There are so many islands around the world one can visit to enjoy a seaside vacation but just a few are selected by travelers and then overcrowded. Noisy resorts, frustrating traffic, and overcrowded beaches are some things caused by this uneven distribution of travelers. This can, in many ways, make the experience less enjoyable. An island vacation should be one of tranquility and a calm atmosphere that allows travelers to enjoy the natural beauty undisturbed. Different travelers may have different preferences and many may love a vibrant atmosphere but for those seeking a more relaxing island vacation, here are some lesser-known islands around the world that are just as exciting as the popular ones and worth your vacation budget.
10 Koh Rong Island, Cambodia
Koh Rong island is one of the most beautiful islands in the world but also one of the least known. The island is the second-largest in Cambodia and one of its main features is its serenity and natural beauty. Beaches in Koh Rong are characterized by crystal clear turquoise water, pristine white sand, surrounding lush forests, and endless views of blue skies. Snorkeling, diving, fishing, and windsurfing are some activities one can enjoy on this island.
9 Molokai, Hawaii
Molokai is a little island located in the Hawaii and also the state's least visited. The island features an abundance of beautiful forest areas endowed with so much history. The beaches on the island are some of the most tranquil in the country. Visitors will have miles of white sand beaches all to themselves. Camping here is so peaceful, the only sounds one will hear will be sounds of trees, the waves of the sea, and birds singing all day. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are some more activities one can enjoy on this Hawaiian island. Above all, Molokai is a great place to enjoy the original laid-back lifestyle of Hawaii without the noise of overcrowded resorts and whirling helicopters.
8 Samoa
Samoa is a hidden paradise in the Pacific Ocean rich in culture, unique natural attractions, and a laid-back atmosphere. In Samoa, there are lots of places to swim from beautiful white sand beaches to ocean trenches, and even cave pools. Besides just swimming and enjoying the lushness of many of these swimming areas, there are spots all over the islands where one can dive with unique marine creatures such as - reef sharks, sea turtles, and lots of colorful fish. The delicious seafood is one more exciting thing to try out while on this Polynesian Island.
7 Koufonisia, Greece
Greece is not just about Santorini and Athens but also about lesser-known islands such as Koufonisia. This Greek island is the perfect place for travelers seeking serene beaches with turquoise water, and endless views of the sky. With a population of fewer than a thousand, one does not have to worry about crowded beaches or noisy hotels. Besides the natural beauty, this area is also filled with history as it has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
6 Great Barrier Island, New Zealand
The Great Barrier Island is one of the finest examples of the best-kept secret. This island features some of the most naturally beautiful landscapes in New Zealand. It is the sixth-largest island in the country and up to 60% of the landscape is being preserved as a nature reserve. Things to enjoy on the island include - hot springs, gorgeous beaches, an abundance of lush forests with exciting hiking trails, and towering mountains with epic views of the stunning landscape. Even the night skies of the island are so dark that it has been designated a Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association. This makes it an exciting destination for stargazing. At the beach, one can enjoy surfing and snorkeling, and there are places for kayaking and canoeing.
5 Tuvalu
Tuvalu stands out among other islands as it is the least visited country in the world. Yearly visitors only amount to less than 2,000 and many are from nearby countries which include Australia and New Zealand. Regardless of the low number of visitors, the island is a hidden paradise in the Pacific Ocean waiting to be explored. There are no noisy resorts, overcrowded beaches, or roads with heavy traffic here. Just a few homes with friendly people living their peaceful island life. The water around the island presents one with sailing, diving, and snorkeling opportunities. Many of the beaches are great for swimming and the food is delicious.
4 Flatey Island, Iceland
Iceland is known for its unique natural beauty and its many secluded islands. Flatey Island - one of the most remote in the country is worth a vacation. This island located in Breidafjordur is a great place to visit for a peaceful atmosphere and a remote time in nature. One can watch the puffins that frequently visit the island. Dolphins and whales are some marine creatures one can see here. While the serenity of the day on the island can be exciting, travelers who spend the night here will enjoy an extremely peaceful atmosphere that may almost feel creepy. Nevertheless, it is an experience worth having.
3 Seychelles
Beaches are the highlight of any island experience and Seychelles has some of the most beautiful in the world, many of which are characterized by sugar-white sand, crystal clear waters, and surrounding mountains and forests. Besides the surreal beaches, this island country located in the Indian Ocean also offers a wide variety of natural attractions to see and exciting outdoor activities to do. Visitors can begin by exploring the island’s abundant hiking trails before heading to a beautiful beach to swim or snorkel. The fauna and flora here are also worth exploring. Sights of a wide variety of birds are common here and creatures such as - lizards, and large tortoises are also frequently seen on the islands. One can also take out the time to see the unique plants endemic to Seychelles, many of which are interesting to learn about. While visiting Seychelles, travelers may encounter extravagant prices here but there are many ways to visit this island country on a budget.
2 Anguilla
A vacation in the Caribbean doesn’t always have to be characterized by loud tourists on beaches or overcrowded waters. One can also enjoy the mesmerizing Caribbean scenery with some serenity and Anguilla is the perfect place to visit to enjoy this experience. The island features conducive weather and an abundance of boulder-filled beaches great for relaxation and swimming. Dolphins are some wildlife to see here, although one will also be met with sights of iguanas, geckos, and lizards. The island’s extensive history is also one more thing to explore and there are museums one can visit for this.
1 Nevis
The name might sound like the strangest thing to many but Nevis is an exciting island destination one should check out. Located in the Caribbean, this small island is the perfect definition of a hidden gem. Think of unspoiled nature, delicious dishes, and beautiful beaches with little or no footprints. Those are some things to enjoy here. Book a stay in one of the island’s resorts to enjoy some impressive views of the sea while sipping a delicious cocktail. Activities one can do on this island include - kayaking and cruises, and hiking to the 3,232-feet Nevis Peak.