For decades, tourists have flocked to famous island destinations like Ibiza and St. Barths, but if you’re looking for a more affordable (and less touristy) alternative to these hotspots filled with glitz and glam, there are plenty of other underrated tropical island destinations that you probably haven’t heard of but that deserve a visit.

1. Waigeo, Indonesia

This island is one of four that make up the Raja Ampat Regency in Indonesia. It boasts some of the most incredible marine biodiversity in the world, making it a paradise for those who want to explore the magical coral reefs. While Waigeo and its surrounding islands are remote, if you want to get off the grid and disconnect on an epic white-sand beach, this is the spot.

2. Lanai, Hawaii

When tourists head to Hawaii, they usually flock to the more well-known North Shore beaches in Oahu and Maui. But Lanai is a less crowded alternative that you may not have heard of before.

It’s the second smallest island in Hawaii, and despite having a population of just 3,200 people, it has plenty of bed and breakfasts and the Four Seasons Hotel. Great for golfers and divers!

3. Cíes Islands, Spain

Forget overly crowded spots like Ibiza and Mallorca. The underrated Cíes Islands are a tiny, protected archipelago tucked near the Galician coast in northern Spain, consisting of three islands. While one (San Martiño) can only be accessed by a private boat, the other two can be reached by ferry. A top choice for hikers and swimmers.

4. Sifnos, Greece

Away from the busy hubs of Mykonos and Santorini, this island can only be accessed by ferry and has the same charm as its more famous counterparts, but with way fewer people.

There are many miles of clearly marked walking trails dotting the Aegean coast, taking visitors through hills covered in wildfires and white and blue churches (apparently, there is one church for every day of the year!).

5. Vis, Croatia

Far from mainland Croatia, Vis has a population of just 3,000 and is a dreamy destination in the summer for its flawless beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you want to just kick back and relax on a powdery beach or go for an adventure like snorkelling, kayaking, and cycling, there’s something for everyone here, even the diehard foodies!

6. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

The most famous part of this secret beauty, away from the chaos of the more popular areas in the Caribbean, is an area called “The Baths” where many giant boulders come together to form striking sheltered sea pools.

It’s also a well-known area for beachside rock climbing and snorkelling, with beautiful fish swimming around the area.

7. San Juan, United States

Located in the US and can’t quite afford an international getaway just yet? The San Juan Islands, located in Washington State, are the soothing balm that your soul needs. There are different islands, each with their own appeal. Orcas Island is for hikers with Moran State Park, while San Juan Island is best for locally grown food and wine. You might even see some whales!

8. Favignana, Italy

The stunning Favignana is located off the coast of Italy and is the largest of three islands and two islets that form the Egadi Archipelago. For those traveling to Sicily, it’s a hidden gem that’s visited mostly by domestic tourists and can be reached by ferry from Trapani in less than an hour.

The island is somewhat flat and has many shops that rent out bikes and scooters.

9. Naoshima, Japan

Otherwise known as “art island,” Naoshima is located in the Seto Inland Sea with an eclectic, breathtaking mix of modern architecture and contemporary art. If you’re an art lover who wants a dose of creativity injected into your beachside vacation, this global destination is a must. It can be reached via bullet train from Osaka, where visitors must then take a regular train to Uno.