Carissa NgIn 2024, with international travel surging back to pre-pandemic levels, beach holidays remain a top choice for Singaporeans seeking a quick and rejuvenating escape. Recent trends reveal a significant rise in direct flight routes to exotic destinations, catering to the growing demand for convenient travel options.
As we enter 2025, I’m sure some of you are planning a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a solo adventure for the year ahead. Well, you’re in luck — These seven exotic beach destinations offer something for everyone. Best of all, they’re just a direct flight away from Singapore. Pack your sunscreen, slippers, and swimsuits — It’s time to make those beach dreams a reality!
Also read: 10 Secluded Beaches in the Philippines for a Private Getaway
1.Fiji
Image credit: Namale Resort and Spa | Official Facebook
Fiji is an exotic island paradise that has everything you’ve ever dreamed of for a beach vacation. There are so many beautiful beaches in Fiji that you’ll be thoroughly spoilt for choice at which one to visit. Some of the clearest and most pristine beaches in Fiji include: Castaway Island, Honeymoon Beach on Turtle Island, Horseshoe Bay, Liku Beach on Tokoriki Island, Namale Private Beach, Natadola Beach on Viti Levu, Seagrass Bay on Laucala Island, Yasawa Island Beaches, Vomo Island and Mana Island.
They promise you the best time of your life, lying on soft, white sand while just gazing into the horizon of blue sand and glistening waters. You can go snorkelling, diving, or have a refreshing massage at the spa resorts on the island, and just enjoy life. Pretty sure the luxurious villas, coconut palms swaying in the wind, and the delicious cocktails will give you every excuse to miss your flight home and extend your stay indefinitely.
Image credit: Cloud 9 | Official Website
Did you know that Fiji is home to Cloud9, one of the coolest places in the world? YES. Cloud9 is a floating bar surrounded by just turquoise water and coral reefs. Here, you get to enjoy wood-fired pizzas along with colourful cocktails after a swim. Alternatively, just laze around on one of their daybeds. You can also try watersports just as jet-skiing or parasailing right here! Fly me to Fiji right now, please.
Fiji Airways flies from Singapore to Fiji.
2. Maldives
Image credit: Mac Qin | Flickr
Ah, the dream location, one on everyone’s lists of honeymoon destinations. Getting to Maldives is not as hard as we think it is! It’s less than five hours away, faster than a flight to say, Tokyo or Seoul. One of the key attractions of Maldives is definitely the beautiful water villas that overlook the shimmering lagoon. Isn’t having your own private chill-out area amidst clear, blue waters that seem to stretch to no end, such a dream? I would want to live forever in that fantastic place. Also, the convenience of being able to swim, snorkel or dive in your own ‘backyard’ is so enticing!
Image credit: Mac Qin | Flickr
People don’t call Maldives the honeymoon paradise for nothing. Here, enjoy romantic candlelit dinners with your loved one on the beach, with the calming sea breeze and the sound of the waves crashing onto the shore. One trip to the Maldives will certainly leave you with memories for a lifetime. Snorkelling in Maldives is also a MUST because you get to spot the big five: manta rays, eagle rays, adorable sea turtles, dolphins and sharks underwater! Keep your eyes peeled for them.
Singapore Airlines flies from Singapore to Maldives.
3. Manado
Image credit: Stenly Lam | Flickr
Manado, located in the North Sulawesi province of Indonesia, is a hotspot for divers all over the world because of its clear, warm waters and the wide diversity of fishes and corals at the Bunaken National Marine Park! Dive into a mesmerising world as the eco-marine life underwater will certainly excite all your senses.
Aside from the water activities, you can also choose to go trekking at Mount Mahawu Volcano, or visit the Kali Waterfall. Enjoy unparalleled views of the sunrise and sunset while relaxing at one of the food stalls by the beach, sipping on coconut juice and the local delicious speciality, pisang goreng sambal roa, which comprises of fried bananas dipped with chilli sauce. Mmmm sounds so finger-licking good!
Scoot and Singapore Airlines fly from Singapore to Manado.
