Whether you’re seeking a secluded island all to yourself or a party vibe, we have all the top spots on our list of the best islands in Asia.
It’s a diverse list, with tropical reefs and bays, as well as remote shores. These are the most amazing islands to visit right now.
From the Maldives to Malaysia, consider this your essential vacation guide…
The best islands in Asia to visit in 2020How do these rankings work?
1. Palawan, Philippines
El Nido is a cluster of 45 islands just off the tip of Palawan, which is famous for its Secret Lagoon. Swim through a hole in the limestone rocks to enter a hidden bay with crystal clear water and soft sand.
It feels untouched, with white sandy beaches and tropical jungle. As soon as you step foot onto here you’ll instantly agree it’s one of the best islands in Asia.
2. Rawa Island, Malaysia
There’s very few places quite as beautiful as Rawa Island in Malaysia. Take a dip in the warm waters of the South China Sea. Enjoy the green scenery. Snorkel along the natural coral reef just metres from the shore.
It’s an easy drive and boat trip from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, with a stay at the private island resort on the island essential for visiting. Rawa island boasts 100% coral cover and its house reef is naturally shallow, so it’s perfect for easy dives.
4. Koh Tao, Thailand
This peaceful island in the Gulf of Thailand has plenty of sheltered bays, but Tanot is the most beautiful. It’s uncrowded with warm, blue water and soft sand.
Snorkelling is excellent here, with a great variety of coral and some fairly large fish that you’ll see as soon as you dip your toes into the water. While there’s endless amazing Thai islands to take your pick from, Koh Tao ticks all the boxes.
5. Bali, Indonesia
The Indonesian island of Bali has long been a huge draw on the travel route, for everybody from surfers and backpackers through to honeymooners and luxury travellers.
It’s the paradise island that has something for everybody. There’s terraced rice fields, pristine beaches, world-class surf spots and historical temples. Add in a buzzing food and drink scene and it’s easy to see why Bali is one of the best islands in Asia.
5. The Maldives
Looking for paradise? You’ll find it in the Maldives, a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean of more than 1,000 coral islands. It’s home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotel resorts, with white sandy beaches, underwater villas and restaurants and bright blue waters.
You’ll struggle to pick just one spot to visit here, but highlights include Rangali Islands and its incredible underwater resort.
6. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
Koh Rong Samloem is a small tropical island in the Gulf of Siam, with picture perfect white sand beaches fringed by palm and casaurina trees. It’s still a peaceful destination that has a laidback vibe and is relatively untouched.
A highlight here is the amazing bio-luminescent plankton that makes the warm waters glow and sparkle at night.
7. Côn So’n, Vietnam
Côn Sơn, also known as Côn Lôn, is the largest island on a 16-island archipelago. Visitors can stay at the luxurious Six Senses Resort: it’s just a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City but a world away from the everyday.
The golden sand and blue sapphire sea makes it one of the best islands in the world.