27 Beautiful Islands in Asia to Visit in 2026

Looking for an island getaway in Asia? From stunning beaches and bluish-blue waters to untouched wilderness, Asia is home to some of the most incredibly gorgeous islands in the world. With so many beautiful islands in Asia to choose from, it’s tough to decide on one. We’ve rounded up the best islands in Asia with the help of travel experts to help you plan a perfect Asian island vacation. Spring and summer is the best time to visit the Asian Islands.

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The Very Best Islands in Asia to Visit

1. Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Phu Quoc has to be the best island in Southeast Asia. Located in Southeast Vietnam, it boasts pristine white sand beaches. No doubt, Phu Quoc has been voted the ‘cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the world’.

It is one of the best places to visit in Asia for a relaxing vacation. And the best part is that you don’t even need to worry about the visa. If just visiting Phu Quoc in Vietnam for less than 30 days, then no visa is required.

There are so many things to do in Phu Quoc. Known for its pristine beaches, it is tough to choose the best one among them – Bai Dai, Bai San, Khem Beach, San Beach, and many more. Built sandcastles or just gaze at the magical sunset, Phu Quoc is sure to cast a spell.

Families traveling with kids have no dearth of activities. The Vinpearl Land Amusement Park offers some amazing fun rides and a water park to have a fun-filled day.

The amusement park has free shuttles that run in the mornings and evenings through the island making it easy to visit the park. Across the Vinpearl Land is Vinpearl Safari, which is a conservation park with a wide variety of animals including common and exotic animals.

Another famous attraction of the island is the world’s first and longest cable car over water at Hon Thom Cable Car. The views from the cable car are magnificent.

Where to Stay in Phu Quoc: Staying in Phu Quoc, Vietnam offers amazing views of the beach and scrumptious food. There are many resorts along the beaches suiting all budgets. Novotel Phu Quoc Resort and Vinpearl Resort are some of our favorites.

2. Cat Ba, Vietnam

Emily, Wander-Lush

Cat Ba is one of the most popular and picturesque islands to visit in Southeast Asia. Located off the coast of northern Vietnam, many travelers transit through this area when traveling to Halong Bay from Hanoi.

Cat Ba and the surrounding Bai Tu Long Bay are a terrific alternative to Halong, with similar karst rock formations but fewer boats. Half and full-day tours of the bay from the dock at Cat Ba can be organized once you arrive on the island, and usually involve kayaking and lunch on the water.

One of the things that makes Cat Ba so unique is the blend of water and land activities. Cat Ba National Park occupies the interior of the island and is one of Vietnam’s premier nature reserves.

Hiking trails and cycling paths lead visitors between small villages and forested areas. Kids will love the after-dark tours that take you in search of the park’s wildlife, including the elusive and endangered Cat Ba langur, a monkey that’s only found on the island.

Cat Ba has an interesting war history and there are many historical sites you can visit as well, including caves that were used as hospitals.

There are lookout points all over the island for picture-perfect views of the bay, a couple of sandy beaches, and floating villages as well.

For the best chance of good weather and clear skies, the best time to visit Cat Ba is in summer, between late April and late October. Avoid traveling on national holidays as the island gets very crowded with visitors from Hanoi.

Where to Stay in Cat Ba: Cat Ba Oasis Bungalows offer clean, simple rooms with an outdoor pool and a generous breakfast.

3. Havelock Island, India

Havelock Island, an untouched beauty, is the largest island in the Andaman Islands to the south of India. Known as the jewel of Andaman, it is known for its natural untouched beauty, white sandy beaches, and scuba diving capital of India.

The Andaman Islands are home to exotic marine life and coral reefs. The picturesque coral reef of Havelock Island is a haven for divers exploring colorful marine life.

For enthusiasts, there are scuba diving courses as well that can be taken by some of the best instructors. Snorkeling is also a great option to explore Nemo and the Dory.

Elephant Beach is a snorkeling hotspot with exotic corals near the shore. This makes it a great option even for non-swimmers.

The famous beaches of Havelock are Radhanagar Beach and Vijaynagar Beach. No doubt, Radhanagar Beach has been ranked among the top 10 spectacular beaches of the world.

Walk on the sandy beach or just sit and savor the beauty. Watching the sunrise and sunset is just magical and will leave you spellbound. Due to the lack of pollution and open areas, Havelock is also perfect for stargazing. Enjoy the sky twinkling with many stars.

Havelock Island is accessible from Port Blair and Neil Island by government-run and private ferries that take around 2.5 hours. We recommend taking the morning ferry to reach early and make full use of the day. The island can be explored by renting bikes.

