cool islands to visit

15 of the world's most stunning islands for every kind of traveler

Nov 25, 2022 • 10 min read

Head to Vis, Croatia to get away from it all © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Take a journey with us to discover the cultural heritage, natural wonders and secret stories of islands both famous and far away.

Experience the canopy trees of Socotra Island, the penguin paradise of Macquarie Island, the Channel Islands' dolphins and the colors of Hokkaidō.

We've compiled 15 of the most stunning and interesting islands featured in The Island Book , Lonely Planet's new compilation of the world's most amazing 150 islands. Whether relaxing on the beach, immersing yourself in the island's culture or exploring the natural splendor of unspoiled terrain, these 15 islands will inspire your next great adventure.

The Americas

Haida Gwaii, Canada

Centuries-old totem poles reach toward the skies on the edge of misty rainforests, while the roar of crashing waves echoes through the treetops. Around 80km (50 miles) off the coast of British Columbia , the islands of Haida Gwaii showcase a world where nature rules supreme. Sudden thunderstorms and icy winds can’t blunt the power of seeing foraging black bears, nesting bald eagles and scurrying pine martens amid moss-laden forests that harbor some of the largest spruce and cedar on Earth. Haida Gwaii’s cultural treasures are equally inspiring. The Haida people have lived on their ancestral land for over 10,000 years, with historic villages and ancient archaeological sites attesting to their age-old presence. About 2500 Haida live on the islands, and they continue to contribute to a thriving arts and crafts scene while also playing a critical role in helping to protect the natural environment of the islands.

Channel Islands, USA

Nicknamed the ‘Galápagos of North America’, Channel Islands National Park is home to an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life, including some 150 species found nowhere else on Earth. Volcanic activity formed the mountainous archipelago, which lies just off the coast of Southern California and was never attached to the mainland. While vestiges of human presence remain, including that of Chumash communities who lived on the island for more than 13,000 years, today these uninhabited islands offer a remarkable opportunity to reconnect with primeval wilderness. You can hike, kayak, scuba dive or camp amid a raw, edge-of-the-world landscape – or simply enjoy the unrivalled wildlife-watching amid the islands’ surprisingly diverse terrain.

The ultimate guide to California's Channel Islands

Chiloé Island, Chile

This peanut-shaped island off the coast of Patagonia , 1100km (683 miles) south of Santiago , lures foreigners with its moss-covered rainforests, historic churches and untrammeled beaches. Yet, if you ask a Chilean why they’re visiting, they’ll likely wax poetic over the culture, dialect and aesthetic, which are distinct from the mainland following centuries of historic isolation. The wooden stilt homes of Chiloé’s capital, Castro, are as colourful as the cast of characters in its local mythology, which includes fish-herding mermaids, sex-crazed forest goblins and lizards who predict the weather. Island meals, meanwhile, pair a rainbow of native potatoes with the fabulous fruits of the sea.

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Île de Ré, France

The call of the wild harks back centuries on this chic Breton island, scattered with whitewashed villages in hues of aqua-green and eggshell blue. This might be the hobnobbing hotspot of weekending Parisians in summer, but the roots of tradition run deep in salt-of-the-earth Brittany : sauniers harvest sel from ancestral salt pans, farmers toil in family potato fields and new-gen artisans distil gin and vodka with homegrown fingerling potatoes and organic seaweed gathered along the shore. Grab a bicycle in the quaint fishing port of St-Martin-de-Ré and enjoy the ride!

Isle Of Skye, Scotland

The second-largest of Scotland’s islands , in the Inner Hebrides, is its most spectacular, with a landscape that lurches from quiet coves and inky lochs to jagged pinnacles, tumbling waterfalls and pleated cliffs. Skye’s dramatic mountains and undulating moors are easily reached by a bridge from the mainland, but to access the remotest corners and most impressive views you’ll need to take to the high moorland on foot, cycle precipitous mountain roads or kayak along the puckered and indented coast. Temper it all with a visit to fairy-tale castles, colorful fishing villages and a host of museums, galleries and craft shops in the island’s lively towns. Bring a raincoat, though: the name Skye comes the old Norse sky-a, meaning ‘cloud island’. The weather here is unpredictable at best, but the scudding clouds and brooding skies only heighten the drama.

The ultimate guide to Scotland's magical Hebrides islands

Vis, Croatia

Cut off from the rest of the world from the 1950s until 1989, this former Yugoslav military base is bliss for island lovers seeking peace, tranquillity and untouched natural beauty in spades. Pristine forests, citrus groves, pebble beaches, clandestine nudist coves and dazzling sea caves evoke an island idyll of yesteryear – before tourism was born.

Incongruously, some of Vis’  most beautiful natural spots squirrel away rocket shelters, bunkers, weapon chests and submarine pens – abandoned by the Yugoslav National Army when it packed up camp and left the island in 1992. Remains of Greek and British naval cemeteries, Roman baths and an English fortress are further witness to this enigmatic island’s curious history.

Croatia's best food and drink experiences

Cabo Verde 

Rising from the Atlantic 500km (311 miles) west of Senegal , this glorious island chain has a captivating blend of mountains, beaches and tranquil seaside villages. On Santo Antão , craggy peaks hide piercing green valleys of flowers and sugar cane, ideal for epic hikes. São Vicente is home to the cultural capital of the islands, Mindelo, which throbs with bars and music clubs. On Sal and Maio, undulating windswept dunes merge with indigo-blue seas on unspoiled beaches of powdery white sand. Meanwhile, far-flung Fogo and Brava in the southwest offer their own enchantments, from surreal volcanic landscapes to sparkling bays framed by towering peaks.

São Tomé & Príncipe

Adrift in the Gulf of Guinea, this two-island nation is Africa’s second-smallest and one that blends natural wonders with a gripping history. São Tomé & Príncipe (STP) is a safe and welcoming ecotourism destination, as rich in jungles as it is beautiful. This is especially true on unspoiled Príncipe, which has a population of just 7000. A canopy of green broken by spires of primordial rock, Príncipe is magnificent and wild, offering fantastic beaches, jungle exploration, snorkeling, fishing and birdwatching. A center of cacao production and with a promising economic future as an oil producer, it’s an island nation on the cusp of great change.

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Socotra, Yemen

Lying offshore from the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, Socotra belongs politically to Yemen and is geographically a part of Africa. The island has been a Unesco World Heritage site since 2008, and its rugged, blistered interior shelters remarkable diversity: more than 700 of the island’s species (including one-third of Socotra’s plant species) are found nowhere else on Earth. Geographers consider Socotra to be one of the most isolated non-volcanic landforms on the planet, and its millions of years of isolation from other land masses is responsible for its famously biodiverse ecosystems.

How to make Ethiopian injera

Malapascua Island, Philippines

Off the north coast of Cebu , this tiny tropical island is famous for its world-class diving. But even if you’ve no interest in marine life, Malapascua makes a brilliant beach destination, with more than a dozen pretty beaches and bays to discover. Curving around the southeastern corner of the island, beautiful Bounty Beach is lined with hotels and bars that buzz at sunset. Behind the beachfront hotels, shanty settlements are the legacy of Typhoon Yolanda, which tore off every roof on the island in 2013. Nearly a decade later, in December 2021, Malapasuca was lucky to escape a direct hit from Typhoon Odette, which decimated southern Cebu. As the only way to get here is by van or bus from Cebu City to the northern village of Maya (followed by a 45-minute ferry ride), visits to Malapascua play a role in the region’s typhoon recovery.

