Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of island getaways, each with its flavor of tropical paradise. From bustling beach parties to secluded sanctuaries, these 25 islands offer the cream of the crop when it comes to sun, sand, and unforgettable experiences.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali isn’t called the Island of the Gods for nothing – it’s got stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and a spiritual vibe that’s hard to beat. You can surf world-class waves, explore ancient temples, or just chill in a Ubud yoga retreat.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket’s got it all: luxe resorts, pumping nightlife, and beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the Old Phuket Town for a dose of Sino-Portuguese charm and some killer street eats.
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Boracay, Philippines
Boracay’s white sand is so fine, it’s like walking on powdered sugar. After a much- needed cleanup, this beach paradise is back and better than ever, ready for sunbathing, island-hopping, and legendary sunsets.
Palawan, Philippines
Palawan is the stuff of tropical dreams, with hidden lagoons, limestone cliffs, and underwater worlds teeming with life. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is a mind-blowing cave system you can explore by boat.
Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui blends beautiful beaches with a chill vibe and plenty of coconuts to go around. Check out the giant Big Buddha statue or take a boat trip to the stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park.
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Bohol, Philippines
Bohol’s Chocolate Hills look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book – hundreds of perfectly rounded hills that turn brown in the dry season. The island’s also home to the adorable bug-eyed tarsiers and some pretty sweet beaches to boot.
Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok is like Bali’s laid-back cousin, with pristine beaches and epic surf spots minus the crowds. Hike up Mount Rinjani for bragging rights, or hop over to the Gili Islands for some world-class snorkeling.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and a rapidly rising star in the beach scene. It’s known for white-sand beaches, pepper plantations, and fish sauce that will knock your socks off.
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Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is a duty-free haven with 99 islands to explore in the Andaman Sea. Take a ride on the Langkawi Sky Bridge for views that’ll make your jaw drop, or just laze on one of the many pristine beaches.
Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Koh Phi Phi shot to fame after ‘The Beach,’ and it’s still a stunner with its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. Take a longtail boat to find your secluded beach, or party the night away on Phi Phi Don.
Siargao, Philippines
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, with waves that’ll make any surfer’s heart skip a beat. Even if you’re not into hanging ten, the island’s got plenty to offer with its lagoons, caves, and the unique Magpupungko Rock Pools.
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Koh Rong, Cambodia
Koh Rong is what Thai islands were like before the tourist boom – think pristine beaches and dense jungles waiting to be explored. At night, swim with bioluminescent plankton for a magical light show in the water.
Nusa Penida, Indonesia
A quick boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida offers jaw-dropping landscapes without the Bali crowds. Don’t miss the T-Rex-shaped Kelingking Beach or the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong.
El Nido, Philippines
El Nido is the gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago, a wonderland of limestone islands and hidden lagoons. Island-hopping here is like exploring a real-life version of a pirate treasure map.
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Koh Tao, Thailand
Koh Tao, or “Turtle Island,” is a diver’s paradise with crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. It’s one of the cheapest places in the world to get scuba- certified, and the laid-back vibes make it hard to leave.
Coron, Philippines
Coron is famous for its World War II shipwrecks, making it a top spot for wreck diving enthusiasts. Above water, it’s all about stunning lagoons, hot springs, and beaches that look too good to be true.
Gili Islands, Indonesia
The Gili Islands are a trio of tiny paradises where cars are banned and bicycles are king. Each island has its vibe: party on Gili T, romance on Gili Meno, or chill on Gili Air.
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Con Dao, Vietnam
Con Dao has transformed from a former prison island to a hidden gem of pristine beaches and lush national parks. It’s the perfect mix of history, nature, and beaches without the crowds.
Koh Lipe, Thailand
Often called the ‘Maldives of Thailand,’ Koh Lipe is all about postcard-perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s small enough to walk around in an hour, making it the perfect little island escape.
Siquijor, Philippines
Siquijor is known for its mystic traditions and healing rituals that’ll add a sprinkle of magic to your beach vacation. Explore waterfalls, centuries-old trees, and beaches that are perfect for both sunbathing and soul-searching.
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Pulau Tioman, Malaysia
Tioman Island is a nature reserve that looks like it’s straight out of Jurassic Park. It’s a duty-free island with great diving, making it popular with both bargain hunters and underwater explorers.
Koh Lanta, Thailand
Koh Lanta offers a more chilled-out vibe compared to its party-heavy neighbors. It’s all about long beaches, mangrove forests, and sea gypsy villages that give you a glimpse into traditional island life.
Camiguin, Philippines
Known as the ‘Island Born of Fire,’ Camiguin packs seven volcanoes into one small island. Soak in hot springs, chase waterfalls, and don’t forget to try the sweet Lanzones fruit the island is famous for.
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Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat is a cluster of over 1,500 small islands, but who’s counting when you’re in paradise? It’s the holy grail for divers and snorkelers, with some of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet.
Koh Phangan, Thailand
Koh Phangan is famous for its Full Moon Party, but there’s more to this island than glow paint and buckets. Explore pristine beaches on the north side, zen out at a yoga retreat, or chase waterfalls in the island’s lush interior.
Discover the Best of Southeast Asia
These 25 islands show off the best of Southeast Asia’s tropical playgrounds. Whether you’re after pumping beach parties or secluded strips of sand, world-class diving, or cultural experiences, this corner of the world has an island for every type of traveler.
So grab your sunscreen and get ready to island-hop through some of the most beautiful spots on the planet.
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