Top 12 Seriously Underrated Tropical Vacation Destinations To Visit

Are you hoping to holiday somewhere tropical yet want to avoid the crowds?

The great news is there are hidden gems all over the globe! Pick one of these dozen hot destinations to feel like you’re entering uncharted territory.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

The volcanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, off Brazil’s northeast coast, is an ecologist’s paradise. Head here, and you can experience wild beaches, a national marine park rich in underwater life, and excellent scuba diving and snorkeling.

Travel Tips

  • Visit Projeto Tamar: Learn about sea turtle conservation and watch baby turtles released into the ocean.
  • Explore Praia do Leão: Visit this quiet beach between December and June to watch turtle-nesting.

The Cook Islands

Compared with Fiji and Tahiti, the Cook Islands are a hidden gem of the South Pacific Ocean. Whether you want to venture into the jungle, unwind on a paradisiacal beach, or devour your body weight in fresh seafood, the 15 islands will never disappoint. Thanks to direct flights from LA, it’s not too difficult or expensive to get here, either.

Travel Tips

  • Explore Muri Lagoon: Rent a kayak and paddle through crystal-clear waters with views of tiny islets.
  • Shop at Punanga Nui Market: Visit the market on Saturday mornings for fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handmade crafts.

Mayreau, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

A tropical paradise hidden in plain sight is what you can expect from this Caribbean highlight. It’s under half a square mile in size and the smallest inhabited Grenadines island. Get there by boat, and you’ll be rewarded with pretty beaches, photogenic bays, and a network of hiking trails.

Travel Tips

  • Visit Mayreau Catholic Church: Hike up to this small, historic church for panoramic views of the island.
  • Try Local Seafood: Enjoy grilled red snapper and a lobster sandwich with views of Tobago Cays at The Ranch Escapade.

Palawan, the Philippines

The Philippines already offers relatively undiscovered tourist territory compared to other Southeast Asian hotspots like Thailand and Indonesia. But head to Palawan to enjoy the perfect peace of the country’s least populated area. Those making the effort will be rewarded with clear, azure waters backed by limestone cliffs, native wildlife, colorful fish, and more.

Travel Tips

  • Visit the Underground River: Book a guided tour to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park for PHP 2,600 ($47).
  • Explore El Nido: Book an island hopping tour to explore white sand beaches, lagoons, and snorkeling sites in Bacuit Bay for PHP 1,200 ($22).

Koh Rong, Cambodia

If you find Thailand’s ‘Kohs’ a little too crowded for your taste, try Koh Rong in Cambodia. The island is characterized by bone-white sands, swaying palms, and warm, azure waters. The local food scene and hiking trails are reasons to visit, as well as the incomparable coastline.

Travel Tips

  • Visit Sok San Beach: Spend a relaxing day at this quieter spot with fewer tourists, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Try Cambodian BBQ: Enjoy fresh seafood and grilled meats at Art’s House Sky Bar.

Pemba Island, Tanzania

Zanzibar in Tanzania is known for its spices, so you can expect clove-scented air when visiting Pemba Island off the East African coast. The Pemba Channel divides the island from Tanzania and is awash with colorful underwater life and coral reefs. Historic forts and rolling green hills are also seen here.

Travel Tips

  • Book a Spice TourExplore the island’s spice farms, visit historical landmarks in Stone Town, and admire colonial buildings for $60.
  • Explore Historic Forts: Visit the Pemba Island forts to learn about the island’s history.

Vanuatu

Located north of New Caledonia, Vanuatu was once known as the New Hebrides. The Vanuatu archipelago comprises around 80 little islands. A warm welcome from the locals, incredible underwater life, gorgeous resorts, and glorious, unspoiled landscapes are just some of the reasons to add this to your bucket list.

Travel Tips

  • Hike to Mount Yasur: Explore the Lighthouse of the Pacific and witness its volcanic activity.
  • Snorkel in the Blue Hole: Swim in Vanuatu’s Blue Hole to see colorful coral reefs and sea life.

The Andaman Islands

Head to the Bay of Bengal to reach this tropical Indian archipelago. Some of the 300 or so islands are off-limits. Those you can visit offer superb diving and snorkeling, beautiful white sand beaches, and various vegetation, including rainforests and mangroves. The Andaman Islands are the more peaceful, adventurous alternative to the luxurious Maldives.

Travel Tips

  • Visit Radhanagar Beach: Relax on one of Asia’s best beaches with clean sands and crystal-clear waters.
  • Explore Baratang Island: Discover limestone caves and mangrove forests on a guided tour.

Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is pinned firmly on the tourist map when it comes to unparalleled wildlife and lush landscapes. While the Nicoya Peninsula is just as biologically diverse and breathtakingly beautiful as anywhere else, it’s also more tranquil than other coastal parts. Expect to find stunning surf beaches, sea turtles, and thriving wellness facilities.

Travel Tips

  • Explore the Curu Wildlife Reserve: Book a cabin at this private reserve for $70 and spot monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
  • Take a Turtle Watching Tour: Head to Ostional Wildlife Refuge for $10 and watch sea turtles nesting.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands lie off the northwest coast of Lombok and have been a backpacker favorite for a few decades now. Join those heading to idyllic Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno, and you can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and beaches backed by swaying palms. With speed boat services from Bali now operating and hot new resorts popping up, get here before mainstream tourist hordes do.

Travel Tips

  • Snorkel at Gili Trawangan: Book a tour to explore the crystal-clear waters and spot fish, sea turtles, and corals for $15.
  • Rent a Bike: Explore the island for $3 per day.

Palomino, Colombia

Like the Gili Islands of Indonesia, Palomino in Columbia is something of a hotspot among independent travelers. This compact town on the Caribbean coast offers relaxing beaches, river tubing, surfing, and extreme sports. Visitors can also enjoy hiking the trails or exploring the local arts scene.

Travel Tips

  • Hike to the Palomino Waterfall: Explore the lush jungle and swim in the natural pools.
  • Try River Tubing: Book a river tubing and hiking tour to float down the Palomino River and enjoy the natural surroundings for $44.

Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

The Panama province of Bocas Del Toro offers a plethora of delightful islands to discover. Snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, surfing, and sailing are all deservedly popular here. You can also see rare tropical birds, shop for crafts, or explore attractive Bocas Town.

Travel Tips

  • Explore Isla Bastimentos: Hike the rainforest on Isla Bastimentos to spot wildlife.
  • Visit Bocas Town: Explore this lively town with local shops, restaurants, and markets.
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire, and more.

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Georgia Konidari
Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire, and more.