These eco-adventures are the best way to experience the Philippines

Jeju-do, South Korea

Jeju-do , the largest island in South Korea, is presided over by Halla-san, the country’s tallest mountain at 1950m (6398ft) and the only shield volcano in Asia. The island’s volcanic origins are still evident today, in a number of impressive lava formations. At lower altitudes, Jeju-do has a humid subtropical climate, which has made it one of South Korea’s most popular tourist destinations; millions visit every year, and the island has earned the nickname ‘Honeymoon Island’. Jeju-do was an independent kingdom known as Tamna (Island Country) until the 10th century, when it became a protectorate of the Korean kingdom of Silla. Today it retains a modicum of autonomy as South Korea’s only self-governing province.

Hokkaidō, Japan

Hokkaidō is Japan’s northernmost major island and also its second-largest, occupying one-fifth of the country’s land mass but home to fewer than 5% of its total population. Hokkaidō is the Japan of wide-open spaces, of big mountains and even bigger skies. To the east and south is the Pacific Ocean; to the west, the Sea of Japan; and to the north, the icy waters of the Sea of Okhotsk. In the center is Japan’s largest national park, Daisetsuzan – which means ‘Great Snowy Mountains’ – a largely untouched wilderness. In the language of Hokkaidō’s Indigenous people, the Ainu, Daisetsuzan is known as  kamuy mintar , which means ‘the playground of the gods’. The Ainu have called the island home for centuries, long before Japanese settlers began arriving in earnest in the 19th century; Hokkaidō was officially annexed by Japan in 1869.

The 7 best national parks in Japan

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Rising from the ashes after having been ravaged by fire in the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-20, when nearly half of the island burned, Kangaroo Island (or KI, as locals call it) remains a world-class wildlife and wilderness destination. The island, off the southern coast of South Australia , is home to iconic and charismatic native Australian animals on both land and sea. Add to that a delightfully slow pace of life – it’s the kind of place where children ride bikes to school and farmers advertise for wives on noticeboards – and a small but well-regarded winegrowing reputation, and it’s hard not to fall in love with KI.

Eating on Kangaroo Island: where to find the best feasts

Macquarie Island, Australia

One of the Earth’s more remote islands, Macquarie is roughly halfway between Tasmania and Antarctica . Its leading attractions are its epic colonies of 100,000 seals (mainly elephant seals) and four million penguins, including about 850,000 breeding pairs of royals (which only raise young here and on the nearby Bishops and Clerks islands). That these huge colonies survive is remarkable: sealing (for skins) and penguin-hunting (for oil) historically wrought havoc upon seal and bird populations: after the discovery of then-uninhabited Macquarie in the early 19th century, the wildlife was pretty much wiped out by the dawn of the 20th century. Apart from the hunting, whalers and sealers upset the ecosystem by bringing horses, donkeys, dogs, cats, mice, rats, rabbits, goats, pigs, cattle, ducks, chickens and sheep to Macquarie. Rats, mice and rabbits remain numerous and problematic, but penguin and seal numbers rebounded following legal protections in the 1980s and beyond.

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Stewart Island/Rakiura, New Zealand

Providing a southern anchor to New Zealand , Stewart Island is known in Māori as Rakiura – ‘Glowing Skies’ – in reference to the shimmering aurora australis (Southern Lights) phenomenon that is often sighted during the cooler and longer nights of a Southern Hemisphere winter. A small population of around 400 ensures Rakiura’s night skies remain largely pristine, and the island was awarded Dark Sky Sanctuary accreditation by the International Dark Sky Association in 2019. Beyond a concise and resourceful population living mainly around the Half Moon Bay settlement of Oban, both Stewart Island/Rakiura and neighboring Ulva Island teem with native New Zealand birdlife; many species are sighted by outdoor adventurers.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated November 2022

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24 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Written by Lana Law , Michael Law , and Karen Hastings Updated Sep 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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.

Discover your own piece of paradise with our list of the most beautiful islands in the world.

1. Maldives

2. bora bora, french polynesia, 3. palawan, philippines, 4. seychelles, 5. santorini, greece, 6. the cook islands, 7. bali, indonesia, 8. the dalmatian islands, croatia, 10. kaua'i, usa, 11. koh samui, thailand, 12. st. lucia, the caribbean, 13. capri, italy, 14. ko phi phi, thailand, 15. whitsunday islands, australia, 16. the south island of new zealand, 17. sardinia, italy, 18. st. barts, the caribbean, 19. the domincan republic, 20. mallorca, spain, 21. the bahamas, 23. lofoten islands, norway, 24. isle of skye, scotland.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Read More: Best Beaches on Santorini

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.

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.

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.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Croatia

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Croatia
• Croatia Road Trip: Driving the Coast from Istria to Dubrovnik

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.

Kaua'i is called "the Garden Isle" for good reason: rainforests cloak much of the interior, waterfalls tumble from lava cliffs, and the intoxicating fragrance of tropical blooms hangs heavy on the sultry air.

But the island's beauty lies not just in its luxuriant flora. Its spectacular coastline will take your breath away. Lava sculpted this stunning island, thrusting up from the ocean floor to form velvety ridges and vertiginous cliffs rimmed by gorgeous beaches .

Beneath its cobalt-blue seas, turtles and tropical fish swim along coral reefs, delighting divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Compared to its popular sister islands, Maui and Oahu, Kaua'i exudes a low-key vibe and tends to move at a more relaxed pace.

Explore the lush mountains and coastal areas on some of Kauai's most popular hiking trails . And don't miss Kauai's top attractions : the breathtaking Na Pali Coast , the 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon , and the cloud-capped vistas from the cliffs above Hanalei Bay .

Palm-lined beaches, turquoise seas, and a thriving tourist scene are what you'll find on Koh Samui. Add to that coral reefs and the emerald peaks rising from the sea in beautiful Ang Thong National Marine Park , and it's hard not to fall in love with this tropical Thai paradise.

Koh Samui's smaller sister islands, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, are also worth a visit. In fact, day trips to these idyllic islands are one of the top things to do during a visit to Koh Samui . Other popular places to visit include the beautiful boulder-strewn Chaweng and Lamai beaches , the shops and food stalls of Fisherman's Village, and majestic Buddhist temples.

Read More: From Bangkok to Koh Samui: Best Ways to Get There

St. Lucia exudes a dark and brooding beauty. Unlike other islands in the Caribbean, its best assets are not necessarily its beaches, though with their golden sands and graceful palms, they are popular with those who visit. Rather, the island itself is drenched in topographic drama.

The towering Pitons, twin volcanic peaks, preside over the luxuriant landscapes, rising more than 700 meters from the sea, and providing a breathtaking backdrop to the stunning scenery.

Bristling forests of coconut palms, waterfalls, quaint fishing villages, coral reefs, nature trails, and healing hot springs are just some of the sights to explore on St. Lucia . Pretty Marigot Bay and Anse Chastanet Marine Park are some of the highlights. The island's French influences also add to its exotic appeal.

Glamorous Capri, about 20 kilometers off the Amalfi Coast , lives up to all the hype. Sea stacks and soaring cliffs rise from the teal-hued Tyrrhenian Sea, framed by sprays of colorful flowers.

One of its most popular tourist attractions is the blue grotto, a glowing sea cave, where locals row tourists in on tiny boats and sing opera to demonstrate the acoustics.

Once you arrive at the port of Marina Grande , catch the funicular up to the main town of Capri, which feels like a movie set. The piazza here buzzes with impeccably dressed locals and tourists toting shopping bags filled with designer clothes and the island's heavenly perfumes.