Where to Stay on Havelock Island: Silver Sand Beach Resort and Taj Exotica are great resorts to stay on Havelock Island.

Read more: India itinerary ideas for spending 1 to 4 weeks

4. Phuket, Thailand

Alice, Adventures of Alice

Phuket is a bustling island in southern Thailand and has been a popular tourist destination for decades. It is the largest island in Thailand and offers outdoor activities like hiking or diving, as well as cultural experiences, including visiting temples.

With so much to do in Phuket, it’s easily one of the best islands in Asia and one of the most beautiful places in Thailand to add to any itinerary for the Land of Smiles. The island offers some of the most exciting things to do across Thailand.

When it comes to things to do in Phuket, there are so many different things to do. You can opt for the typical touristy activities. This includes going on a scenic bus tour of the island’s highlights, taking a day trip up to Chalong Bay, or visiting one of the many beautiful temples and shrines around Phuket town.

For families, Splash Jungle Water Park or Zipline at Flying Hanuman are great choices.

But if you’re looking for something more exciting and challenging then why not take part in some adrenaline-inducing adventures like jet ski safaris or deep-sea fishing trips?

Alternatively, if those don’t tickle your fancy then maybe try an eco-friendly activity such as exploring mangrove forests by kayak.

Overall, from the beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and excursions like scuba diving or elephant riding, there are plenty of things to do in Phuket.

The best time to visit is between November to February. This is the driest season and you’re less likely (although it’s still possible) to experience tropical rain showers.

Where to Stay in Phuket: Sawaddi Patong Resort is a good place to stay if you want to be local to attractions however, Karon and Kata Noi are much quieter locations.

5. Koh Samui, Thailand

Adriana Plotzerová, Czech the World

Koh Samui is a beautiful island in Thailand, full of nice beaches, viewpoints, waterfalls, as well as numerous temples. It is an ideal destination for an adventurous journey around the island as well as relaxing on the beach.

The best way to explore the island is by hiring a scooter. It is easy and cheap. On your way around the island visit Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, Secret Buddha Garden, and Na Mueg Waterfall, and don’t forget to enjoy local night markets.

Night markets are full of delicious food, where you can try everything from fish, seafood, rice, and noodles to awesome coconut ice cream.

There are also beautiful temples in Koh Samui. The largest and most impressive is Wat Plai Laem which is a must-see. Another important one is the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai).

If you have more time, visit also Laem Sor Pagoda, Wat Sarmet, Wat Sawang Arom Chaweng, or Wat Khunaram with a mummified monk. Check also other great things to do in Koh Samui.

You can also take a day tour from Koh Samui Ang Thong National Park.

If you are looking for beautiful beaches, be sure to visit Lamai Beach (a calm beach with deep water), Chaweng Beach (full of bars, restaurants, and clubs), Bo Phut Beach, Maenam Beach (popular among backpackers), or calm Lipa Noi Beach.

Where to Stay in Koh Samui: A popular place to stay is Crystal Bay Yacht Club Beach Resort.

6. Koh Lanta, Thailand

Veronika Primm, Travel Geekery

Koh Lanta belongs to one of a few paradise islands in Thailand’s South. It’s wonderfully laid back and offers just the right mix of activities, beach vibes, and only a few parties.

There are many different things to do in Koh Lanta. Obviously, you can enjoy plenty of beach time to your heart’s content. Beaches range from easily accessible long ones – such as the Long Beach (Phra Ae) to more intimate smaller beaches that are slightly harder to get to – those can be found mainly in the South of the island (on the western side).

Restaurants are plentiful in Koh Lanta. You can find a good mix of everything, and the small shacks near the beach often have the freshest ingredients. There are many street food options too, especially in the port of Ban Saladan.

Hiking is another fun activity to do in Koh Lanta. The island’s southernmost tip is occupied by a National Park with a few hiking trails and a lovely lighthouse.

For the best full-on adventure day, you need to take a boat trip to nearby islands. The most popular options include a 4-island tour with a visit to the Emerald Cave and a boat tour to Koh Rok Island.

Where to Stay in Koh Lanta: When looking for a place to stay in Koh Lanta, I can highly recommend Escape Cabins. The lovely bungalows are within walking distance of the beach yet in a quiet spot.

7. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Jessie Moore, Pocket Wanderings

The Phi Phi Islands comprise six stunning islands in Southern Thailand, all located in the Andaman Sea.

