Ngapali Beach Holidays

While Myanmar is undoubtedly a holiday destination for those keen to explore the local culture, history, landscape and architecture, it also harbours a few idyllic coastal spots that make the perfect beach 'add-on' to a culture packed trip, and Ngapali beach is a favourite of ours. The beach at Ngapali is a quintessential white sandy beach lined with palm trees, fronting the clear waters of the Bay of Bengal and thankfully still without the nightclubs and rows of high rise chain hotels that are claiming so many of Southeast Asia's beaches. Although the most 'developed' of Myanmar's beach retreats, Ngapali retains a blissful fishing-village charm, where colourful boats pull up each evening laden with a fresh catch to be served at the beachside restaurants later that evening, and the locals amble by travelling by ox-drawn cart. Sure, more hotels are appearing on the shores of this hidden beach retreat, but there is still nearly 15 miles of unclaimed beachfront real estate, so for the moment, Ngapali holidays remain a peaceful escape.

Pronounced ‘Napally’, the name is rumoured to hail from a home-sick Italian traveller, who declared that Ngapali’s flour-soft sand and azure water reminded him of the beaches back home in Naples. While the Neapolitan beaches may possess some similarities in terms of appearance, Ngapali beach holidays will appeal to those who prefer a more secluded beach retreat. Thanks to its remote location on Myanmar’s coast, you’re likely to encounter only a few other visitors along the 15-mile strip of unspoilt sand. The long main road which runs parallel to the shoreline is best navigated by bicycle, while boat tours allow access to nearby islets, complete with traditional fishing villages.

Special things to do during a Ngapali beach holiday:

The beach’s western-facing coastline sees spectacular evening sunsets, so settle down to a meal of fresh seafood – camera at the ready – as the sun slips beneath the horizon and paints the sky stunning shades of pink and orange. Another snap-worthy spot is the beach’s famous hanging palm tree, whose sturdy trunk juts out above the sand, offering the perfect perch for posing on. Visit the nearby town of Thandwe and explore its central market, overflowing with all kinds of food, pottery and clothing stalls, or head for the nearby hillsides, where you’ll find three golden stupas towering above the town.