Malaysia
Sabah – The Land Below the Wind
Many may not be familiar with Sabah, but its poetic nickname, “The Land Below the Wind”, hints at its natural tranquility. This tropical paradise is free from typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis, making it an ideal getaway for any traveler. Here, you can find breathtaking landscapes, vibrant marine life, and some of the most stunning beaches in the world.
Tanjung Aru Beach: A Sunset Lover’s Dream
If beaches had colors, Tanjung Aru Beach would be painted in shades of green, thanks to the lush palm and casuarina trees lining its shores. But what draws most visitors is its legendary sunset, often ranked among the world’s top three. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky ignites in golden and crimson hues, making this spot the soul of Sabah.
Semporna: A Dreamy Island Escape
Originally a quiet fishing village, Semporna has transformed into a world-renowned island paradise. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and swaying coconut trees, this place feels like a dream come to life. 
Must-Visit Islands Around Semporna
- Kapalai: A romantic retreat with overwater bungalows that rival those in the Maldives.
- Mabul: The only inhabited island among the four, where local culture blends seamlessly with breathtaking coastal scenery.
- Mataking: A diver’s paradise, known for its mesmerizing underwater world filled with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Sipadan: A World-Class Diving Destination
One of the world’s best diving spots, Sipadan Island is Malaysia’s only deep-sea island, rising 600 meters from the ocean floor. The unique underwater topography creates an awe-inspiring experience—just one step from the shore, and the depth plunges from 3 meters to 600 meters!
With colorful corals, swaying sea anemones, massive schools of fish, and graceful sea turtles, Sipadan offers a marine spectacle that rivals the most vivid imaginations.
Vietnam
Nha Trang – The Lobster Haven
Located on Vietnam’s southern coast, Nha Trang boasts pristine beaches, soft white sands, and crystal-clear waters brimming with coral reefs. Each morning, the coastline transforms into a breathtaking golden seascape as the sun rises over the horizon.
As one of Vietnam’s most productive fishing regions, Nha Trang is a seafood lover’s paradise. Here, you’ll find the cheapest lobsters in Southeast Asia, making it a perfect spot for a family vacation and a gourmet feast.
Da Nang – The “Hawaii of the East”
Da Nang features over 30 kilometers of unspoiled coastline, rivaling the beauty of Bali. With its mild climate, powdery white sand, and deep blue waters, this is a destination for true relaxation. Simply lie back on a sun lounger, listen to the waves, and let time slow down.
Indonesia
Manado – A Hidden Paradise
Gaining popularity after its appearance in Ex-File 3, Manado has been recognized as an off-the-beaten-path haven. One of its most mesmerizing natural wonders is Lake Linow, a volcanic lake that changes color depending on the sunlight. The air is filled with the subtle scent of sulfur, adding to its mystical allure.
Beyond its breathtaking marine life, Manado offers picturesque rural landscapes, dotted with rice fields, coconut groves, and spice plantations. Traditional stilt houses and elegant churches complete this charming countryside scene.
Komodo Island – The Pink Sand Beach
Located 200 nautical miles east of Bali, Komodo Island is known for its unique pink-hued beaches. Unlike Bali’s luxury resorts, Komodo offers pristine, untouched nature. The island’s blush-colored shoreline, where crystal-clear blue waves meet soft pink sand, is a dreamlike sight to behold.
Philippines
Boracay – Home to the World’s Finest White Sand Beach
Despite being only 7 kilometers long, Boracay boasts a 4-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand, widely considered the softest in the world. Its postcard-perfect scenery—turquoise waters, white sands, and golden sunsets—makes it one of the most famous beach destinations globally. With lively beachside bars and luxurious resorts, Boracay is a tropical paradise that never sleeps.
Thailand
Similan Islands – A Diver’s Playground
If you still associate Thailand with just Phuket, it’s time to expand your horizons. The Similan Islands are a hidden gem offering vast underwater landscapes and a dazzling array of marine life.
Every island here offers a distinct diving experience, from coral gardens to underwater caves. Divers may even encounter leopard sharks, whale sharks, and schools of vibrant fish gliding through the depths.
Koh Chang – A Serene Escape
One of Thailand’s lesser-known islands, Koh Chang, is a sanctuary of unspoiled beaches and lush mountains. The untouched blue waters are so clear that you can see schools of colorful fish and coral reefs from the surface. With its scenic bays, soft white sand, and emerald-green hills, Koh Chang feels like a real-life tropical paradise.
As the temperature drops, travelers are faced with two choices—snuggling under blankets or escaping to a sun-kissed beach. If the idea of basking in warm sunshine, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet, and plunging into the inviting sea sounds appealing, these hidden gems should be at the top of your list.
They may not be as famous as the Maldives or Bali, but their stunning landscapes, pristine waters, and tranquil atmosphere make them equally unforgettable.
