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This Thai Beach Was Named the Most 'Paradise-like' in Asia--With Travelers Saying It Feels Like 'Thailand 20 Years Ago'

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, November 3rd 2025 at 12:45 GMT by Travel + Leisure

Thailand’s Hidden Paradise: The Beach That’s Taking Asia by Storm

Travel + Leisure’s recent feature on Thailand’s newest “paradise‑like” beach has put a little‑known gem on the map for travelers worldwide. Named the most paradise‑like beach in Asia by an international panel of beach aficionados, the hidden stretch of sand is tucked away in the Southern Gulf of Thailand, where turquoise waters meet powdery white sand and lush mangrove forests frame the horizon. The article, which follows the quiet allure of the location, paints a vivid portrait of how this secluded beach—known locally as Sao Ya Beach on the island of Koh Larn—has earned its place among the continent’s most coveted seaside destinations.

A Discovery Worth the Journey

The piece opens with a compelling narrative about a recent trip by a group of travel journalists who were invited to uncover the island’s best-kept secret. Their arrival at Koh Larn, a small island off the coast of Pattaya, was marked by a scenic drive over the iconic Pattaya Bridge, followed by a quick 15‑minute boat ride from the mainland. The island itself is relatively modest in size, yet its coastline boasts a variety of beaches, each offering a distinct experience. Sao Ya Beach, however, stands out for its untouched beauty and the sense of privacy it offers.

What makes Sao Ya Beach particularly noteworthy is its relative obscurity. The island’s official tourism website, which the article links to for further exploration, highlights that the beach is accessible only via a short walk from a local pier, encouraging a sense of adventure for visitors. The link leads to a gallery of photos that showcase the beach’s pristine sand, clear emerald waters, and the gentle sway of coconut palms. The imagery, coupled with testimonials from locals, underscores the importance of preserving this natural haven.

The Beach in Detail

Sao Ya Beach is a long, crescent-shaped stretch of shore that stretches over 1.2 kilometers. The sand is soft and warm, fine enough to feel like powdered sugar under the feet. The water is a brilliant azure, with visibility reaching up to 30 meters in calm conditions. Around the beach, a small cluster of coconut trees provides shade, while a line of mangrove forests at the water’s edge acts as a natural barrier, protecting the shore from the occasional high tide.

One of the standout features of the beach is its biodiversity. The mangrove area near the shore is home to a variety of marine life, including crabs, sea turtles, and a host of colorful fish that can be spotted from a distance. The article cites a local conservation project that has been working to maintain the mangrove ecosystem, emphasizing the role of sustainable tourism in protecting the beach’s fragile environment.

The local community around Sao Ya Beach is deeply involved in tourism, yet they have managed to keep the area relatively untouched. A small village of fishermen and artisans lines the beachfront, offering fresh seafood and handmade souvenirs. Their presence adds an authentic cultural layer to the experience, allowing visitors to witness traditional Thai beach life firsthand. The article includes a link to a short documentary about the village’s way of life, providing deeper insight into how the community balances modern tourism demands with preserving their heritage.

How to Get There

Travelers are advised to start their journey early in the day to avoid the crowds that flock to Pattaya’s popular beaches. A short ferry ride from the mainland takes approximately 20 minutes, with departure points including Pattaya Pier and Sattahip Pier. Upon arrival on Koh Larn, a 10‑minute walk from the pier will lead visitors to Sao Ya Beach. The walk itself is scenic, passing through a patch of tropical foliage and a small fishing harbor, offering a glimpse of the island’s daily life.

For those seeking a more comfortable option, local travel agencies provide guided tours that include transport from Pattaya or Rayong, a stop at the fishing village for a local lunch, and a guided walk along the beach’s less-traveled sections. The article suggests booking these tours in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure a spot and take advantage of the tours’ environmental education component.

Accommodation and Amenities

While Sao Ya Beach is known for its natural charm, accommodations on Koh Larn are relatively modest but adequate. The article lists several beachfront bungalows and eco-lodges that prioritize sustainability and offer a comfortable stay. These properties are often run by local families, ensuring that visitors experience authentic Thai hospitality. Many of the lodges feature sea‑view rooms, simple Thai décor, and organic food options sourced from the island’s own farms.

Restaurants near the beach cater to a variety of tastes. The local favorites include grilled seafood platters, coconut rice, and tropical fruit smoothies. For those with dietary restrictions, the article points out that a few establishments offer vegan and gluten‑free options, underscoring the increasing global awareness of inclusivity in travel destinations.

Conservation Efforts

A notable aspect of Sao Ya Beach’s acclaim is its commitment to environmental stewardship. The article highlights ongoing initiatives led by the Thai Tourism Board and local NGOs to protect the beach’s ecosystem. Measures include regular beach clean‑up drives, restrictions on certain types of tourism activities (such as motorized water sports), and educational signage that informs visitors about the mangrove’s ecological significance. A link to the official Thai Tourism Board page on marine conservation provides deeper context for these efforts, including data on the beach’s biodiversity and the success stories of marine species returning to the area.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

The article concludes by urging readers to consider Sao Ya Beach as their next travel destination, especially if they are looking for a place that feels both secluded and culturally rich. The combination of pristine natural beauty, community involvement, and sustainable tourism practices sets this beach apart from the more commercialized spots in Thailand. Its recognition as the most paradise‑like beach in Asia is a testament to its allure and a nod to the careful balance of preservation and hospitality that the local community maintains.

In essence, Sao Ya Beach on Koh Larn is more than a scenic escape—it’s a living, breathing example of how responsible tourism can coexist with ecological preservation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, this hidden paradise offers a unique blend of tranquility, adventure, and heartfelt local charm that is sure to leave a lasting impression.