The islands are accessible by ferry or speedboat from Krabi or Phuket. With pristine white sandy beaches and bright azure water, the Phi Phi Islands look as though they belong in a movie. The ultimate tropical paradise that’s home to diverse cultures and wildlife.

By far the best way to experience all that these unique islands have to offer is via a speed boat tour. Hop between the islands and explore this beautiful Andaman Sea archipelago.

The Phi Phi Islands are a great place to go snorkeling, where you can discover the thriving reefs and spot various marine wildlife. Cruise past Viking Cave and see the monkeys at Monkey Beach.

On Koh Phi Phi Don, kids will love the Pirate Island Adventures House – a fun attraction located in Tonsai Village. There are a number of other water and adventure parks on the island too – perfect for keeping the whole family entertained.

Although the Phi Phi Islands are considered to be a year-round destination, it’s worth noting that May, September, and October are the wettest months. Peak season is from November to April, as these months see the best weather – although it will be a little more expensive at these times as a result.

Where to Stay on Phi Phi Islands: Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island within the group and is therefore where visitors can stay. For a touch of luxury and a back-to-nature retreat, stay at the Saii Phi Phi Island Village.

8. Koh Phangan, Thailand

Daniel and Ilona, Top Travel Sights

Koh Phangan is an island in Thailand that has it all – fantastic beaches, waterfalls in the jungle, and a spectacular underwater world.

One of the best things to do on the island is to explore the many beaches as it boasts some of the best beaches in Asia. You can find numerous beautiful bays all around the island, so you can relax at a different beach every day.

Koh Phangan is home to some of the best diving sites in Thailand, but you don’t need to dive if you want to see the underwater world. Instead, you can join a snorkeling tour or head to Mae Haad Beach. The coral reef here is close to the beach, and you can easily spend hours watching the colorful fish.

If you get tired of lying on the beach, head to the island’s interior. Hidden in the jungle, you can discover seven waterfalls. Even if you can’t see all seven, make sure to stop by the Phaeng waterfall. Below the falls, you can swim in natural rock pools.

The best time to visit Koh Phangan is from December to April, during the dry season. May to September are shoulder seasons and still offer great weather, but avoid the monsoon season during October and November.

Where to Stay in Koh Phangan: A great place to stay on Koh Phangan is the Shiralea Island Resort, next to Had Yao Beach. With its location on the western side of the island, it’s the perfect location to see fantastic sunsets.

9. Koh Tao, Thailand

Victoria, Guide Your Travel

Koh Tao is one of the best islands in Thailand and has something for everyone. It’s a very versatile place and suitable for all types of travelers. There is a decent selection of bars and restaurants making it a good spot for nightlife.

Koh Tao is definitely popular among backpackers but also great for families or couples looking for a romantic retreat.

A large portion of the island is quite secluded with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water.

Koh Tao is known as a diving island and a perfect spot to get to know Thailand’s incredible underwater world.

If you’re traveling with children there are plenty of snorkeling opportunities as well as beaches with shallow waters which are perfect for swimming.

Definitely take a boat tour to Koh Nang Yuan, a nearby island that is a popular photo spot. A narrow sandbank connects it to neighboring islands making it an impressive sight.

After a long day of snorkeling and exploring you should enjoy the evening with drinks on the beach as the sun sets.

Where to Stay in Koh Tao: There are great resorts like the Tanote Villa Hill which has a fantastic view and direct beach access. Closer to the harbor you’ll find more budget-friendly accommodation options and hostels.

10. Palawan, Philippines

Dea Mariano, How She Wanders

Palawan, a dreamy island province in the Philippines, won’t be recognized by travel magazines as the “Best Island in the World” for nothing.

It’s one of the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia. Beautiful natural attractions, pristine beaches, and islands, rich culture and history, friendly locals, and exciting activities — you’ll see why people fell in love with the place so easily.

Its capital city, Puerto Princesa, is where you’ll find the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s simply an unmissable site when visiting Palawan. Doing a city tour is also one of the most exciting as you’d be able to witness the place’s rich history, try out a traditional weaving, have a picnic on a hilltop, taste locally made products, and see beautiful wildlife among other things. It’s recommended for families who wish to bond and have quality time together.

If you’re up for some adventure, there is Ugong Rock Adventures where you could experience spelunking and zipline, and Honda Bay where you could do island hopping tours.

There are also beautiful waterfalls in Puerto Princesa that are worth chasing such as Estrella Falls, Salakot Falls, and Bonton Falls.

And for backpackers and island-goers, Palawan’s star attractions are the beautiful El Nido, Coron, and Balabac. These three are gorgeous sites and everyone’s dream destinations!

