If you’re an adventurer with a thirst for discovering unique and lesser-known places, then this list of hidden gem islands is for you. From remote atolls in the Pacific to undiscovered paradises in the Caribbean, these islands offer serenity, raw beauty, and authentic cultural experiences away from the crowds.
1. Con Dao, Vietnam
Nestled off the southern coast of Vietnam, the Con Dao Archipelago is a chain of 16 islands renowned for its history, natural beauty, and serene environment. The largest island, Con Son, was once the site of a notorious prison used by both the French colonists and the South Vietnamese government. Today, however, Con Dao is far removed from its dark past and is a blossoming eco-tourism destination. The island boasts untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wealth of coral reefs teeming with marine life. While the island is still developing, this seclusion makes it a paradise for travelers looking to escape the crowded beaches of Southeast Asia.
The Con Dao National Park covers much of the island, offering dense jungle trails for hiking enthusiasts. Visitors can trek through lush rainforests, discover secluded waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views of the South China Sea. The waters surrounding Con Dao are among Vietnam's best for diving and snorkeling, where you can spot green sea turtles, vibrant coral gardens, and schools of tropical fish.
What makes it special: Con Dao is one of the few places in Vietnam where you can witness sea turtles nesting, and its protected marine environment offers incredible, uncrowded diving opportunities.
2. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Fernando de Noronha, a volcanic archipelago about 220 miles off the Brazilian coast, is often considered one of the world’s most stunning marine environments. This protected archipelago consists of 21 islands and islets, but only the main island is inhabited. Known for its ecological importance, the area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 to preserve its rich biodiversity. Strict environmental controls limit the number of tourists allowed to visit, helping to maintain its pristine condition.
The island’s dramatic cliffs and turquoise bays provide some of the most striking coastal scenery in Brazil. One of the top attractions is Baía do Sancho, regularly voted the best beach in the world due to its clear waters, soft sand, and surrounding tropical vegetation. The waters around the island are home to dolphins, rays, and over 200 species of fish, making it a world-class diving and snorkeling destination.
Visitors can also hike through the lush trails that crisscross the island, leading to secluded beaches and panoramic viewpoints. This blend of land and sea experiences ensures that nature lovers will never be short of awe-inspiring sights.
What makes it special: With its strict visitor limits, Fernando de Noronha offers an exclusive experience where travelers can enjoy some of the world’s best beaches and marine life without the crowds.
3. Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
Located in the Pacific Ocean, just southeast of New Caledonia, Isle of Pines is often referred to as "The Closest Island to Paradise." This French territory remains relatively untouched, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the typical tourist hubs of the Pacific. The island is famed for its towering Araucaria pines, which create a striking contrast to the white sandy beaches and the vivid blues of the surrounding lagoon.
The natural beauty of the island is astounding, with coral reefs that teem with vibrant marine life. The calm waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, where visitors can explore colorful coral gardens, turtles, and tropical fish. Inland, the island is dotted with ancient ruins from the island’s former penal colony, adding an air of historical intrigue to the natural surroundings.
Another major highlight is the "Piscine Naturelle," a stunning natural swimming pool that feels like a serene, hidden oasis. The island's serene environment and friendly Kanak people make it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility mixed with cultural experiences.
What makes it special: Isle of Pines is a pristine blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering peaceful seclusion in a picturesque environment that feels like stepping into a dream.
4. Iriomote Island, Japan
Iriomote Island is part of Japan’s remote Yaeyama archipelago in Okinawa Prefecture and offers some of the country’s most unspoiled wilderness. Often referred to as the "Galapagos of the East," Iriomote is covered by dense mangrove forests and tropical jungles that make up 90% of the island’s land area. This untouched environment is home to a rich array of wildlife, including the rare and endangered Iriomote cat, a wildcat species found only on this island.
Visitors to Iriomote can enjoy a variety of eco-adventures, from kayaking through winding mangrove rivers to trekking through dense forests to find secluded waterfalls. The island is also known for its beautiful coastline, with coral reefs that offer some of the best snorkeling and diving in Japan. The island’s Urauchi River, the longest in Okinawa, is a popular destination for river cruises and jungle hikes.
