Little-Known Picturesque Islands

Travelers up for adventure and relaxation off the beaten path may find the right fit at one of the many lesser-known, picture-perfect islands scattered around the world. From Asia to the Caribbean, there is a host of virtually untouched paradises to explore from remote and barely-inhabited islands to picturesque hillsides dotted with villages and streets lined with bistros and cafes. Islands offer beachscapes, volcanoes, climbing and hiking opportunities, diving and snorkelling, relaxation or adventure. Here are five of Earth's hidden treasures.

Culebra, Puerto Rico

Culebra is a tropical paradise that feels much more distant from the mainland of Puerto Rico than the actual 37 km (23 miles) of water separating them. As a sister island to the more frequented Vieques, it features 10 pristine white sandy beaches and a lush forest, with no cruise ports, resorts, or large crowds. Approximately 2,000 residents live on the island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Once a refuge for pirates, Culebra is home to remnants of abandoned military equipment and wildlife, including green turtles and brown boobies.

Îles des Saintes, Guadeloupe

The Îles des Saintes, also known as Les Saintes, is a small volcanic archipelago consisting of nine islands, of which only two are populated. Combining French and Caribbean cultures, Les Saintes features white sandy beaches, sailing, snorkeling, and stunning views. Located 15 km southwest of Guadeloupe, the islands provide a slice of paradise with bistros and local culinary specialties for food enthusiasts.

3. Saba, Lesser Antilles

Part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Saba provides a more active experience than some of the other island vacations with rugged topography and an extinct 2,910-foot volcano called Mt. Scenery, rainforests and hiking for those who like to hit the trail. Unlike many islands there are not beaches to speak of, but tide pools await along hiking trails and marine life can be found on diving excursions around the island. Despite other Caribbean locales succumbing to the calls of modernity, Saba remains virtually untouched, maintaining its natural beauty.

Surin Islands, Thailand

The Surin Islands are home to some of the most renowned diving sites worldwide, with the best snorkelling and diving conditions between December and April. Nestled in Mu Ko Surin National Park, 55km off the west coast of the Phang-Nga Province in Thailand, the islands are an archipelago of five islands, home to coral gardens and extensive white beaches and one of the few untouched places in the country. A small Moken village and some park structures are the only development on the Surin Islands.

Fakarava, French Polynesia

Although Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea often steal the spotlight, their neighboring gem, Fakarava, offers a true Polynesian experience, encircled by a protected coral reef and vibrant blue lagoons. This remote island, designated as a nature reserve, boasts pink-sand beaches that seldom make it onto maps. With a population of just over 800, its small villages are spread across the landscape. Fakarava is particularly renowned for its distinctive marine life, which includes barracuda, hammerhead sharks, and tiger sharks.