Best Beaches in Southeast Asia for Backpackers

Hey there, beach lovers! Southeast Asia is every backpacker’s dream. Endless sunshine, ridiculously beautiful beaches, and all on a budget? Yeah, we’re sold. If you’re looking for some sun, sand, and epic vibes without draining your bank account, here are the best beaches in Southeast Asia you need to visit. No fluff, just the good stuff.

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Koh Rong, Cambodia

Koh Rong is pure island paradise, boasting beautiful white sand, crystal-clear waters, and enough beach bars to keep the party going. Whether you’re chilling at Long Set Beach or having a wild night at Koh Touch, this place is an absolute must.

Savor the tranquility of Long Set Beach in Koh Rong, photo courtesy of Canva

Otres Beach, Cambodia

Otres Beach in Sihanoukville is chill with a capital C. Think beach bungalows, hammock naps, and super cheap beers. It’s the perfect spot to just relax and recover after a busy backpacking adventure.

Find your slice of paradise at Otres Beach, photo courtesy of Canva

El Nido, Philippines

El Nido, Philippines is a constant feature on any list of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a tropical paradise where you can explore limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and water so clear it feels unreal. Prepare to have your jaw dropped.

Soak up the breathtaking beauty of El Nido, photo courtesy of charlesdeluvio

Nacpan Beach, Philippines

Just north of El Nido, you’ll find Nacpan Beach. It’s quiet, laid-back, and absolutely stunning. And the sunsets? Incredible. This is your perfect hideaway from all the action in El Nido.

Unwind on the pristine sands of Nacpan Beach and let the serene waves wash your worries away, photo courtesy of Mad Monkey

White Beach, Boracay, Philippines

Known for being the ultimate party beach, White Beach is the spot if you want vibrant tropical fun. It’s super popular, so don’t expect peace and quiet. Enjoy water sports by day and beach bars by night.

Relax or revel in the lively atmosphere of White Beach, photo courtesy of Wabi Jayme

Gili Islands, Indonesia

Looking for a mix of chill and party? Gili Islands is the place to be. Gili Trawangan has beach bars, Gili Air is more relaxed, and Gili Meno is basically deserted. If you want to meet some sea friends, go snorkeling with turtles right off the beach. Does it get better than that?

Embrace the island vibe of Gili Trawangan with lively beach bars by day and unforgettable sunsets by night, photo courtesy of Danny de Groot

Pink Beach, Indonesia

Yes, the sand is actually pink. This magical spot lies in Komodo National Park, and is one of the coolest beaches in Southeast Asia. Take your Instagram-worthy photos on the pink sand, and go snorkeling for more adventure—it’s unreal here.

Stroll along the enchanting shores of Pink Beach, photo courtesy of Canva

Kelingking Beach, Indonesia

This beach on Nusa Penida is probably all over your Instagram feed already. The T-rex-shaped cliffs and the crazy hike down to the beach make this place a total bucket-list spot. The effort is worth it—trust us.

Embrace the natural splendor of Kelingking Beach with its dramatic cliffs and serene waters, photo courtesy of Dominic Krainer

Railay Beach, Thailand

Iconic, you say? It’s the Railay Beach for you. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and calm water, it’s perfect for swimming. Want more action? It’s also a great spot for rock climbing! It feels a bit more remote, but it’s totally worth the trip.

Climb towering limestone cliffs at Railay Beach, with a stunning backdrop of turquoise waters and golden sands below, photo courtesy of Hu Chen

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Koh Phi Phi definitely deserves to be famous. The beaches are insane. And the parties? Even wilder! It’s touristy, sure, but the views and the vibes make it totally worth the trip. Hop in a kayak or snorkel right off the beach.

Experience the magic of Ko Phi Phi with its vibrant waters and iconic landscapes, photo courtesy of Hrushil Parekh

Haad Rin, Thailand

Home of the Full Moon Party, Haad Rin is *the* place to party hard in Thailand. Bask in the sun and chill out by day, but once the sun sets, get ready for neon-lights and heart-pumping beats. It’s an experience, to say the least.

Celebrate under the stars at Haad Rin’s Full Moon Party, photo courtesy of Canva

An Bang Beach, Vietnam

If you want to explore more of Hoi An, take a short ride to An Bang Beach. It’s a great spot for some sun, a drink at a beach bar, and a break from the crowds. Vibe check? It’s super laid-back.

Find tranquility at An Bang Beach with peaceful vibes and stunning coastal views, photo courtesy of Canva

Mui Ne, Vietnam

Mui Ne is guaranteed to have unique red and white sand dunes, but the beach itself is also great for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It’s got a chilled-out fisherman village vibe, perfect for when you just want to relax.

Glide across the waves at Mui Ne Beach, photo courtesy of Canva

Bai Sao Beach, Phu Quoc, Vietnam

If discovering hidden gems makes your heart skip a beat, then take a tour of Bai Sao Beach. Enjoy white sand and clear water. Want a peaceful beach day with less crowds? Yes, this is the spot for you.

Embrace the peaceful vibes of Bao Sao Beach, photo courtesy of Canva

Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi is all about laid-back island vibes. Tanjung Rhu Beach is quiet and scenic, while Pantai Cenang is where you’ll find more action and budget hostels. Plus, it’s a duty-free island, so everything’s cheaper. Score!

Find your calm at Tanjung Rhu Beach, with gentle waves and breathtaking scenery, photo courtesy of Canva

Get Ready to Soak Up the Sun

So there you go, 15 of the best beaches in Southeast Asia for backpackers. Whether you’re in it for the party, the adventure, or just some much-needed beach time, there’s a spot here for everyone. Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to hit up some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet.