Going on an island vacation has always been the top choice for a cool summer. Have you lost interest in overly developed resort islands? Actually, Southeast Asia still has some hidden gems—lesser-known islands with few tourists, well-preserved ecosystems, and rich local charm. There, you can dive into the sea, extending your carefree joy from land all the way underwater; or you can face the ocean, greet the rising sun, feel the cool evening breeze, and enjoy a getaway far from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Koh Tao, Thailand: “The World’s Diver Production Line”
Koh Tao in southern Thailand is not as famous as Pattaya, Phuket, or Koh Samui. It earned its name because its shape resembles a giant sea turtle floating on the water, and it is also transliterated in Chinese as “Dao Dao” or “Dao Dao.” Over 100 years ago, it was just an uninhabited, desolate island, but now it’s known as the “World’s Diver Production Line.” It’s said that 60% of diving certifications in Thailand are issued here. With excellent water visibility, lush and beautiful coral reefs, and abundant marine life, Koh Tao has become a renowned diving destination in Thailand. The island is home to over 40 diving companies, and a 4-day professional diving certification course costs between 8,000 and 10,000 Thai baht. After completing the course, you can dive down to depths of 18 meters and swim with colorful tropical fish.
Tips: Koh Tao is relatively close to Koh Samui, and most travel packages on the market combine the two islands. A 5–6 day trip is priced between 5,000 and 7,0
Sipadan Island, Malaysia: Plunging 600 Meters into the Deep Blue
Sipadan Island is located in eastern Malaysia and is known as a "world-class diving paradise." It has earned this reputation because it is the only deep-sea island in Malaysia that is completely detached from the mainland, featuring unique underwater topography and several one-of-a-kind dive sites. Sipadan is small, with an area of about 40,000 square meters. Due to volcanic uplift, it rises directly from the seabed at a depth of 600 meters, with its underwater part resembling a chimney. At the edge of Sipadan Island, just one step further can take you from a mere 3-meter depth to 600 meters. These exceptional conditions make Sipadan one of the world’s top five wall diving destinations. Sipadan’s most famous attraction is its sea turtles. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, you’re bound to come face to face with a turtle once you dive in.
Tips: To get to Sipadan Island, you can take a boat from Semporna. A speedboat ride takes about an hour and a half. The nearest airport to Semporna is Tawau Airport, with flights available from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Sandakan. The drive from Tawau to Semporna takes just over an hour. Sipadan Island does not offer accommodation, so visitors must stay in Semporna. Semporna has many waterfront chalets with stunning views and good facilities.