Thanks to mass tourism, several of the world’s most wonderful islands have been left damaged and spoiled. Beaches that were once made of white sand and crystal-blue water are now littered with trash. The sea breeze that was once so fresh now carries the scent of human interference in the way of exhaust fumes. But thankfully, there are still a few stunning islands that are relatively untouched.
Aside from a five-star resort or two, several of these islands only offer natural beaches, lagoons, and forests that have not been ruined by humans. Check out these 20 pristine islands that tourists want to keep under the radar.
20 The Thai Similan Islands Are Strikingly Beautiful
Thailand is a popular destination for those looking for a relaxing escape, but many destinations within the southeast Asian country have become a little too popular. Forget crowded Phuket and go for the Similan Islands, says Tour Scanner. Not only do they offer beautiful scenery, but this is also the home of some of the best diving opportunities on the planet.
19 Portugal’s Pico Is Relatively Unkown
Despite its significance, Pico is a relatively unknown island. In the time of Columbus, it was considered the last outpost separating Europe from the unknown, says Business Insider. Today, it is an oasis of vineyards and picturesque island landscapes. This one is definitely worth the visit!
18 Relax And Rejuvenate On Culebra, Puerto Rico
According to Jetsetter, there are several reasons to fall in love with Culebra, the Puerto Rican island. The island boasts no less than 10 beaches (that aren’t crawling with tourists), a collection of wildlife preserves, and even its own quiet town.
17 Forget Phuket And Visit Koh Kood
Thailand is full of secret gems that most tourists don’t even know exist as they book trips to Phuket and battle it out with thousands of other travelers for a spot on the beach. Koh Kood is located near the Cambodian maritime border and features bone-white sand and crystal-blue water.
16 Caye Caulker Is Belize’s Gift To The World
Some Caribbean islands are more popular than others, but that has nothing to do with how magical they are. Take Caye Caulker, for example. Situated off the coast of Belize, the island features a lush mangrove forest that is home to several species of birds. It’s also a top spot for diving.
15 Mexico’s Holbox Island Looks Like A Postcard
There are still hidden gems in Mexico that are waiting to be discovered. Holbox Island is one of the nation’s best-kept secrets, with its car-free policies and bohemian vibe. This island, located off the north coast of the Yucatán peninsula, is the ultimate place to relax.
14 Tioman Island Offers Everything You Could Want From Malaysia
If there’s one island that you should check out before the rest of the world’s tourists get wind of it, it’s Tioman Island. Standing off the coast of Malaysia in the South China Sea, this must-visit island is a slice of paradise where you’ll be able to truly relax.
13 Visit The Exumas To Feel Like A Celebrity
You might not have the funds to purchase your own island in the Bahamas, but you can visit the islands in the area that billionaires come to play. The Exuma Islands feature isolated beaches waiting to be explored, colorful reefs, and endless activities to keep you from getting bored.
12 Lastovo Is Croatia’s Remotest Island
The Lastovo archipelago is made up of 47 untouched islands overlooking the scenic Adriatic, just off the coast of Croatia. Here you’ll find protected nature parks and a sense of relaxation. There’s a sleepy village that looks like it’s been taken straight out of a fairytale and even a couple of high-end restaurants.
11 Côn So’n Is Vietnam’s Greatest Secret
It only takes an hour to get to Côn So’n from Ho Chi Minh City, but most tourists still don’t even know that this sublime island even exists. The views here are unparalleled, as are the extravagant resort options that will make you feel like royalty.
10 Nicaragua’s Jicaro Island Feels Truly Off The Grid
Jicaro is only 10 minutes from Grenada, sitting in the middle of Lake Nicaragua and flying under the radar of most tourists. This is an ideal destination if you want to feel like you’ve truly fallen off the grid. There’s no TV here, only lake sports and natural wildlife.
9 Enjoy An Italian Escape On Filicudi
Looking for an Italian summer escape? Swap the famed Amalfi Coast for the isle of Filicudi, the best-kept secret of the Mediterranean country. You won’t find many tourists here, but what you will find are award-winning beaches, scorching hot weather, and delicious spaghetti.
8 Carabao Island Is A Must In The Philippines
There are 20 islands and islets that make up Romblon, one of the most luxurious being Carabao Island in the southern part of the island cluster. Here, the beaches are actually spacious and uncrowded, with soft white sands and clear water.
7 Desroches Island In Seychelles Is A Real Paradise
There is only one five-star resort on Desroches, but that is all you need. In your own private villa, tropical gardens, and plunge pool, you’ll truly be able to get some R&R as you look over nine miles of pristine white-sand beach.
6 Gozo In Malta Is Straight Out Of The History Books
Fans of Greek mythology simply must add Malta’s Gozo to their bucket lists. Aside from being picturesque with a quintessential Mediterranean landscape, this is where the figure Odysseus is said to have been held captive by Calypso on his way back to Ithaca from the Trojan War.
5 Scrub Island Is The Jewel Of The Caribbean
It’s hard to pick just one Caribbean island that is better than the rest, but Scrub Island definitely comes in near the top of the list. Visit this island and you’ll have access to some of the world’s most exclusive resorts. Think private beaches, award-winning spas, and a charming marina.
4 Gili Trawangan Is The New Untouched Bali
Bali is one of the most popular islands in Indonesia, which is precisely why so much of its beautiful landscape has been put in jeopardy. Mass tourism tends to have that effect. For a different Indonesian escape, try Gili Trawangan near Lombok. Cars aren’t allowed here and the vibe is much more relaxed.
3 Rodrigues Is Prince William’s Favorite
If it’s good enough for Prince William, then it’s good enough for us! The future king has spent time in the enchanting, lush lagoons of Rodrigues in the past. Beyond its spectacular beachfront, this Mauritian island also has an abundance of hiking trails.
2 Swap Santorini For Skopelos
Santorini attracts thousands of tourists to Greece every year, but if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, you might like to consider Skopelos as an unspoiled alternative. You’ll still get to immerse yourself in Greek island life, just without throngs of people making you feel like a sardine in a tin.
1 The Andaman Islands Are The Perfect Honeymoon Destination
Perfect for honeymooners and those who need to leave the world behind, the Andaman Islands are situated in the Bay of Bengal and are everything dreams are made of. Business Insider recommends Havelock island as the most magical of these scenic destinations and their white beaches.