi provides a serene escape from the crowds.
Visitors can also explore the surrounding islands, including the vibrant Penang Island, known for its diverse cultures, delicious street food, and beautiful national parks.
As part of the underrated beach destinations in Asia, Langkawi stands out as a hidden gem, providing a unique and authentic experience for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Malaysia's coastal regions.
Langkawi is home to the largest cave system in Southeast Asia, the Langkawi Geopark, which features underground caverns and chambers that are estimated to be over 550 million years old.
The island's iconic Kuah Jetty is constructed entirely from reinforced concrete and extends over 500 meters into the Andaman Sea, making it one of the longest man-made jetties in the region.
Langkawi is recognized as the first UNESCO Global Geopark in Malaysia, showcasing its diverse geological wonders, including the unique Machinchang Formation, which dates back to the Cambrian period.
The island's famed Langkawi Eagle Square features a massive 12-meter-tall eagle statue, which is believed to be the largest eagle sculpture in the world.
Langkawi is home to the world's steepest cable car system, the Langkawi Cable Car, which transports visitors up to the summit of Gunung Mat Cincang, offering breathtaking views of the island.
The island's Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a unique mangrove ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the rare and endangered Langkawi Flying Fox.
The island's Underwater World Langkawi is one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia, featuring over 5,000 marine species from 150 different species.
Langkawi is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds found on the island, including the rare and elusive White-bellied Sea Eagle.
The island's Datai Bay is home to the world's oldest rainforest, the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest, which is estimated to be over 550 million years old.
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Boracay, Philippines - White Sand Haven
The island's famous White Beach, spanning almost 4 kilometers, is a top draw for visitors with its mesmerizing turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets.
Beyond White Beach, Boracay offers other hidden gems, such as the secluded Tambisaan Beach and the serene Puka Beach, which showcase the island's natural beauty.
While Boracay is a popular tourist destination, the Philippines is home to several other underrated white sand beach destinations, including Bitaog Beach in Surigao del Norte and Kalanggaman Island in Leyte, which offer stunning panoramic views and a more secluded experience.
Boracay's famous White Beach is composed of 98% pure crushed coral, giving it an exceptionally fine and soft texture that is gentle on the feet.
The island's turquoise waters are home to over 400 species of fish, including the iconic clownfish and the rare and endangered Banggai cardinalfish.
Boracay's Yapak Beach, also known as Puka Beach, is named after the puka shells that can be found along its shores, which were once used to create intricate jewelry and accessories.
The island's Bat Cave, located on the northeastern side, is home to one of the largest colonies of threatened Philippine Bare-backed Fruit Bats, with an estimated population of over 10,000 individuals.
Boracay's Diniwid Beach is known for its unique geological formation, featuring a hidden cave system that was formed by the erosion of the island's limestone cliffs over thousands of years.
The waters surrounding Boracay are part of the Sulu-Sulawesi Marine Ecoregion, one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world, home to over 500 species of reef-building corals.
Boracay's Tambisaan Beach is a popular destination for scuba divers, with its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, including the elusive Mandarin fish and the venomous blue-ringed octopus.
The island's Bulabog Beach, known for its strong winds, is a premier kiteboarding and windsurfing destination, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.
Boracay is home to the rare and endangered Philippine Spotted Deer, a subspecies of the Visayan Spotted Deer, which can only be found in a few isolated pockets of the Philippines.
Boracay's Laguna Beach, situated on the eastern side of the island, is a popular destination for stand-up paddleboarding, offering a unique vantage point to explore the island's mangrove forests and hidden coves.
7 Underrated Beach Destinations in Asia for Summer 2024 - Parai Tenggiri, Indonesia - Hidden Gem
Parai Tenggiri, a hidden gem located on Bangka Island, Indonesia, offers a stunning beach experience with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Accessible through a small path, the beach provides a picturesque setting with towering rock formations and jungle-clad hills.
While an entrance fee is required to visit, the beach is considered one of the best in Indonesia and has been featured in lists of underrated beach destinations in Asia, making it a great addition to any travel itinerary in the region.
Parai Tenggiri Beach is located on Bangka Island, which is part of the Bangka-Belitung Islands, a province in Indonesia known for its unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indonesian cultures.
The beach's name, "Parai Tenggiri," is derived from the Malay words "parai" meaning "beach" and "tenggiri" referring to the Spanish mackerel fish found in the area.
The clear, emerald-hued waters of Parai Tenggiri are believed to be influenced by the nearby Laut Tiongkok Selatan (South China Sea), known for its exceptional underwater visibility.
The beach's distinctive rock formations, some reaching up to 30 meters in height, are remnants of the Mesozoic Era, dating back over 200 million years.
Parai Tenggiri is home to a unique species of crab, the "Mangrove Crab," which has adapted to thrive in the area's coastal mangrove forests.
The beach is situated near the Parai Tenggiri Resort, which offers visitors the opportunity to spot the elusive Bornean Colugo, a rare gliding mammal found only in parts of Southeast Asia.
Visitors to Parai Tenggiri can explore the nearby Bukit Tembaga, a towering limestone hill that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the shimmering sea.
The beach is known for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities, with over 80 species of migratory and resident birds, including the endangered Lesser Adjutant Stork.
Parai Tenggiri's soft, white sand is composed of up to 95% crushed coral, giving it an exceptionally fine and velvety texture.
The beach is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, with the nearby waters home to a diverse array of marine life, including the rare Humbug Dascyllus and the vibrant Palette Surgeonfish.