10 Beautiful Islands In Asia That Should Top Your Travel Bucketlist In 2024

10 Nov 2021

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Asia is one of the largest and the most picturesque continent on earth. The glaring turquoise water, pristine beaches, soaring palm trees, thriving emerald green hills, excellent surfing coastline, and an astonishing marine life make it a paradise on earth. Asian Islands are a perfect escape from the hubbub of the city for relaxation and rejuvenation. Asia is blessed with abundant islands, which offer numerous opportunities to travelers looking for holidaying at beach destinations.

10 Best Asian Islands

Enclosed within these islands are various things to enjoy like the crystal-clear coastlines, luxuriant beach parties, and underwater diving. If you are looking for the most enthralling and captivating islands in Asia then we have curated a list of some excellent Asian Islands that have untouched dazzling beaches and magnificent wilderness.

1. Similan Islands, Thailand

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Similan Islands are a group of eleven archipelagos in the Andaman Sea off the western coast of Thailand. The coastline of this stunning islet is well protected by the Thai Government. The waterfront and breath-taking marine life is a refuge for tired souls. It is a paradise for divers and snorkelers with some gorgeous corals, tropical fish, and impressive rock formations.

Best time to visit: October to May
Activities: Snorkelling, deep-sea diving, trekking, rowing

Must Read: 24 Best International Trips Under 50k For Your Bucket List 2022!

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2. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Perhentian Islands in Malaysia are amongst the few exotic honeymoon destinations in Asia

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A beautiful combination of two islands, one small and other large, Perhentian Islands are located off the Malaysian east coast. The close proximity of this islet makes it a famous tourist destination for both Thais and Malaysians. The calm sea makes an ideal place for boat riders and swimmers. The island is home to lovely hidden bays, sandy beaches, and sheer waters making it a perfect spot for diving and snorkeling. Walk barefoot, listen to soothing music, sip on some delicious cocktail, and unwind watching the setting sun.

Best time to visit: March to October
Activities: Swimming, scuba diving, trekking, volunteer at Turtle Conversation

3. Pom Pom Islands, Malaysia

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Pom Pom Island is situated in the Semporna Archipelago off the Malaysian east coast. This exquisite island is a tiny, peaceful land fragment with literally no population, and only a few resorts to serve the travelers. The island is a respite for sore eyes with amazing coral reefs, turquoise water, white sand beaches, and several species of fish. The view of the giant green and hawksbill turtle nesting on the sand near the sea is a feast for the eyes of marine lovers and photographers.

Best time to visit: May to August
Activities: Scuba diving, kayaking, watching the giant green and hawksbill turtles

4. Macleod Island, Myanmar

Macleod Island is located in Myanmar in the Mergui Archipelago; this islet offers a simple and serene landscape that is untouched and natural. The famous Macleod Islands are one of the best islands of South Asia and is an ideal place for explorers and nature lovers. The islet has only one resort by the name of Myanmar Andaman Resort, which is a rustic and minimalistic eco-lodge. This isolated island has pristine natural beauty, beaches, and some incredible diving spots. It is a perfect holiday destination for people looking for peace and nature lovers.

Best time to visit: October to January
Activities: Swimming and diving

5. Koh Rong Island, Cambodia

Koh Rong is the second-largest island of Cambodia and is located just 25 kilometers from Sihanoukville. The islet has a rich flora and fauna accompanied by dazzling white sand beaches and a gigantic coastline. Koh Rong makes for one of the most divine islands in Asia with bioluminescent plankton in the sea under the starry nights. Serene coral reefs and exotic marine fish surround the island making it a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway.

Best time to visit: May to early October
Activities: Camping on the beach, boat trips, walking by the beach at night to experience bioluminescent plankton

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

6. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

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Cat Ba Island is a beautiful islet situated in Vietnam and is famous for its warm beaches and blue seawater. Enclosed within the island is the amazing Cat Ba National Park, which is home to the Ha Long Bay UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cat Ba is a famous tourist attraction with numerous karaoke bars attracting the Vietnamese for weekend getaways. Another great attraction near Cat Ba Island is the Monkey Island that is famous for varied species of monkeys.

Best time to visit: February to April
Activities: Rock climbing, trekking, ferry rides, visit the national park, visit Monkey Island, visit the local market that is famous for seafood

7. Palawan Island, Philippines

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Located in the Philippines, Palawan Island is famous for its green covers and blue waters. Palawan is home to lush emerald green jungles, untouched beaches, ancient caves, and splendid waterfalls. This beautiful island has one of the most picturesque seascapes and is a must-have on your travel diaries. Coron in Palawan Island is a famous spot for wreck diving, consisting of many Japanese warships, which had sunk in that area.

Best time to visit: November to April
Activities: Wreck diving, hiking, visiting the waterfall

8. Cebu Islands, Philippines

Cebu Islands are situated in the Visayas region of the Philippines and are known for its long, narrow, and stunning islands that offer a splendid view of the sea, mountains, and the 167 surrounding islets. This island is home to some luxurious and high-end resorts in the touristy areas like Malapascua, Badian, and Camotes and reasonably modest resorts in the fishing villages like Moalboal.

Best time to visit: November to April
Activities: Fishing, trailing, trekking

9. Jeju Islands, South Korea

Jeju Islands are considered as the Hawaii of South Korea and is considered the best tourist spot in South Asia. Jeju Island is a great place for couples and honeymooners. The must-visit on this islet is the Iho beach which is a beautiful combination of grey and yellow sand. The dazzling beach is famous among swimmers being shallow in nature. Downtown Jeju is full of some amazing bars where you can watch the beauty of this beautiful island sipping on some beer.

Best time to visit: July to September
Activities: Great place for swimmers, visit the folk village

10. Raja Ampat Island, Indonesia

Raja Ampat, also known as Four Kings is a cluster of thousand islets off Sorong in Papua in Eastern Indonesia. This thinly populated island is a haven for divers and marine lovers consisting of some of the best diving spots in the world. Raja Ampat island is home to 75% of the known coral species and around 1300 different species of fish. The island has attracted many experienced divers over the years who enjoy the thrilling drift diving and underwater vertical walls.

Best time to visit: October to April
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, visit biodiversity resort, must-visit Pasir Timbul Beach

Further Read: 40 Most Romantic International Honeymoon Destinations On Your Budget

These stunning Asian Islands are ideal vacation destinations whether you are craving for culture, adventure, partying, marine life, chilling on beaches, and gazing at the lush greens. Come and explore one of these magnetizing paradise islands that will rejuvenate your senses and leave you awestruck. Book a trip with TravelTriangle and have an amazing holiday!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Islands

Which are the famous islands in Asia?

Some famous islands to explore in Asia are Pom Pom Island in Malaysia, Koh Chang in Thailand, Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia, and Jeju Island in South Korea.

Which is the smallest island in Asia?

The Maldives is the smallest island of Asia comprising of only 116 square miles of total area.

How is the climate in Asia?

The temperature in Asia is very comfortable all round the year. Southern Asia is mostly mild to hot while far North Asia like Siberia is cold. East Asia has a temperate climate.