Asia Island Getaways Map

Ko Samui

Tropical Vibes and Relaxed Luxury

7.4

Ko Samui is Thailand's second largest island and sits in the Gulf of Thailand. Coconut palms line beaches such as Chaweng and Lamai. A large golden Big Buddha statue looks over the north coast. Night markets in Fisherman's Village sell street food and handmade gifts.

Highlights:

🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Chaweng Beach
🚤 Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park by boat
🕉️ Visit the iconic Big Buddha Temple at Wat Phra Yai

Phuket

Beaches, Culture and Nightlife

8.1

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and sits in the Andaman Sea. Beaches such as Kata and Kamala suit swimmers and families. Old Phuket Town has colourful Sino Portuguese shophouses. Boats leave the marinas for Phang Nga Bay and the Phi Phi islands. Night markets sell grilled seafood and sweets.

Highlights:

🏘️ Explore colorful streets of Phuket Old Town
🗿 Climb to the serene Big Buddha viewpoint
🏖️ Relax on Patong Beach and enjoy vibrant nightlife

Palawan

Paradise of Lagoons and Limestone Cliffs

8.2

Palawan is a long narrow island in the western Philippines with limestone cliffs and lagoons. The Underground River near Puerto Princesa is a UNESCO site. El Nido and Coron offer island hopping trips. Divers explore sunken Japanese wrecks near Coron. Sunset boat trips are a favourite end to the day.

Highlights:

🏝️ Go island hopping around the turquoise waters of Coron Bay
🛶 Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
⛵ Sail through the limestone cliffs and lagoons of El Nido

Gili Air

Tropical paradise with crystal turquoise waters

8.6

Gili Air is the middle of three small Gili islands off northwest Lombok. No motor vehicles are allowed so visitors get around on bicycles or horse carts. Clear shallows and coral make it a good place to snorkel. Beachfront cafes serve fresh fish at sunset.

Highlights:

⛵ Take a sunset cruise to nearby islands
🍤 Dine on fresh seafood at a beachside shack
🐠 Snorkel around vibrant coral reefs near Gili Air

Maldives

Coral atolls, lagoons and overwater villas

9.2

The Maldives has more than one thousand coral islands scattered in the Indian Ocean. Many resorts sit on their own small island. Overwater villas look over clear lagoons and colourful reefs. Snorkellers often spot manta rays and reef sharks close to shore. Seaplanes carry guests between the islands.

Highlights:

🌌 Watch a glowing beach at night on Vaadhoo Island
🦈 Snorkel with reef sharks and manta rays at Hanifaru Bay
🏝️ Stay in an overwater villa surrounded by turquoise lagoon

Siquijor

Hidden lagoon paradise with mystical waterfalls

8.4

Siquijor is a small quiet island in the central Philippines often linked with folk healing. Cambugahay Falls has turquoise pools for swimming. White beaches and coral reefs lie near the coast. A giant old balete tree in Lazi has a small spring at its base.

Highlights:

⛰️ Hike to Mount Busuanga and sunrise over the archipelago
🌳 Explore the mystical Balete Tree at night for folklore tales
🏊‍♂️ Swim beside the turquoise lagoons of Cambugahay Falls

Gili Meno

Crystal turquoise waters and secluded coves

8.3

Gili Meno is the quietest and smallest of the three Gili islands near Lombok. A turtle sanctuary cares for young sea turtles before release. A salt lake sits in the island centre. Calm white beaches and a few small hotels make it a peaceful place to unwind.

Highlights:

🚴‍♂️ Explore hidden coves on a rented bicycle
🌌 Stargaze from a quiet beach at sunset
🤿 Snorkel turquoise waters around Gili Meno’s reefs

Okinawa Island

Reef beaches and Ryukyu Kingdom heritage

8.4

Okinawa is a chain of subtropical islands south of mainland Japan. Coral reefs and white beaches ring the coast. The local diet is often linked to long lives. The Churaumi Aquarium has a giant tank with whale sharks. Sea turtles and manta rays also visit the warm waters.

