If you’re dreaming of a warm beach escape in the middle of winter, Asia might be calling your name. And December? Honestly, it’s one of the best times to pack your swimsuit and run toward the ocean.
Let’s be real—while most of the Western world is bundled up in scarves and boots, parts of Asia are basking in sunshine. You get dry skies, comfortable warmth, and, in many cases, fewer tourists. Whether you’re after powdery white sand, quiet palm-lined shores, or clear blue snorkeling spots, there’s a beach here with your name on it.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best beaches in Asia in December. These are places I either fell in love with myself or heard about from trusted travelers who chase the sun every year. No fluff—just honest takes, with a balance of what’s beautiful and what to be aware of.
Why Travel to Asian Beaches in December?
December is part of the dry season in many Southeast Asian and South Asian destinations. That means:
- Less rain, more sun. The monsoons have passed in places like Thailand, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka.
- Clearer water. Great for snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography.
- Cooler nights. You won’t be sweating buckets at night like you would in April.
- Festive energy. There’s something magical about spending the holidays by the beach, with local festivals, beach parties, or peaceful island vibes depending on your mood.
Still, not every beach is perfect in December. Some areas, like Bali and Vietnam’s central coast, may still get rain. So choosing wisely matters.
This article breaks down everything for you, region by region—starting with Southeast Asia. Let’s dive into the sunshine.
Southeast Asia – Best Beaches in December
1. Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand
Tucked between towering limestone cliffs, Railay Beach feels like a secret world. In December, the skies are usually crystal clear, and the sea? Calm and turquoise.
Why go in December?
It’s dry season, so perfect for kayaking, rock climbing, and lazy swims. Plus, it’s not yet peak season, so you’ll beat the January crowds.
What I loved:
- The sunsets are unreal—orange skies lighting up the cliffs.
- No cars! You can only reach Railay by boat, which keeps the vibe peaceful.
What to keep in mind:
It’s not completely deserted. While it’s quieter than Phi Phi or Phuket, it’s still popular with backpackers and couples. If you want full solitude, consider nearby Tonsai Beach.
2. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
If you’ve ever wished for a postcard-perfect island without the party scene, Koh Rong Samloem delivers. Think hammocks over the water, slow days, and quiet nights.
Why it shines in December:
It’s Cambodia’s dry season, so expect blue skies and calm seas. Mosquitoes ease up too, which is a bonus.
Highlights:
- Saracen Bay has some of the softest sand I’ve ever walked on.
- Snorkeling around the southern end is surprisingly good.
The flipside:
Electricity is limited in some areas, and internet can be spotty. It’s charming—just don’t come expecting luxury.
3. El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
El Nido is famous for its jagged cliffs and hidden lagoons. In December, it starts its dry season, and boat tours get back in full swing.
What makes it great in December:
You get that sweet spot: the rain has mostly passed, but the holiday crowds haven’t fully arrived.
Best experiences:
- Island-hopping tours (especially Tour A and C) are a must.
- Nacpan Beach is ideal for a quieter afternoon.
Small note:
December weather is mostly reliable, but occasional short showers can still pop up. They usually pass quickly.
4. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Off Vietnam’s southwest coast, Phu Quoc gets overlooked compared to Thai islands—but it’s a gem. December marks the start of the dry season here too.
Why it’s worth your radar:
- Long Beach is calm and great for swimming.
- The southern beaches like Bai Sao are even prettier and quieter.
What’s nice:
- Vietnamese food and seafood are next-level.
- It’s easy to find a peaceful spot even during holidays.
Just so you know:
Some parts are developing fast, so a few areas feel more built-up. But there’s still a good balance of nature and comfort.
South Asia – Best Beaches in December
When it comes to December beach getaways, South Asia doesn’t disappoint. Think golden sunsets, palm-fringed shores, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re into yoga retreats or just lying on the sand with a coconut, this region has something for every kind of traveler.
5. Varkala Beach, Kerala, India
Varkala isn’t your average beach town. Picture a dramatic red cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, with cafes, yoga studios, and winding paths along the edge. The beach itself is clean and less crowded than Goa.
Why December is perfect:
It’s the peak of Kerala’s dry season—no humidity, blue skies, and ideal water temperatures.
Why I keep coming back:
- The cliffside views are stunning.
- The vibe is peaceful, spiritual even, but not overly “touristy.”
What to know:
It’s still growing in popularity, so book ahead for the better guesthouses. And while it’s not completely quiet, it’s mellow compared to North Goa.
6. Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Mirissa is a charming crescent-shaped beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. In December, the island transitions fully into its dry season on the south and west coasts.
What makes it shine in December:
Perfect weather and calm seas for swimming, whale-watching, or even surfing if you’re into that.
Why it stands out:
- Easygoing atmosphere—great for solo travelers, couples, and families.
- Boat tours to see blue whales leave early in the morning and are often successful this time of year.
Keep in mind:
It’s not untouched anymore. Expect a row of beach bars and a few parties, but you can still find pockets of quiet nearby, especially toward Secret Beach.
7. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman Islands, India
Want something more remote? Havelock Island feels like it belongs in the Maldives, minus the price tag.
December perks:
The Andamans are dry, sunny, and absolutely stunning this time of year. It’s also one of the best months for scuba diving here.
Must-do’s:
- Radhanagar Beach: Soft white sand and gentle waves.
- Snorkeling at Elephant Beach: Clear waters and vibrant coral.
What to plan for:
You’ll need a permit to visit the Andamans, and flights usually go through Chennai or Kolkata. Internet is weak—so it’s perfect if you want a digital detox.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems – Hidden Beaches to Discover in December
If you’re the kind of traveler who cringes at the idea of crowds and cookie-cutter resorts, this section’s for you. These lesser-known beaches offer quiet beauty, authentic charm, and that rare feeling of discovery—especially sweet in December when conditions are just right.
8. Anda, Bohol, Philippines
While most people flock to Panglao in Bohol, those in the know head two hours east to Anda—a peaceful coastal town with white beaches, caves, and spring-fed pools.
Why December works:
It’s dry, breezy, and perfect for exploring without melting in the sun.
Why it’s worth the extra drive:
- Almost no tourists. Some days you’ll have the beach to yourself.
- The marine sanctuary here is pristine—great for snorkeling.
A heads-up:
It’s quiet. Don’t expect nightlife or shopping malls. This is all about nature and calm.
9. Ngapali Beach, Myanmar
Ngapali feels like a step back in time. Wide beaches, gentle waves, and fishing boats lining the shore—it’s slow travel at its finest.
December highlights:
Dry season here brings perfect beach weather, with low humidity and sunny days.
What I loved:
- Fresh seafood right on the sand.
- Long walks with almost no one around.
What to consider:
Myanmar’s tourism infrastructure is more limited than other countries in the region, and travel restrictions can vary. It’s a good idea to check the latest travel advisories.
10. Deserted Beaches in the Maldives (Local Islands)
The Maldives isn’t just luxury resorts. Several local islands now allow travelers to stay affordably—and in December, the weather is fantastic.
Best part?
You get the Maldives’ famous blue lagoons and coral reefs without the thousand-dollar-a-night price tag.
Top picks:
- Thoddoo for watermelon farms and pink sunsets.
- Dhigurah for its long sandbanks and occasional whale shark sightings.
Important note:
Alcohol isn’t served on local islands due to Islamic laws, and dress codes are modest—especially outside designated “bikini beaches.”
Tips, Comparisons & Final Thoughts
So, you’ve got the beach names—now how do you choose? Here’s a little help to figure out the best fit for your December adventure.
Quick Comparison: Where Should You Go?
| Beach | Best For | What to Expect |
| Railay, Thailand | Nature + Activity | Rock climbing, beautiful cliffs, accessible only by boat |
| Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia | Off-grid peace | Simple living, crystal waters, no big crowds |
| El Nido, Philippines | Scenic island hopping | Lagoons, snorkeling, tropical beauty |
| Phu Quoc, Vietnam | Chill & comfort | Gentle beaches, great food, easy travel |
| Varkala, India | Wellness + views | Yoga, cliff walks, spiritual charm |
| Mirissa, Sri Lanka | Wildlife + surf + chill | Whale watching, beach bars, and laid-back vibe |
| Havelock, Andaman Islands | Remote + diving | Powder sand, top diving, little connectivity |
| Anda, Bohol, Philippines | Secret beach feel | Local charm, untouched coral, low tourist volume |
| Ngapali, Myanmar | Old-world escape | Golden sands, peace, and slow travel |
| Maldives (local islands) | Budget tropical paradise | Stunning views, clear water, no alcohol |
Tips for Planning Your Trip
1. Book early if you can.
While December isn’t peak everywhere, some places do get busy around the holidays (especially between Dec 24–Jan 1). If you’re going somewhere remote, accommodations can fill up quickly.
2. Check visa rules.
Some countries like Myanmar and India require advance visas, while others offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access for many nationalities. Don’t leave this to the last minute.
3. Respect local cultures.
Not every beach destination is about bikinis and beers. In places like the Maldives or parts of India, modesty and cultural awareness go a long way.
4. Stay flexible.
Weather can be 95% predictable in December—but occasional rain can still happen, especially early in the month. Keep plans relaxed and enjoy the slower pace.
5. Don’t skip travel insurance.
Island hopping, diving, and remote spots often mean limited medical access. A small investment in travel insurance brings peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Asia in December is pure magic if you pick the right spot. Whether you’re sipping coconut water under a swaying palm in Sri Lanka, exploring hidden lagoons in Palawan, or walking barefoot along the quiet beaches of Koh Rong Samloem, there’s something freeing about trading holiday stress for sun-drenched simplicity.
The best beaches in Asia in December aren’t just about beauty. They’re about the experience—slower mornings, salty air, and space to breathe. Whether you want to dive, surf, read a book under a palm tree, or just do absolutely nothing, Asia has a beach for that.
Now the hard part? Choosing just one.