4. Davao → Samal Island
Image credit: Jeffrey Pioquinto | Flickr
Visit Samal Island, which is a short ferry ride away from Davao City, a tropical eden with its white sand and blue waters! Take your pick from around 70 resorts all around the island, with accommodations that range from modest to luxurious. The most famous one is the Pearl Farm Beach Resort, a name which has become nearly synonymous with Davao itself, as they have spacious, lavish villas that offer you private access to beaches so you can enjoy them fully to your heart’s content.
If you’re looking for a relaxing escapade away from noisy crowds, Samal Island is the place for you. Also, if you want to explore more beaches and go scuba diving, head to Talikud Island, Big Ligid Island, Small Ligid Island. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch sight of Vanishing Island, which only emerges during low tide. How interesting!
Scoot flies from Singapore to Davao.
5. Iloilo City → Guimaras Island
Image credit: Jeno Ortiz | Flickr
Accessible by a short 15-minute boat ride from Iloilo City harbour, the Guimaras Island is another precious beach getaway destination. The two key places known for its pristine beaches are the Alubihod Beach and Guisi Beach. These two places are a popular hotspot for locals to just have fun, picnic with their loved ones, and enjoy themselves. They have never lost their pristine beauty despite being frequented by tourists over the years, so you definitely know it’s worth visiting!
Also, are you a mango lover? If yes, then you should know that the Guimaras Island is heaven on earth for all mango lovers! Guimaras mangoes are considered one of the sweetest in the world and are made into dried mango products, jams, and many more. Oh yes, did i mention they even have a mango pizza? It is the house speciality of Pitstop Restaurant. I don’t know about you, but I’m thinking of migrating there already.
Cebu Pacific flies from Singapore to Iloilo.
6. Da Nang, Vietnam
Image credit: Dennis Jarvis | Flickr
Da Nang, located in Central Vietnam, offers plenty of stunning beaches and great beach resorts for holidaymakers. Considered one of the most picturesque beaches in Da Nang, the My Khe Beach is frequented by locals who flock there before sunrise to exercise. After that, the beach is largely empty and peaceful, perfect for beach sports like kite-surfing, jet-skiing, surfing, or beach volleyball.
Remember to have a hearty meal of delicious grilled seafood while admiring the white sand and blue skies! It is also perfectly located in the centre of UNESCO World Heritage sites like the ancient town of Hoi An, Hue Imperial City and the mysterious Phing Nga Caves, which you can explore after you’ve had enough of suntanning.
VietJet and Singapore Airlines fly from Singapore to Da Nang.
7. Cebu, Philippines
Image credit: Alexpunker via Getty Images
Cebu is a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers alike. Known as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu boasts a variety of picturesque beaches, from the pristine sands of Mactan Island to the stunning shores of Bantayan Island and Malapascua Island. Each destination offers something unique, whether it’s calm waters perfect for snorkelling or secluded spots ideal for unwinding.
Thrill-seekers can enjoy diving with thresher sharks in Malapascua or exploring the enchanting Kawasan Falls, known for its turquoise waters and canyoneering adventures. Also, don’t miss the chance to savour Cebu’s culinary highlights, like lechon (roast pig) and mango-based desserts. With a harmonious blend of natural beauty and rich heritage, Cebu guarantees a memorable getaway.
Cebu Pacific, Scoot and Singapore Airlines fly from Singapore to Cebu
Final Thoughts
From the floating paradise of Cloud9 in Fiji to the thrilling experiences in Cebu, these seven destinations offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and discovery. As airlines expand their direct flight routes and travellers embrace the freedom of quick beach getaways, there’s no better time to explore these exotic locales.
Plan ahead to catch seasonal promotions and enjoy extra perks like upgraded seats or discounted package deals. Make 2025 the year you explore beyond the usual and embrace the beauty of these tropical havens.
Also read: Top Secret: 8 Gorgeous Islands Easily Reached From Singapore
Whether you’re lounging on a serene beach, diving into vibrant coral reefs, or soaking in a coastal sunset, these destinations promise unforgettable moments. Book your trip today and let the waves whisk you away to a world of bliss!
