Sick of the crowds in Bali? dreaming of white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters? The Maldives too far and expensive for you? Well you’re in luck because some of the most stunning tropical islands in the world are situated just a short flight or ferry ride away from Singapore. From hidden Indonesian gems to secret shores in Malaysia…these five paradise escapes offer all the beauty and serenity of the Maldives with zero crowds—and minus the hefty price tag. Get ready to uncover your next island getaway closer, cheaper, and just as breathtaking at these five paradise islands in Southeast Asia.
1. Koh Lipe, Thailand
Often dubbed the Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe offers gorgeous white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs that create that same dreamy, overwater-postcard feel but at a far cheaper price point than a Maldives resort stay. Travellers are can enjoy simpler beachfront bungalows and boutique resorts, as well as budget-friendly accommodations. Additionally, there are many activities like world-class snorkeling at coral reefs, diving, vibrant beach bars, and hiking spots like Tarutao National Marine Park. Wonderfully, the tiny island is car-free so you can enjoy a slower pace of life.
We recommend heading to Langkawi in Malaysia via a 1.5 hour flight from Changi Airport. Following this, it’s just a quick 1.5 hour direct ferry to Koh Lipe—so three hours in total from Singapore.
2. Rawa Island, Malaysia
Malaysia’s Rawa Island is another fantastic alternative to the Maldives, offering the same paradise feel with unspoiled white sand beaches, healthy coral reefs, and clear turquoise waters. Nicknamed the Maldives of Johor, the uncrowded island offers affordable stays in beachfront chalets rather than ultra-luxury overwater villas—so you still get a private island vibe without the Maldives price tags. Plus, there are ocean slides, snorkeling opportunities, kayaking, and jungle treks to beautiful hilltop viewpoints making it the perfect weekend away for families or couples. From Singapore, travellers must drive around three hours to Mersing Jetty and hop on a 30-minute speedboat to the island.
3. Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia
Lombok and the Gili Islands promise the same powder soft sand, blue waters, and barefoot island life that people flock to the Maldives for. Wonderfully, there are many affordable stays, delicious local Indonesian eats, and a range of unique attractions such as pink beaches that add to the appeal. Plus, Lombok offers lush rice fields, uncrowded bays like Kuta, and dramatic scenery atop Mount Rinjani Volcano. Otherwise, the Gili Islands are car-free islands where you get around by bike or on foot and feature vibrant reefs, opportunities to swim with sea turtles, visit underwater parks, and more at a fraction of the price you’d pay in the Maldives. A direct flight to Lombok from Singapore takes two hours and 55 minutes. Certainly, one of the best tropical islands if you want to skip the crowds in Bali.
4. Telunas Private Island, Riau Islands, Indonesia
This tiny Indonesian private island, Telunas, is another Maldives-like option near Singapore offering the same overwater villas, idyllic beaches, and a turquoise sea backdrop. Guests can kayak or stand-up paddleboard around the island, jump off the jetty into clear water, swim in sea-facing infinity pools, and book overwater spa treatments, as well as join guided jungle hikes, fishing trips, Indonesian cooking classes, and more. Telunas Private Island is easily accessible from Singapore via a 45-minute ferry to Batam followed by a 1.5 hour resort boat. Definitely, one of the best tropical islands near Singapore resembling a Maldives escape in Southeast Asia.
5. Nikoi & Cempedak Islands, Indonesia
Searching for exclusive luxury islands for your next holiday near Singapore? Nikoi and Cempedak are two private islands in Indonesia that offer Maldives-style experiences just under three hours from the city-state. Nikoi is a family-friendly private island featuring driftwood beach houses, relaxed barefoot dining, children’s activities, zipline, turtle conversation, sailing, and more in one place. Meanwhile, the deserted paradise of Cempedak a short distance away is an adults-only island offering eco-friendly villas with private pools, tennis, spa, yoga, and more—perfect for couples. Definitely, some of Asia’s best island retreats.
SEE MORE: Skip These 5 Hotspots In Asia And Go To These Hidden Gems Instead