Palawan is indeed a perfect summer destination and is best experienced during the spring and summer months in the Philippines so make sure to visit from March through May.

Where to Stay in Palawan: One of the best places to stay in Puerto Princesa is Astoria Palawan. It is a relaxing place away from the city and the crowd.

11. Siargao, Philippines

Bradley, Dream Big, Travel Far Blog

Siargao is one of the most popular destinations in The Philippines for a reason. Located southeast of Tacloban, it’s a truly magnificent island with crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches.

This teardrop-shaped island is the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines” and a must for any surfer visiting the country. The waves here are incredible and there are a lot of surf spots for beginners and experts alike.

Other than surfing, there are other things you can do in Siargao, like seeing the infamous Sugba Lagoon. Take a tour from the island, or feel free to get to Playa Del Carmen port. You can hop on a boat that will take you to this beautiful area.

This lagoon boasts a picturesque view and has a lot of activities. You can jump from tall diving boards into the ocean, paddleboard, kayak, or snorkel around. Consider taking a mangrove tour as part of your Sugba Lagoon experience. This place is actually one of the nation’s largest Mangrove forests!

Siargao is a great family-friendly destination. Take the little ones to the rock pools, which are best visited at high tide, or explore the Tayangban Cave Pool. 

Meanwhile, the best time to visit Siargao would be the dry season between March to September. This is when there is the least rainfall.

Where to Stay in Siargao: For accommodation, General Luna is a great choice as it’s home to plenty of restaurants and shops. Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa is popular for its strategic location, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views.

12. Boracay Island, Philippines

Angeline Ibarra, Go Around Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago of more than seven thousand islands. Visiting the country will surely give you a tropical paradise holiday.

One of the most beautiful islands in the country and the world is Boracay Island. Boracay has consistently been voted in the top 10 most beautiful islands in the world category for many years.

It isn’t surprising because Boracay has four (4) kilometers of stretch of powdery white sand beach, turquoise blue water backed by palm trees, and crystal-clear water. Offshore, you’ve got amazing coral reefs and shipwrecks for scuba diving.

The best time to visit Boracay is from December to May as it is the summer months in the Philippines.

If you are visiting with your family, just staying at any hotel along White Beach is the perfect area to enjoy many of the water sports and activities that are offered. You can get on a speedboat which will take you to the middle part of the area to jet ski, ride a banana boat or try parasailing.

You can also do an island-hopping trip to some smaller islands off of Boracay. This tour provides lunch at one of the beaches too. One of the things you shouldn’t miss in Boracay is its stunning sunsets.

Definitely get yourself along White Beach at around 5 p.m. and watch the sun slowly set with amazing colors and Paraw boats sailing. It is one of the best sights to see in the Philippines.

13. Coron, Philippines

Noel Moreta, Visit California and Beyond

One of the best islands to visit in the Philippines is the island of Coron which is becoming a wonderful island escape from the bustling cities of Manila and Cebu City.

A short plane ride to Coron with its jeweled bays and small islands from above captures a wonderful outdoor environment that is also ecologically maintained with strict touring requirements for tour operators that take visitors to the various islands on scheduled tours.

There are no plastics allowed and all the garbage and stuff taken in are also taken out by all the operators with a lot of education on the island lifestyle, the corals and tropical fish environments, and how to visit the sites with an ecological mindset.

You have a choice of packages that are standard day trips to choose from like this one and they are affordable and include lunch prepared and set on a beach or pavilion area when you finish a snorkeling experience and lunchtime makes it obvious that the food being prepared is ready to eat.

Coron Island is a year-round destination but busiest during the holiday seasons and winter holidays when all the resorts are packed so better to travel in the shoulder season timeframe for cheaper flights and accommodations on the island.

Enjoy your visit to Coron and you’ll have a fantastic time exploring all the islands around this fabulous destination in the Philippines.

Where to Stay in Coron: There are different price levels of places to stay on the island and the easiest is around the Coron harbor area where all the restaurants, shops, and hotels are located. One of the nicest to stay is called the Two Seasons Coron Bayside with modern and comfortable accommodations that are very nice for your visit to the island.

14. Bali, Indonesia

De Wet & Jin, Museum of Wander

Bali is a tropical paradise in Indonesia, and people from all walks of life have been coming to this island for decades. Bali might be small in size, but it offers an incredible variety of things to do.

It caters to young and old, the high flyers and the budget-conscious, the active and the lazy, the spiritual and the hedonists, and everything in between. Value for money is perhaps the island’s strongest point.

