There is no better place to enjoy your summer vacation than an island, especially when it comes to a tropical landscape with white sandy beaches and palm trees. Even better than an island is one that no one else knows about, where you can explore lush forests, deserted bays and breathtaking landscapes without seeing (or hearing) a soul.
With almost one million islands around the world, it should come as no surprise that there are some hidden spots waiting to be discovered. From the volcanic archipelagos to Portugal to the mountainous islands of the Indian Ocean, here are the most beautiful “hidden gems” for total relaxation.
The most beautiful “secret” islands in the world
Jicaro Island, Nicaragua
The private island of Jicaro is located in Lake Nicaragua, a short drive from the said city of Granada UNESCO and offers views of the impressive Mombacho Volcano. In this small area covered with jungle, there are seven houses hidden in the trees, made of local materials. The perfect thing about Jicaro Island is not the accommodation (which has a restaurant and a pool), but the location. Discover the nearby islands, go fishing or enjoy kayaking on the lake exploring the wildlife.
Con Dao, Vietnam
Vietnam is home to dozens of beautiful islands, but the Côn Đảo Islands are still off the radar of mainstream tourism. Near the southern coast there are beaches with golden sand, palm trees and amazing marine life, but Côn Sơn is the only inhabited island. This makes it ideal for boating, exploring the cliffs of Côn Sơn by motorbike or diving with tropical fish and turtles in sandy bays.
Pico, Portugal
It’s hard to choose just one of the stunning Azores islands, but if you’re looking for unspoilt nature and stunning scenery, then Pico is the answer. Here you will find Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, as well as beautiful lakes and lava fields. But the most amazing thing about Pico is its wine, with its vineyards recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be sure to try some of its wines in one of the local restaurants.
Aldabra, Seychelles
The UNESCO-listed Aldabra Atoll is one of the largest coral atolls in the world and is located in the far southwest of Seychelles – so remote that you can only get here by hoverboard. But with only four small islands and a central lagoon, the waters boast over 3,000 marine species per 100 sq m. On land, the world’s largest population of giant tortoises enjoy their walks. Although you can’t stay overnight, cruise ships and dive boats will allow you to spend a day here in one of the most remote and beautiful places in the world.
Meeting
East of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, Réunion is practically its own region of France, but you wouldn’t know it from the jurassic park-like cliffs and mountains. The island’s main volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, is one of the most active in the world and almost half of Reunion is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its many peaks and ancient lava flows make it popular for hiking, but you’ll also find waterfalls, beaches and colorful villages, delicious cuisine and best of all, very few other people.
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Although the islands of Malaysian Borneo usually take center stage, the Perhentian Islands off the country’s east coast are equally picturesque and peaceful. It will take a small plane, bus and speedboat to get to the twin islands of Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kesil, but the journey is well worth it. The golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and disconnection from the internet make them an ideal choice for some isolation and relaxation. The only tourists you will encounter here are divers, as marine parks, reefs and reefs surround the islands.
Filicudi, Italy
Filicudi is an island Italians don’t want to share, where clear waters hide dolphins and turtles and dormant volcanoes dominate the landscape. The island is on the UNESCO list and is part of the Aeolian Islands, which can be reached by boat from Naples. There are a few villages, local restaurants and almost no cars, but you can take a scooter to visit the sea caves, the summit of Fossa Felci volcano and the edge of the Filicudi coast for unforgettable sunsets.
Rottnest, Australia
If you think Western Australia can’t get any better, just visit Rottnest Island, also known as Wajemup to the Aboriginal people. You might get to know the island thanks to its charming inhabitants, the quokkas, who like to pose for pictures. Impressive clear blue waters, more than sixty beaches and fresh seafood are just the beginning. Board the Island Explorer to stop at the best spots, including the quokka sanctuary at Thomson’s Bay and Henrietta Rocks for snorkeling.
Iriomote, Japan
If you didn’t know that Japan there are tropical islands with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, prepare to be blown away by Okinawa Islands. Iriomote Island is the largest of the Yaeyama Islands and is covered in forests. Part of Iriomote is a pristine national park, and the few people who do visit spend their time kayaking, diving, hiking, and other nature activities.