7 Stunning Islands, You Probably Never Heard Of, To Visit in 2025

I love islands! So much so that I’ve been to eight islands this year so far…

Nothing is better than relaxing on some powdery white sand surrounded by crystalline turquoise water. But if there’s no one around you while you enjoy the refreshing breeze and being lulled by the sea, it is even better.

There’s an incommensurable number of islands and islets across the world and choosing which one to visit isn’t an easy task.

But if you’re looking for untouched, off-the-beaten-path islands without the herds of tourists where you can unwind tranquilly, here are seven excellent options to visit in 2025.

Getting to these islands may not be easy, but I can guarantee that it will be worth it!

7 Hidden-Gem Islands You’ll Want to Visit Before Everyone Else

1 – Astypalea, Greece

If you’ve been dreaming about visiting a Greek island that isn’t on the tourist radar and need a place to recharge your batteries peacefully, Astypalea is the answer.

Astypalea also known as Astypalaia is located 215 km from Athens, exactly where the Dodecanese meet the Cyclades and combines elements of both island groups. To get there you can either take a flight/ferry from Athens or a ferry from Naxos, Rhodes and Kos (the closest and best option).

The island boasts the most gorgeous Old Town in the whole of Greece, with lined windmills, whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and a hilltop castle; miles of pristine crystal-clear turquoise water beaches; scenic roads dotted with high rocks and rolling hills, and a rich cuisine.

I spent four days in Astypalea and I absolutely loved it! I would go back in the blink of an eye.

• Further reading: Full Guide to Astypalea, Greece

2 – Boipeba, Brazil

Even if you’ve been to Brazil, you might have never heard of Boipeba before. Most tourists who visit my beloved home country head to Rio, Ilha Grande and Iguazu Falls, but this island remains relatively unknown.

Located in the South of Bahia, Boipeba Island is home to a dense Atlantic rainforest, with salt marshes, extensive mangroves, beaches dotted with luscious coconut trees and numerous coral reefs.

Even though the island is becoming more popular among Brazilians because of its simple infrastructure and tranquillity, it’s still the perfect place for those who like lesser-known islands and opulent nature.

Boipeba is one of my favourite places in Brazil! I’ve been there twice and was enchanted by its charming villages, cobblestone streets, and colourful houses and delighted by the gorgeous beaches with soft sand and unbelievably warm water.

3 – Ko Lipe, Thailand

There are so many beautiful islands in Thailand that sometimes it’s hard to decide which one to visit. From the paradisiacal to the trendy, as well as the full moon party island, you are spoiled by choices.

If you want to run away from the crowded and popular islands, head over to the southernmost island, Koh Lipe, aka “The Maldives of Thailand”. Getting there isn’t easy, a combination of flight/train to Hat Yai, followed by a 2h-minibus to Pak Bara and a 1½h ferry ride.

Part of the Adang Archipelago, a group of more than fifty islands, Ko Lipe is covered with lush vegetation, has three gorgeous turquoise water beaches and a main street called “Walking Street”.

The sandy beaches with crystal clear calm and warm water are perfect for snorkelling, as 25% of the world’s tropical fish species are found in the area.

• Read my Practical Guide to Ko Lipe here.

4 – Raja Ampat, Indonesia

I’d say unless you are a diver, you know about Raja Ampat, one of the best diving places in the world.

This archipelago comprising more than 1,500 small and four major islands is located in West Papua, Indonesia. The easiest way to get there is to fly to Sorong from Jakarta, followed by a ferry to the capital, Waisai, and a boat to your hotel.

The Raja Ampat Islands are unspoiled, far from big cities, crowds, pollution, and mass tourism. It boasts extraordinary natural beauty with crystal-clear emerald water, rich marine life, lush vegetation and exotic fauna making the area perfect for bird watching, snorkelling and diving.

I totally fell in love with Raja Ampat during my visit and it immediately became one of my favourite places in the world.

• Read next: 20 Pictures to Inspire You to Visit Raja Ampat

5 – Socotra, Yemen

Have you ever heard of Socotra? Don’t worry if not, you won’t be the only one… Anyone who finds out becomes fascinated!

Socotra is a remote gem in the Arabian Sea, known for its otherworldly landscapes and unique biodiversity.

Often referred to as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean,” the island boasts striking dragon’s blood trees, rare bird species, and pristine beaches.

With limited tourism, Socotra remains largely untouched, offering a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers eager to explore its untouched, alien-like terrain.

6 – San Andrés, Colombia

Perhaps the most well-known among all these of-the-beaten-path islands, San Andrés is a Colombian island located in the middle of the Caribbean island that captivates visitors with its vibrant coral reefs and turquoise waters.

Known for its laid-back atmosphere and rich Afro-Caribbean culture, the island offers pristine beaches and exceptional snorkelling or diving opportunities.

Despite its rising popularity, San Andrés maintains a relaxed, unspoiled charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

During your visit don’t miss the opportunity to go paragliding over the breathtaking 7-colour sea of San Andrés, a unique experience in the Caribbean.

7 – Lord Howe, Australia

Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Tasman Sea, is a pristine paradise known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.

The island located 600 kilometres off Australia’s east coast has a population of just a few hundred residents and a strict number of visitors. It remains largely unspoiled, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush forests.

Home to rare bird species and unique plants, Lord Howe provides an idyllic retreat for nature lovers seeking serenity and adventure in an unblemished environment.

Lord Howe offers an exclusive and serene experience for those seeking a peaceful connection with nature.

To have a better idea of the location of each one of the hidden gem islands, I created the map below.

Regardless which of these islands you choose, plan your trip carefully and in advance. Be flexible as ferries/flights can be cancelled due to the lack of passengers or any unforeseen circumstance.

Safe travels and have fun.

I always recommend that you buy travel insurance! It can literally be your lifeline if something happens to you, or your luggage is lost or stolen.

Play safe and get yours. Get a quote with World Nomads here or buy your travel insurance now with SafetyWing using the widget below.

You may also be interested:

• Best Things to Do in Naxos
• Crete Travel Guide
• Best Things to Do in Santorini
• Best Places to Stay in Santorini
• 10 Unique Beaches in Santorini
• Best Places to Visit in Rhodes
• Where to Stay in Rhodes
• 12 Best and Most Beautiful Beaches on Rhodes

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