While you're here, be sure to also visit the highest town, Anacapri, and take the chair lift up to Monte Solaro for spectacular views across the island and sea.

• Read More: From Rome to Capri: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Ko Phi Phi is a small archipelago in the Krabi Province of Thailand, and home to some of the best islands in Krabi . Lush limestone peaks rise from the tropical sea, and warm waters lap on palm-lined sugary beaches.

The island's natural beauty still recalls the tropical island dream evoked in the famous Leonardo DiCaprio movie, The Beach , which was filmed here at Maya Beach on the smaller neighboring island of Ko Phi Phi Leh .

Ko Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island and offers day trips to the surrounding islands. Other popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, and superb diving. Don't miss Monkey Beach , famous for its cheeky namesake residents.

Sprinkled along the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef , the Whitsunday Islands are Australia's version of the classic tropical island fantasy. These 74 lush islands are the peaks of drowned hills rising above the strikingly blue Coral Sea.

Sailing is one of the popular things to do in the Whitsundays , and diving is excellent along the fish-rich coral reefs. This is an extremely fragile ecosystem protected by six national parks, and you can explore some of the islands on hiking trails.

Accommodation ranges from beachfront campsites, eco-retreats, and family resorts to luxury escapes like Hayman Island and Qualia on Hamilton Island .

Don't miss the radiant silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, one of Australia's best beaches , on Whitsunday Island .

Airlie Beach is the main launching point for Whitsunday adventures.

Few places on earth have as much natural beauty and diversity packed into such a small area as the South Island of New Zealand . Soaring mountains, glaciers, rushing rivers, beaches, fiords, lush pastures, plus a bit of gold rush history make this place an explorer's paradise.

The South Island of New Zealand isn't located at the end of the earth but it's close. Antarctica is only 2,550 kilometers south. It's this unique geographical location that gives the island natural attractions found nowhere else in the world. The best example of this is the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers that descend from the frozen peaks down into a rainforest near sea level. Hiking to the glaciers and flightseeing in helicopters are two popular pastimes here.

The Southern Alps are spectacular places for hiking. Trails wind their way past jaw-dropping scenery to cobalt-colored lakes, scenic mountain vistas, and along deserted coastlines. Prefer your adventure pre-packaged? Then head to Queenstown where you can go jet boating up narrow canyons, bungee jump off a historical bridge, or explore the gold rush history at nearby Arrowtown.

An often overlooked place on the South Island is the delightful town of Kaikoura . Here, you can swim with friendly and inquisitive dolphins, go whale watching, or take a tour to see albatrosses. The town also has a delightful shoreline walk to seal colonies, home to hundreds of these interesting creatures.

Blissful white-sand beaches, rugged coastal peaks, mouthwatering cuisine, a unique blend of cultures, and ancient archeological treasures: What's not to love about this saucy Italian isle?

Most travelers have heard of the glamorous Costa Smeralda , or Emerald Coast, with its craggy coves and clear green seas, but this large and diverse Mediterranean isle also lays claim to many other attractions . Sardinia is home to the largest canyon in Europe, Gola su Gorropu ; prehistoric archaeological sites; the captivating Catalan-tinged town of Alghero ; and the medieval streets of Cagliari , the capital.

Stay awhile at one of the many pampering hotels and resorts, and while you're here, be sure to cruise along some of the scenic coastal drives and soak up the spectacular views.

St. Barts is one of the most famous islands in the Caribbean. Stunningly beautiful yet understated, it lures movie stars and moguls from around the world – and for good reason. St. Barts offers a luscious taste of France in the tropics, with a relaxed charm that discerning travelers love.

One of St. Barts' top attractions is its glamorous blond beaches, which curve around its coastline, backed by rolling green hills. Privacy and seclusion are the island's other top selling points, but of course, all this comes at a price. This alluring island is one of the Caribbean's most expensive, but if money's no object, you can ensconce yourself in a private villa or boutique hotel, dine on gourmet French cuisine until your heart's content, and live the lifestyle of the rich and famous.

This large island in the Caribbean is blessed with beautiful beaches, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, luxury resorts, and many hidden gems for those who want a quiet escape.

Gorgeous beaches of golden sand are lapped by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and it's one of the few places where you can find your own deserted patch of sand, untouched by development.

The most well-known destinations in the Dominican Republic are Punta Cana and Puerto Plata , where the waterfronts are adorned with grand all-inclusive resorts that offer a luxurious stay.

For those who prefer a more bohemian atmosphere, Cabarete is a fantastic destination that caters to the thrill-seeking kiteboarding and surfing community. Restaurants spill onto the beach offering great dining and nightlife options.

Las Terrenas is another favorite destination for those who don't want a resort holiday, but enjoy good restaurants and a beachfront hotel.

For those who want to get well away from the crowds, places like the small community of Las Galeras on the Semana Peninsula or Punta Rucia , west of Puerto Plata, offer a quaint escape.

The capital city of Santo Domingo is a world away from the rest of the island and a fantastic cultural experience. The Zona Colonial (the old section of the city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for visitors.

Sun-soaked beaches, blue bays bristling with boats, limestone peaks, and a lively vibe make Mallorca a Mediterranean hot spot. The largest of Spain's Balearic Islands , this Spanish beauty is perhaps most famous for its staggeringly beautiful coastline, and its buzzy beach scene.

But Mallorca offers more than just dancing on the beach. Head inland to hilltop monasteries, hike the rugged trails of the Serra de Tramuntana, wander aimlessly around historic villages, or feast on sun-infused Mediterranean cuisine. Culture vultures will also find plenty to keep then happy. Museums and galleries are among the top things to do on Mallorca .

With 700 islands and more than 2,000 tiny cayes, it's easy to find your dream Caribbean hideaway in The Bahamas. The top attractions of these stunningly beautiful islands range from idyllic beaches and thriving coral reefs to fantastic shopping and dining.

Seeking duty-free shops, mega-resorts, and entertainment? Head to the capital of Nassau , a popular cruise ship port on the island of New Providence, or book a stay on Grand Bahama. Is big-game fishing your favorite thing to do? Bimini is the best choice. Maybe you want to explore the underwater world: Long Island and Andros have fantastic diving and world-class bonefishing.

And if you just want to bask on sublime white-sand beaches washed by eye-popping blue water, head to the Out Islands, like the Exumas, Abacos, and Eleuthera – these are among the best Caribbean islands for uncrowded, blissful beach time. Are pink-sand beaches more your thing? Harbor Island should be top on your list.

No matter where you decide to visit, you'll find plenty of idyllic places to stay, from luxury resorts to family resorts, and even cheap all-inclusive resorts .

Samoa is a poster child for South Pacific beauty. Volcanic uprisings crafted much of this island's dramatic topography: jungle-clad peaks plunge to the Pacific, and rugged rock islands rise from the sapphire sea.

Samoa is actually an archipelago of 10 tropical islands about halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii. You're in the heart of Polynesia here, and the big hearts of the locals are a big part of the islands' appeal.

Samoa also boasts some of the South Pacific's most spectacular waterfalls, as well as flourishing coral reefs, wild beaches, hiking trails, picturesque crater pools, and surf breaks. Loll on Lalomanu Beach ; hike lush rainforest trails; or take a dip in the To Sua trench , a picturesque crater pool ringed by tropical gardens. Staying on Samoa means soaking up an authentic taste of the South Pacific.

Not all beautiful islands are tropical. Norway's Lofoten Islands, in the Arctic Circle, are a case in point. Jagged peaks and sheer rock walls soar above mirror-like fjords. Secluded beaches tucked beneath towering sea cliffs, and bright red fishermen's cabins complete the picturesque scene.

