Secret islands where you can be miles away from civilization
Looking for a vacation spot that’s (almost) all yours? Here’s our list of the world’s best secret islands that offer the perfect mix of seclusion and value.
Con Dao Islands, Vietnam
The Con Dao are a group of islands in southern coast of Vietnam with an ominous past. They were home to the most notorious penal colony in Indochina for many years until their abandonment at the end of the Vietnam War. These days, the islands are preserved as Con Dao National Park – a group of 16 islands teeming with dolphins, turtles and spectacular coral reefs. Couple of dive shops and a few resorts are the sparse tourist developments in the island.
Yaeyama Islands, Japan
Tucked away at the southern tip of the Japanese archipelago, the idyllic Yaeyama Islands offer a generous blend of sun, sea and sushi. The 3 islands have their own unique character and vistas : Ishigaki has the best beaches, Taketomi is dotted with charming Ryukyuan houses and Iriomote is a lush jungle island with several hot springs.
Bay Islands, Honduras
In their heyday, these sand dusted islands off the Honduras coast were home to more than 5000 cutthroats, outlaws and buccaneers, including the notorious Henry Morgan (aka Blackbeard). Today the islands of Utila, Roatán and Guanaja are better known for their beaches, diving spots and lazy tropical vibe. If you want to further tone down the volume, head to the nearby Hog Islands – 13 dreamy coral cays and a secluded resort amidst a sea of brilliant blue.
Ulleungdo, South Korea
The tiny, rugged volcanic island of Ulleungda is said to have no pollution, thieves and snakes – rendering it the perfect hiking destination. Ferries leave daily from the mainland to the tiny port at Dodong-ri. The adventourous lot tend to push the boat further out to Dokdo Islands – a collection of islets that are hotly disputed between South Korea and Japan.
Penghu Islands, Taiwan
The 90 islands of Penghu boasts of glorious scenery and unspoilt Taiwanese culture. Insulated away from the capital Makung, life strolls along at leisurely pace in these islands. Explore basalt cliffs and ancient temples and watch the locals work their ox-cart and fish traps.
Torres Strait Islands, Australia
Torres Strait Islands is what Australia might have been if the Europeans had never arrived. Stretching north from the tip of Cape York, this group of 274 islands is home to a unique and indigenous tribal culture. There are airstrips and few hotels on Thursday Island and Horn Island, but access to other islands is restricted and require permission from the local tribal councils.