Families looking for a relaxing holiday will love Amed in eastern Bali. Amed has a very laid-back atmosphere and some of the best snorkeling on the island.

Those looking for something more than just snorkeling, relaxing, or eating can get their diving license at one of the many dive schools or attend regular yoga lessons.

Bali’s unique Hindu culture is best experienced in Ubud, located in the center of the island. Ubud is also known as the island’s cultural heart.

Attending the Kecak fire dance at night is a must-do when in Ubud. The area surrounding Ubud offers idyllic scenes filled with rice terraces, holy temples, and a sacred monkey forest which can easily be visited on a day trip.

Bali can be visited throughout the year, but May to September is the dry season, which is considered the best time.

Where to Stay in Bali: Life in Amed is the perfect place for your family holiday in Amed. With a sparkling pool, garden cottages, excellent restaurant, and beachfront setting, you’ll never want to leave.

15. Gili Islands, Indonesia

Julie Laundis, Wandering Sunsets

The Gilis in Indonesia are among the best islands in Asia! This archipelago of three small islands includes Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan.

Located between Bali and Lombok, the islands are reachable by a 2.5-hour speed boat from Bali or a flight from Bali to Lombok and a boat trip. These islands are known for their diverse marine life and crystal-clear waters.

Gili Air is perfect for you if you want to have it all on holiday –  a bit of world-class snorkeling, a great massage, scrumptious seafood, cycling, and sundowners on beautiful beaches with fewer crowds than the other two islands.

Gili Meno is the smallest island and is walkable in two hours. This island is popular for its underwater statues: 48 life-size statues of couples embracing on the seafloor.

The project was Commissioned by BASK and installed in 2017. It’s free to see the statues but you will have to rent a private boat or join a tour to reach them. Gili Meno is the perfect location to snorkel above a coral reef and wreck site and swim with sea turtles. 

If your ideal vacation involves beach parties, Gili Trawangan is the island for you! Famous for its dive industry and beach parties, this island is for hardcore partygoers and backpackers. This is also the largest island – with the most accommodation options and restaurants.

The Islands are close to each other and you can easily visit them by boat!

16. Flores and Komodo Islands, Indonesia

Claudia Tavani, My Adventures Across The World

If you are traveling around Indonesia, you absolutely have to visit Flores, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. While Labuan Bajo, the main town on the island, is a pretty nondescript place, it is an excellent starting point to explore the rest of the island and archipelago which is – to say the least – stunning.

The start of the show here is, by all means, Komodo National Park, home of the Komodo Dragons who can be admired in their natural habitat.

These giant and scary-looking lizards can reach up to 3 meters and while seemingly slow in their moves, they can be quite dangerous.

Another incredible spot is Pink Beach, an isolated beach on an uninhabited island where you’ll find the most pristine waters and the most thriving marine life.

The best views are definitely those from Padar. Reaching the peak for the iconic photo is a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely worth it.

Boat tours around the archipelago and the national park depart regularly from Labuan Bajo. You may want to consider this one.

Where to Stay in Flores: Opt to stay at Plataran Komodo Beach Resort for perfect rooms in a gorgeous setting and anything you may need for a fabulous stay.

17. Don Khone in Laos’ 4,000 Islands

Sarah, A Social Nomad

Just north of the border with Cambodia are the 4,000 islands of Laos – also known as Si Phan Don.  And there truly are 4,000 islands here, mostly uninhabited.

The 3 largest islands are the most visited and while one of them, Don Det is firmly backpacker party central, Don Khone is the place to go for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. 

This island is lovely and quiet, but with the tourist facilities that you’ll want.  You’ll find places to stay with rooms with hammocks swinging on balconies onto the Mekong River, a variety of places to eat and have fresh fruit juice, coffee, or Beer Lao. 

Life is slow here, and it’s one of the main reasons to come here – to relax, but there’s one trip you should take when visiting Don Khone and that’s to see the Irrawaddy Dolphins. 

There are less than 80 of these critically endangered dolphins alive in the wild and the best time to see them is in the early morning or early evening.

Another must-see is the old French Steam Engine – the railway here was built to avoid the Khone Phapheng Falls – which are also worth a trip – and this 4.3-mile track was built by the French so that they could create a trade route up the Mekong from Cambodia to Laos and then China.

Overall though, come here and chill out, it’s a fabulous place for relaxing and doing a lot of nothing!

Where to Stay in Don Khone: The Sengahloune Resort, just a 2-minute walk to the Old French Railway Bridge is a fabulous place to stay.