Winter is equally beautiful when a dusting of snow imbues these jaw-dropping vistas with a fairy-tale charm. But despite its location in the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are not as cold as you might expect. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, the islands offer relatively mild winters and warmer summers than other destinations at this latitude.

Nature lovers will be in heaven here. Popular things to do in the Lofoten Islands include hiking, kayaking, boating, surfing, birding, and whale watching. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Isle of Skye means "cloud island" in old Norse. Lay eyes on this Scottish beauty, and you'll know why. Clouds of mist shroud velvety green hills, infusing a mystical feel to this remote island, the largest of the Inner Hebrides.

This brand of beauty is bleak and rugged. Wind-whipped beaches, toothy crags towering over apple-green moors, deep lochs, and soaring cliffs tell the tales of nature's power.

Isle of Sky highlights include the jagged rocks known as The Storr, as well as Kilt Rock, a soaring slice of sea cliff washed by the spectacular Mealt Waterfall, and the Fairy Pools grace many a postcard, with misty veils of water spilling into emerald pools.

Portree is the main tourist town, with a scenic harbor and pastel-painted cottages. And when the clouds of mist roll across the island, medieval castles, museums, and art galleries await.

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The 20 Best Tropical Islands in the World

I’m a beach guy. When I think of paradise, my mind drifts to white sand beaches, azure blue water, and palm trees in tropical locales. When most people think of paradise, chances are they’re also thinking of tropical islands in far-flung corners of the world. Lounging with a good book , drinking from coconuts, soaking up the rays.

Tropical islands are that peaceful escape where the days drift by, the problems of the world melt away, and time slows down.

They are a sanctuary.

I spent a month living on an island in Thailand and it remains one of the best months of my entire life.

Having grown up in Boston and spent many years living in New York City , one of the main purposes of my travels is to avoid winter. I seek the sun.

I’ve been to many of the best tropical islands in the world (and there are sooooo many). After over fifteen years of travel and countless hours staring out into the ocean, I’ve done the “hard” research of visiting lots of islands to find the best islands in the world!

In this post, I’ll give you my favorite and best islands to visit in your travels!

Here’s a quick overview of the islands in case you’re looking for something specific (and don’t want to read the whole article):

With a quick overview out of the way, here’s my list of the best tropical islands in the world — no matter your budget, travel style, or interests! Just click on the island below to jump to that section!

Table of Contents

1. The Seychelles

2. the maldives, 4. bali and the gili islands, 7. big island hawaii, 8. the cook islands, 9. curaçao, 10. the perhentian islands, 11. bermuda, 12. barbados, 13. isla de providencia (old providence), 14. the san blas islands, 15. the canary islands, 17. the whitsunday islands, 18. the galápagos islands, 19. saint lucia, 20. the azores.

This group of 115 islands offers everything a beach lover could ask for. It’s an amazing place to visit for its diverse marine life and it has several nature preserves and marine parks, two of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sadly, these islands are pretty expensive — though it is possible to visit on a budget if you plan ahead. The best time to visit is during the cool season from May to September when it rains less.

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES:

• Glass Boat Snorkeling Tour
• Reef Safari at St Anne Marine National Park
• 5 Beach Adventure Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE SEYCHELLES : Jeanny’s Apartments – A beachfront three-star hotel on Grand’Anse Praslin with free breakfast, free parking, and lovely staff.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to the Seychelles!  

These little coral islands are surrounded by excellent diving, snorkeling, and idyllic white-sand beaches, and are filled with friendly locals. Private resorts litter the islands, and a vacation here is also very pricey, as the Maldives is one of the most sought-after luxury destinations in the world.

Luckily, you can at least get here cheaply, as Thai Air Asia offers cheap flights to and from Thailand (you can find round-trip flights for around $300 USD!).

The best time to go to the Maldives is from November to May when the weather is cool and dry. June through October sees wetter and hotter weather due to the monsoon season.

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES

• Go Diving or Snorkeling
• Explore Malé
• Go Parasailing

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE MALDIVES : Endheri Sunset Dhangethi ( Dhangethi) – A budget-friendly hotel near the beach that includes free bikes for use and basic amenities like flatscreen TVs and AC.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to the Maldives!  

Located in southern Thailand , this semi-off-the-map island is one of my favorites and the month I spent here remains one of fondest memories .

Here on Ko Lipe , the super-friendly locals bring in the daily catch for amazing seafood, as the island’s water is teeming with life. Accommodation is still basic, though more and more places now offer electricity 24/7. I expect development will slowly erode this paradise, however, so visit soon!

Close to this island is a little island that provides excellent snorkeling opportunities. You may even spot a few reef sharks. Bathtub-warm water and fine sand beaches kept me here for over three weeks. It will do the same for you. Visit between November and March for the best weather and the fewest people. May through October sees a harsh monsoon season that shuts the island down. The best way to get there is by boat from Pak Bara.

• Full Day Multi-Island Snorkeling Trip
• Visit Nearby Ko Adang
• Explore Tarutao National Marine Park

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN KO LIPE : The Chic Lipe – A boutique hostel with a restaurant on-site that’s just a short walk to Walking Street and Sunrise Beach.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Ko Lipe!  

But Indonesia has more than just Bali. The nearby Gili Islands are another incredible island getaway. Both destinations make for a more active tropical vacation and the weather remains pretty constant all year round (though April to October sees slightly drier weather). Both Bali and the Gili Islands are close enough that you should be able to visit them both on your trip to really get the most out of this idyllic corner of the world.

• Sunrise Mount Batur Hike
• Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour
• Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BALI AND THE GILI ISLANDS : Tribal Bali (Canggu) – A fun coworking space and hostel with an on-site bar, infinity pool, pool table, and super chill vibe.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Bali!  

It’s a popular destination with young people and honeymooners, with something for everyone on offer — diving, sailing, snorkeling, whale watching, peaceful luxury, and much more! Most young people and budget travelers head to the Yasawa Islands , known for their inexpensive accommodation, cheap transportation, and late-night parties. The temperature remains mostly constant throughout the year, with cyclones occurring between November and January.

• Serenity Island Sailing and Snorkeling Trip
• Mamanuca Islands All-Inclusive Sailing Cruise
• Viti Levu: Mud Pool, Temple, and Sleeping Giant Garden

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN FIJI : The Beachouse (Coral Coast) – A family owned resort located in a sheltered sandy lagoon, with private bungalows as well as dorm rooms available. Includes free breakfast and free kayak rentals.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Fiji!  

One of the biggest honeymoon destinations in the world, Tahiti offers pure paradise and a lot of romance. Its very name has long been synonymous with tropical paradise. Here you can relax in the sun, scuba dive, enjoy fine seafood, and take a morning dip right from your bungalow.

The island is expensive and caters to a more affluent tourist crowd, though there are still ways to visit on something of a budget. Try to visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands to get an insight into Polynesia culture. Le Marché Papeete (the public market) is the place to try local cuisine and pick up souvenirs. The weather is tropical all year round and very humid, though May to October sees cooler temperatures.

• Bora Bora: Shark and Snorkeling Safari
• Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
• 4X4 and Jet Ski Adventure Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN TAHITI : Manomano Lodge – A cozy beachfront lodge with free Wi-Fi, a shared outdoor lounge and garden, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Tahiti!  

Then there are all the waterfalls on the island, great snorkeling and diving, and the lush wilderness of the Waipi’o Valley, once home to Hawaiian kings. Big Island has it all. I mean it’s Hawaii — how could you go wrong?!

