As one of the most diverse regions in the world, Southeast Asia boasts some of the most beautiful islands that you wish you’d known about sooner. Forget the typical tourist destinations, travellers are seeking privacy and low-key areas where they can enjoy full relaxation. Move over Ha Long Bay and Phi Phi Islands, it’s time to make way for emerging island destinations such as Koh Samet, Koh Rong, and Con Dau.
You’ve heard of Mediterranean Europe summer, now picture a Southeast Asian escape with palm trees, tropical heat, coconuts on tap, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Let’s discover some of Southeast Asia’s most underrated islands right now.
Why Southeast Asia’s Most Underrated Islands Deserve a Spot on Your Travel List?
Southeast Asia is home to some of the most breathtaking and overlooked island destinations in the world. While Phuket and Bali continue to dominate the headlines, travellers seeking genuine seclusion are quietly discovering places like Koh Samet, Koh Rong, and Con Dao. These islands offer powder-white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a pace of life that feels entirely removed from the modern world. Whether you are staying in a boutique jungle resort or a beachfront bungalow, Southeast Asia rewards those willing to look beyond the well-worn tourist trail with something far more personal and memorable.
Hidden Beaches, Local Flavours, and Boutique Stays Await
From Cambodia’s Koh Rong to Vietnam’s Con Dao archipelago, each island carries its own distinct character, shaped by local culture, untouched nature, and a refreshing absence of crowds. Con Dao’s national park offers emerald hiking trails and secluded coves, while Koh Samet’s calm turquoise waters are ideal for kayaking and snorkelling reef systems still largely undiscovered by mass tourism. These destinations prove that the most rewarding travel experiences often lie off the map. Pack light, bring cash, and prepare to disconnect because the real Southeast Asia is waiting quietly just beyond the usual itinerary.
Why Southeast Asia’s Most Underrated Islands Deserve a Spot on Your Travel List?
Southeast Asia is home to some of the most breathtaking and overlooked island destinations in the world. While Phuket and Bali continue to dominate the headlines, travellers seeking genuine seclusion are quietly discovering places like Koh Samet, Koh Rong, and Con Dao. These islands offer powder-white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a pace of life that feels entirely removed from the modern world. Whether you are staying in a boutique jungle resort or a beachfront bungalow, Southeast Asia rewards those willing to look beyond the well-worn tourist trail with something far more personal and memorable.
Hidden Beaches, Local Flavours, and Boutique Stays Await
From Cambodia’s Koh Rong to Vietnam’s Con Dao archipelago, each island carries its own distinct character, shaped by local culture, untouched nature, and a refreshing absence of crowds. Con Dao’s national park offers emerald hiking trails and secluded coves, while Koh Samet’s calm turquoise waters are ideal for kayaking and snorkelling reef systems still largely undiscovered by mass tourism. These destinations prove that the most rewarding travel experiences often lie off the map. Pack light, bring cash, and prepare to disconnect because the real Southeast Asia is waiting quietly just beyond the usual itinerary.
Koh Samet, Thailand
Most tourists flock to the south of Thailand, island hopping around Koh Samui, Krabi, and Phuket. These destinations hold beauty, but if you’re looking for somewhere undiscovered and off the beaten path, Koh Samet offers untouched beaches on a small island three hours’ drive from Bangkok. Located off the coast of Rayong, Koh Samet is loved by Thai locals for its idyllic beaches, fresh seafood, and relaxing beach bars.
It has several hidden beaches surrounded by greenery and calm waves. Although a small island, Koh Samet provides the best of both worlds, allowing you to relax in isolation or enjoy cocktail bars at the main town of Na Dan and Sai Kaew Beach, where you’ll find street food, restaurants, and of course, your convenient 7/11 stores.
Where to Stay in Koh Samet?
As a small island, Koh Samet is made up of a few grand beach resorts as well as beach huts perched along the front, offering exclusive access to the breathtaking beaches.
