Escape to paradise: 12 serene, crowd-free islands in Asia

A few decades ago, finding a secluded beach in Asia was easy. Today, it’s a bit more challenging.

With souvenir vendors trailing large tour groups to Asia’s popular islands, savvy travelers must venture off the beaten path for a more authentic experience.

The great news? Whether you crave a secluded beach surrounded by palm trees or thrilling wildlife encounters in the wild, Asia offers islands that cater to all types of paradise seekers.

From Indonesia to India, we’ve curated a list of twelve timeless islands, where vibrant cultures and untouched landscapes will take you back to a simpler, more traditional way of life.

Koh Rong, Cambodia

Nestled off Cambodia’s coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong offers a timeless experience.

This tranquil island provides a glimpse into what Ko Samui was like three decades ago.

Although both the American and French versions of 'Survivor' were filmed on Koh Rong, the island remains a hidden gem far from typical tourist paths.

Koh Rong boasts 23 stunning beaches, offering plenty of options for sun, sand, and sea, while its dense, untamed interior invites nature lovers to explore.

The island features budget-friendly accommodations for backpackers, while the luxurious Song Saa Private Island Resort caters to travelers seeking upscale comforts.

Pangkor, Malaysia

A small island off Malaysia’s west coast, Pangkor often gets overlooked in favor of larger, more famous destinations like Penang and Langkawi.

And that's a positive for those seeking a more genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Pangkor’s eastern shore is dotted with stilted houses in quaint kampong villages, where fishing and boat-building continue to thrive as the primary livelihoods.

On the other hand, the breathtaking western coast is home to pristine white sand beaches, cradled by serene turquoise coves.

Notable sites on the island include the ruins of the 17th-century Dutch Fort and the Fu Lin Gong Temple, which features elaborate Taoist sculptures and a miniature replica of China’s Great Wall.

You can choose from simple beach bungalows along Coral Bay or indulge in luxury at the upscale Pangkor Laut Resort.

Lampi, Myanmar

The largest island in the eponymous marine national park, Lampi offers a unique blend of untouched rainforest, secluded beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and traditional maritime culture.

The island is brimming with wildlife, from pangolins and hornbills to flying foxes, dugongs, sea turtles, and a rich variety of tropical fish and coral species.

Lampi also serves as a sanctuary for the Moken people, also known as ‘sea gypsies’—Myanmar’s smallest ethnic group—who have called the island home for generations.

Within the national park are five Moken villages, along with numerous cultural and spiritual landmarks connected to their heritage.

The largest Moken village is situated on the nearby Bo Cho island, which is part of Myanmar’s first marine national park, established in 1996.

To help safeguard the park, the Italian nonprofit Oikos has teamed up with Myanmar’s government.

The organization runs a research station on Bo Cho island, complete with a small museum showcasing Lampi’s rich biodiversity and Moken cultural heritage.

Andaman Islands, India

Nestled between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, the Andaman Islands offer a captivating mix of modern India and timeless charm, with endless beaches, picturesque bays, and thriving coral reefs.

In this tropical haven, visitors can enjoy morning strolls with the local cows and fishermen on Corbyn’s Cove Beach, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, and immerse themselves in the vibrant sights and sounds of Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Once a remote outpost of the British Empire, the Andaman Islands are rich in colonial history and remnants.

Discover the jungle-covered ruins of Ross Island, the historic gallows on Viper Island, and the notorious Cellular Jail, where political prisoners and criminals were once held.

If relaxation is your goal, Havelock Island, just a short ferry ride from Port Blair, has evolved from a backpacker’s retreat into a chic destination, now home to stylish boutiques like the Barefoot at Havelock resort.

Palawan, The Philippines

Located in the southwest corner of the Philippines, Palawan is an undeveloped island that captures the untamed essence of nearby Borneo, Malaysia.

Palawan’s natural wonders include the mysterious Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River and the untouched coral reefs of the remote Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

On the northwest coast, Long Beach near San Vicente stretches for eight miles (13 km), making it the longest white-sand beach in the Philippines, still untouched by high-rise hotels or large resorts.

That’s not to say there aren't some great places to stay in the vicinity.

El Nido Resorts offers exclusive over-water bungalows at four remote spots along the northern coast of Palawan.

Tokunoshima, Japan

Located among the Amami Islands south of Japan’s mainland, Tokunoshima is famous for its unique bloodless bullfighting tradition.

In this bovine version of sumo wrestling, giant bulls battle to push each other out of a ring, surrounded by cheering farmers who often place bets on the outcome.

Beyond its quirky traditions, Tokunoshima attracts visitors to its untouched coral reefs, making it one of the most remote and serene spots for scuba diving and snorkeling in the western Pacific.

With its unspoiled beaches, strange coastal rock formations, and obscure World War II relics, Tokunoshima has a unique, off-the-beaten-path charm.

Tokunoshima is also renowned for another remarkable feature: its population’s longevity.

The island boasts the highest percentage of centenarians in the world, with many residents living well beyond 100 years.

Shigechiyo Izumi, a Japanese centenarian who lived from 1865 to 1986, reached the extraordinary age of 120, attributing his long life to a daily drink of shochu – a local sugarcane liquor.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Where Southeast Asia meets the South Pacific, this stunning archipelago lies off the west coast of New Guinea in eastern Indonesia.