Despite its rich natural beauty, Iriomote remains largely undeveloped, with limited accommodation and tourist infrastructure, ensuring that it stays off the radar for many travelers.
What makes it special: Iriomote is one of Japan’s last wild frontiers, where adventurers can experience nature in its rawest form, far from the bustling cities and popular tourist destinations.
5. Lamu Island, Kenya
Lamu Island, part of Kenya's Lamu Archipelago, offers a rare combination of historical intrigue and coastal serenity. Located off the northern coast of Kenya, this small island is home to Lamu Town, one of the oldest Swahili settlements in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island has managed to preserve much of its Swahili culture, and a visit here feels like stepping back in time. The town’s narrow streets, traditional coral stone houses, and centuries-old mosques reflect the rich history of Arab, Indian, and African influences.
While the architecture and history are major draws, the island’s natural beauty is equally captivating. Its idyllic beaches are largely untouched, offering quiet spots for sunbathing or exploring the shallow waters by dhow, a traditional sailing vessel.
Unlike other coastal destinations, Lamu remains undeveloped and traffic-free, with donkeys being the main mode of transport. Visitors can explore the island at a leisurely pace, interacting with the welcoming locals and immersing themselves in Swahili traditions.
What makes it special: Lamu Island is a cultural treasure trove, offering an authentic look into Swahili life and history, combined with unspoiled beaches that provide a tranquil escape.
6. Lord Howe Island, Australia
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located 370 miles off Australia’s east coast, Lord Howe Island is one of the most spectacular and least-visited islands in the world. The island is limited to just 400 visitors at any time, ensuring its environment remains pristine and unspoiled. With a diverse landscape that includes lush forests, coral reefs, and volcanic mountains, the island is a nature lover’s paradise.
Lord Howe’s famous twin peaks, Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower, dominate the island’s skyline and offer challenging hikes with rewarding views. For those less inclined to trek, the island’s calm lagoons are perfect for snorkeling or kayaking, with an abundance of marine life and vibrant coral formations.
The island is also home to several rare species of birds, including the Lord Howe Island Woodhen, making it a favorite spot for bird watchers. The peacefulness of the island, combined with its breathtaking natural beauty, offers a truly unique escape from modern life.
What makes it special: Lord Howe Island’s strict visitor limits ensure that its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity remain untouched, offering an exclusive and eco-friendly retreat for discerning travelers.
7. Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
Saba, part of the Caribbean Netherlands, is a small volcanic island that stands out from its Caribbean neighbors. Known as "The Unspoiled Queen," Saba is a lush, green island with dramatic cliffs, volcanic craters, and a slow-paced, tranquil atmosphere. Unlike more popular Caribbean destinations, Saba has no sprawling resorts, casinos, or crowded beaches, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the typical tourist scene.
Saba’s rugged terrain is perfect for hiking, and the island’s highest peak, Mount Scenery, offers challenging treks through cloud forests that reward hikers with stunning panoramic views. For divers, Saba is a hidden paradise with its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life, including turtles, rays, and tropical fish. The island has gained a reputation as one of the best dive spots in the Caribbean.
The local Saban culture is warm and welcoming, and the island’s quaint villages, with their red-roofed houses and friendly residents, offer a glimpse into traditional Caribbean life.
What makes it special: Saba’s untouched beauty and commitment to sustainable tourism make it a hidden gem for eco-conscious adventurers and diving enthusiasts alike.
8. Seymour Island, Ecuador
Part of Ecuador's famed Galápagos Islands, Seymour Island is a lesser-visited gem that offers an intimate look at the region’s remarkable biodiversity. While many tourists flock to the larger islands in the Galápagos, Seymour remains quieter and more isolated, allowing visitors to explore its unique environment at a relaxed pace. The island is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, land iguanas, and sea lions.
One of the island’s most fascinating features is its active bird colonies. Bird watchers can observe the blue-footed boobies’ intricate mating dance or witness the majestic flight of frigatebirds, whose inflated red pouches are a stunning sight during mating season. For marine life enthusiasts, snorkeling off the coast offers a chance to swim with sea lions, manta rays, and reef sharks.
