Fancy a bit of a roam? Forget the thronging masses and beach resorts where you can hear the pop music from three coves over. True bliss lies in the places nobody can be bothered to reach, those secluded tropical beaches that soothe the relentless grind of everyday life. These rewards are reserved for those willing to step off the beaten track.
So pack a towel, something chilled to drink, and perhaps a decent book for the inevitable moment the local wildlife tries to nick your sandwich.
We’re heading for paradise, and it requires a smidge of effort.
Karimunjawa Island 🥽 Beaches
It was one of those travel decisions that seemed like a perfect idea on paper. The itinerary was simple enough: escape the urban sprawl of Semarang and Jepara, travel to some remote Indonesian islands, and spend ten days doing absolutely nothing but staring at a turquoise sea.
We told ourselves that after enduring the dusty, chaotic sprawl of Java’s cities, we deserved a slice of paradise. Little did we know, Karimunjawa had its own unique way of testing our mettle.
Sandbank Affaire 🌅 Maldives: Dinner on your Private Island
The Makunudu island resort in the Maldives offers an exclusive experience. Imagine being whisked away by speedboat to a distant mini-island—a thin sliver of white sand on the horizon.
Accompanied only by your waiter and a chef, you’ll savor a Lobster BBQ with a bottle of wine on this private evening excursion.
Goyambokka Beach 🏕️ Tangalle
Palm Paradise offers a serene escape amidst lush tropical surroundings.
At Goyambokka Beach you can indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages, and explore nearby attractions like the Mulgirigala Rock Temple.
Lembongan Beaches 🧜♀️ Popular’s not always Best
Bali is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, attracting countless tourists every year. While some beaches on the island have gained immense popularity and are often overcrowded, it’s important to remember that popular doesn’t always equate to the best.
Lembongan island is just as beautiful and offers a more peaceful and authentic experience.
Langkawi Island Life 🦅 Lush, Tropical, Timeless
This Malaysian gem, part of a 99-island archipelago, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Here you can explore ancient rainforests, relax on sun-kissed shores, and experience the vibrant local life.
Exploring Koh Lipe, Thailand 🌴 A Tiny Island Paradise
Koh Lipe is a small island paradise that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, world-class diving, and vibrant marine life in the region.
Alona Beach 🏖️🍹
If you are after a sun-kissed slice of the Philippines where the sand is soft and the atmosphere is effortlessly buzzing, Alona Beach on Panglao Island is your ticket, provided you can handle a crowd with a sense of buoyant joie de vivre.
Kovalam Lighthouse Beach 🏖️ India
With its iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse standing tall against the azure sky, this iconic stretch of sands offers a blend of relaxation and exploration.
From water sports to leisurely strolls along the palm-fringed promenade, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this renowned beach destination.
Pangkor Island, Malaysia 🛶 Low-Key Island Escape
Malaysia’s Pangkor island offers an eclectic mix of history, beaches, and local quirks that make it delightfully different.
It’s not the biggest island, and it’s definitely not the most famous, but that’s part of its appeal.
Monkeying Around at Jungle Beach 🐒🌴🌊 Unawatuna in Sri Lanka
For those who just can’t get enough of overly inquisitive monkeys and a beach that makes you work to find it, Jungle Beach is your dream destination. Imagine sweating your way through a jungle trail only to share your sunbathing spot with some brazen macaques eyeing your snacks—pure bliss, right?
At least the water’s clear, and the scenery screams tropical tranquility…if you can handle the monkey business!
Experience India’s Best Beaches ⛱️ Goa’s Beach Hopping Trail
Just pack a lightweight bag with a picnic, grab a hat and plenty of water, and head out to discover whatever is beyond the distant headland.
Isla Colon 🏝️👀💸 Bocas del Toro
Iguana Bay (also known as La Piscina) is a really chilled-out swimming spot – Just beware the huge horseflies that will want a piece of you 😲.
Mithi Resort & Spa, Panglao 🏝️🌞 Philippines
Mithi Resort & Spa promises a rejuvenating experience in one of the Philippines‘ most captivating locales.
Palolem Beach 🌴 Goa
Known for its crescent-shaped shoreline, this blissful stretch of sand is where your stress goes to get a tan.
Lounge on the beach, sip on a fresh G&T, and join the boho-chic crowd at the local shacks.
Ceylonica Beach ⛱️ Negombo
For many visitors to Sri Lanka, Negombo will be your first port of call – though this isn’t the best beach that Sri Lanka has to offer, by far.
