Nothing beats a beautiful island. Whether it’s the feeling of relaxing on a palm-lined beach, wading into warm crystal-clear waters, or simply gazing out to sea from an infinity pool, islands are what vacation dreams are made of.
But islands come in all shapes and sizes. Tropical islands or sun-drenched atolls with stunning beaches are what usually come to mind, but you can find island adventures in many forms. From exploring the glaciers and lakes of New Zealand’s South Island to visiting the temples and cultural attractions of Bali, or enjoying the views from a cliffside town in Santorini, interesting island destinations can be found around the world.
1. Maldives
The Maldives are home to some of the world’s most ravishing islands, but it’s the sea, which truly makes these islands shine. Luminous aquamarine waters with crystal clarity lap upon these dazzling white shores, which barely peek above the Indian Ocean.
The Maldives are also famous for their overwater bungalows, where you can enjoy the calm clear waters from the comfort of your accommodation.
Consisting of 26 natural atolls, the Maldives archipelago is the planet’s lowest-lying nation, with the highest point no more than three meters above the sea, a measurement that shrinks every year.
Beneath the waters, coral reefs flourish, luring divers and snorkelers from around the world. Surfers also flock here to ride the uncrowded breaks.
2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Shaped like a giant sombrero, this lush volcanic island stars in countless South Pacific fantasies. The focal point and best asset of this tropical beauty is its ravishing lagoon in technicolor turquoise. Fish, turtles, sharks, and rays swim in the clear waters, and tiny islets or motus dot the lagoon.
The island, of course, is distinctly French, with mouthwatering cuisine to match. Diving and snorkeling are excellent in the surrounding reefs, and hiking trails weave through the palm-studded forests.
Like the Maldives, Bora Bora is home to luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, where you can fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the sea.
3. Palawan, Philippines
The island of Palawan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is the Philippines’ answer to paradise.
The most stunning area and what sets this island apart from others are the limestone cliffs and beaches on the north end of Palawan, near the town of El Nido. The beaches and views from the town are beautiful, but you can also explore the incredibly scenic Bacuit Bay, which is often what you’ll see in photos of Palawan.
Spectacular karst limestone islands covered in greenery jut straight out of the water and tower over slivers of gleaming white-sand beaches fringed with rustling palms. Be sure to take one of the many daily boat tours to see the highlights including Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island among others.
Indulge in a lavish escape at a secluded island retreat, dozing off to the tranquil melody of the ocean following a day of unwinding by the infinity pool and savoring a delectable culinary masterpiece.
The attractions are not limited to above the water. Coral reefs here teem with an impressive diversity of tropical fish and offer some of the best diving in the Philippines.
One of Palawan’s top attractions is the World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an impressive limestone cave system with a long underground river. This attraction is best visited from Puerto Princesa.
4. Seychelles
Pristine and picture-perfect, the Seychelles are worth traveling for. East of Kenya, this relatively unspoiled archipelago of 115 coral and granite islands is packed with attractions, from UNESCO-listed jungles and thriving coral reefs to palm-lined, powdery beaches flanked by giant boulders.
Almost half the total land area of these equatorial isles is protected, and many of the islands lie within fish-rich marine sanctuaries with excellent diving and snorkeling.
The Seychelles also feature some of the planet’s richest fishing grounds, making this a top destination for anglers. Add some spicy Créole cuisine into the mix, as well as the plush resorts of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, and it’s easy to understand the Seychelles’ allure.
5. Santorini, Greece
Encircling a sea-filled caldera, spectacular Santorini scores top points for its dramatic beauty. Bleached white villas tumble down volcanic cliffs. Blue-domed churches rise against the sparkling sea, and bright sprays of bougainvillea add to the eye-popping color palette.
Perched atop the black lava cliffs, the settlements of Firá and Oia are the island’s most picturesque – and pricey, destinations – and Oia ranks among the most photographed locations in the world.
Other highlights of Santorini include Akrotíri Archaeological Site, Ancient Thira, the black sand beach of Perissa, and of course, the sublime sunsets. Sailing into this stunning caldera surrounded by soaring sea cliffs makes an unforgettable first impression.
6. The Cook Islands
If you’ve ever dreamed of being a castaway in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands are for you. Strung between French Polynesia and Samoa but with strong ties to New Zealand, the archipelago’s 15 islands are among the underrated jewels of the South Pacific.
Among the islands’ top attractions are enticing aquamarine lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and volcanic peaks. Best of all, the locals are among the friendliest in the South Pacific.
Rarotonga is the main tourist hub, with its many resorts, lush peaks, and plentiful beaches. Aitutaki is one of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific. Hibiscus-laced villages snuggle on the hillsides, and 21 motus or small islets lie along its heavenly lagoon, many within kayak distance of the resorts.
Ensconce yourself here in an over-the-water bungalow, or hole up in a rustic beach shack on a remote out island and live your Robinson Crusoe fantasies.
7. Bali, Indonesia
Bali’s intoxicating culture is a feast for the senses. Incense wafts from Hindu temples, rice paddies glow in electric greens, and the food jolts the taste buds. Surfing, swimming, and sunbathing are popular activities at the island’s beautiful beaches, and tourists will find so many other things to do on this exotic isle, from temple hopping and sightseeing in the lush countryside to spa treatments, shopping, and hiking.
Soak up the spiritual side of Bali in Ubud, see Seminyak, and family-friendly Sanur, feel the pumping pulse of touristy Kuta, or explore the attractions on the neighboring volcanic island of Lombok.
Far from being undiscovered, Bali is a busy place and you should be mentally prepared to enjoy this little island slice of paradise with others, but this is also what gives the island an energetic vibe.
Looking for somewhere chic to stay? Choose from beautiful beach resorts, and if you’re bringing the kids, you’ll find plenty of good-value places to stay with the family.
8. The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
In the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia, the Dalmatian Islands are an enchanting mix of relaxed charm and rich history. Quaint villages and boutique hotels and restaurants dot these gorgeous isles, which are surrounded by sparkling seas and some of the Croatia’s best beaches.
Top on the list is Brac with the famous beach strip of Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn). Hvar is also beautiful, with Gothic churches, a car-free old town, and a picturesque fishing harbor. From here, you can zip across to the beautiful Pakleni Islands, known for their crystal-clear water and secluded coves.
Other must-see Dalmatian islands include Korcula, with its red-roofed, white-washed buildings; Mljet with its two inland saltwater lakes; and relatively uncrowded Vis.
9. Fiji
One of Australia’s go-to tropical escapes, Fiji ticks all the fantasy island boxes. White-sand beaches, translucent turquoise waters, and teeming coral reefs are all found here in abundance. And the Fijian people welcome visitors with warm, friendly smiles.
Diving, snorkeling, fishing, and, in some areas, surfing are all popular things to do in Fiji, but sprawling under a palm tree and slipping into the silky warm seas can be equally rewarding. With more than 300 islands, it’s easy to find the best island for your vacation, from luxurious celebrity hideaways and family-friendly resorts to the sublime Yasawa and Mamanuca group.
Fijians love young children, so this a fabulous destination for families looking to relax.
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