Sai Kaew Beach Resort
One of Koh Samet’s popular resorts, Sai Kaew, is known for its relaxed vibe and stunning white sand beach. The resort offers comfortable bungalows and rooms surrounded by lush tropical gardens. It’s an ideal spot for travellers seeking tranquillity, easy access to the sea, and a mix of natural beauty with simple, welcoming amenities. Guests can enjoy beachfront dining, water sports, and nearby nightlife while soaking in serene ocean views. Perfect for those wanting a laid-back island escape with authentic Thai hospitality.
Ao Prao Reosrt
Nestled amongst the palm trees and soft sand of Ao Prao beach, this resort offers exclusive access to one of the best beaches in Koh Samet. Enjoy a room that is just a few steps away from the shore or hidden away in an elevated jungle setting with breathtaking views of nature. This is the perfect place to relax in Koh Samet, with a 200mm stretch of sand, and little to no tourists, it’s a calm oasis – almost like you are the only person there. Ao Prao Resort also consists of two swimming pools and a restaurant. You can enjoy a small selection of beach clubs and restaurants further down Ao Prao beach.
What to Do in Koh Samet?
Koh Samet offers a wonderful blend of relaxing and energetic activities, perfect for travellers seeking both adventure and serenity.
Kayaking along the island’s calm, turquoise waters lets you explore hidden coves and secret beaches accessible only by sea. Paddle at your own pace and soak in the stunning coastal scenery framed by lush greenery and dramatic rock formations.
Snorkelling is a must-do, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish just offshore. Popular spots like Ao Wai and Ao Wong Deuan offer excellent underwater visibility, making it ideal for beginners and experienced snorkellers alike.
Hire a motorbike to travel around the many beaches in Koh Samet, some have beach clubs, restaurants and resorts, others are completely secluded, but each beach has its own charming character.
As night falls, head to one of the many beaches and enjoy a magnificent fire show performance, a traditional Thai island event.
Where to Eat in Koh Samet?
Koh Samet offers a variety of dining options ranging from casual beachside shacks to refined restaurants serving fresh seafood and Thai classics. If you’re after a light lunch, Samet Ville Resort’s restaurant is perched upon the white sands of Ao Wai beach, offering an al fresco setting with expertly prepared Thai dishes.
Another must-visit is Winks Beach Club, perched right on the beachfront. It’s famous for its chilled-out vibes, breathtaking views and aesthetic interior — perfect for enjoying a relaxed lunch or sunset drinks while soaking in stunning ocean views. For those with a sweet tooth or craving a coffee break, Brown Cabin Chocolate Cafe is a cosy spot offering decadent desserts, artisan chocolates, and excellent coffee — a delicious way to recharge during your island adventures.
Travel Tips for Koh Samet
- Getting Around: The island is extremely small, which means you can only travel around by motorbike, bicycle or truck.
- Cash is Essential: While some places accept cards, many local vendors only take cash, and there is only one ATM on the whole island, so bring enough Thai baht.
- Research the different areas: Koh Samet has many beaches to choose from, some that are more secluded than others. Depending on the ambience you want, make sure you select the area that fits your needs.
- Respect the Environment: Koh Samet is a protected national park. Avoid littering, use refillable water bottles, and support eco-friendly businesses.
Koh Rong, Cambodia
As the largest island off the coast of Cambodia, Koh Rong is the definition of paradise. Imagine bungalows on a serene beach, countless hammocks and wooden swings that line the gulf. To get to Koh Rong island, you first need to travel to Sihanoukville by bus or plane and catch a 40-minute ferry to paradise.
Although very secluded, Koh Rong boasts many breathtaking beaches, including Long Beach, also known as Sok San Beach, renowned for its powder-soft white sands and turquoise water. Located on the southwest coast of the island, the best thing about this beach is that you’ll have it all to yourself. It’s an isolated area that many tourists don’t know about, offering a relaxing escape from more populated beaches in Koh Rong.
