At only 4.5 miles long, Boracay is small enough to navigate by rented bicycle or motorbike. But don't let its small size fool you—you'll have several excellent beaches to choose from. Yapak Beach is known for beautiful white shells; White Beach has picture-perfect sunsets; and Balinghai Beach is a secluded spot, perfect for honeymooners. As long as you visit during dry season, you'll agree this is one of the best beach destinations in the world.

The largest of the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Phi Phi Don is a non-volcanic island, made mostly of limestone. Accessible from Phuket, with all visitors arriving by boat, Ko Phi Phi Don has great beaches and popular diving and snorkeling spots. Much of the island is a protected marine reserve.

Ko Lanta is a gorgeous island where you'll be certain to find an uncrowded beach. Located in the Krabi Province, one of the southern provinces of Thailand, Ko Lanta offers fantastic scuba diving with exotic marine life and grand coral reefs. The sunsets, too, are legendary—watch one over a glass of wine with someone you love.

Located on the Gulf of Siam, Ko Phangan is a beautiful island of coconut trees and pristine, white sandy beaches. Every month on the full moon, thousands of people flock to the island to take part in the Full Moon Party's all-night festivities, featuring DJs and music on the beach. Three-quarters of the island is comprised of mountains covered by tropical jungle.

Drifting serenely in the Gulf of Thailand, the palm-fringed island of Ko Tao takes its name from the abundant sea turtles that reside on its shores. The scuba diving and snorkeling here is sublime, allowing for close encounters with black-tip reef sharks, abundant tropical fish and a wooden shipwreck. Busy Sairee Beach is bursting with bars and nightclubs, while palm-lined Haad Thien (or Rocky Bay) is a quiet escape from the chaos.

Just to the south of Karon lies Kata, a laid-back town with two stunning beaches. Kata Yai is the bigger beach, and if you’re not the type to lounge on the sand all day, you can rent practically any type of water-sports equipment here. Kata Noi, on the other hand, is quieter and smaller—ideal for a lazy day.

Candolim, once a fishing village, is now a popular resort destination. It is perfect for travellers looking for a relaxing holiday filled with fine dining, souvenir shopping and beachcombing. Candolim offers a soft, sandy beach with deep blue water, ideal for swimming. Masseurs are available for any sunbathers in need of a massage. The beach is lined with interesting shops, hawkers, cafes and restaurants, while boat tours are available for dolphin watching.

Paradise by day, party central by night, Chaweng is a favourite destination for sun-seekers and night owls alike. Choose Central Chaweng if you love nightclubs, music and fireworks. Head toward North Chaweng and Chaweng Noi for a more peaceful stay. Sands are fine and white, and the water is warm year-round.

Luxurious accommodations, including several golf resorts, abound at Nusa Dua on southern Bali’s Bukit peninsula. Surfing and diving are popular activities for adventure seekers. The white sands beckon sun junkies and those in pursuit of breezy relaxation. Geger Beach is safe, clean and popular with both holiday-makers and locals.

Bophut is a beach village undergoing the development of new hotels and villas. It is becoming popular due to its optimal white sandy shoreline, swaying coconut palms and traditional Sino-Thai environment. The Fisherman’s Village, located on the east side, remains unspoiled, with quaint wooden shops and ancient buildings. The main road is lined with pubs, fine eateries, spas and trendy shops. Manicures, pedicures and Thai massages are inexpensive attractions for many visitors, as are the hypnotic sunsets.