Seymour Island’s untouched landscape and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit for nature lovers seeking an immersive Galápagos experience without the crowds.
What makes it special: Seymour Island offers a quieter, more intimate Galápagos experience, where visitors can observe some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife in a pristine, secluded environment.
9. Koh Rong, Cambodia
Koh Rong is Cambodia’s second-largest island, located off the country’s southwestern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Despite its size, Koh Rong remains a relatively untouched paradise compared to the bustling resorts of Southeast Asia. The island’s main draw is its stunning beaches, with soft white sand and clear, azure waters. Koh Rong is a place where time slows down, and travelers can enjoy a more laid-back, rustic experience.
While Koh Rong has become more popular in recent years, it is still far less developed than other Southeast Asian islands, offering an off-the-beaten-path vibe. Visitors can hike through the island’s dense jungles, explore waterfalls, or snorkel and dive in coral-rich waters. The island is also famous for its bioluminescent plankton, which lights up the water at night, creating a magical, glowing effect as you swim.
Despite its raw beauty, Koh Rong retains its rustic charm, with most accommodations being simple beach huts and guesthouses, perfect for backpackers and adventurous travelers.
What makes it special: Koh Rong offers an unpolished, natural beauty combined with the breathtaking sight of bioluminescent plankton, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking a raw island experience.
10. Pico Island, Portugal
Pico Island is part of Portugal’s Azores archipelago, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The island is dominated by Mount Pico, a towering volcano and the highest peak in Portugal, making it a haven for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. The climb to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering spectacular views of the surrounding islands and the vast ocean.
Pico’s volcanic landscape is not just scenic; it’s also fertile, supporting the island’s unique vineyards. These vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, produce a distinctive wine that has been cultivated in the island’s volcanic soil for centuries. Visitors can tour the vineyards, sample the local wine, and explore the island’s traditional wine cellars.
Whale watching is another major attraction, as the waters around Pico are a migration route for several species of whales and dolphins. Between hiking, wine tasting, and marine excursions, Pico offers a diverse range of activities for nature and culture lovers.
What makes it special: Pico Island combines dramatic volcanic landscapes with cultural richness, offering world-class hiking, wine tasting, and whale watching all in one stunning location.
11. Isla Holbox, Mexico
Located just north of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, Isla Holbox is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Cancun. This car-free island is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, and its pristine beaches and calm waters make it a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and quiet. Holbox is known for its colorful streets, relaxed vibe, and vibrant street art, making it a favorite among travelers looking for something different from the typical resort scene.
The island is also a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Between June and September, Isla Holbox becomes one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. The bioluminescent plankton that illuminates the waters at night is another magical experience, creating glowing tides that shimmer under the moonlight.
Despite its increasing popularity, Holbox has managed to retain a laid-back atmosphere, with simple beachside bungalows and cozy restaurants serving fresh seafood.
What makes it special: Isla Holbox offers the rare combination of bioluminescent waters and the chance to swim with whale sharks, all while maintaining a serene, car-free environment perfect for a relaxing beach escape.
12. Tonga Tapu, Tonga
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga, a Pacific archipelago located far off the beaten tourist path. This island is steeped in rich history and culture, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion. Tonga is one of the few remaining Polynesian monarchies, and its traditional way of life has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Visitors to Tongatapu can explore ancient archaeological sites, including the Haʻamonga ʻa Maui, a mysterious trilithon monument often referred to as Tonga’s Stonehenge. The island also offers a rugged coastline dotted with blowholes, where powerful jets of water shoot into the air as waves crash against the rocks.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Tongatapu is surrounded by crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and whale watching. From July to October, the waters around Tonga become a playground for migrating humpback whales, and visitors have the unique opportunity to swim with these majestic creatures.
What makes it special: Tongatapu offers a rich blend of cultural history and natural wonders, including the rare chance to swim with humpback whales, making it an unforgettable destination for both adventurers and history buffs.
13. St. Helena, South Atlantic
St. Helena is one of the most isolated islands in the world, located in the South Atlantic Ocean. Famous as the final place of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte, this remote island has a rugged, unspoiled landscape that has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. Steeped in history, visitors can tour Longwood House, where Napoleon lived during his exile, and learn about the island’s colonial past.