Highlights:

🏖️ Relax on white sands of Emerald and Zanpa Beaches
🏯 Explore historic Shuri Castle, former Ryukyu Kingdom palace
🐋 Visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, home to whale sharks

Yakushima

Ancient cedars, mossy forest and waterfalls

8.8

Ancient cedar trees grow across this mountain island south of Kyushu in Japan. The forest is a UNESCO site and inspired a famous animated film. Hikers trek to the Jomon Sugi tree that may be thousands of years old. Hot springs by the sea are open at low tide.

Highlights:

🐒 Spot Yakushima macaques and deer along forest trails
🌳 See Jomon Sugi, Japan’s legendary 7,000-year-old cedar tree
🌲 Hike through the ancient cedar forests of Shiratani Unsuikyo

Canggu

Sunset beaches and vibrant surf culture

8.7

Canggu is a laid back beach area on the southwest coast of Bali. Surf breaks and black sand beaches draw surfers. Cafes and yoga studios fill the lanes between rice fields. Sunset drinks at beach clubs are a daily ritual for many visitors. Motorbikes are the usual way to get around.

Highlights:

🌾 Explore rice terraces from Tanah Lot viewpoint
🎨 Stroll through Canggu's vibrant street art murals
🏄‍♂️ Surf sunrise waves at Echo Beach

Java

Vibrant capital city and ancient temples

8.6

Java is a huge island of volcanoes and old temples in Indonesia. Borobudur and Prambanan are ancient temple complexes near Yogyakarta. Hikers climb Mount Bromo at dawn for views of a smoking crater. Local food such as gudeg and nasi goreng is sold on every street.

Highlights:

🏮 Stroll Yogyakarta's Malioboro Street, shop batik souvenirs
🛕 Explore Borobudur temple's ancient stone carvings
🌋 Climb Mount Bromo sunrise for breathtaking views

Setonaikai National Park

Island seascapes, bridges and art islands

8.2

The Shimanami Kaido is a cycling route that crosses six islands on bridges between Honshu and Shikoku. Naoshima has modern art museums and a yellow pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama. Small ferries link the many islands of this calm inland sea. This national park was one of Japan's first, set up in 1934.

Highlights:

🌊 Witness the powerful whirlpools of Naruto Strait
🖼️ Explore contemporary art on Naoshima and Teshima islands
🚴‍♂️ Cycle the scenic Shimanami Kaido bridge route

Kerama Shoto National Park

Kerama blue seas, coral and whales

8.4

Japan made the Kerama Islands a national park in 2014 to protect their reefs. Locals call the clear water here Kerama blue. Ferries from Naha reach Zamami and Tokashiki in under an hour. Sea turtles often swim near the beaches. Snorkellers can see coral right from shore.

Highlights:

🐢 Spot sea turtles while diving around Tokashiki Island
🛶 Take a scenic glass-bottom boat tour over turquoise waters
🤿 Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish

Flores (Indonesia)

Sunset beaches and volcanic landscapes

8.6

Flores sits between Bali and Timor and feels far from busy tourist trails. Coloured crater lakes at Kelimutu change shade through the year. Labuan Bajo is the gateway to boat trips across Komodo National Park. Traditional villages and waterfalls dot the rugged green interior. Sunsets are spectacular from the hills.

Highlights:

🏘️ Explore traditional villages on the island's eastern coast
🚤 Kayak around the pristine waters of Pink Beach
🏔️ Hike Mount Kelimutu to witness its triple crater lakes

Lakshadweep

Pristine coral paradise off India

8.3

Lakshadweep is a chain of coral atolls off the southwest coast of India. Turquoise lagoons surround tiny islands with white sand. Visitors need a permit to enter the territory. Snorkelling and scuba diving are popular in the calm shallow water. Coconut palms shade the pale beaches.

Highlights:

🛥️ Enjoy a lagoon cruise through the Lakshadweep atolls
🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Agatti Beach
🤿 Dive into the coral reefs around Kadmat Island

Nusa Penida

Bali's rugged island paradise

7.2

Dramatic cliffs drop to the sea on this island southeast of Bali. Kelingking Beach looks like a dinosaur from above. Snorkellers swim with manta rays at Manta Point. Fast boats from Sanur reach the island in about forty minutes. Steep stairs lead down to hidden beaches.