18. Maalhos, Maldives

Sarah Steiner, Away with the Steiners

The beautiful Maldivian island of Maalhos may be small but packs a punch.  In contrast to the iconic resorts and touristic villas, this beautiful island showcases a totally different side to the Maldives.

Maalhos is a small, local island in the Baa Atoll with a population of only 600 residents.

Aside from the stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters, the beauty of Maalhos also shines in the people and the contradictory absence of tourists.

There are no vehicles on the island, no resorts, and only a small selection of guesthouses that can tailor a stay to suit you and your family exactly.

Enjoy snorkeling tours, and day trips to the nearby sandbars and outer islands, swim with the turtles, and just generally make the most of life on a beautiful and peaceful Asian island.

Getting to Maalhos requires a little planning and coordination with your hosts on the island.

Book a domestic flight from Velana International Airport in Malé to Dharavandhoo Domestic Airport. From there it’s a short but beautiful ride by water taxi.

If you are looking to holiday at one of the best islands in Asia but after something a little bit different, Maalhos is magical.

Where to Stay in Maalhos: Dhonfulhafi Inn is a fantastic guesthouse hosted by Haneef and Aslam who will make sure your stay is as perfect as it looks.

19. Maafushi, Maldives

Mayuri, Fernwehrahee

Maafushi is one of the closest islands to Male, the capital of Maldives. It is considered one of the best budget places to stay for a cheap Maldivian vacation.

It’s just an hour’s speedboat ride away from Velana International Airport at Male which makes it famous among budget travelers who don’t want to splurge on the expensive speedboat ride or airplane taxi!

Maafushi is famous among family travelers as well as solo travelers owing to the variety of options it offers for everyone

Like island resorts, there is a separate Bikini beach on the island where you can spend your day, can indulge in various activities like kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, etc.

Maafushi is the best place to do snorkeling and scuba Diving. You can opt for a PADI scuba diving course. If you are visiting with family and kids, you can opt for a Dolphin watching tour or Sunset cruise to spend quality time with your family. The most famous tour on Maafushi is the snorkeling and sandbank tour.

Also, you can visit one of the nearby resorts like Fihalhohi Resort or Adran Prestige Vadoo as a day trip. The kids will surely love the Whale and Manta Ray watching tours.

If you are traveling as a couple, I highly recommend a sunset dinner by the beach. If you are traveling to the Maldives on a Budget, Maafushi is your perfect vacation spot.

You can easily reach Maafushi by a local ferry or a shared speedboat. The transfer can be arranged by the hotel you are staying at.

Where to Stay in Maafushi: Kaani Beach Hotel and Arena Beach Hotel are some of the best options when it comes to staying.

20. Penang, Malaysia

Caroline, C K Travels

The island of Penang located off the north-western coast of Malaysia is one of the most exciting destinations in Southeast Asia, with a mix of beach, rainforest, and city, and a reputation for some of the finest street food in the world.

The island is home to the bustling multicultural city of Georgetown, its colonial-era capital which is also a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Georgetown is a melting pot of Chinese, Indian, and Malay culture and you’ll find many British colonial buildings sitting alongside Chinese shophouses, mosques, and temples!

One of the best things to do in Georgetown Penang for the family is to explore the streets in search of the famous street art and creative murals by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic. Many are interactive and have objects stuck to walls or things you can sit on such as bikes and swings!

Visiting Little India and Chinatown is also a must-do to sample delicious local Penang cuisine. There are multiple food courts and outdoor hawker stalls where you can try famous dishes such as char koay teow (flat fried noodles).

We would recommend booking a food tour to experience some of the island’s best cuisine – it is a great family-friendly activity.

Where to Stay in Penang: Penang has several amazing accommodation options with many beachside resorts and city hotels. In terms of location, the Hotel Chulia Mansion in Georgetown is great as it is located right in the heart of the old town with several restaurants, bars, and street food options on your doorstep.

21. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia

Cecilie, Worldwide Walkers

If you are looking for a quiet island in Cambodia that offers both relaxing beach days and exciting activities, then Koh Rong Samloem is just right for you.

Koh Rong Samloem is without a doubt one of Asia’s best islands. With its white sandy beaches, turquoise-colored waters, and green lush jungle, Koh Rong Samloem is rightfully a popular travel destination in Cambodia.

There are so many things to do in Koh Rong Samloem. Apart from enjoying the beautiful beaches, you can go snorkeling, kayaking, jungle trekking, or see the incredible bioluminescent plankton at night. The best way to experience the plankton is to take a guided boat tour after it gets dark.

