Top 5 Hidden Gem Destinations for 2026

Introduction

After exploring over 30 countries in two years, this guide reveals five underrated destinations that skip the crowded tourist spots for places just being discovered. These lesser-known havens offer jaw-dropping beauty, authentic vibes, and unforgettable experiences.

What to Expect:

• Hidden gems over tourist traps
• Less crowded alternatives to popular destinations
• Authentic local experiences
• Stunning natural beauty

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1. Thailand: Trat Province Islands (Near Cambodian Border)

Skip These Popular Destinations:

• Koh Samui
• Koh Phangan
• Koh Tao
• Phuket (mainland)

Visit These Instead: Three Untouched Islands

Ko Kood (Ko Kut) - Top Recommendation

Why It's Special:

• Much more untouched than famous Thai islands
• Crystal blue waters
• Empty beaches with minimal crowds
• Little to no traffic on roads
• Authentic Thailand vibe (like 30 years ago)
• Traditional beach shacks still exist
• Not overdeveloped despite having some resorts

Highlight Experience:

• Romantic destination (engagement location for hosts)
• Sunneva Resort features treetop dining
• Dinner delivered via zip line
• Incredible views

Activities:

• Beach relaxation
• Scooter exploration
• Resort experiences
• Quiet, peaceful atmosphere

Ko Chang (Koh Chang)

Unique Features:

• Majority of island is a nature reserve
• Hiking opportunities through natural areas
• Beautiful beaches with crystal waters
• Home to massive ghost cruise ship (burned down recently)

Best For:

• Nature lovers
• Hikers
• Those seeking adventure with beach relaxation

Ko Mak (Koh Mak)

Status:

• Not yet personally visited by hosts
• Highly recommended by Instagram community
• Similar appeal to Ko Kood and Ko Chang
• Worth exploring for similar reasons

Location Details:

• Trat Province
• Near Cambodian border
• Less accessible than mainstream islands (which keeps crowds away)

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2. Sri Lanka: Hiriketiya (South Coast)

Skip These Popular Beach Towns:

• Unawatuna
• Mirissa
• Weligama

Visit Hiriketiya Instead

Location:

• 3-4 hour drive from Colombo (capital)
• Tucked away cove on south coast
• Starting to gain popularity but still special

Why It's Amazing:

• One of the most beautiful beach towns ever visited
• Boho beach vibes
• Amazing surf conditions
• Small, intimate cove setting
• Special atmosphere unlike anywhere else

When to Visit

Peak Season (Avoid if Possible):

• January and February
• Very popular and crowded

Recommended Travel Period:

• April or May (when hosts visited)
• Perfect weather
• Some occasional rain
• Far fewer people
• Much more enjoyable experience

Top Experiences

Surf Culture:

• Excellent for learning to surf
• Great for seasoned surfers
• Everyone enjoying waves peacefully
• No fighting for waves
• Friendly, welcoming surf community
• Laid-back vibe

Restaurant Scene:

RAS:

• First night dining spot
• Right on the beach
• Amazing food
• Where hosts fell in love with the town

Smoke and Bitters:

• Sister restaurant to RAS
• Fancier dining experience
• Really cool atmosphere

Dune's Hoppers:

• Traditional Sri Lankan hoppers
• Unique varieties available
• Very tasty authentic food

Overall Vibe:

• So many cool cafes
• Awesome restaurant variety
• Perfect beach town atmosphere
• Authentic local culture

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3. Seoul, South Korea

The Unexpected Gem

How This Made the List:

• Visited on a whim (visa run requirement)
• Planned only 3-4 days
• Completely blown away
• Had the best time

Comparison:

• Similar to Tokyo but even more fun
• Incredible energy and vibe
• Constantly happening city
• Rich cultural experiences

Top Experiences

Cafe Culture - Next Level

Seongsu-dong Area:

• Whole neighborhood of incredible cafes
• Really artsy, cool area
• Super aesthetic spaces
• Insane food and cakes
• Surpasses even Melbourne's renowned cafe culture

Must-Visit: Explore the cafe scene—it's on another level

Cultural Experiences

Hanbok Traditional Dress:

• Dress up in traditional Korean outfits
• Initially nerve-wracking but lots of fun
• Major Perk: Free entry to palaces and monuments when wearing hanbok
• Cultural experience plus savings
• Great photo opportunities

Food Tours - Essential Activity:

• Must-do experience
• Try traditional dishes never experienced before
• Highlights:
  • Tteokbokki (new favorite dish—couldn't get enough)
  • Live octopus (not actually alive but wriggling—wild experience)
  • Many amazing traditional foods

Shopping Scene

Vintage & Secondhand Shops:

• Many cool vintage stores
• 24-hour shops available
• Unique shopping experience
• Even non-shoppers found great items

Notable Experience:

• 24-hour vintage shop with credit card door entry
• Random stranger let them use his card when theirs didn't work
• Trusted them completely (could have been charged for stolen items)
• Shows lovely, trusting culture

Why Seoul Stands Out

The People:

• So lovely and welcoming
• High level of trust
• Friendly interactions
• Warm hospitality

