Ngapali, Myanmar (Burma)

Ngapali Beach is surely one of the most beautiful beaches in Myanmar with unspoilt white sand fringed with coconut groves as far as the eye can see. Still, you find primarily peace and quiet, lonely beaches for relaxing or excursions to some islands and fishing villages. Ngapali is easily and quickly accessible by airplane from Yangon to Thandue and a car transfer of about 30 minutes. The premier beach destination in Myanmar, it's one hell of a ride for those planning on travelling overland. Given its name, some say, by a homesick Italian, Ngapali boasts 3km of palm-fringed sands on the beautiful Bay of Bengal. The turquoise waters deliver a bounty from the sea and this town serves up some of the country's best food. It has moved steadily upmarket in recent years, so there are slim pickings for budget travellers. It is only really worth the trip for those planning to continue on to Sittwe and the temples of Mrauk U (Myohaung).