Where to Stay in Koh Rong?
There are many beach locations to choose from in Koh Rong, from the peacefulness of Long Beach and Coconut Beach to the vibrant atmosphere at Koh Touch and backpackers’ paradise in Long Set Beach. Each promises a breathtaking experience, but for those craving seclusion, the hidden beaches lined with private resorts are truly unforgettable.
Apsara Resort Koh Rong
This boutique resort offers only 28 suites, allowing you to enjoy ultimate tranquillity surrounded by the breathtaking views of Coconut Beach. From the privacy of your suite, you can take in the ambience of comfort, sophistication, and connection to nature. Choose from suites nestled by the beach, high on the hillside or on a terraced level.
The Royal Sands Koh Rong
A luxury beach retreat on the Cambodian isle, The Royal Sands boasts 30 villas featuring private pools. The five-star resorts span a 550-meter stretch of pristine, soft, white sandy beach, which descends into crystal-clear turquoise water. They offer exclusive packages which include daily breakfast by the ocean, a spa massage, a complimentary drink, and boat transfers from the main pier.
What to Do in Koh Rong?
Koh Rong is a tropical paradise that blends serene escapes with thrilling adventures, making it ideal for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Begin your day with coffee at a laid-back beach cafe, where you can watch fishing boats drift across the horizon as the island slowly wakes up. For a more active morning, embark on a private snorkel tour to discover coral reefs and tropical fish in the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Beach-hopping is a must, with stretches of pearl white sand leading to secluded coves perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. For a taste of local life, join a fishing trip with islanders — an authentic way to experience the rhythm of Koh Rong’s coastal community. If you’re craving a dose of nature, venture inland on a jungle trek where towering palms, cascading waterfalls, and hidden trails reveal a wilder side of the island.
Where to Eat in Koh Rong?
The secluded island is made up of guesthouses and resorts, meaning Koh Rong doesn’t have many standalone restaurants. The most popular dining experiences in Koh Rong are to enjoy dishes at your resort, which usually provide a la carte meals, buffets, and floating baskets. However, if you want to explore different parts of the island, below are places to eat in Koh Rong.
For a slow, laid-back evening, Bamboo keeps things delightfully simple: wood-fired pizzas and perfectly paired drinks. Taste the island’s best pizza with blistered crusts, fresh toppings, and a complimentary drink; it’s an easy choice for a solo sunset supper. For casual European comfort, Koh Lanta serves burgers, pizza from an eco-friendly oven, and warm, attentive service. Settle under a parasol, soak in the island atmosphere, and treat yourself to their perfectly frozen banana split — a rare luxury in Cambodia’s heat.
Travel Tips for Koh Rong
- Stay on the right beach for your style – Sok San and Coconut Beach are perfect for tranquillity, while Koh Toch is better for nightlife and social vibes.
- Pack cash – ATMs can be unreliable or charge high fees, so bring enough USD or Cambodian riel for your stay.
- Book the right boat – Fast ferries from Sihanoukville take around 40 minutes; slower boats are cheaper but can take double the time. Plan your trip before travelling to Cambodia.
- Protect against the sun and sandflies – The tropical sun is strong, and sandflies are common on some beaches. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Disconnect – Wi-Fi is patchy in places, so download maps, playlists, and books before you arrive.
Con Dao, Vietnam
Another little known gem in Southeast Asia is Vietnam’s Con Dao. As part of an archipelago in the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, the closest city is the bustling capital Ho Chi Minh. It’s made up of 16 islands and islets with a population of only 12,000 residents, making it one of the most secluded beach destinations in Southeast Asia.
Where to Stay in Con Dao?
The most desirable place to stay in Con Dao is near Con Son Town, the island’s charming hub where boutique hotels, fine dining, and curated experiences are all within easy reach. From elegant beachfront resorts offering private balconies and sea views to intimate, design-led homestays that immerse you in local life, allowing you to experience ultimate privacy and serenity.