St. Helena’s volcanic terrain offers breathtaking hikes, including the popular trail up Jacob’s Ladder, a steep 699-step staircase that provides panoramic views of the island. The island’s remote location also makes it a prime destination for stargazing, with some of the clearest night skies in the world.
For divers, St. Helena’s waters are home to an array of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and shipwrecks dating back to the 16th century. The island’s isolation has helped preserve its unique ecosystem, making it a hidden gem for eco-tourists and history lovers alike.
What makes it special: St. Helena’s historical significance, combined with its rugged beauty and pristine marine environment, offers a unique travel experience that feels like stepping into a bygone era.
14. Flores Island, Indonesia
Flores Island, located in Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands, is a place of rugged landscapes, unique cultural traditions, and incredible natural beauty. Often overshadowed by nearby Bali, Flores is home to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of Komodo dragons, the largest lizards on Earth.
The island’s dramatic terrain includes active volcanoes, such as Mount Kelimutu, famous for its three crater lakes that change color due to volcanic activity. The climb to the top of Kelimutu is a must for visitors, offering breathtaking views of the lakes, which shift between shades of blue, green, and red.
In addition to its natural wonders, Flores offers rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore traditional villages, such as Wae Rebo, where the indigenous Manggarai people still live in conical-shaped houses, and learn about their ancient customs and rituals.
What makes it special: Flores Island is a destination for the adventurous traveler, offering the chance to see the rare Komodo dragon, trek to colorful volcanic lakes, and experience the vibrant local culture in traditional villages.
15. Taveuni, Fiji
Taveuni, known as the "Garden Island" of Fiji, is a lush paradise located in the northern part of the Fijian archipelago. With its abundant rainfall, Taveuni is covered in dense rainforests, making it a haven for nature lovers. The island is home to Bouma National Heritage Park, which covers a third of the island and features stunning waterfalls, tropical flowers, and rare bird species.
One of the island’s main attractions is the Tavoro Waterfalls, a series of three waterfalls where visitors can swim in the cool, refreshing pools below. For hikers, the Lavena Coastal Walk offers breathtaking views of the island’s rugged coastline, with stops at hidden beaches and waterfalls along the way.
Taveuni is also a popular destination for divers, thanks to its proximity to the Rainbow Reef, one of the most famous dive sites in the world. The reef is teeming with vibrant coral and marine life, including sharks, manta rays, and colorful fish.
What makes it special: Taveuni offers a perfect blend of jungle adventures, breathtaking waterfalls, and world-class diving, making it a dream destination for both nature enthusiasts and underwater explorers.
16. Ulleungdo, South Korea
Ulleungdo, a volcanic island off the eastern coast of South Korea, is a hidden gem that offers a mix of dramatic landscapes, clear waters, and vibrant local culture. Known for its towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and black sand beaches, Ulleungdo is a peaceful escape from South Korea’s bustling cities. The island’s unspoiled natural beauty has earned it the nickname "Mysterious Island."
Hiking is one of the top activities on Ulleungdo, with trails leading through dense forests, past waterfalls, and up to the island’s highest point, Seonginbong Peak. The peak offers stunning views of the island’s rugged coastline and the surrounding sea. For those who prefer to stay by the water, the island’s clear, blue waters are perfect for snorkeling and fishing.
Visitors can also explore the island’s traditional fishing villages, where they can sample fresh seafood, including Ulleungdo’s famous squid. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for those looking to experience South Korea’s natural beauty in a tranquil setting.
What makes it special: Ulleungdo’s unspoiled landscapes and rich marine life offer an off-the-beaten-path experience in South Korea, where travelers can enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and fresh seafood in a peaceful, scenic environment.
17. La Digue, Seychelles
La Digue is one of the smallest and least-developed islands in the Seychelles, offering a serene and authentic experience for travelers seeking a quieter alternative to the more famous islands of Mahé and Praslin. The island is known for its stunning beaches, including the iconic Anse Source d’Argent, with its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic granite boulders.