Overall Experience:

• Perfect blend of tradition and modernity
• Endless things to do
• Incredible food scene
• Cultural immersion opportunities
• Shopping variety
• Constantly vibrant atmosphere

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4. Greece: Beyond the Famous Islands

Skip These Overcrowded Islands:

• Santorini
• Mykonos
• Ios

Hidden Greek Island Gems

Milos - The Favorite

Why It's Special:

• Absolute favorite Greek island
• Couple's dream destination
• Smaller, more intimate island
• Absolutely stunning throughout

Top Attractions:

Plaka:

• Main old town
• Absolutely stunning
• Traditional Greek charm

Utopia Cafe:

• One of the best sunsets EVER seen
• Must-visit for sunset views

Sarakiniko Beach:

• Could stay there all month
• Most beautiful "moon beach"
• White rock formations out of this world
• Unique lunar-like landscape
• Incredibly photogenic

Food Scene:

• Amazing dining options throughout island

Overall: Really, really special island experience

Naxos - The All-Rounder

Different Vibe from Milos:

• Rougher and more rugged
• More outdoorsy atmosphere
• Bit more adventurous

Highlights:

• Mount Zas: Climbable mountain for hiking
• Best coffee ever experienced
• Good gym facilities
• Good beach clubs
• Well-rounded destination
• Not too expensive
• Not too busy

Perfect For: Those wanting variety—beaches, hiking, fitness, and nightlife

The Sporades Islands - Mamma Mia Territory

Islands Include:

• Skopelos
• Skiathos (favorite)
• Other nearby islands

Skiathos Highlights:

• One of the Mamma Mia filming islands
• Explore all filming locations
• Crystal blue water
• Very green (unlike the Cyclades islands)
• Amazing food
• Phenomenal beaches
• Great overall vibe

Different Feel:

• Greener than typical Greek islands
• More lush landscape
• Fun, energetic atmosphere

Crete - The Highly Recommended (Upcoming Visit)

Why It's on the List:

• Haven't visited yet (going in two weeks from recording)
• Asked community across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube
• Out of 219 Greek islands, approximately 80% recommended Crete
• Overwhelming favorite among travelers
• Heard amazing things from multiple sources

Status: Watch for upcoming content after their visit

Recommendation: Definitely add to your list based on community consensus

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5. Albania: The Newly Discovered Destination

Why Albania Is Special

Unique Status:

• Hasn't been open to tourists as long as other European countries
• Just being discovered
• Less touristy infrastructure
• More authentic experiences

Northern Albania:

• Epic Alps
• Absolutely amazing hiking
• Stunning mountain scenery

Recommended Destination: Himara (South Coast)

Skip These More Popular Towns:

• Ksamil: Called "the Maldives of Europe" (overhyped)
• Saranda: More touristy

Why Choose Himara

What Makes It Special:

• Less heard about beach town
• Way less busy than alternatives
• Really cute cove setting
• Incredible beaches (need to walk outside main town)
• More peaceful and authentic

Length of Stay:

• 5 nights recommended
• Very chill atmosphere
• Relaxed pace perfect for unwinding

Top Experiences in Himara

Beach Activities:

• Boat trips to private beaches
• Walk to stunning beaches outside town
• Crystal clear waters
• Less crowded shores

Dining:

Eleni's Country Breakfast:

• Traditional local-style breakfast
• Nona (grandmother) cooks for you personally
• Delicious authentic food
• Memorable cultural experience

Boulevard Restaurants:

• Many little local places along the main boulevard
• Authentic Albanian cuisine
• Casual, affordable dining

Activities:

• Beach relaxation
• Boat excursions
• Exploring local culture
• Walking the boulevard
• Enjoying quiet cove atmosphere

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Summary: Top 5 Destinations for 2026

Rank	Destination	Country	Why Visit
1	Trat Province Islands (Ko Kood, Ko Chang, Ko Mak)	Thailand	Untouched beaches, authentic Thai vibe, no crowds
2	Hiriketiya	Sri Lanka	Amazing surf, boho vibes, incredible food scene
3	Seoul	South Korea	Next-level cafe culture, amazing food, lovely people
4	Hidden Greek Islands (Milos, Naxos, Skiathos, Crete)	Greece	Stunning beauty without Santorini crowds
5	Himara	Albania	Newly discovered, authentic, beautiful beaches

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Important Notes

These Recommendations Are Subjective:

• Based on personal travel experiences
• Your preferences may differ
• Many other amazing destinations exist

Community Input Welcome:

• Share your own hidden gem recommendations in comments
• Challenge this list with your favorites
• Explain why your destination should be included
• Help build a community resource

Tips for Planning:

• Read comments for additional recommendations
• Research based on your travel style
• Consider timing (avoid peak seasons when mentioned)
• Look for authentic experiences over tourist traps

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Final Thoughts

These five destinations offer incredible experiences away from overcrowded tourist hotspots. Each provides unique cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and authentic local vibes that make travel truly memorable. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or cuisine, these hidden gems deliver unforgettable experiences for 2026.