The wet season is from October to March, though the weather is cooler during these months. However, despite being located near each other, weather conditions on each island can vary greatly, so you never know what to expect!

• Afternoon Snorkeling Sail to Captain Cook’s Monument
• Eco-Friendly Twilight Manta Ray Adventure
• Mauna Kea Summit: Sunset Stargazing Adventure

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN HAWAII : My Hawaii Hostel – This hostel is close to everything you’ll need and offers free parking, free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, and has a chill indoor/outdoor common area to lounge in.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Hawaii!  

With few amenities, this is the best place to find your inner castaway and escape modern life. Rarotonga is the largest and most visited island, however, I suggest you visit a few other islands if you make it out this way. Once you leave the main island, you’ll have miles of beaches and their crystal clear waters (perfect for snorkeling, diving, swimming, and sea kayaking) virtually to yourself!

The islands see similar weather to the rest of the area, with temperatures hot and humid all year round.

• Watch a traditional dance show
• Explore Aitutaki Island
• Hike Around Rarotonga

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE COOK ISLANDS : Ranginuis Retreat – Located on the scenic Ootu Beach, this hotel includes free airport transports, free kayak rentals, and an outdoor swimming pool.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to the Cook Islands!  

As the largest and most populated of the Netherlands Antilles, Curaçao has the most going on and the most “social life.” It’s the hippest island in the chain and the most visited by younger travelers, so hit the beaches, lay in the sun, and party the night away. This may not be Gilligan’s Island, but what it lacks in privacy, it makes up for in romance and fun.

The weather is pretty stable here year-round. It’s always hot and usually sunny. If it rains, it’s between November and January. And don’t worry about hurricanes – it’s below the hurricane belt!

• Kayaking Tour
• Half-Day Fishing Trip
• Speedboat Adventure Snorkeling

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN CURAÇAO : First Hostel Curaçao – Located in a former ice cream factory in Willemstad, this hostel boasts an outdoor pool, dive shop, relaxing terrace, and air-conditioning.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Curaçao!  

There’s not much to do here, and visitors typically lay on the beach all day, resting from last night’s drinking. It’s the perfect place to put up a hammock; the Malay word Perhentian roughly translates to “stopping point” — an appropriate name considering most travelers who visit here end up staying longer than anticipated. The islands are also great for divers and snorkelers, as the reefs and crystalline waters are home to a wide variety of coral, sea turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.

A strong monsoon season limits when to go (visit between March and October). During the other times, it’s best to head to Thailand, where the weather is nicer.

• Go Jungle Trekking
• See Turtles at Turtle Beach

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE PERHENTIAN ISLANDS : Senja Bay Resort – Just one minute from the beach, this budget resort offers both fan-cooled and air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to the Perhentian Islands!  

While you will need a respectable budget, if you give Bermuda a chance you’ll find an island home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of North America and the Caribbean (my favorites are Church Bay, Elbow Beach, and Chaplin Bay). The locals are incredibly friendly and you can find some world-class food here too. There’s tons to keep you busy, with caves to explore, lots of hiking, and world-class snorkeling and diving (Bermuda is known as the shipwreck capital of the world; there are over 300 shipwrecks here).

• Visit the Crystal and Fantasy Caves
• Climb the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
• Explore the Royal Naval Dockyard

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BERMUDA : Blue Horizons Guest House – A cozy three-star guesthouse with a homey vibe and helpful staff that’s close to the beach.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Bermuda!  

Like in Bermuda, you’ll find amazing beaches and caving here. You’ll also find some world-class surfing. The food here is amazing, and you’ll be able to enjoy expensive, delicious meals alongside cheap local food.

While there is plenty of luxury to be found here, you can also visit on a moderate budget making this one of the more affordable islands in the Caribbean .

• Bridgetown Walking Tour
• Rum Distillery Tour
• 5-Hour Island Highlights Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BARBADOS : Monteray Family Hotel – Located a quick 2 minute walk from the white-sand Dover Beach, this two-star property includes fully equipped kitchenettes, private terraces, and air-conditioning. There’s a pool on site too.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to the Caribbean!  

Unlike its luxurious Caribbean neighbors, here you’ll only find more budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. Everything needs to come by ship or airplane, so it’s not super cheap. However, since no non-natives can own property there is no influx of overdevelopment, keeping the island simple but beautiful. For a more rustic, non-touristy getaway, this might be the island for you!

• Hike El Pico
• Go Diving & Snorkeling
• Relax on Playa Manzanillo

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN ISLA DE PROVIDENCIA : Berton Place – With a homey ambience and local owners who go above and beyond, this three-star guesthouse includes free Wi-Fi, free parking, and is just 10 minutes from the beach.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Colombia!  

These mostly uninhabited islands are under the control of the Guna indigenous people and are quite rustic, making for a great off-the-grid island getaway. The lodging here is made up of simple huts, hammocks, and tents, and there are tons of beautiful spots for good sailing, diving, and snorkeling.

You can also book sailing expeditions here if you’re looking to get off the islands and out onto the water for a few days. Most sailing charters cost around $180-200 USD per person, per day.

• 4-Day Island Hopping Adventure
• Go Snorkeling

BEST PLACE TO STAY THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS : Discovery Gunayar – This laidback lodge is is right on the beach and offers rustic but comfortable accommodations with free breakfast.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Panama!  

Tenerife is the largest of the islands and has a bit of everything, including one of the largest Carnival festivals in the world each February and two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the city of La Laguna and Teide National Park, home to Mount Teide (the largest mountain in Spain and the third-largest volcano in the world).

For beaches, head to Fuerteventura to soak up some rays. And for some hiking, make your way to Gran Canaria with its incredible and diverse landscapes. But no matter which island in the Canaries you choose, you’ll get to enjoy one of the best tropical islands in the world.

• Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise
• Half-Day Luxury Catamaran Cruise
• Stargazing at Teide National Park

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS : Lagarto house – This chill hostel in Tenerife has an outdoor pool, bikes you can use to get to the beach, a BBQ area, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Spain!  

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, head out for a hike, enjoy some water sports, or learn about history (there’s a huge ancient temple gate, a medieval castle, and the mountain Zeus was supposedly raised on, just to name a few sites), Naxos will be able to keep you entertained as you enjoy your little slice of Greek heaven away from the tourist mob.

• Naxos Castle Walking Tour
• Full–Day Historical Bus Tour
• Rhina Cave Catamaran Cruise

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN NAXOS : Soula Naxos – Located in Saint George Beach just 20 meters from the ocean and 2 minutes from the center of town, this budget-friendly hotel includes free Wi-Fi and lovely views from the rooftop terrace.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Naxos!  

The vast majority of these islands are designated national parks, so naturally there are some amazing coral reefs for snorkeling and diving and pristine beaches (my favorite is Whitehaven Beach). Upon arrival, you’ll instantly see why this is one of the best tropical islands in the world — and why over half a million people visit a year.

One of the most popular ways to see the islands is via a multi-day sailing tour (which is what I did when I visited). It was an amazing experience — especially diving! Expect to pay between 399-499 AUD per person for a three-day/two-night sailing trip.

• Whitehaven Full-Day Eco-Cruise
• Ocean Rafting Tour
• Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Trip

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS : Whitsunday Apartments – Just 2 minutes from Catseye Beach, these private apartments offer free Wi-Fi, ocean views from each room’s private balcony, and free airport transfers. There’s a beautiful outdoor pool as well.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to the Whitsunday Islands!  

Formed from active volcanoes, they’re most famous for being the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution. The opportunities to see incredible wildlife here are practically unrivaled, with marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, sea lions, orcas, manta rays, the Giant Galapagos tortoise, and many more incredible species.

