Asian Destinations You May Not Have Heard of But Will Be Huge in 2026

By

Lisette Marie

December 8, 2025

13. Sumba, Indonesia – The Untamed Island Paradise

Weekuri Lagoon, Sumba, Indonesia. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Bimantara.prawoto

Forget Bali—Sumba is Indonesia’s next big island destination, and it remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. Known for its wild landscapes, remote beaches, and deep cultural heritage, Sumba offers an authentic island experience unlike any other in Southeast Asia. Unlike its crowded neighbors, Sumba’s beaches remain pristine, and its famous surf breaks, like Occy’s Left, are world-class but blissfully uncrowded.What makes Sumba truly unique, though, is its ancient Marapu culture, where locals still live in traditional thatched-roof villages and practice elaborate Pasola warrior rituals. The island is also home to the famous Nihi Sumba, an eco-luxury resort consistently ranked among the world’s best, proving that Sumba offers both raw adventure and high-end relaxation. Get there before the secret’s out.

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