When we think of the beach, we very rarely think of ones that are covered in snow. Visiting a beach during the months of winter can be fun too. The water might be too cold to swim in, but you’re certain to have it all to yourself! This is an image of Banam Beach in northern South Korea.

Image Source

It’s rare to see a beach in Asia that isn’t crowded, but then again, this beach is in North Korea. Lake Sijung is just one of a number of tranquil beaches in North Korea. Unfortunately, North Korea has only been open to Western tourists since 1987 and travel itineraries in North Korea are tightly controlled.

With a name like Paradise Beach you know you’re in for something special when you arrive. Located on the secluded Island Garden City of Samal in the Philippines this real life paradise overwhelms the senses. It’s beautiful, it’s hot, the smell of sun tan coconut oil drifts through the air as do the sounds of the sea as it gently laps the golden sand shore. It’s the kind of place you just have to say ‘Ahhhhh’ to as you set eyes on the place for the first time.

With beautiful food available nearby along with massage areas and beach recliners all you have deal with is the pain from your beaming smile as you soak up the tranquillity.

Mulan – About the Author

Mulan is one half of the popular London Launchpad travel blog, the home of great London related travel tips and advice.

Panglao Island, Philippines (Flickr Photo by Gezelle)

The Philippines remain home to some of the most beautiful and unspoilt beaches this well-travelled of travellers has experienced. From the beautiful Boracay to the stunning Mactan this country of 7,107 islands is a beach lover’s paradise. And yet, for me, there is one that remains closest to my heart and a place I dream of returning to, namely, Panglao Island.

Separated from its bigger and more famous brother Bohol by a narrow channel this idyllic getaway is home to lush white sands, a crystal clear sea line and one of the most bio-diverse diving areas in the country. Scattered all along the shore line are lazy shade canopy’s, beach recliners and palm trees making it a true picture postcard scene.

There are a large range of beach based hotels and hostels to stay at so you are spoilt for choice whatever your budget. Add to that the hospitable and friendly welcomes at every turn and you’ve got a real contender for the best beach in Asia!

Josh Aggars – About The Author

Josh is a well published travel writer who combines his twin passions of surfing and travelling to explore the wider World. He sells mens flip flops to help fund his trips as he hurriedly files his latest copy for the Flip Flops City Surf blog. Connect with him at facebook.com/josh.aggars at any time for travel tips and advice.

The Philippines is teeming with gorgeous beaches, and if there’s one place that you shouldn’t miss, it’s Nacpan and Calitang Beaches in El Nido, Palawan. These stunning adjoining beaches can be reached by motorbike, tricycle or boat from the town of El Nido.

White, glistening sand and crystal clear water awaits anyone who will pay a visit to this place. There are no resorts, guesthouses or even a single hostel, so you’ll want to bring some supplies (drinks, food and your sarong) if you intend to spend the whole day there. There’s a nearby fishing village that you can visit as well. The best time to go is in the morning when you can see the fishermen towing nets to catch fish which will later be dried and sent to the nearby towns to sell at the local markets.

Flip is a Filipino backpacker (and aspiring digital nomad) currently roaming around Southeast Asia. He blogs about budget travel tips and overland border crossing around IndoChina at flipnomad.com.

Panari Beach, Okinawa, Japan (Photo by Rurinoshima)

Beautiful beaches don’t normally spring to mind when you think of Japan. Many people are surprised to learn that Japan is home to some truly stunning beaches. In fact, the beaches in Japan are well known for having sandy white shores and sparkling clear waters. Okinawa (also known as the Ryukyu Islands, which are comprised of over 15o islands) is a popular destination for sun lovers because of its large numbers of beautiful sandy beaches to choose from. You’ll find large beach resorts scattered up and down private and public beaches, and there is never a shortage of barbecues and beach parties to be found.

Panari Beach is located in Irabu, Miyakojima, which is approxmately 20 minutes from Sarahama Port by car. The beaches in this area have a coral reef located just off the shore, so please exercise caution when you’re swimming. On the plus side, this is the perfect place to snorkel or go scuba diving, as many tropical fish can be found in the warm waters. Bring your own snorkeling gear. There are no nearby rental shops.

Philippines Beach - Survivor Island (Photo by GreenIconDS)

This stunning inlet on Survivor Island in the Philippines was taken by GreenIconDS.

Photo by PeepIndonesia

This beautiful sunset photo of Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka was taken by photographer Marc Mitchell.

This serene photo of a beach in Maldives was submitted to our Best Beaches in Asia Flickr photo group by photographer Mahlon Adaman.