Escape the bustling tourist spots and immerse yourself in the expansive sea, with pristine, untouched shores stretching endlessly behind you: these four island chains offer an incredible opportunity to witness this stunning sight!
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, precious gems of the Bay of Bengal
In the Bay of Bengal, within the Andaman Sea situated between the shores of Thailand and Myanmar, lie the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—a true island haven characterized by extensive sandy coastlines bordered by lush tropical jungles and pristine aquamarine waters brimming with vibrant aquatic species. Besides these natural charms, this cluster of islands belonging to India boasts an additional benefit: they attract far fewer tourists compared to nearby beach holiday spots located on Thailand , including those belonging to Malaysia and Indonesia). This cluster of islands is perfect for kayaking adventures and tropical hikes. It’s particularly well-known among tourists for its exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, thanks to vibrant reefs waiting to be explored amidst abundant marine life found throughout the archipelago. Here you may encounter sea turtles, dugongs, and even whale sharks gliding through the coral gardens. In our opinion, one must-visit location is Havelock Island, renowned for having some of the most stunning beaches in the region.
Unearthed gems to explore in Indonesia's Sunda Islands
Spreading over an extensive expanse Indonesian In this territory, the Sunda Islands encompass popular spots like Bali and Lombok, along with lesser-known areas such as Sumba and Flores within the eastern part of the archipelago. On Sumba, stunning stretches of beach at Nihiwatu and Tarimbang extend toward the skyline, bordering an untamed coastal region. Moving inland reveals preserved Marapu villages. Eastward lies Flores, known for pristine coral reefs, clear blue bays, and the striking Kelimutu crater featuring three vividly colored lakes.
The Radama archipelago, consisting of four untouched islands located offshore from Madagascar, comprises these unspoiled gems.
Located far from the bustling tourist areas in northwest Madagascar, the Radama Islands remain untouched by large-scale tourism. This group consists of four primary islands, such as Nosy Kalakajoro and Nosy Berafia, offering an equally picturesque environment similar to Nosy Be – one of Madagascar's well-visited islands only 50 kilometers distant. Here, pristine white sand beaches meet the transparent waves of the Indian Ocean, alongside quaint fishing communities scattered along the shorelines. Snorkelers can revel in this aquatic wonderland featuring vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish and even sea turtles.
The Austral Islands group, another gem of French Polynesia
Over 600km south of Tahiti And among the Society Islands, the Austral Islands stand out as one of the most remote and lesser-explored areas within this region. French Polynesia On the islands of Rurutu and Tubuai, towering cliffs and lush mountains ascend above pristine sandy shores. The ideal period for whale watching spans from July to October when these majestic creatures pass by during their yearly migratory journey. Additionally, numerous hiking paths offer breathtaking vistas of sapphire-blue lagoons and vibrant coral reefs stretching out below the craters of ancient volcanoes.