When asked about their dream holiday, many people draw up images of beaches with soft pearly-white sand, dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and a panoramic view of blue seas for miles around.

But what’s your beach-going personality? Some people seek out an exhilarating experience through extreme sports or partying, while others look for the furthest islands away from civilization.

If you fall in the latter category, Southeast Asia – particularly Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines – has a tranquil beach just beckoning to you. Here are our picks of beaches where you can get a well-deserved reprieve from the outside world.

An accumulation of red coral bits over the years has given the aptly-named Pink Beach its rosy hue. You won’t get much mobile phone service or WiFi, but when you’re surrounded with so much natural splendor, why would you want the distraction of technology?

Phu Quoc Island is often touted as one of Vietnam’s most gorgeous islands. Its position in a military area lends to its mystery and seclusion, as there’s little development on the island.

However, since the opening of the island’s international airport, more and more people are discovering its charms, particularly Bai Dai Beach. So now’s the best time to visit, before everyone else catches on!

Located in the province of Camarines Norte, the words “tranquil” and “serene” are often used to describe the Calaguas Islands. If a back-to-basics experience is what you want, then you’ll find it here. Make your friends and family jealous by posting photos of the powdery white sands of Mahabang Buhangin Beach on Tinaga Island.

Located in Berau, East Kalimantan, the unspoiled island of Derawan is where you go if you want to be surrounded by little else but nature. It’s known among divers for as a world-class snorkeling and diving spot.

Just off the beach, you’ll find a thriving coastal reef and seagrass beds to explore. You may even just be lucky enough to come across one of the area’s resident creatures, such as dolphins, green and hawksbill turtles, as well as coconut crabs.

Situated just north of the famous Nha Trang, Whale Island is a haven for nature lovers, thanks to persistent efforts to protect the marine ecosystem in the area. Rustic hiking trails snake their way up and down the coast, and kayaking and windsurfing are popular activities for the island’s visitors.

El Nido is part of the famed Palawan island, known for its breathtaking underwater seascapes. Above water, it’s just as beautiful, with impressive limestone karsts jutting out of crystal clear waters. Its most scenic beach is Nacpan Beach, just 45 minutes away from the lively El Nido town by tricycle.
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