This Beautiful Beach In Asia Is The Perfect Destination For A Crowd-Free Vacation
Southeast Asia is replete with scenic coastal destinations that often top the travel charts. While undeniably stunning, many of these beaches are frequently overcrowded by tourists looking for their own slice of paradise. If you've been yearning for a more private slice, untouched by the rush of tourism, then Saud Beach in the Philippines should be on your radar. Situated on the northwestern tip of the island of Luzon, in the town of Pagudpud, this beach is perfect for a relaxed, crowd-free vacation.
The Philippines is comprised of more than 7,500 islands, and Luzon is the largest and most populated. Nonetheless, among thousands of coasts, Saud Beach is consistently mentioned as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and for good reason. It's 1.2 miles of fine white sand with pristine turquoise water and literally looks like a screensaver. Coconut palms provide ample shade and allow visitors to lounge comfortably even when the sun is at its peak.
A highlight of Saud Beach is its transparent waters of the South China Sea crossing with the Pacific — crystal clear year-round and pristine — what beachside dreams are made of. There's no sudden drop, no unexpected deep pockets, just a calm and gradual descent into the embrace of the sea. For families with young ones or those who are novice swimmers, this adds an extra layer of safety and comfort. The best time of year to visit the Philippines to enjoy the beach is during the dry season between November and May.
Diving, surfing, and more at Saud Beach
For those who crave a little adventure, Saud Beach doesn't disappoint. You can hire a traditional Filipino outrigger boat, locally known as a 'banca,' and set off on exciting water excursions. The Philippines has also won the "Asia's Leading Dive Destination" award at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2023 for an unsurprising fifth consecutive year. At Saud Beach, you will find multicolored corals and sparkling fish, with excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
Surf's up! For the stormy ones among us, surf season at Saud Beach is best during the wet season, when the southeast monsoons and tropical cyclones come along. This lasts between June and November, with waves reaching as high as 2 to 10 feet. Karl Murphy, owner of the nearby Ikani Surf Resort, explains, "When 'heartbreak' barrels during the 'big days' in the season, one car can fit in [through the wave]" (via Manila Bulletin). Saud Beach boasts plentiful breaks and surfing locations.
Perhaps the most enchanting aspect of this beach is its crowd-free nature. Unlike some of the more popular Southeast Asia coasts, Saud Beach has managed to remain a well-kept secret, catering primarily to discerning travelers in search of solitude and untouched beauty. This ensures that even during peak seasons, the beach doesn't feel overly crowded. There is no pollution, no commercialism, no loud clubs, no one trying to sell you something on the beach, and no tourist groups.
Some tips for your beachside visit
There are a few ways to get to Saud Beach. You could take a 45-minute flight to Laoag International Airport (LAO) from Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) for less than $100. From LAO, take a two-hour bus ride, rent a car, or see if your hotel offers shuttles. Once there, to transport around the Pagudpud region, you could hire local taxis, rent a scooter or vehicle, or pedal it out on a bicycle. For the most part, everything around Saud Beach is within walking distance.
To enter the beach, there is an entrance fee of 20 pesos per person. This good-cause charge is to maintain its cleanliness. If you want to stay a while, the Saud Beach Resort is highly rated for its amenities and beachfront rooms, while Polaris Beach House offers a no-frills experience. For local food, check out Tartaruga's or the laid-back Emohruo Beach Restobar. Also, if you are keen on getting fresh seafood, go to the beach between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. for the catch of the day.
Destinations like Saud Beach in the Philippines stand as oases of peace in our busy world. Its natural beauty and pristine beach conditions, combined with a commitment to sustainability and the preservation of local character, make it a unique gem among Southeast Asia's beaches. If you're searching for the perfect destination for a crowd-free vacation, look no further than Saud Beach on the island of Luzon.