Asia’s 5 best summer beach destinations according to local experts

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Asia doesn’t exactly have trouble selling travelers a dream trip.

From neon-lit cities to temples, islands, street food and beaches that look like someone adjusted the saturation slider, this part of the world has no shortage of places worth flying across.

But according to the latest news from agoda booking detailstravelers aren’t just chasing the hustle and bustle of Asia’s megacities this summer — they’re also heading to the coast.

That’s why the popular travel agency has put together an insightful list of the 5 best beach vacations in Asia in summer.

To be honest, all but one are big surprises.

From Vietnam to India and much in between, the following coastal paradises should be on your radar for your next jaunt across the Pacific.

5) Pattaya: Thailand’s glow in the making

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: Pattaya has been revamped with the lofty goal of becoming more family-friendly, shifting its nightlife reputation to a more versatile destination. expected are home to Thailand’s first Disneyland.

Is there still work to be done? Absolutely, but it’s well on its way.

Just a few hours by train from Bangkok, many add Pattaya for sun, sand and late-night nightlife, but those neon lights have dimmed a bit these days to become more palatable for all types of travelers.

Add to this the amazing temples, bustling markets and of course that one photo every tourist looks for: the unfinished Shrine of Truth – Pattaya’s renewed hype appears to be working, with Agoda reporting a remarkable 11% increase in what was previously a city shunned in favor of other Thai holiday destinations.

Travelers rate Thailand’s safety in real time using our Safety Index, which currently gives the country a score of 85/100:

4) Goa: India’s trendy piece of paradise

Not everyone welcomes digital nomads, as many places claim the remote working craze has ruined the ethos of their beloved hometown.

That is not the case for Goa.

In fact, digital nomadism has put Goa on the map for one of the most surprising aspects of India: breathtaking beaches – and much cleaner air.

No offense, New Delhi…

The great thing about Goa is that its vast coastline offers two completely different vibrations. In the south you will find more blissful, undisturbed stretches of sandy beach, and in the north you will find most of the action, with Baga And Calangute.

Yahoo searches for Goa are up 13% compared to last year, as travelers capitalize on what Goa has been quietly offering: low prices, rich culture, and beaches that don’t feel like the India most people imagine.

Travelers rate India’s safety in real time and give the country a score of 75/100:

Before you leave for India, make sure you apply for a formal visa.

3) Bali: a global icon lives on

There was a time in recent years when Bali was on the wrong side of the headlines, with travelers claiming back-and-forth traffic jams and piles of rubbish, and a wave of expats sullying the atmosphere of this iconic beach paradise. Eat pray love aura.

But the truth is, Bali is as iconic as ever – and growing.

Travelers don’t just flock to Canggu for beach clubs; they flock to some of the hidden corners of Indonesia’s most renowned destination, such as Sidemen and countless traditional villages.

In terms of interest, we are tied with Goa and there is no denying who will win the popularity contest between the two.

While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it still offers the kind of jungle-meets-beach escape that feels luxurious without fully entering honeymoon territory.

Although security has become a question mark with over 70 verified reports of scams on our security index.

Travelers rate Bali’s safety in real time with a 71/100:

Before you leave for Indonesia, be prepared to get a visa upon arrival.

2) Nha Trang: Vietnam’s high-rise hideaway

When it comes to Vietnam, the main thing you hear about is the hole-in-the-wall noodle shacks, the vibrant green rice fields, the endless countryside and the bustling cities.

But it’s the beach locations that have really pushed Vietnam over the edge in its record year for tourism.

One such spot is Nha Trang, a sunny bayside oasis with easy access to incredible islands that might just be your new favorite snorkeling spot.

Despite its Miami-esque skyline, don’t be fooled: it’s cheap, safe, and surprisingly authentic for looking like a classic seaside city.

Agoda reports a 36% increase in interest this year, meaning it has become one of the trendiest beach destinations in all of Asia, almost tripling the others on this list.

Travelers rate Vietnam’s safety in real time at a 92/100 currently:

1) Da Nang: the coast of Vietnam with the most

Da Nang is Asia’s beach destination this summer.

Backed by a whopping 72% increase in searches for bookings via Booking.com, the increase is more than double the 36% increase in Nha Trang.

Of course, if you’re a travel nerd like all of us here at Travel Off Path, this shouldn’t come as a total shock.

Da Nang has been taking over travel publications left and right, not only as Vietnam’s next great beach getaway, but also as… the destination to be in Asia — with My Khe BeachMarble Mountains, nearby Hoi An, and a growing food and cafe scene, all in one.

You don’t have to travel all the way to the Maldives for a true school paradise with the white sands of Da Nang and affordable luxury with chic villas such as Naman retreat.

Make sure you apply for an e-visa before you leave for Vietnam.

Take the quiz below now to find your perfect beach in Asia!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego, has visited 44 countries and written more than 1,500 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.