India undoubtedly has a spectacular fusion of diversity. There is so much to see here, in great proportion, be it cultural or natural. India has vast shorelines in the west, south, and east, which make it a magnet for beach lovers. This breathtaking country has some stunning shores in Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, but if you are someone seeking sun-kissed, sandy shores outside India, you will find a variety of them with tropical vibes quite different from the Indian beach ambience.
So, if you want something not quintessentially Indian beaches and seek some sunshine, sea, and sand beyond its borders, here are the top beach destinations to visit outside India.
Bali, Indonesia
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Bali should be on top of your list if you are an Indian tourist in love with the fiery sunsets and sugar white, sandy beaches. Bali’s beaches are like something out of a postcard, with crystal-clear azure waters where you can see the fish swim around your feet as you step into the shallow slopes of seawater. Places like Nusa Dua have calm, turquoise waves perfect for swimming, while Seminyak’s trendy vibe and Jimbaran’s laid-back sunsets will make you want to stay here forever.
Also, the culture resonates a lot with Indian values and mythology, so you don’t feel far from home. This beach destination is super-affordable for Indians, and you can easily stretch your money to accommodate a variety of experiences without having to break the bank. So, book a fancy villa with a private pool and live like royalty without burning a hole in your pocket.
Langkawi, Malaysia
Best time to visit: November to March
Langkawi is the next destination that instantly comes to your mind for a blissful beach holiday outside India. In Langkawi, you can blend beach life with thrilling adventures and lip-smacking seafood, made with the warmth of Malaysian flavour and hospitality.
Within Langkawi, choose your pick from serene shores such as Pantai Tengah, Tanjung Rhu, Pantai Kok, and Datai Beach. These beach spots range from lively, yet not overwhelming, beaches for those who love gentle waves that are perfect for a swim. Beaches like Pantai Cenang are apt for families with kids who can spend time building sandcastles, as well as for thrill-seekers wishing for some adrenaline-spiking water adventures.
Langkawi is just a quick ferry from Kuala Lumpur, or you can even fly directly to Langkawi International Airport. Moreover, the best part isn’t just the beaches! The island has a duty-free tag, thus making it appealing for shopaholics.
North Male Atoll, Maldives
Best time to visit: November to April
The Maldives is for those who are chasing that perfect stretch of powdery sands that taper into crystal-clear water, and the vibes exude sheer luxury and relaxation. But, yes, it is one of the most expensive destinations in Asia for a tropical beach holiday.
Among its scattered islands, the North Male Atoll is the most preferred due to its proximity to the Male International Airport. The beaches here are unparalleled compared to any other you have experienced and are perhaps the most romantic in the world due to their private getaways and solace in solitude. This is why it is highly recommended for honeymooners and couples, so they can have some shared time together away from the chaos of daily life. It is a place for pure reset, where your days are filled with lazing around, enjoying swims in warm waters, going for underwater adventure sports, and getting pampered in luxury resorts with delicious food and soothing spa treatments.
You can select a stay from a collection of stylish, sea view resorts such as Kurumba Maldives, Bandos Maldives, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kudahuraa, and Taj Coral Reef Resorts & Spa. Nowhere else will you get such privacy, as each resort sits on its own private island. You truly get your slice of paradise all to yourself.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Best time to visit: November to April
This beach destination is for those who want to enjoy a calm beach holiday on a shoestring budget. In Vietnam’s Phu Quoc, you get the best of a beach holiday, right from clean, sugary white beaches, clear blue waters, fantastic food, fiery sunsets, and stays in opulent resorts and spas. The best part is that all this can be enjoyed at a price much cheaper than you would expect!
Vietnam is very affordable from India and offers low cost facilities alongside high end vibes on the finest beaches. The white sand is perfect for strolling barefoot at Sao Beach and Long Beach, offering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Go snorkelling at the An Thoi Islands and explore the adventure side with watersports like flyboarding and paragliding. The island also teems with vibrant night markets, fresh seafood, and a tranquil ambience, which makes it a spot-on destination for cost-conscious travellers seeking luxury and natural beauty. So while you search for Hanoi travel packages, include an extension to this beautiful beach destination for a comprehensive trip in Vietnam.
Pattaya, Thailand
Best time to visit: November to February
One of the popular beach getaways for Indians is Thailand, and Pattaya pops up as one of their preferred destinations for sublime strolls, swims, and scenic viewing. This lively coastal spot with sun-kissed beaches along the eastern Gulf coast of Thailand is idyllic for basking in the tropical sun, enjoying the azure, gentle waves, and beautiful sunsets. It is also a bustling, happening spot to experience the thrills of watersport adventures. The thrill continues after the sunset with lively beach parties, cabaret shows, and chic clubs. To make the most of your time here, spend at least two nights here. Being a close-by township to dynamic Bangkok, most Pattaya tour packages are always a combo package of Bangkok and Pattaya, with two nights in each city.
We suggest that you extend your trip further if you are looking for a sand-and-surf experience on a beach holiday. Head to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, where pristine white beaches will allure you with incredible sea views and a remarkable underwater realm ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. In all, Thailand’s beaches do promise fun, affordability, and unforgettable moments.
Bentota, Sri Lanka
Best time to visit: December to March
If you want hassle-free travel with unbeatable value and amazingly picturesque beaches, Sri Lanka deserves to be on your bucket list. Sri Lanka keeps your beach journey wallet-friendly and also makes sure you don’t feel homesick. Sri Lanka shares a lot in common with Indian beaches, but with a dash of its own twist – be it in the scenic views, the beach lifestyle, or the sumptuous coconut and cinnamon-infused curries and Ceylon tea brews.
As for Bentota Beach, this picturesque coastal stretch in southern Sri Lanka greets you with golden sands, aquamarine waters, swaying coconut palms, and other verdant coastal wilderness, offering a familiar comfort but a refreshing escape.
Moreover, apart from the beach strolls and incredible sunsets, Bentota nudges you to explore unique adventures like the Madu Ganga River Safari or connect with the finer elements of nature like watching baby turtles scurrying about in Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.
Don’t miss the dramatic transformation of this coastal town at night with visits to beach parties, DJ nights at nightclubs, and a stellar fine dining food scene.
Grand Baie, Mauritius
Best time to visit: May to November
Grand Baie is a vivacious spot in Mauritius, buzzing with energy amid a laid-back sea setting. The white, sandy beaches hugging turquoise lagoons do captivate you and relax your senses, but there is so much more to this coastal destination that makes it a must-visit for beach lovers.
It is the kind of place where you can relax sipping your favourite drink and lounging one minute and zoom across the waves on a jet ski the next. Families love the cosiness that comes with the safe comforts of upscale resorts and private beaches, while couples get their much-needed privacy on catamaran sunset cruises to steal timeless moments together.
But the real element that excites most tourists is the adventure quotient of this beach town. Scuba diving and snorkelling are must-do activities here. Even if you are a novice, don’t miss the opportunity to at least walk the ocean bed and marvel at its magical marine world. Love deep-sea fishing? Grand Baie is where all anglers meet to go for fishing trips at Gunner’s Quoin or Ile aux Serpents. Rest assured, you will find every moment spent memorable here.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are ample choices for beaches that are so much more upscale, opulent, and feel different from those within India. Whether you desire a romantic getaway, a solo trip, or a fun escape with friends, these destinations deliver that barefoot bliss and the well-deserved break among sun, sand, and sea you truly deserve. Another advantage of handpicking these destinations is their proximity to India, making them easier to reach and costing less from your pocket.
So, turn the beach mode on, pack your bags, get those visas ready, and escape to some of the world’s most gorgeous coastal gems outside India.
