5 Bucket List Beaches In Asia

A powdery white sand beach surrounded by dense jungle and jagged cliffs, Papaya Beach in Palawan is exactly what summer dreams are made of. While the beach is private, it’s still open to tourists and is accessible by a short kayak or few minute boat ride from El Nido’s Corong Corong beach. Match with your surroundings and travel with a shimmering turquoise suitcase.

Maphrao Island is bursting with rustic charm. While the beach isn’t large, it offers a classic tropical island experience – edging onto a backdrop of lush greenery. Travel there in less than 10 minutes on a long-tail boat from Laem Hin Pier, and ensure your belongings are secure with a lightweight softside luggage.

A three hour drive from Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo lies Tangalle beach. Here, the glistening blue waters are hardly affected by onshore winds making it the perfect spot for beginner surfers. Take a cross body bag – ideal for carrying maps, sunscreen and sunglasses – and start exploring the sandy shoreline.

An hour flight from Okinawa, Japan’s island of Miyako-jima is edged with picturesque beaches including Sunayama. The sandy shoreline features an arch-shaped rock which frames some of the clearest, stillest waters in the precinct. After a dip, explore the surrounding islands with ease thanks to a lightweight and practical backpack.

A three and a half hour flight from Jakarta, Bara Beach in Sulawesi’s Bira is what most people imagine when thinking of the perfect tropical holiday spot – crystal clear waters, soft white sand and swaying palm trees. Planning to find a tranquil spot to catch up on work? Pack your laptop in a functional backpack and get going.