Highlights:

🛵 Take a scenic motorbike ride along the island’s coastal roads
🤿 Snorkel with manta rays at Manta Bay
🏝️ Marvel at the stunning cliffside view from Kelingking Beach

Raja Ampat

Vibrant coral reefs and lush tropical islands

8.9

Raja Ampat is an archipelago of limestone islands in West Papua. Its reefs hold more marine species than almost any other place on Earth. Divers and snorkellers meet manta rays and colourful coral gardens. Homestays on small islands offer a simple and friendly place to stay.

Highlights:

🌋 Explore Tofua volcano crater for panoramic sea views
🚤 Kayak through crystal lagoons surrounding the hidden islands
🐠 Snorkel at Manta Point, witness majestic manta rays

Bali

Tropical beaches, vibrant culture and adventure

8.2

Rice terraces and temples fill the green heart of this Indonesian island. Surf beaches ring the south coast and sunsets draw crowds to Uluwatu. Ubud offers dance shows and yoga retreats. Local food such as babi guling and satay is served in small warungs everywhere.

Highlights:

⛪ Visit Uluwatu Temple perched high on a seaside cliff
💦 Swim beneath the cascading Tegenungan Waterfall
🌋 Watch the sunrise over Mount Batur volcano

Boracay

Powdery white sands and turquoise waters

7.8

White Beach stretches for about four kilometres along the west side of this small Philippine island. Waters are calm and shallow for swimming. Sunset sails and beach bars fill the evenings. Kiteboarders use the breezy Bulabog beach on the east coast from November to March.

Highlights:

🛥️ Explore the caves of Crystal Cove Island by boat
⛵ Watch breathtaking sunsets from a paraw sailboat
🏖️ Relax on the famous White Beach’s powdery sand

Ko Tao

Diving Haven with Laid-Back Vibes

7.2

Ko Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand and a popular place to learn to dive. Many schools offer beginner courses in warm clear water. Hiking trails lead to hilltop viewpoints over quiet bays. Hammocks and bars wait on the beach at sunset.

Highlights:

🏖️ Relax and swim at serene Freedom Beach
🐢 Snorkel with turtles at Shark Bay’s crystal-clear waters
🌄 Hike to John Suwan Viewpoint for stunning island panoramas

Ko Lanta

Laid-Back Vibes and Pristine Beaches

7.0

Ko Lanta is a long island in the Andaman Sea with a relaxed pace. Sandy beaches run along the west coast. Boat trips reach the reefs of Koh Haa and Koh Rok. The old town on the east coast has wooden stilt houses and small cafes.

Highlights:

🛍️ Explore the vibrant Saladan Market and local shops
🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Long Beach
🏞️ Hike to the lighthouse at Mu Koh Lanta National Park

Gili Trawangan

Island Vibes and Crystal Waters

7.1

Gili T is the largest and liveliest of the three Gili islands off Lombok. Bicycles and horse carts replace cars along the sandy main road. Turtles swim close to shore for snorkellers. Beach bars host music nights and sunset swings hang over the water. The island is small enough to circle in an afternoon.

Highlights:

🌅 Watch the spectacular sunset at Sunset Point
🚴‍♂️ Cycle around the island exploring beaches and cafes
🐢 Snorkel with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters

Langkawi Island

Tropical Beaches, Rainforests and Sunsets

7.9

Langkawi is a group of islands off the northwest coast of Malaysia. A cable car rises to the Sky Bridge above the rainforest. Duty free shops and white sand beaches draw visitors. Boat trips cross mangroves and look for eagles and monkeys. Sunset cruises pass limestone cliffs along the coast.

