When it comes to reasons to visit Southeast Asia, partying on the sand into the wee hours of the morning ranks pretty high on the list. If you’re planning to let loose on the shore while traveling in the area, check out these five party beaches.
Kuta, Indonesia
Kuta on the Indonesian island of Bali is a surfer’s paradise, and years of backpacker influence has created one of the top must-experience party beaches in Southeast Asia. Come nightfall, you’ll find free liquor flows from some of the local bars, and there’s no shortage of bars, pool halls and dance floors keeping the party going until the sun comes up.
Perhentian Kecil, Malaysia
White sand, turquoise water and an overall tranquility define Perhentian Kecil during the day, but rest assured: These pristine shores offer plenty of entertainment after the sun goes down. Beach bars let you party right on the sand as the local “monkey juice” rum keeps you dancing into the early morning.
Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
If you’re headed to the Gilis, you’ll find “Gili T” has the best nightlife you could ask for. Parties are embedded into the atmosphere on this Indonesian island; so much so, that all-night ragers are held in specifically scheduled locations each night, meaning you’ll never have to worry about choosing between two parties. Parties on Gili T range from raves to reggae-fueled chill sessions.
Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand
This sandy beach is one of the most infamous party centrals in all of Thailand, home to the mother of all parties in Southeast Asia: the monthly Full Moon Party. Held on every full moon, this all-night rager attracts tens of thousands of partiers who want to drink, dance and party the night away on the sands of Ko Pha Ngan.
Patong, Thailand
Another surefire shore for party animals is Patong on the west coast of Phuket. Backpackers and twenty-somethings flock to this Thai town for long nights of cheap drinks, over-the-top entertainment and wild nights on Bangla Road.
(Main image: joestump)