Nevertheless, there are plenty of tourists and locals out and about and they didn’t all seem to be just passing through like us.
Kuala Penyu Beaches 🌴 Malaysia
Malaysia is the ultimate haven for travelers seeking genuine beach-side bliss, with a touch of rugged charm.
This area boasts unfiltered sea views and rustic accommodations, perfect for those willing to trade modern comforts for a truly immersive experience.
How About Your Own 🏝️ Panamanian Island?
What if we took our daydream and put a little jet fuel in it? What if we skipped the suburban semi and went straight for something with a bit more… water?
‘Buying Your Own Panamanian Island’ sounds like the punchline to a very elaborate joke, but for some of us, it was a legitimate inquiry.
White Sands of Dumaluan Beach 🏖️ Philippines
This less-frequented gem offers a tranquil escape from the bustling nearby beaches, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure. Here you can enjoy a variety of activities, including snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, while soaking in the natural beauty.
Dumaluan beach is well worth a visit if you’re seeking a lower-key beach experience in the Philippines.
Phuket Thailand 🌴 Explore the Beaches
Whether lounging on Bangtao Beach or exploring the vibrant nightlife, Phuket offers a taste of home for sun-seeking travelers.
Phuket was also the starting point for our island hopping trip along the West coast of Malaysia. So how does it compare to the other islands we visited?
Maspalomas – Faro & Beaches 🌈 Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria, has long been celebrated as a welcoming destination for the LGBTQ+ community.
With its stunning golden beaches, bustling nightlife, and inclusive atmosphere, Maspalomas offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exhilaration.
Santa Catalina 🏄 Panama
Santa Catalina, located on the Pacific coast of Panama, is a laid-back and picturesque destination renowned for its world-class surfing, diverse marine life, and stunning natural beauty.
While it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Catalina retains its tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Panama’s Pacific coast.
Songkhla Thailand 🧜♀️
With endless beaches along the east coast, a colorful old town near the west coast, and a rich history in a troubled border province, Songkhla invites travelers to discover its hidden gems..
Whether you’re rubbing the mermaid’s hair for good luck or walking across Thailand’s longest concrete bridge to Ko Yo Island, this city certainly promises an ‘interesting’ adventure.
Rebak Island, Malaysia ⛵ Paradise for the Soul
Located just off the coast of Langkawi, Rebak island is an overlooked treasure in Malaysia that offers a serene and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
As keen but sometimes weary travelers, we were looking for a destination that would offer us peace, relaxation, light activities and natural beauty. Rebak island delivers on all fronts.
Getting Wet in Moalboal, Cebu 🥭 The Philippines
Moalboal, Cebu, was a name that had been lingering on our list for a while. It promised a certain kind of seclusion, the sort of place where the sea is bathwater warm and the fish are so numerous they look like an underwater traffic jam.
Pangangan Island 🌅 Bohol in the Philippines
Pangangan is a small, peaceful ‘island’ in Bohol, Philippines. Well actually, it’s not quite an island: Pangangan is connected to the mainland by a 4 km mangrove-bordered causeway. It’s secluded enough, but how about the beaches?
Juara Beach 🏄♂️ Tioman Island, Malaysia
Juara Beach is also home to a vibrant marine ecosystem, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or an active holiday, Juara Beach promises an unforgettable experience in one of Malaysia’s most beautiful coastal settings.
South Goa Beaches 🏖️ Agonda
The beaches of south Goa in India form a collection of idyllic coastal gems which offer an unparalleled retreat for beach enthusiasts and serenity seekers alike.
Stretching from the bustling beach of Palolem to the tranquil expanse of Butterfly Beach, these destinations boast stunning landscapes, clear blue waters, and a laid-back vibe. Each beach in South Goa has its unique charm, whether it’s the vibrant nightlife of Colva, the pristine sands of Agonda, or the secluded coves of Cola Beach.
Philippines Beach Destinations 🥂⛱️🌴🌊 Pros & Cons
When it comes to tropical paradises, the Philippines stands out as a top contender. With over 7,000 islands and a coastline stretching for more than 36,000 kilometers, this archipelago is a haven for beach lovers.
However, choosing the perfect beach destination can be a daunting task. If getting a suntan is high on the priority list, then unless you want to remain one of fifty shades of pink you need to choose your beach destinations carefully.
Tangalle Beaches 🌴 Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, beckon travelers with their pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by palm-fringed shores, azure waters, and untouched landscapes, this coastal paradise offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a serene beach getaway.
Goyambokka Beach or the secluded charm of Silent Beach, Tangalle promises an unforgettable coastal experience.
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