The Best Underrated Islands to Visit [2025 updated]

Do you prefer some popular island destinations with crowded beaches , or want to go to a silent, beautiful destination that few people know about?

Mainstream tourists often overlook several islands, and some prefer to visit a pristine island destination rather than a popular one. Underrated islands offer a chance to experience unique cultures, untouched nature, and less crowded landscapes.

For example, some of the most popular and highly rated underrated islands include Socotra Island (Yemen), Raiatea (French Polynesia), Dominica (Caribbean), and Palawan (Philippines). Other great options include Jicaro Island (Nicaragua), Wuqiu Islands (Taiwan Strait), and Isla Contoy (Mexico).

So, PlaninGo creates a travel list for an off-the-beaten-path island adventure. Here's a more detailed look at some underrated island destinations:

Remote & Exotic Islands

Start with the following type of beach destination:

1. Socotra Island, Yemen

Why it's special: Due to its amazing lands and endemic species, this UNESCO World Heritage site is commonly known as the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean. The presence of the Dragon’s Blood Trees gives the site an extra-terrestrial look.

• Best time to visit: October to April (dry season with cooler temperatures)
• Perfect for: Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers looking for truly unique biodiversity

1. Wuqiu Islands, Taiwan Strait

Why it's special: Tourists enjoy these small islands because of their amazing ocean views, traditional Taiwan heritage, and fine bird-watching locations. Most cliffs and unspoiled beaches are far from the main tourist areas.

• Best time to visit: April to June and September to November (mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities)
• Perfect for: Bird watchers, hikers, and cultural explorers

Tropical Paradise Islands

For tropical getaways, we have other popular hidden islands worth knowing about**:**

1. Raiatea, French Polynesia

Why it's special: Raiatea is nicknamed "Sacred Island" because it has many old temples, high mountains, and lovely lagoons. While French Polynesia isn't as developed as Tahiti, it is just as breathtaking and offers plenty of natural beauty.

• Best time to visit: May to October (dry season with less humidity)
• Perfect for: Cultural enthusiasts, divers, and those seeking luxury in an authentic Polynesian setting

1. Palawan, Philippines

Why it's special: Although Palawan is famous, many parts of the province are unspoiled. Apart from El Nido, look for unspoiled lagoons, interesting rivers underneath, and clear water.

Best time to visit: November to May (dry season with calm seas)

Perfect for: Divers, beach lovers, and eco-tourists

1. Jicaro Island, Nicaragua

Why it's special: Surrounded by the volcanic shores of Lake Nicaragua, this island resort offers guests an exclusive luxury experience. It is a secluded place highlighted by incredible wildlife and environmentally friendly tourism.

• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season with sunny skies)
• Perfect for: Couples, luxury travelers, and those seeking privacy

Caribbean Hidden Gems

1. Dominica

Why it's special: The “Nature Island of the Caribbean” offers great rainforests, many waterfalls, and superb whale viewing. This region suits people who would rather take on a hiking path than do beach activities..

• Best time to visit: February to May (dry season with fewer crowds)
• Perfect for: Eco-adventurers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts

1. Isla Contoy, Mexico

Why it's special: Cayman Brac is a protected national park with a large population of birds, amazing white sand beaches, and fantastic snorkeling. Its special qualities are kept safe by making it hard for people to visit.

• Best time to visit: November to April (cooler temperatures and optimal wildlife viewing)
• Perfect for: Nature lovers, snorkelers, and conservation-minded travelers

After all these, you might need price information before deciding to visit these secret travel spots

What is the least expensive island to visit?

If you look for the most budget-friendly option, Dominica would likely be the least expensive island to visit among those listed.

Cost can be reduced due to the following reasons:

• Lower accommodation costs: As the "Nature Island of the Caribbean," an island like Dominica focuses more on eco-tourism and nature experiences rather than luxury resorts, which typically means more affordable lodging options.
• Activity-based tourism: The island emphasizes hiking, waterfalls, and natural attractions that are either free or low-cost, rather than expensive water sports or luxury experiences.
• Less developed tourism infrastructure: While this means fewer amenities, it also translates to lower prices for food, transportation, and activities compared to more developed tourist destinations.

Meanwhile, the other islands commonly have higher costs.

• Raiatea and Jicaro Island are well known as luxury spots
• Since Socotra Island in Yemen is very isolated, visiting there is expensive.
• More popular areas in Palawan (Philippines) have become more upscale.
• Traveling to the Wuqiu Islands is expensive and time-consuming because of the required plans.

Planning Your Hidden Island Adventure

When planning travel to these destinations, you may consider two crucial things:

1. Getting There: Many destinations require connecting flights or boat transfers, which adds to their remote appeal but requires extra planning time.
2. Accommodation: Depending on the island's development level, options range from eco-lodges and boutique resorts to camping opportunities.

There is time, and Planingo steps in; with our travel planner, you can find the best hotel deals in these destinations or book a cheap flight to have an affordable trip while enjoying a unique travel experience with many options.

Final words:

These are just a few examples of the many underrated islands that offer unique travel experiences. By exploring these less-visited destinations, you can uncover hidden gems that often go unnoticed by the average traveler.

These spots let you escape the crowds that usually happen at popular tourist spots, so you can have a more peaceful and personal time with nature. You can escape to some of the world’s most breathtaking landforms by hiking in the mountains, lingering by the ocean, or hiking in colorful forests. Every unique place has its personality and gives you a better connection to the culture and nature where you’re traveling.