Ranked as one of the best diving destinations in the world, Raja Ampat is home to pristine coral reefs that are rich in marine life and biodiversity.

While scientists continue to explore the area’s ecosystem, the WWF has documented over 1,300 species of reef fish and five types of rare and endangered sea turtles in these waters.

Above the water, Raja Ampat’s dramatic karst landscapes – reminiscent of southern Thailand but without the crowds – offer excellent opportunities for jungle treks and rock climbing.

But getting to this diver's paradise requires some effort.

The islands can be accessed with a six-hour flight from Jakarta or by embarking on an adventure cruise with operators like Coral Expeditions.

Ulleung-Do, South Korea

Located far out in the Sea of Japan, this isolated volcanic island is only reachable by ferry.

Despite its remote location, about 75 miles east of South Korea’s mainland, Ulleung-Do has been inhabited since 300 BC.

Today, the island supports a flourishing fishing community alongside a growing tourism industry.

Adventure seekers are drawn to Ulleung-Do’s silver magnolia forests and rugged volcanic landscapes.

The island also boasts a 43-mile (70 km) bike trail, plus opportunities for scuba diving and sea kayaking along its striking sea cliffs.

Ulleung-Do is also famous for its distinct culinary traditions.

Must-try dishes include freshly caught raw seafood, organic barbecued bulgogi made from local cattle, and ‘sanchae bibimbap’ – a dish of steamed rice topped with wild herbs, vegetables, and roots handpicked from the island.

Con Dao, Vietnam

Once a notorious penal colony known as the Devil’s Island of French Indochina, this 16-island archipelago in the Mekong Delta has now embraced a more tranquil way of life.

Accessible by flight from Ho Chi Minh City or ferry from Vung Tau, Con Dao features coral reefs, palm-fringed beaches, rainforest trails, and luxurious beachfront resorts like Six Senses Con Dao.

History enthusiasts will appreciate Con Dao's significance in the era of ocean exploration – legend has it that Marco Polo set foot on the island during his long trek back to Venice.

To delve deeper into the island's tumultuous past, visitors can explore the Revolutionary Museum, housed in the former French commander's residence, or take a tour of the historic prisons on the main island.

The best way to navigate Con Dao is by motorbike, which can easily be rented from most hotels or local rental shops.

Con Dao is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering abundant opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing.

From May to October, visitors can witness sea turtles nesting on the beaches, and watch the hatchlings scurry into the ocean as they begin their journey.

Koh Phayam, Thailand

Thailand’s beach scene is ever-evolving, with resort areas expanding to meet the demands of growing tourism.

However, one island that has managed to preserve its vintage charm is Koh Phayam, located off the coast of southern Ranong province in the Andaman Sea.

There’s a fun debate about whether the island, when viewed from above, looks like a giant manta ray or a large kangaroo with its legs kicked up in the air.

What is certain, though, is that Koh Phayam remains blissfully quiet compared to Thailand’s more famous islands.

Koh Phayam has a small, year-round population of just 500 people, and tourists are few and far between.

The island offers simple yet delightful accommodations, including beachfront bungalows such as those at King Paradise Resort.

Most of the island's activity is centered around the crescent-shaped Aow Yai Bay, also known as Long Beach or Sunset Beach.

Aow Yai Bay is the prime spot for enjoying seaside meals and lively parties after dark.

From May to October, the Indian Ocean generates surfable waves along Aow Yai, making it a great spot for surfers.

Throughout the year, Koh Phayam offers activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, cycling, motorbiking, kayaking, and surf fishing.

Samosir Island, Indonesia

Once a stop on Southeast Asia’s famed hippie trail, Samosir Island in north-central Sumatra transports visitors back to the carefree vibes of the 1970s and 80s.

This volcanic island boasts a breathtaking setting in the heart of Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake.

The lakeside cafes, bars, and bungalows of Tuk Tuk village attract a mix of youthful backpackers and adventurous older travelers, with the latter drawn to the nostalgic, laid-back, and affordable atmosphere reminiscent of Bali’s past.

Samosir is not only a hub of Batak tribal culture but also a perfect spot to rent a scooter and explore the surrounding rice paddies.

A scenic coastal road heads north from Tuk Tuk, leading to the ancient Batak village of Ambarita, home to megalithic monuments, and the museum complex in Simanindo, where visitors can enjoy daily Batak dance performances.

Hokkaido, Japan

Though much of Japan’s northernmost island has been developed, there are still pockets of Hokkaido that maintain a pristine, untamed atmosphere.

Home to brown bears, sea eagles, and a wide array of other wildlife, the island’s varied landscapes boast snow-capped volcanoes, hot springs, lakes, and lush northern forests.

In the fall, the island’s forests are a kaleidoscope of colors, while in spring, they are blanketed in a sea of blossoms.

Hokkaido’s national parks, such as Daisetsuzan, Shiretoko, and Akan in the northeast, offer a raw beauty that feels more like Alaska than what you might expect from Asia.

Another attraction is the island’s traditional onsen (hot spring) culture, which offers visitors a chance to relax in natural thermal baths.

Hokkaido is home to 23 distinct hot spring regions, offering 11 types of onsen, including everything from basic thermal and sulfur springs to rarer ones like radium, ferruginous (iron oxide), and cupriferous (copper) baths.