Six Senses Con Doa
The first top-rated luxury beach resort in Vietnam’s archipelago islands, Six Senses is surrounded by a breathtaking setting in a protected national and marine park. It combines the history and culture of the fishing village with contemporary interior design. The five-star luxury beach resort is made up of villas and residences with private infinity pools and secluded garden showers that allow you to be at one with nature. Crafted to mirror the heritage of Vietnamese fishing-village style, the villas are made of reclaimed teakwood and sun-bleached bamboo. Sitting steps from a gold-sand beach and sapphire blue ocean, you can enjoy the privacy of a pool, villa, or beach.
Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa
A place where time stands still, Paulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa is located alongside the white sandy shore of Vong Beach and at the foot of Chua Mountain, allowing you to take in views of the natural landscape. The ideal resort for a peace seeker, it consists of junior suites and colonial suites that are surrounded by the tropical garden or the river and lotus flower ponds, focusing on comfort and subtle luxury. The resort is inspired by Vietnamese traditional design and French colonial heritage dating from the early 20th century, which is evident through the intricate detail of each suite.
What to Do in Con Dao?
There are so many things to discover in Con Dao. It’s a rare place with untouched beauty, rich history, and unforgettable experiences.
Begin your day hiking through Con Dao National Park, where emerald forests hum with wildlife and trails lead to secluded sands like Ong Dung Beach, kissed by the gentle lap of turquoise waves.
When the sun is high, sink into the golden embrace of Dam Trau Beach or escape to hidden coves such as Bai Nhat, where the only footprints are your own. For a more active afternoon, join a private island-hopping tour — snorkelling above vibrant reefs at Hon Bay Canh or drifting into secret bays known only to locals.
No visit is complete without stepping into Con Dao Prison, a reminder of the island’s past, where the preserved Tiger Cages tell stories of courage and resilience. If you’re up for a challenge, ascend Mount Thanh Gia, the island’s highest peak, where panoramic views sweep across the archipelago in every shade of blue.
End the day with a quiet stroll to the Con Dao Museum, just steps from the shore, where the island’s layered history unfolds in facts, photographs, and stories.
Where to Eat in Con Dao?
Con Dao’s cuisine is a celebration of its coastal heritage, with an abundance of fresh seafood, from tender squid and crab to delicate snails, often prepared in sizzling hotpots or grilled to perfection. Local specialities such as Chao Hau (oyster porridge) and Oc Vu Nang (cellana snails) showcase the island’s culinary creativity, offering flavours that are both comforting and memorable.
For an authentic taste of the island, Thu Ba Restaurant is a must-visit, where each dish is freshly prepared and bursting with local flavour. For travellers who prefer home comforts, Con Dao also offers Western options: Bar200 serves freshly made pizzas and gourmet burgers, while Infiniti Cafe & Resto presents European-inspired cuisine in a chic, relaxed setting.
Travel Tips for Con Dao
- Stay near Con Son Town – The island’s hub offers boutique hotels, delicious restaurants, and easy access to ferries, beaches, and excursions.
- Bring cash – ATMs can be limited; carrying enough Vietnamese dong or USD ensures smooth transactions.
- Choose your transport wisely – Scooters, taxis, and motorbike rentals are the most convenient ways to explore the island, but arrange transport in advance during peak season.
- Respect local customs – Modest attire is appreciated when visiting temples or villages, and always ask before photographing locals.
- Explore responsibly – Con Dao’s coral reefs and wildlife are fragile. Avoid single-use plastics and follow eco-friendly practices when snorkelling or hiking.
A private island escape in Southeast Asia is entirely within reach; forget the typical tourist trails. If you want to soak up the sun alone on the beach or enjoy a romantic dinner by night, accompanied only by the gentle sounds of nature, Koh Samet, Koh Rong, and Con Dao are the three most idyllic Southeast Asian islands for your next getaway.
