Beach drinking doesn't have to be complicated. Spread out a towel, pop open a beer, and you're already doing better than everyone not drinking on a beach at that moment.
But there are times when you crave something more. For those occasions, there are establishments that go the extra mile with dazzling sunsets, top shelf cocktails, and parties that last until sunrise.
From the exquisite beaches of Israel to the decadent all-night ragers of Thailand, we've got the coolest beach bars Asia that you'll want to cross off your bucket list. The hardest thing will be deciding which one to hit first.
Catch Beach Club | Phuket, Thailand
Catch was the first beach club to open on Surin Beach on Phuket's west coast, and it remains the most inventive and trend-setting of the bunch. The biggest draw is the sunset, which is moody during monsoon season and a spectacular ball-of-flame during the rest of the year. Stylish design, a Mediterranean menu, guest DJs and, of course, an extensive drinks list draw a mix of ex-pats, locals and tourists.
KU DE TA | Bali, Indonesia
Ultra luxe KU DE TA is an icon on the Indonesian nightlife scene. Located on Bali's south coast at Seminyak, KU DE TA is one part chilled out beach club, one part fine dining destination, one part high octane party. Be sure to stop for a bite at Mejekawi, the intentionally acclaimed tasting kitchen that offers 5- and 12-course menus with a focus on local produce. You'll need fuel to get you through the White Party, Bikini Day Party, and other high season hedonism.
Jetty Lounge | Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai's Jetty Lounge is designed for sophisticated relaxation. The views are predictably beautiful, thanks to the pristine location at One&Only Royal Mirage, and the lounge itself is a chic combo of whitewashed architecture, plush sofas, and a bar decorated with glass jellyfish. Classy cocktails and minimal house set the vibe, which is glamorous but surprisingly unpretentious.
Baba Nest | Phuket, Thailand
Baba Nest isn't a beach bar in the traditional sense, but take one look at the incredible locale and you won't want sundowner drinks anywhere else. Rather than being directly on the sand, this unique spot is above the beach on the roof of the Sri Panwa resort. Baba Nest is a flat-deck platform in an infinity pool, offering top-notch cocktails and 360-degree panoramic views over of the Andaman Sea and outlying islands.
Potato Head Beach Club | Bali, Indonesia
You'll forget that the name sounds like a children's toy as soon as you've arrived at Bali's Potato Head Beach Club. There's a reason this place is consistently ranked one of the world's top oceanside drinking destinations. From the extraordinary architecture, to the enticing restaurants, to the innovative mixology, to the infinity pool and the big-name performers, Potato Head Beach Club delivers as one of the coolest beach bars Asia in every way.
Tanjong Beach Club | Sentosa Island, Singapore
Tanjong Beach Club is bringing sexy back to Sentosa. Modeled after a 1950s beach resort, the club is a serene sanctuary offering sprawling white sands, two bars, a restaurant, and plenty of chill-out spaces. Come during the day for a respite from Singapore's concrete jungle, or during the evening for infectious beats, inspired cocktails, and a regular line-up of parties (including Full Moon festivities three times per year).
Shalvata | Tel Aviv, Israel
Laid-back restaurant by day, steamy dance club by night, Shalvata is a perfect blend of all the best Tel Aviv has to offer. If you're looking to relax, enjoy the Mediterranean view while noshing on the recently renovated menu. If it's a celebration you're after, come in the evening for the international DJs, the crowded dancefloor, and Israel's most beautiful party-goers. Shalvata doesn't close until the last customer leaves.
Sundara | Bali, Indonesia
Located on one of Bali's most exclusive areas in Jimbaran Bay, Sundara has a serious VIP vibe. The beachfront restaurant and bar is part of the Four Seasons Resort, which means no luxurious stone has been left unturned. The cocktail list was designed by a renowned mixologist. The food menu is packed with palate pleasers. The sleek infinity pool is the length of a lake. And with only 14 daybeds available, entry is exclusive.
Nasimi Beach | Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Spend an afternoon at the Palm Jumeirah's Nasimi Beach and you'll feel like you've left Dubai for a quiet holiday. Beach cabanas and glorious views are in ample supply. By night, the space transforms into a venue for unforgettable parties with world-class entertainers, a jet-setting clientele, and a view of Dubai's glittering skyline. It's not every day you can say you partied with socialites and stars on an artificial archipelago.
Rock Bar | Bali, Indonesia
The Ayana Resort and Spa made the bold move of building their hotel bar on a jagged cliff dominated by crashing waves, 360-degree views, and monumental happy hour sunsets. Rock Bar lures visitors who want the waterside experience without the inconvenience of sand between their toes. The location is magical, and though the main attraction is the view, the drinks are also highly regarded. Ordering “on the rocks” has a whole new meaning here.