Unfortunately, this is a very fragile ecosystem and it’s being drastically affected by the changing climate. Visit here while you can and be especially mindful of your impact on the environment. Book a multi-day visit to make the most of your time.

• Go Kayaking
• Snorkel with Wildlife

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS : Hostal Romy – This two-star hotel close to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Beach offers air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and kitchenettes in rooms.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Ecuador!  

First known as “Louanalao” by the indigenous Arawak in 200 CE, St. Lucia is filled with beautiful birds, orchards full of tropical fruit trees, world-class diving, incredible wildlife, and crystalline blue waters. Whether you’re looking for a lazy escape or an active holiday, St. Lucia will be able to keep you entertained!

• 5-Hour Snorkeling Adventure
• Full-Day Catamaran Tour
• Gros Piton Hiking Tour and Sulphur Spring Bath

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN SAINT LUCIA : Green Fig Resort & Spa – This hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a complimentary continental breakfast, free private parking, a garden, and a terrace. Rooms have basic amenities like coffee makers and free toiletries, and some rooms have a balcony.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to St. Lucia!  

Each of the islands offers a little something different. Rent a car and explore the winding roads of the main island, São Miguel, taking in secluded beaches and picturesque waterfalls, enjoy the wine in Pico, and go hiking on São Jorge. Best of all, it’s close to both Europe and North America and makes for a great stopover point if you’re traveling between the two.

• Whale & Dolphin Watching
• Kayaking Vila Franca do Campo Islet
• Caldeiroes Canyoning on Sao Miguel

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE AZORES : Out of the Blue – This boutique hostel has a gorgeous interior as it’s set in a renovated traditional orange farmer’s manor. There’s also a pool, fast Wi-Fi, and a beautiful garden with hammocks for unrivaled relaxing.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to to Portugal!

This is by no means a comprehensive list of all the best tropical islands in the world. There are countless other islands worthy of attention and it would take multiple lifetimes to visit them all (though I’d be happy to try!).

That being said, I think these are some of the best tropical islands in the world. Each one of these is a veritable paradise in its own right. You’ll be hard-pressed to find more beautiful surroundings than some of these islands.

But don’t take my word for it. Book a trip and experience a slice of paradise for yourself!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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11 Beautiful Islands to Visit for an Off-the-Grid Escape

Pack your swimsuit and head to one of these island paradises around the world..

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Benguerra is Mozambique’s second largest island.

Photo by Elsa Young

So many travelers rely on islands to get away from it all, find peace of mind with their toes in the sand, and connect more deeply with nature and cultures along the seashore. With their new hotels, immersive cultural experiences, and notable sustainability efforts, these are the islands to visit in 2023.

The green Caribbean island of Dominica is home to nine active volcanoes.

Photo by Chrisontour84/Shutterstock

With green mountains, active volcanoes, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs, the true luxury of Dominica is its natural wonders. Thanks in part to its remoteness, the 293-square-mile, English- and Dominican Creole–speaking Caribbean island remains off the beaten track. It’s a paradise for hikers, with its Morne Trois Pitons National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring close to 300 miles of paths. The warm, tranquil waters make Dominica ideal for sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding at all experience levels.

Where to stay

• Book now : Coulibri Ridge

In October 2022, Coulibri Ridge opened as a fully off-grid eco-resort on 285 acres near Soufrière. The property of 14 suites was built with recyclable aluminum ceilings, recycled teak wood, and rocks sourced on site. Coulibri Ridge is powered by sun, wind, and rain, while the restaurant grows much of its produce from on-property gardens (Soon, the resort will have its own farm.) It’s the first Caribbean hotel to join Beyond Green , a portfolio of sustainably operated retreats under Preferred Travel Group .

Kisawa Sanctuary on Mozambique was fashioned out of sand and seawater using 3-D printing.

Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Part of Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, Benguerra Island is located within a national marine reserve in the turquoise Indian Ocean. A quick plane ride from Maputo or Johannesburg, the island is a playground for ocean enthusiasts in search of flamingos, dugongs, manta rays, dolphins, and humpback whales that pass through from July to October. Visitors can tour the nonprofit Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies (BCSS), a solar-powered ocean observatory. The center, whose team is majority Benguerran, is on the island’s northern end.

• Book Now : Kisawa Sanctuary

Located on Mozambique’s southernmost beach, Kisawa Sanctuary is a collection of 17 thatched-roof bungalows built sustainably using 3-D printing technology. (The textured walls are made of sand mixed with seawater to create eco-conscious mortar.) When not snorkeling with sharks or watching sea turtles nesting in the white sand, guests can participate in scientific studies at sister center BCSS with such hands-on activities as monitoring migrating humpback whales or going on diving excursions to test water acidification levels or to help tag pelagic fish.

Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.

Courtesy of Promo Communications

Sardinia, Italy

This sun-soaked Mediterranean island, second in size to Sicily, is attractive not only to beachgoers but also to hikers, thanks to its mountainous landscape. History buffs will love the thousands of nuraghi— beehive-shaped Bronze Age ruins left behind by the Nuragic civilization between 1900 and 730 B.C.E.—scattered across the island’s undulating landscape.

• Book Now : 7Pines Resort Sardinia

Though it’s just 10 minutes by car from the tourist-thronged Costa Smeralda, the 7Pines Resort Sardinia feels a world away. The new-in-2022 retreat of 76 suites and guest rooms, set along 37 secluded acres of gardens, running trails, and beaches, faces the marine protected area surrounding the Maddalena islands. The retreat is a featured accommodation on new low-footprint, culture-focused Sardinia itineraries from the women-owned and -managed Dolomite Mountains . The trips take guests to archaeological ruins and on mountain treks, with stops at sheep herders’ huts for lunch.

The Indonesian island of Sumba where the Sanubari is located is a prime surfing destination.

Courtesy of the Sanubari

Sumba, Indonesia

Bali may be Indonesia’s most famous holiday destination, but this island to the east is twice as big, equally as alluring—and has a fraction of the tourists. Here, horses run free amid the savanna, rain forest, and waterfall-filled landscape while the steep thatched roofs of villages stretch skyward. A growing number of culturally sensitive, eco-conscious hotels are offering travelers exciting ways to seek solitude and adventure here with a lighter footprint.

• Book now : The Sanubari ; Cap Karoso

On the southwestern part of the island, the Sanubari recently opened on a 247-acre reserve with more than a mile of white-sand beach. The resort, six villas made out of local teak wood and stone, works closely with surrounding kampungs (villages), having built a school and several water stations for the community. Guests can arrange village visits for a glimpse at local life and traditions, while surfing, fishing, mountain biking, and river SUP excursions are all on offer. The property’s kitchen is supplied by an on-site permaculture farm, which includes some 2,500 coconut trees.

Come summer 2013, Cap Karoso opens on the island’s west coast with 47 studios and 20 villas, each featuring hand-carved wooden panels modeled after Sumba’s multicolored ikat patterns. The resort will celebrate Marapu traditions through artist residencies, shaman-inspired therapies at the spa, and e-bike visits to a nearby village.

The coastal village of Binibeca Vell is located on Menorca’s southern coast.

Photo by Xavi Martin/Shutterstock

Menorca, Spain

Far less visited compared to Spain’s other Balearic Islands (including Ibiza and Mallorca), this isle of fewer than 100,000 people charms travelers with its sleepy villages (like Fornells and Binibeca Vell), history (centuries-old lighthouses and archaeological sites), and local wines. The historic Illa del Rei off the island’s northeast coast features a sculpture garden run by Hauser & Wirth, where a new Martin Creed work recently joined pieces by such artists as Joan Miró and Louise Bourgeois.

