Life's a beach, and in Asia there's a whole lot of good living to be had. We've researched and uncovered the top beach destinations to be found in the region. We've even broken them down into three categories -- secluded beaches, action beaches and local flavor -- so all you need to do is decide exactly how much coastal paradise you can handle.
For seclusion Yunokawa, Hakodate, Japan
Yunokawa may be known as an onsen (hot spring) district but there are lovely, largely deserted beaches all around town.
The true charms of the coastal city don’t show themselves until the winter months. The area is scattered with onsens directly facing out to the shore and we can think of few things better than bathing in a hot spring while looking out at a beach covered with snow. Yunokawa is largely ignored by both foreign and domestic tourists during winter, as most Hokkaido vacationeers opt for Sapporo for skiing, so shops close early, which adds to the town’s sedate ambience.
Patnem Beach, Goa, India
Most tourists know Goa for its Anjuna beach , hippie heaven of the 1960s and now tourist magnet. If the cacophony of flea markets and tourist raves are not your thing, head down to the lesser-known shores of Patnem, which is a stone’s throw away from the increasingly crowded Palolem beach.
Patnem may be smaller than its famous neighbor but it’s also less claustrophobic, with cheaper beach hut accommodation. It’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the sunset while congratulating yourself on ducking the Goan tourist radar.
Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi, Malaysia
The island cluster of Langkawi is spearheading Malaysia’s bid to become the next major resort destination in Southeast Asia, and while on the main isle (also called Lankawi) most tourists flock to Pantai Cenang beach, we like the quieter Tanjung Rhu for its earthy beauty and serene atmosphere.
The two-mile Tanjung Rhu beach area is surrounded by ancient limestone caves, rippling waterways and dense mangroves. The newly opened Four Seasons resort offers boat tours around the mangrove forests led by naturalists.
...
Read more...