You can visit Koh Rong Samloem all year round. However, the rainy season goes from May to October. You should avoid visiting during this time of the year if you are limited on time and crave some sunny beautiful beach days with blue skies.

You can easily get to Koh Rong Samloem by ferry from Sihanoukville.

Where to Stay in Koh Rong Samoloem: There are several places you can stay in Koh Rong Samloem. Saracen Bay is the most popular place on the island because of its long, beautiful beach strip. Therefore, you will find more options for restaurants and accommodation here. On the other hand, M’Pai Bay is known for its more laid-back vibe where you can connect with the local people living on the island, which also makes it a great place to stay.

22. Penghu Islands, Taiwan

Chloe, Chloe’s Travelogue

Penghu is an archipelago of 90 islands in the west of the Taiwan Strait. You may or may not have heard of its name. If you haven’t, you are not alone. And that’s the best part. It is a hidden gem, not many people outside of Taiwan know about. 

Forget about rowdy partiers. No worries on the overcrowded beach. No traffic jams. No overpriced restaurants. Just imagine white sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and pristine nature. 

While it may not be known to international travelers yet, Penghu offers typical activities you can expect from an island destination, including swimming, island hopping, fishing, and snorkeling.

Water sports enthusiasts might also be delighted to know that the island’s notoriously strong wind makes it a great surfing and windsurfing destination. 

Besides water activities, the Penghu Islands are a great outdoor classroom. Its unique geological landscape showcases majestic basalt columns, whale-like caves, and other rare sights created by volcanic eruptions. 

Also, many historic sites on the islands tell colorful stories to visitors. From the oldest Matzu (Chinese goddess of the ocean) temple to the early settlements in Penghu to the military village and ancient military fort, you will have an opportunity to learn about traditional Penghu culture and history. 

Does Penghu sound like a dreamy destination for your next vacation? 

Before heading to Penghu, be aware that the island is still developing as a tourist destination. If you imagine lying on the cabana with a cocktail in your hand at a luxury beachfront resort, Penghu is not it. (You can still find modern lodging options near Makong, the central location with easy access to everything.) 

But if you would like to get away from the crowd and appreciate a slow vacation surrounded by nature, Penghu is for you. 

23. Jeju Island, South Korea

Located just south of the mainland of the Korean Peninsula, Jeju Island is the largest island in South Korea and the country’s number one holiday destination, popular with school classes and honeymooners alike.

This comes as no surprise because the island’s unique climate, geography, culture, and cuisine make it the perfect getaway from the Korean mainland at any time of the year.

While most of South Korea falls into the temperate climate zone, with hot and humid summers and cold, harsh winters, Jeju Island has a sub-tropical climate, meaning that it does not usually get too cold in winter and when it gets hot in summer, there is plenty of places to cool off: natural waterfalls, crystal-clear sandy beaches, lush green forests, vast tangerine fields.

But the one landmark that stands out the most is Mount Halla, a 2,000-meter-tall volcano and the tallest mountain in South Korea.

With such unique geography comes not only unique biodiversity but also culture. The perhaps most famous cultural heritage of Jeju Island are the Dol Hareubang, human-like figures carved out of volcanic rock that are believed to ward off demons and help with fertility.

The culinary heritage of Jeju Island is similarly iconic, with sweet tangerines and fresh seafood dishes being popular across the entire country.

Finally, thanks to the island’s strong tourism industry, visitors can find a myriad of resorts, theme parks, and museums, making Jeju Island a very family-friendly destination.

Where to Stay on Jeju Island: Accommodation on the island ranges from luxurious five-star resorts like the Lotte Hotel Jeju to small community-oriented hostels. This makes Jeju Island a great destination for every type of traveler.

24. Okinawa, Japan

Mia, Walk a While with Me

An island in itself, Japan has a lot to offer, from the futuristic attractions offered in Tokyo to the ancient temples in Kyoto.

However, for those looking for a tropical getaway, Japan possesses its own vacation spot, beloved by domestic and international travelers alike: Okinawa.

Located to the south of Japan in the East China Sea (between Taiwan and Kyushu), the Okinawa Prefecture is comprised of over 160 islands, only 47 of which are inhabited.

And, with its southern location and high humidity, Okinawa offers warm days year-round.

With its own distinct culture, Okinawa is rich in history, stunning scenery, unique cuisine, and exceptional art. Historically, Okinawa was once the Ryukyu Kingdom, which thrived as a center of trade between China, Japan, and other Southeast Asia countries.