Highlights:

🛶 Take a mangrove boat tour through Kilim Geoforest Park
🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Pantai Cenang Beach
🌉 Ride the Langkawi SkyCab and cross the curved Sky Bridge

Koh Rong

Cambodia’s Untamed Island Paradise

6.8

Koh Rong sits off the southwest coast of Cambodia and has long stretches of powdery white sand. The water is clear and shallow near shore. At night plankton can make the sea glow when swimmers move through it. Simple bungalows and beach bars line the shore at Koh Touch.

Highlights:

🌌 See glowing bioluminescent plankton during nighttime swims
🤿 Snorkel with tropical fish near Coconut Beach
🏖️ Swim in the turquoise waters of Long Beach

Hainan

China’s Tropical Escape-Beaches & Beyond

7.6

Hainan is a tropical island off the south coast of China. Sanya has palm lined beaches and large resorts. Duty free shopping is a popular draw in the city of Haikou. Visitors can also climb forested hills and relax in hot spring villages. Winters are warm when northern China is cold.

Highlights:

🌳 Explore Yanoda Tropical Rainforest Park trails
⛩️ Visit the serene Nanshan Temple and gardens
🏖️ Relax on the pristine Yalong Bay beach

Similan Islands

Thailand's underwater paradise

7.1

Nine granite islands lie in a marine national park off the coast of Thailand. The park is open from about November to May. Divers come for clear water and manta rays. Giant boulders rest on white sand beaches and a short trail climbs to a viewpoint.

Highlights:

🌄 Climb Sail Rock for panoramic island views
🏖️ Relax on the white sand of Donald Duck Bay
🤿 Dive among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Crystal waters and pristine wilderness

8.1

This island chain lies in the Bay of Bengal far from the Indian mainland. Clear water and coral reefs attract divers and snorkellers. Forests cover much of the land and beaches stay quiet. Port Blair holds the Cellular Jail, a colonial prison now open as a museum.

Highlights:

🤿 Snorkel at Elephant Beach’s vibrant coral reefs
🏰 Explore Cellular Jail, a historic colonial prison
🏖️ Relax on Radhanagar Beach, Asia's best beach

Bintan

Sun‑kissed shores and tranquil lagoon retreats

8.1

Bintan lies a short ferry ride from Singapore across the Strait. The north coast has long white beaches and large resorts. Mangrove forests can be explored by kayak. Visitors can also golf on oceanfront courses and taste fresh seafood in small fishing villages. Sunrise walks are quiet here.

Highlights:

🛶 Kayak through mangrove channels of Bintan Nature Park
🍤 Savor fresh seafood at a beachfront warung
🏖️ Explore Tanjung Pinang's historic waterfront market

Havelock Island

Tropical Paradise with Underwater Wonders

7.9

Radhanagar Beach on this island has fine white sand and calm turquoise water. It is often ranked among the prettiest beaches in Asia. Divers and snorkellers visit nearby reefs. Forest roads run past small villages and simple beachside cottages. Sunrise and sunset walks along the sand are popular with visitors staying in the area.

Highlights:

🛶 Kayak through mangroves for peaceful nature views
🤿 Snorkel and dive among vibrant coral reefs
🏖️ Relax and swim at the famous Radhanagar Beach

Ko Lipe

Thailand's paradise with growing pains

7.1

Ko Lipe is a tiny island near the Malaysian border in Thailand. Walking Street winds through the centre with shops and seafood restaurants. Clear shallows and coral reefs lie close to the beaches. Longtail boats take visitors to nearby islands in Tarutao National Marine Park.

Highlights:

⛵ Take a longtail boat to nearby uninhabited islands
🌌 Watch glowing plankton light up the sea at night
🤿 Snorkel above colorful coral reefs off Sunrise Beach

Mentawai Islands

Surfer's paradise with tribal culture

8.1

The Mentawai Islands lie off the west coast of Sumatra and are famous for surf breaks. Long rolling waves break over shallow reef. Surf camps and boat charters reach remote spots. Tribal villages still keep traditions in the dense rainforest interior. Boats from Padang reach the islands in many hours.