• Book Now : Villa LeBlanc, a Gran Meliá Hotel

In July, Meliá Hotels International opened the net-zero five-star Villa Le Blanc off Santo Tomás Beach with whitewashed walls, traditional terra-cotta tile floors, and Menorcan arches inspired by the local vernacular architecture. The property has reduced CO2 emissions by 87 percent through such tactics as bioclimatic design, photovoltaic solar panels, and recovered heat, and it offsets the remaining 13 percent through environmental projects. The 159 guest rooms and suites all feature balconies, some with private pools and rooftop decks. Three Mediterranean restaurants, including one facing the sea, highlight ingredients from island farms and local seafood like Balearic Sea red lobster.

Turks and Caicos has the world’s third largest barrier reef.

Courtesy of Turks and Caicos Reef Fund

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos’s third-largest island, nicknamed Provo, is also its most beloved by travelers. The destination is home to the world’s third-largest reef, along with 35 national parks, nature reserves, and sanctuaries, and 12 miles of white sand. Water sports, from kite boarding to diving, also draw adventurers. A growing number of local companies offer more sustainable ways to experience it all, like Big Blue Collective , which runs tours on quieter and more environmentally friendly four-stroke boat motors.

• Book Now : Rock House

The oceanside Rock House opened in May 2022 with recycled limestone walls in its 46 villas, beneath the peaks of the island’s rugged north shore. It’s part of the destination’s long-established Grace Bay Resorts, which has a new partnership with Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF) that takes guests on expeditions to help plant coral in reef habitats or feed it in a new oceanfront lab. In early 2024, Grace Bay Resorts expects to open South Bank , a marina with contemporary-feeling waterfront residences, including a handful in a Piero Lissoni–designed building.

The Croatian island of Hvar is about four miles off the Dalmatian coast.

Photo by Finn Stock/Shutterstock

Hvar, Croatia

Hvar isn’t exactly quiet—its harbor on the Adriatic Sea is a pulsing, yacht-thronged scene in the summer. But it’s easy to get away from the crowds and into the Dalmatian island’s quieter corners, including secret beaches and coves and more UNESCO-designated sites than any other island can claim, or while wine tasting in a secluded seaside limestone cave. All of it can be explored by bike on more than 100 routes throughout the island.

• Book Now : Beach Bay Hvar Hotel

Opened in July 2022 in the city center, Beach Bay Hvar Hotel has 33 minimalist, sea-facing rooms with a soothing sandy palette. The resort is the country’s first hotel to sign UNESCO’s Sustainable Travel Pledge , committing to using renewable energy sources and minimal plastic packaging, while supporting local suppliers as much as possible. The property relies on 100 percent Hvar-sourced produce; an internal solar power plant, harnessing the island’s 2,800 annual sunshine hours per year, is a first for the island.

The 73 villas at Joali Maldives range from beach retreats to overwater bungalows.

Courtesy of Joali Maldives

Raa Atoll, Maldives

The Maldives’ Raa Atoll—45 minutes north of Malé by seaplane—offers an ideal base for marine life aficionados. It’s home to bioluminescent waters at Vaadhoo Island, manta rays with 10- to 12-foot wingspans that congregate at Hanifaru Bay, and nearby reefs that are recovering well from a severe coral bleaching event in 2016.

• Book Now: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Joali Maldives

Opened in 2022, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives consists of 80 pool villas on the western edge of the atoll. The resort offers several ways to experience the region’s culture and biodiversity, including cooking classes featuring local fish curry recipes and ocean excursions to observe dolphins and sea turtles. The resort converts paper products and vegetable waste into fertilizer and reduces its energy consumption through solar power. Northeast of Alila, on Muravandhoo island, Joali offers 73 villas with soaring ceilings and private outdoor terraces with pools. The atoll’s reef restoration program, led by a Maldivian marine biologist, is flourishing, growing some 5,000 new corals per year.

K’Gari off the eastern coast of Australia is the world’s largest sand island.

Photo by Rodney Webster/Shutterstock

K’gari, Australia

Travelers seeking off-the-grid adventure can find it on Queensland’s K’gari, pronounced gar-ree . It was formerly known as Fraser Island before the Queensland government handed it back to the Butchulla Indigenous community in 2022 and its Aboriginal name was restored. The world’s largest sand island—home to a dense rain forest—is a UNESCO World Heritage site and claims some 500 Indigenous archaeological sites, freshwater lakes, a 75-mile beach, and between July and November, a profusion of humpback whales nursing calves along the coast.

• Book Now : Kingfisher Bay Resort

At the recently renovated Kingfisher Bay Resort , 152 guest rooms have a private deck facing the lakes, the bush, or the sea. The hotel offers guided educational experiences centered on the island’s culture and biodiversity, including bush and canoe paddling excursions. Book a three-night guided hike with Fraser Island Hiking for an active exploration of the island’s natural attractions, including Valley of the Giants, home to an ancient tallowwood tree. Visitors can also sail, dive, or swim with whales with operators such as Hervey Bay Dive Centre .

The surf-focused Twin Fin in Waikiki also offers talk story sessions, stargazing, and paddleboarding.

Courtesy of the Twin Fin

O‘ahu, Hawai‘i

For decades, the sparkling shores and tropical terrain of O‘ahu have been burdened by the negative effects of overtourism—especially the Waikiki neighborhood. But things are beginning to change: The state of Hawai‘i implemented a statewide chemical sunscreen ban and launched its malama voluntourism initiative in 2021. That program pairs nonprofit organizations with top hotels to encourage visitors to pick up trash on Waikiki Beach, for example, using a DIY kit from local nonprofit Sustainable Coastlines of Hawai‘i .

Where to Stay

• Book now : The Twin Fin ; Wayfinder Waikiki ; Turtle Bay Resort

The Twin Fin is so surf-centric it has video walls live streaming Hawaiian breaks all day (and waves around the world by night). The 645 bright rooms come with custom-printed surf ponchos to wear between swims, plus water bottles that can be topped up at on-property refilling stations. The resort partners with Parley for Oceans for beach cleanups, where collected ocean plastic becomes part of the hotel’s 16-foot wave-like art sculpture by local artist Dane Nishikawa. At the 228-room, tropical brutalist Wayfinder Waikiki , a dollar per stay goes to the nature and culture-focused Bishop Museum , which runs stargazing experiences, floral arranging, and lauhala weaving for visitors. On O’ahu’s North Shore, the recently renovated Turtle Bay Resort , with its 450 light-filled, earth-toned rooms sitting on close to 1,300 oceanfront acres, draws outdoors enthusiasts for everything from surfing to hiking and horseback riding.

Tourism on the Honduran islands of Cayos Cochinos focuses on conservation.

Photo by Elena Berd/Shutterstock

Cayos Cochinos, Honduras

Spanning 300,000 acres with fewer than 200 Indigenous Garifuna residents, this group of islands 20 miles off the northern Honduran coast remains mostly off the tourist radar. The archipelago is home to fragile yet well-protected ecosystems (there’s no commercial fishing, no cars, and no bikes), including two forested islands, 12 sand cays, and miles of seagrass beds. It’s also the only place in the world with tree-dwelling pink boa constrictors. Modest tourism efforts are focused on engaging the small number of travelers and backpackers (fewer than 30,000 annually pre-COVID) with scientists around reef restoration and sea turtle conservation programs, many in partnership with the Cayos Cochinos Foundation .

