5 Southeast Asian beaches named among world's best: Telegraph

Two of the beaches are in Vietnam, and one each in Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines.

The list was compiled by travel experts based on criteria such as wildlife, panoramic views, atmospheric areas, luxurious hotels, quiet corners, family-friendly stretches of sand and more.

Nihiwatu on Sumba Island, located just 50 minutes by air from Bali, was voted among "best for wildlife."

The 2.5-km-long beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs and an ideal destination for surfers.

Maya Bay in Thailand was praised for its views.

Maya Bay is part of the uninhabited Phi Phi Leh, one of the two main Phi Phi islands, in Krabi province.

Tourists visit Maya bay at Krabi province, Thailand, Jan. 3, 2022. Photo by Reuters

Surrounded by towering cliffs draped in verdant foliage, the bay rose to fame after being filmed in the 2000 movie "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The beach boasts clear blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful white sand.

Two representatives from Vietnam, My Khe and Non Nuoc beaches in Da Nang, were described as best for atmosphere.

The 900-meter-long My Khe, which runs from the base of the Son Tra Peninsula to the Marble Mountains, is famous for its smooth white sand and warm waters all year round.

Located in Ngu Hanh Son District, around eight kilometers from downtown Da Nang, Non Nuoc beach is five kilometers long and dotted with a series of luxury resorts.

Marimegmeg Beach in Palawan Island of the Philippines was hailed best for sunset.

Marimegmeg Beach in Palawan Island of the Philippines. Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

Just a 15-minute ride from the town of El Nido, the beach, also known locally as Las Cabanas Beach, is known for its stunning sunsets, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and soft golden sands.