There was a time, not so long ago, when Phú Quốc in Vietnam was the tropical island of dreams: miles of unspoilt beaches with aquamarine sea, fresh-off-the-boat seafood and an easy, breezy atmosphere.
Today, it’s (sadly) a different story. Overdevelopment has meant it’s been built up and it’s lost some of its original charm.
But, I’m happy to say, there are still lots of lovely little spots across Asia that retain a sense of magic, reminiscent of backpacking in the 90s and 00s…
So, if you’re searching for the best authentic islands in Asia – places untouched by overdevelopment – you’re in luck. From Koh Phra Thong in Thailand and Koh Rong in Cambodia to Sumba and Lombok in Indonesia, and the sunny shores of Sri Lanka, these five idyllic islands still deliver. Think crowd-free pockets where the beaches are still wild, the sunsets serene, and the beach bars properly laid-back:
1. Koh Phra Thong, Thailand
This Thai island lies blissfully under the radar with its empty golden beaches, mangrove forests, and glorious ‘world’s-end’ feeling. Here, you can stay at a traditional eco-lodge facing a sheltered bay, wander along deserted sands, or kayak out to secret mangroves. It’s as wonderfully wild as Thailand gets these days – and long may it last!
Where to stay, recommended by ETG experts: BABA Eco Lodge
When to go: Mid-December to mid-March is prime time (gorgeous weather conditions make it a popular time to visit, so be sure to book early).
Insider Top Tip: If I were you, I’d consider travelling between November and early December – the weather is still great (monsoon’s over, but it’s not too hot yet), there are fewer people around, and it’s better value, too.
How to weave it into a holiday: The best way to experience Koh Phra Thong is as part of ETG’s Southern Thailand’s Hidden Gems holiday.
2. Koh Rong, Cambodia
Backpackers may be cottoning on to Koh Rong’s beauty, but it still has plenty of quiet coastline and an easy-going spirit. We’ll set you up in a cracking-value five-star hotel just steps from the sea – white sands stretching in either direction. Should you be tempted by a bit of buzz, you’ll find it at one of the barefoot beach bars. (A journalist travelling with us happily reported finding a decent sauvignon blanc here! Read his article in The Times here).
Where to stay, recommended by ETG experts: Royal Sands, Koh Rong
When to go: The absolute best time to visit Koh Rong is between December and February but it’ll be fairly busy. To have the best chance of beating the crowds, I’d say to go between Mid-November – early December.
Insider Top Tip: If you like sunning like a lizard in the heat, go between March – early May (before the monsoon season kicks in) to also dodge the peak season crowds.
How to weave it into a holiday: The best way to experience Koh Rong is as part of ETG’s Hidden Gems of Cambodia.
3. Sumba, Indonesia
Sumba island in Indonesia is a glorious anomaly. Despite being home to Nihi Sumba – arguably the most iconic luxury hotel in Asia – it remains rugged, unspoilt, and authentic. Expect tribal traditions, wild horses galloping along beaches, and world-famous waves. Best of all? A flurry of new (but still low-key) hotels mean it’s more accessible than ever for those in the know.
Where to stay, recommended by ETG experts: Nihi Sumba or Cap Karoso.
When to go: To avoid the rainy seasons, I suggest going to Sumba from April to August or from mid-December to mid-January.
Insider Top Tip: I reckon that September could be described as ‘secret season’ to visit Sumba as the peak summer crowds have melted away but it’s still lovely weather.
How to weave it into a holiday: The best way to experience Sumba is as part of ETG’s Original Adventures in Java and Sumba.
4. Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok is the chilled-out cousin to Bali’s buzzing south coast. You’ll find the opposite of overrun beach clubs here – just soulful sunsets on calm beaches, sleepy villages, and fun snorkelling trips. ETG’s Melissa visited with her family last year, and it’s safe to say she was smitten.
Where to stay, recommended by ETG experts: Qunci Villas.
When to go: The island shines brightest in July and August but be warned, our top choice of hotels book up fast at this prime time.
Insider Top Tip: For fewer crowds and lovely dry weather, the ‘shoulder seasons’ – April to June and September to October – are your best bet.
How to weave it into a holiday: The best way to experience Lombok is as part of ETG’s Family Adventure in Bali & Lombok (also works well for couples or solo travellers).
5. Sri Lanka
You might think I’m bending the rules with this one but I assure you, I’m not! Voted ‘The Most Desirable Island in Asia’ by Wanderlust, Sri Lanka absolutely deserves a spot on this list. Its compact size means you can hop from misty mountains and cascading countryside to tropical beaches and safari parks, without missing a beat. For history, culture and wildlife packed into one destination, it’s hard to beat.
Where to stay, recommended by ETG experts: for balmy beach time, Halcyon Mawella. (Or take your pick from our collection of luxury beach retreats in Sri Lanka).
When to go: Sri Lanka’s South coast is at its best between December and April (the latter has particularly sunny and swimmable conditions). For a summer holiday, head to the beaches on the East coast (read our in-depth weather guide here).
Insider Top Tip: For the best surfing conditions, visit the East coast between May-August.
How to weave it into a holiday: The best way to experience Sri Lanka is as part of ETG’s Boutique Sri Lanka Holiday.
Honourable Mention: Koh Lanta, Thailand
Goldilocks would approve: Koh Lanta isn’t too busy, isn’t too sleepy – it’s just right. Perfect for those who want the Thai island experience without battling the full-moon party hordes. Read our Guide to Koh Lanta, as told by travel writer Abi Flanagan.
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