Beyond its historical significance, there are many incredible natural sights to see around Okinawa. From hiking, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, canyoning, kayaking, and caving, there are truly so many adventurous activities to embark on, perfect for families and solo travelers alike.

Furthermore, if you’re planning to visit Okinawa Main Island with kids, I definitely recommend taking a one-day tour with the Okinawa Hip Hop bus.

With stops around the entire main island, the bus tour takes you to many awesome spots, including Nago Pineapple Park, Cape Manza, Kouri Island, and the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.

Where to Stay in Okinawa: And if you’re looking for a place to stay, I recommend the Hotel Aqua Citta Naha by WBF!

25. Lantau, Hong Kong

Ashley Brown and Kelsey Weakly, The Bratpacker Gals

Lantau Island is in Hong Kong, west of Hong Kong Island where the main city is based.  Hong Kong International Airport is actually on Lantau Island making a trip to explore quickly and easily!

This often overlooked, the more natural island has so much to offer that it’s definitely worth a delay to the skyscrapers of Hong Kong Island. The most exciting attraction is Hong Kong Disney.

All ages will enjoy a full day in the park and the prices are very reasonable compared to most Disney locations. A visit to Tian Tan Buddha is also a must. The giant Buddha sits atop a hill that is best reached by Ngong Ping 360 gondolas.

The upgraded “Crystal Cabin” glass-bottom gondolas make for epic views of the land and sea on the way up.

At the top, before the trek up the stairs to the Buddha, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and maybe even cows roaming Ngong Ping Village! While here, Po Lin Monastery and the Wisdom Path are not to be missed.

The best time of year to visit is during fall from September to December since the humidity is low, the rainy season is over, and the warmth of summer is still lingering.

Where to Stay in Lantau: The best hotel around is Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, located on the east coast of the island right near Hong Kong Disney. Discovery Bay has everything you need with mountain or ocean-view rooms at affordable prices.

26. Hainan, China

Henrik Jeppesen, Every Country in the World

Hainan is known as “The Hawaii of China” and is perhaps unknown to many Western travelers. There can be many reasons for that, but the visa policy must be one of them.

For many, it’s not very attractive to visit a Chinese island with potential language barriers and have to obtain a visa in advance when you can just arrive in Thailand without those issues. But Hainan Island is a great destination for luxury travel and a 30-Day visa is available for several nationalities if you only visit Hainan.

If you are into luxury travel, great 5-star resorts, and beautiful beaches, you might consider visiting the beautiful Chinese island, of Hainan. If you count countries and territories, you can get another one, too, as Hainan is part of Travelers’ Century Club’s list of 329 countries and territories.

The best time to visit Hainan is probably winter.

Where to Stay in Hainan: The main reason to visit Hainan for many might be the level of the luxury resorts available. Here you will find world-class brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Grand Hyatt, Banyan Tree, Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Conrad, Sofitel, Park Hyatt, InterContinental, Rosewood, Raffles, Shangri-La, and JW Marriott. Very impressive and probably the number one beach destination in all of Asia when it comes to the leading hotel brands of the world.

27. Sri Lanka

Maria & Katerina, It’s All Trip To Me

The island nation of Sri Lanka is one of the most authentic destinations to visit in Asia. With gorgeous seaside towns, such as Trincomalee, Weligama, Mirissa, Galle, and Negombo, a handful of stunning natural parks, and many sites of great historical significance like Kandy, Sri Lanka is an island that has a little bit of everything for a relaxing yet fascinating vacation by the sea.

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean, as Sri Lanka is often nicknamed, is a diverse island with laid-back vibes, delicious food, and jaw-dropping scenery. However, what makes Sri Lanka stand out is the kindness of its people. There’s no way you visit Sri Lanka without feeling the warm welcome of smiling locals.

Boasting the longest sandy beaches you could ever dream of, water sports facilities, fantastic nature, and exciting history, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for families.

If there’s one thing you don’t want to miss while in Sri Lanka is a safari tour at one of the island’s national parks, such as Minneriya or Yala, for a chance to admire the island’s wildlife, among which the cutest creatures alive: the elephants.

Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean, southeast of the Indian subcontinent. The island has constant temperatures throughout the year and two separate monsoon seasons.

Therefore, it’s possible to visit Sri Lanka and enjoy glorious weather any time of year as long as you keep this in mind: December to March is the best time to visit the south and west parts of the island, while the east coast is ideal from April to September.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka: With many locations across the island, Cinnamon Hotels are among the best accommodation options in Sri Lanka.

So, which Asian island are you heading to next?

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