7 Secret Islands That Are Still Undiscovered by Tourists
Hidden away from crowds, these secret islands offer untouched beauty, wild landscapes, and the kind of peace you thought no longer existed.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
The world still holds a few islands where mass tourism hasn’t left a footprint. These seven remote gems boast pristine beaches, rich cultures, and a sense of adventure that guidebooks haven’t caught onto yet. If you’re looking for an escape from the usual island destinations, these places might just be paradise found.
1. Con Dao, Vietnam
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Once a prison island, Con Dao has transformed into a breathtaking getaway with untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dense jungles. Despite its history, it remains surprisingly under-visited, with only a handful of boutique resorts. Sea turtles nest on its shores, and the marine life is some of the best in Vietnam. It’s the perfect blend of mystery, history, and tropical paradise.
2. Île des Pins, New Caledonia
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Nicknamed the “closest island to paradise,” Île des Pins is home to powdery white sand, turquoise lagoons, and towering Araucaria pines. Despite its beauty, it remains relatively unknown outside of the Pacific region. The locals, the Kanaks, welcome visitors with warmth, but the slow pace of life means you’ll rarely see more than a few other travelers. Snorkel in the world’s natural aquarium, and you might never want to leave.
3. Lamu Island, Kenya
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A centuries-old Swahili trading island, Lamu is a dreamy mix of whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and donkeys instead of cars. The beaches are wild and unspoiled, with traditional dhow boats sailing across golden sunsets. With tourism focused on bigger safari destinations, Lamu remains largely untouched by mass travel. It’s an island where time slows down, and every corner tells a story.
4. Tavolara, Italy
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An independent micro-nation with a population of fewer than 20 people, Tavolara is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This rugged island off of Sardinia boasts dramatic limestone cliffs and some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean. Technically ruled by a royal family, it has a single restaurant and no hotels, making it a true escape from the crowds. If you want an Italian paradise without the tourists, this is it.
5. Palmerston Island, Cook Islands
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Imagine an island where only 60 people live, everyone is related, and guests are welcomed like family. Palmerston is so remote that supply ships arrive only twice a year, and there are no hotels—visitors stay in locals’ homes. With untouched coral reefs, friendly islanders, and no commercial tourism, it feels like stepping back in time. Getting there is tricky, but those who make it are rewarded with an unforgettable experience.
6. Ogasawara Islands, Japan
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Often called the “Galápagos of Japan,” the Ogasawara Islands are a remote paradise with unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Reached only by a 24-hour ferry from Tokyo, they remain blissfully untouched by mass tourism. These volcanic islands are home to rare species found nowhere else on Earth, and the beaches are completely uncrowded. If you want an island adventure without leaving Japan, this is the place.
7. Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique
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Stretching along the Indian Ocean, the Quirimbas Archipelago is a string of 32 coral islands, most of them completely deserted. Here, traditional fishing villages meet Robinson Crusoe-style beaches, with luxurious but low-key eco-lodges tucked away in the wilderness. The snorkeling and diving are world-class, yet hardly anyone knows about it. It’s a secret paradise for those who love raw, untouched beauty.