Highlights:

⛵ Join a boat expedition to remote outer islands
🌊 Stay in an overwater bungalow surrounded by turquoise lagoons
🏄‍♂️ Surf world-class waves at Lance’s Right and Hollow Trees

Siargao

Philippines' untouched surfing paradise

7.6

Siargao is a teardrop shaped island in the Philippines and a famous surfing spot. Cloud 9 is the main break and draws waves all year. Coconut palms line quiet roads across the island. Tidal pools and lagoons offer calm swimming when the surf is high.

Highlights:

🚤 Go island hopping to Daku, Guyam, and Naked Islands
💦 Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Sugba Lagoon
🏄‍♂️ Surf the legendary Cloud 9 wave at sunrise

Miyajima

Torii in the sea, deer and Mount Misen

8.6

A tall red gate seems to float on the sea when the tide is high. It belongs to Itsukushima Shrine, which stands on stilts and is a World Heritage site. Deer roam the streets freely near the ferry pier. Shops sell momiji manju, a cake shaped like a maple leaf.

Highlights:

🍁 Stroll through Momijidani Park’s maple trees in autumn
🏔️ Climb Mount Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea
⛩️ Admire the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine at high tide

Lombok

Untamed Beaches and Majestic Mountains

7.4

Mount Rinjani rises above this Indonesian island and draws trekkers to its crater lake. Beaches in the south have fine sand and strong surf. The island is quieter than neighbouring Bali and has small fishing villages. Waterfalls such as Sendang Gile hide in the forested north.

Highlights:

🐠 Snorkel among colorful coral reefs around the Gili Islands
🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Kuta Beach, Lombok
🏔️ Climb Mount Rinjani and watch sunrise over the crater lake

Ko Phi Phi

Tropical Paradise Awaits You

7.7

Limestone cliffs rise straight from green water around the Phi Phi islands. Maya Bay was made famous by a film and now limits visitor numbers. Snorkellers swim with small reef sharks near Bamboo Island. Ferries from Phuket and Krabi reach the main village of Ton Sai in about two hours.

Highlights:

🤿 Swim and snorkel around Bamboo and Mosquito Islands
🚤 Take a boat tour to Maya Bay and Pi Leh Lagoon
🌄 Hike to the stunning Phi Phi Viewpoint for panoramic views

Bohol

Beaches, Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers

7.4

Rows of cone shaped limestone hills called the Chocolate Hills rise across the island in the Philippines. Tiny tarsiers with big eyes live in a protected sanctuary near Loboc. Panglao island offers white sand beaches and good diving. A river cruise serves lunch with live music along the water.

Highlights:

🌿 Cruise the scenic Loboc River with floating restaurants
🐒 Spot tiny Philippine tarsiers in the conservation sanctuary
⛰️ Marvel at the unique Chocolate Hills geological formations

Komodo National Park

Dragons, Pristine Reefs and Wild Beauty

7.3

Komodo dragons roam the dry hills of this UNESCO listed park in eastern Indonesia. Rangers lead walks on Komodo and Rinca islands. Pink Beach gets its colour from crushed red coral. Divers come for strong currents and colourful reefs with manta rays. Guides ensure safe distances from the dragons.

Highlights:

🤿 Snorkel with graceful manta rays at Manta Point
⛰️ Hike to Padar Island’s summit for breathtaking views
🦎 See Komodo dragons in their natural habitat on Komodo Island

Batam

Island Getaway Near Singapore

7.0

Batam lies just a short ferry ride south of Singapore in Indonesia. Visitors can reach the island in under an hour from the Singapore ferry terminals. Seafood restaurants line the waterfront at Nongsa and Harbour Bay. Golf courses and resorts make it a quick weekend escape.

Highlights:

🏖️ Relax on the white sands of Nongsa and Melur beaches
🌉 Walk across the iconic Barelang Bridge connecting islands
🛕 Visit the majestic Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Buddhist temple

Shodoshima

Japan's olive island with a tidal sandbar

7.8

Shodoshima sits in the Seto Inland Sea and is known for olive groves and soy sauce. A dramatic gorge called Kankakei has cable car views. The Angel Road is a sandbar that appears at low tide. Art installations dot the island and ferries link it to Takamatsu.

