How to Find Your Own Secret Paradise (Without the Crowds)

We’ve all seen the picture-perfect travel spots—crystal-clear water, empty beaches, charming villages—only to arrive and find crowds, overpriced food, and influencers staging fake “candid” photos. If you want to escape the tourist chaos and find your own private paradise, you’ll need to think beyond the typical bucket list. Here’s how to track down those hidden gems before everyone else does.

Avoid the “Instagram Famous” Destinations

If a place has gone viral, chances are everyone is already going there. Instead of heading to the latest social media hotspot, look for similar but lesser-known alternatives. Love Santorini? Try Milos or Folegandros. Want to see Bali? Check out Lombok instead. The world is full of equally stunning places without the crowds.

Ask Locals, Not Google

Guidebooks and travel blogs will point you to the same places as everyone else. Instead, talk to locals. Ask a barista, taxi driver, or shop owner where they go to escape the crowds. Most locals have a favorite hidden spot, and if you’re lucky, they might just share it with you.

Go Off-Season

Even the busiest destinations have a quiet side—if you time it right. Traveling in the off-season (or even just the shoulder season) means fewer tourists, lower prices, and a more authentic experience. Visit Europe in fall instead of summer, tropical islands right before or after peak season, and famous cities on weekdays instead of weekends.

Embrace the Detour

Some of the best places aren’t in guidebooks—they’re places you stumble upon. If you’re heading to a well-known area, go just a little farther. That extra 30-minute drive, the small village before the big city, or the hidden trail instead of the main viewpoint often leads to the best discoveries.

Be Willing to Walk (or Hike, or Paddle)

If a place is easy to reach, it’s probably packed. The real hidden paradises require extra effort. That might mean hiking a bit farther, renting a kayak, or taking the less obvious route. Most tourists won’t bother, which means you’ll have the place to yourself.

The Verdict: Seclusion Takes Effort, But It’s Worth It

Finding your own secret paradise isn’t about luck—it’s about avoiding the obvious, talking to locals, and embracing the unexpected. Whether it’s a hidden cove, a quiet village, or a stunning viewpoint with no one else around, the effort makes the experience even more special. And the best part? No crowds.