While Southeast Asia may have some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands, some are far busier than others with holidaymakers. Places such as Bali, Phuket, Boracay and many other lesser known islands have just as wonderful surroundings with a downbeat tempo of life.
From the pristine beaches to the best diving sites, the jungle to the true culture, all of these hidden places offer experiences out of the ordinary and far from the madding crowd.
Hidden Islands in Thailand
1. Koh Kood
Koh Kood is one of the most tranquil large islands in Thailand which is near to the Cambodian border. The dense forests and the uncluttered beaches and waters make it a great place if you’re looking to unwind rather than nightlife activities.
2. Koh Muk
Koh Muk is well-known for its stunning Emerald Cave, where tourists swim in a limestone tunnel and put their head out to see one of the world’s biggest hidden sand beaches surrounded by cliffs. The island is also dotted with tranquil fishing villages and snorkeling sites.
3. Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is located in Tarutao National Marine Park, with its colorful coral reefs and blue waters. It has become more popular but remains an even more laid back place when compared to many of Thailand’s bigger beach hot spots.
Hidden Islands in the Philippines
4. Siquijor Island
Siquijor has a lot of interesting legends and traditional healers, whose stories and heritage blend mystery with nature’s beauty. Tourists can see pristine beaches, marine sanctuaries with colourful sea life and Cambugahay Falls.
5. Cresta de Gallo
The uninhabited little island of Romblon, known for its long white sand bar that extends to bright blue waters. Being so remote, with few amenities, it is perfect for the real seekers of solitude.
6. Batan Island
Batan Island is part of the Batanes archipelago with its rolling green hills, rugged coasts and traditional stone houses. The dramatic landscapes are far removed from other places in the Southeast Asian region.
7. Camiguin Island
Known as the “Island Born of Fire”, Camiguin Island has volcanoes, natural hot springs, waterfalls and the famed White Island sandbar. A great blend of adventure and relaxation.
Hidden Islands in Indonesia
8. Sumba
Although Sumba is calmer than neighbouring Bali, it is renowned for its traditional villages, expansive savannas and amazing surfing beaches. The island is also home to some of the island’s unique traditional culture and ancient megalithic traditions.
9. Derawan Islands
The Derawan Islands are situated off Indonesian Borneo and are a scuba diving haven, with sea turtles, pristine reefs and the one of a few populations of stingless jellyfish, Kakaban Lake.
10. Banda Islands
History, volcanoes, and diving at their very best make the historic Banda Islands. Visitors will have a chance to discover one of the most distant island groups in Indonesia as well as visit Dutch forts.
11. Belitung Island
One of its most striking features of Belitung Island is the large granite boulders that are strewn around on white sandy beaches. It is one of the most photo-worthy, yet unknown destinations in Indonesia, with calm waters and beautiful coastlines.
Hidden Islands in Malaysia
12. Pulau Tenggol
Pulau Tenggol is also well-known as a popular destination for those who are seasoned divers and offers coral garden gardens and excellent whale shark sightings at certain times of the year. It’s not a place around which humanity has marshaled, but an estate of thick tropical forests.
13. Pulau Kapas
Meaning “Cotton Island,” Pulau Kapas is known for incredibly soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply enjoying a peaceful beach escape.
14. Mantanani Islands
The north-west Coasts of Sabah have the Mantanani Islands characterized by fabulous sunset, crystal clear lagoon and are a great place to see dugongs. During the day on clear skies, the tourists may see Mount Kinabalu too.
Hidden Islands in Vietnam
15. Con Dao Archipelago
Con Dao took over the character of a prison but has been completely transformed into a protected marine and national park. Today, this tranquil island chain is covered with sea turtle nesting beaches and unspoiled forests.
16. Phu Quy Island
Phu Quy is a little gem that sits off the bottom of Vietnam’s coast with volcanic cliffs, blue lagoons and fresh seafood, and of course, with a night at the Hintz Country Club. This island is rather unknown to foreign visitors.
17. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba is also overlooked in favour of Ha Long Bay, but is excellent when it comes to the more peaceful Lan Ha Bay, and even when it comes to hiking up and down the slopes of Cat Ba National Park or viewing the limestone scenery.
Hidden Islands in Cambodia
18. Koh Rong Samloem
Koh Rong Samloem is a tranquil island renowned for its serene beaches, unspoiled tropical forest walks, and a twinkling mass of bioluminescent plankton on the water’s surface at night. You won’t find any lively nightlife and it is perfect for those looking for some chill.
19. Koh Ta Kiev
Quaint, beautiful beaches, treehouses and eco-lodges welcome you to Koh Ta Kiev in an off-the-grid lifestyle. They can look out on quiet coves and jungle paths, away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.
20. Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island)
The major attraction of Rabbit Island is its rustic charm with simple bungalows at the beach and seafood restaurants, just off the corner of the sea from Kep. It’s a great place for an inexpensive island vacation.
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Final Thoughts
Southeast Asia still has countless destinations to be visited, from volcanic islands in Indonesia to secluded beaches in Cambodia, pristine marine parks in Malaysia.
If you’re not afraid to venture out from the beaten path, these 20 islands offer experiences beyond compare and are looking for a more understated side to the area.
FAQs
Which is the most suitable island to stay and relax on the beach?
Those who seek a calm environment and tranquil beaches might want to consider Koh Kood in Thailand, Pulau Kapas in Malaysia and Koh Rong Samloem in Cambodia.
Would the islands be family friendly?
Yes. Most of these islands, such as Camiguin, Belitung, and Cat Ba, have family-friendly sites for activities including snorkeling, nature walks, sightseeing and relaxing beaches.