One of the best ways to explore La Digue is by bicycle, as the island has no cars, and cycling through its lush forests and along its palm-fringed beaches is a tranquil experience. In addition to its beautiful beaches, La Digue is home to the Veuve Nature Reserve, where visitors can spot the rare Seychelles black paradise flycatcher, one of the world’s most endangered birds.
The island’s laid-back atmosphere and slow pace of life, combined with its breathtaking natural scenery, make it a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind in a picturesque setting. The island’s small guesthouses and family-run restaurants add to its charm, offering a more personal and intimate travel experience.
What makes it special: La Digue’s car-free environment and stunning granite beaches offer a rare sense of tranquility and natural beauty, making it one of the most serene and visually striking islands in the Seychelles.
18. Huahine, French Polynesia
Huahine is one of the least-developed islands in French Polynesia, offering an authentic Polynesian experience without the luxury resorts and tourist crowds of Bora Bora or Tahiti. Often referred to as the "Wild Island," Huahine is made up of two connected islands surrounded by a stunning turquoise lagoon. The island is known for its lush rainforests, vanilla plantations, and ancient Polynesian ruins, giving visitors a glimpse into both its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can explore the island’s sacred marae (ancient Polynesian temples), which are scattered throughout the island and offer insights into Huahine’s traditional customs and history. The island’s peaceful villages, where locals still live a traditional Polynesian lifestyle, provide an opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture.
The calm, clear waters of Huahine’s lagoon are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking, while the island’s rugged interior offers hiking opportunities through dense jungles and up to scenic viewpoints. Huahine’s natural beauty and laid-back vibe make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the unspoiled charm of French Polynesia.
What makes it special: Huahine’s combination of ancient Polynesian history, lush landscapes, and secluded beaches makes it a hidden gem in French Polynesia, offering an authentic and peaceful escape from the more commercialized islands.
19. Mabul Island, Malaysia
Mabul Island, located off the coast of Borneo, Malaysia, is a small island known for its world-class diving and unique underwater ecosystem. The island itself is tiny, with most visitors arriving to explore the incredible marine life found in the waters surrounding the island. Mabul is one of the top destinations for muck diving, a form of diving that focuses on discovering small and often unusual creatures living in sandy or muddy environments.
Divers come to Mabul to see rare and exotic species such as flamboyant cuttlefish, blue-ringed octopuses, and pygmy seahorses. The island is also close to Sipadan Island, one of the most famous dive sites in the world, offering easy access to spectacular coral reefs and encounters with larger marine animals like sea turtles, sharks, and barracudas.
Mabul itself has a laid-back, rustic vibe, with simple accommodations and a friendly local population. Visitors can spend their days diving or relaxing on the island’s sandy beaches, enjoying the tranquil, unhurried pace of life.
What makes it special: Mabul Island is a diver’s paradise, offering some of the best muck diving in the world, as well as easy access to the legendary dive sites of nearby Sipadan Island.
20. Samsø, Denmark
Samsø is a small Danish island located in the Kattegat Sea, known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. In 2007, Samsø achieved energy independence by transitioning entirely to renewable energy, making it a model for sustainable living. Visitors to Samsø can experience this green way of life firsthand, with the island offering eco-friendly accommodations, organic farms, and sustainable dining options.
The island’s natural beauty is another major draw, with rolling hills, wildflower meadows, and scenic beaches that provide a peaceful escape from the mainland. Samsø is a haven for cyclists, with well-marked trails that wind through picturesque villages and along the island’s coastline. In the summer, the island’s long daylight hours make it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and bird watching.
Samsø’s agricultural heritage is also worth exploring, with the island producing some of Denmark’s finest organic produce, including potatoes, apples, and vegetables. Visitors can tour the island’s farms, sample local foods, and even take part in farm-to-table experiences.
What makes it special: Samsø is a shining example of sustainable living, offering visitors a chance to experience eco-friendly tourism while enjoying the island’s scenic landscapes and local agricultural traditions.
If you're tired of the usual island destinations, these 20 hidden gems offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience something unique and off the beaten path.
More from
Islands Discoveries
Category