Highlights:

🌊 Cross Angel Road’s mystical sandbar at low tide
🌿 Visit Shodoshima Olive Park and see the iconic windmill
🚡 Walk the breathtaking Kankakei Gorge and ride the ropeway

Amakusa

Hidden Christian sites and wild dolphins

7.5

Hundreds of islands form this chain off the coast of Kumamoto in southern Japan. Pods of wild dolphins live in the waters and boat trips let visitors watch them. Hidden Christian sites such as Sakitsu village hold UNESCO status. Fresh seafood and hot springs add to the quiet island mood.

Highlights:

♨️ Relax in the seaside hot springs of Amakusa Onsen
⛪ Visit Sakitsu Village and its historic Catholic church
🐬 Spot wild dolphins on a cruise around Amakusa’s waters

Sipadan

Crystal reefs and untouched tropical paradise

9.3

Sipadan is a small oceanic island off the coast of Sabah in Malaysia. A steep reef wall drops hundreds of metres just offshore. Divers meet turtles and barracuda on almost every dive. A daily permit system limits the number of visitors on the water. Sunrise dives give the clearest views of the wall.

Highlights:

🌱 Explore Tuan Rimba mangrove trails on foot
🐢 Snorkel with turtles near Banggi Island
🤿 Dive the crystal reefs at Sipadan's Blue Hole

Krabi

Paradise of Cliffs and Crystal Waters

7.4

Limestone cliffs tower over emerald water near this southwest Thai province. Railay beach can only be reached by boat. Climbers scale the sheer rock faces above the sand. Longtail boats visit the Hong islands and quiet lagoons nearby. The town has a lively night market along the river.

Highlights:

🌅 Watch the sunset at Railay Beach West
⛩️ Climb the 1,237 steps to Tiger Cave Temple
🚤 Take a longtail boat to the Phi Phi Islands

Phu Quoc

Tropical Bliss with Pristine Beaches

7.2

Phu Quoc is a tropical island off the southern coast of Vietnam. Long sandy beaches such as Sao Beach have clear water. The island is known for fish sauce and black pepper farms. A long cable car crosses the sea to Hon Thom island. Sunset from the west coast is very colourful.

Highlights:

🏖️ Relax on stunning white sands at Bai Sao Beach
🦒 Explore the Vinpearl Safari for wildlife encounters
🚡 Take a long cable car ride to Hon Thom Island

Naha

Okinawa's capital with Shuri Castle and markets

7.8

Naha is the capital of Okinawa in southern Japan. Kokusai Dori is a busy street of shops and small eateries. Shuri Castle is a reconstructed royal palace with red walls. Local dishes include Okinawa soba and goya champuru. Small cafes sit beside old markets. Ferries also leave the port for nearby islands.

Highlights:

🌿 Visit the serene Shikinaen Garden, a royal retreat
🛍️ Stroll and shop along lively Kokusai Street
🏯 Explore the UNESCO Shurijo Castle, symbol of Ryukyu Kingdom

Okinawa City

Live music, Eisa dance and champuru culture

7.0

Okinawa City has a lively mix of Japanese and American influences. Live music bars fill the streets of Koza. Beaches and diving spots lie a short drive away. The city also has a zoo for children and a cultural museum. Nights are lively with local bands.

Highlights:

🎶 Immerse in Ryukyuan culture at Okinawa City Music Town
🌺 Explore Southeast Botanical Gardens and its tropical blooms
🦁 Visit Okinawa Zoo & Museum and meet island wildlife

Sentosa Island

Singapore’s Premier Island Resort

A short cable car ride or walk over a bridge links this resort island with the Singapore mainland. Universal Studios and an aquarium draw families. Sandy beaches and beach clubs line the southern shore. Visitors can stay in seaside hotels and enjoy evening shows at the waterfront.

Highlights:

🚡 Ride the Skyline Luge and enjoy panoramic island views
🏖️ Relax on the sandy shores of Palawan and Siloso Beaches
🎢 Experience thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore

Best island getaway destinations in Asia