Ngapali Beach

About this place

Ngapali Beach is on the Bay of Bengal in Rakhine State, western Myanmar, about 7 km from the town of Thandwe, and it is regarded as the country's premier beach destination. It stretches for 3 to 7 km, with soft white sand, palms and calm turquoise water. It is quieter and simpler than nearby Thai beaches, with fishermen and small villages. The name is said to come from Naples in Italy, given by an Italian traveller homesick for his city, and it is pronounced Na-pa-li. It lies about 11 metres above sea level, in a series of bays, the main stretch running between Ngapali village and the nearby fishing village. Its water is described as generally calm and free of dangerous sea life, making it suitable for swimming. You see wide pale sand ending at a row of leaning palms, with huts and small hotels behind. At the end of the bay are brown rocks in clear water, and red and blue wooden boats moored among palm trunks in a small stream. Along the side women sell fish, and fishermen dry their catch on the sand. Sunsets here turn orange and then violet. Thandwe is about 10 km away in a straight line. Most visitors used to fly to Thandwe airport, so check flights, as they may not be available. November to February is best, as summer rains are heavy. Ask which hotels are open before you book. The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to this area, and roads and flights may be cut, so read the current advice before you plan.