• Book Now : Round Cay

The islands of Cayo Mayor and Cayo Menor, which sit along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, are managed by the Cayos Cochinos Foundation , and every stay supports conservation initiatives. The NGO runs a $3,000-per-night six-bedroom private island retreat on Round Cay on Airbnb . It also offers simpler cabins on Cayo Menor with large decks and hammocks, plus a food hall serving typical Honduran meals. Stays can involve lunches in local Garífuna fishing villages, tastings of the root-based spirit guifiti , and interactive Garífuna dance and hand-drumming performances.

The Best US Islands: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Caitlin Morton

Now in its 36th iteration, our annual Readers’ Choice Awards continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises , islands , and luggage . This year, you traveled farther and deeper; seeking out remote properties; sailing on smaller, more intimate ships; and prioritizing destinations you’ve been waiting years to visit. At least that’s what a staggering 526,518 of you told us in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey.

Now, you can use the results to decide where you’re going next—these are the best islands in the US, as voted by our readers.

View the Readers’ Choice Awards winners for best islands in the world here .

15. Key West, Florida

Singular among the Florida Keys, our readers love Key West for its eclectic residents, laid-back vibe, and candy-colored houses. Closer to Cuba than Miami , the island is packed with culture and history, not to mention world-class diving and fishing in crystal-clear water. Work on your tan at Smathers Beach before getting your literary fix at The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum , where you can take a tour guided by a Key West local.

Pro tip: If you’re itching for adventure, take the 2-hour ferry ride from Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park . With its incredible marine life and lack of crowds, it’s easily one of the most underrated national parks in the country.

Getting there: The best way to get to Key West is by taking the 4-hour drive from Miami along the Overseas Highway.

14. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard is a favorite summer escape, lined by rugged Atlantic beaches and dotted with quaint towns. The island is generally divided into two regions, each with its own set of experiences: “Down-island” is the more developed region on the east coast, where you’ll find all the seafood restaurants and preppy clothing stores most tourists flock to. “Up-island” on the southwestern tip is much more rural, with storybook fishing villages and dense woods. Whichever area you decide to visit, you’re sure to find a wealth of fun activities—and plenty of lobster rolls.

Pro tip: Try to align your visit with the annual ‘Round-the-Island Race, one of America’s oldest distance sailing races typically held in mid-June.

Getting there: From May through October, passenger ferry service is available from various towns in Massachusetts, Quonset Point in Rhode Island, New York City, and Northern New Jersey. Cape Air also offers daily, year-round flights from Boston.

13. Lanai, Hawaii

Private and exclusive, Lanai has drawn the likes of Oprah, Cindy Crawford, and Tom Cruise over the years. But the main draw here is the scenery, not the celebrity sightings: Polihua and Kaiolohia (also known as Shipwreck) beaches offer a taste of luxe isolation, while Kanepuu Preserve, a protected dry-land forest, is home to rare plant specimens endemic to Hawaii.

Pro tip : It may not be on the beach, but the mountaintop Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort is an idyllic spot to recharge, with daily exercise classes, meditations, massage treatments, and a Nobu restaurant.

Getting there: There are no direct flights to Lanai from the continental U.S. You’ll have to fly to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) or Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui, where you can take a local airline to Lanai Airport (LNY).

12. Marco Island, Florida

The areas of Naples and nearby Marco Island make up Florida’s Paradise Coast, which feels tropical due to an abundance of mangroves and mangoes. The Gulf Coast island is the perfect place for a weekend getaway, with beautiful beaches and parks, tons of outdoor activities, and great hotels, like JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort .

Pro tip: As part of your trip, make sure to visit one of the most renowned outdoor spaces in the U.S.: Everglades National Park . The Gulf Coast Visitors Center entrance is in Everglades City—an easy road trip of less than an hour southeast of Naples.

Getting there: From Naples, take the straight drive from US-41 to Collier Boulevard. Or if you’re flying into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, it’s about a one-hour drive via I-75.

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

11. Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island is a New England getaway at its best, complete with lighthouses, seagrass-lined beaches, and 30 miles of hiking trails. The island’s only town, New Shoreham, is filled with boutiques and restaurants worth exploring, though it won’t take you very long. Spend the rest of your time at Block Island Beach House . With its floral wallpapers, decorative surfboards, white-washed rooms, and rentable bikes, the hotel feels like your own private beach house—with none of the upkeep.

Pro tip: There are several nature conservatories on the island, the most popular being the 190-acre Clay Head Preserve on the northeast coast, which features a series of unmarked, interconnected walking paths known as “the maze.” It's worth visiting any time of year, but it happens to be one of the island’s best leaf-peeping spots in the fall.

Getting there: The Block Island Ferry provides year-round service from Point Judith and is the only ferry that can take vehicles from the mainland to the island. You can also take the Block Island Hi-Speed Ferry for a 30-minute trip, but that boat only runs from mid-May through the end of November. (The scenery along the ride is so gorgeous, you’ll probably want to take the slow route anyway.)

10. Big Island, Hawaii

Think of the Big Island as the ultimate adventure playground. While it’s not exactly Hawaii’s best beach destination, the island stands out for its stunning national parks and volcanoes. The active Kilauea volcano and surrounding 505-square-mile Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the place to experience lava flows, craters, and steam vents. Waipi‘o Valley (known as the Valley of the Kings) is another staggering display of nature, with verdant walking trails dotted with waterfalls.

Pro tip: After a busy day spent outdoors, refuel on the Aka roll with shrimp tempura and spicy ahi at Aka Sushi Bar in Waimea. You’ll thank us later.

Getting there: Most major air carriers offer daily flights to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) in Kona. If you can’t find a direct flight, fly into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu and take a 40-minute flight to the Big Island.

9. Kauai, Hawaii

The lushest and greenest of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai more than earns its nickname, “The Garden Isle.” Most spots worth visiting require a bit of effort, as you can only reach one-fifth of the island on foot or in a car, but it’s more than worth it. You’ll need a four-wheel drive to get to Polihale Beach, for example, which is accessed via a rough and rocky five-mile road. But it’s arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii, with sweeping sand dunes, incredible sunsets, and unforgettable stargazing thanks to the lack of light pollution. Another tough-to-access-but-worth-it spot is Honopu Beach, which you can only reach by swimming from an offshore boat or from neighboring Kalalau Beach (a quarter-mile swim).

Pro tip: It would be a sin to visit Kauai and not spend a day on the Napali Coast . Get the best vantage points on an open-door flight over the cliffs and valleys, or join a kayak tour to paddle to its isolated beach.

Getting there: Most airlines offer non-stop flights to Lihue Airport (LIH). There is also the option of flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and hopping on a half-hour flight to Kauai.

8. Mackinac Island, Michigan

A long-beloved vacation spot for Midwesterners, Mackinac Island was a welcome addition to last year’s list—and it looks like the appeal hasn’t wavered a bit this year. Most of the island (80 percent, to be exact) lies within the protected Mackinac Island State Park, meaning it’s both well-preserved and filled with natural beauty. The island is perhaps most famous, however, for the iconic Grand Hotel , with its sprawling, 660-foot front porch looking out to the water and equally indulgent five-course dinners.

Pro tip: The island is completely car-free, meaning you’ll need to rely on biking or walking to get around. But you should definitely treat yourself to a horse-drawn taxi ride from Mackinac Island Carriage Tours , the oldest continually operating service in the country.

Getting there: Two ferries service the island seasonally: the Star Line Mackinac Island’s Hydro-Jet Ferry , departing from St. Ignace, and the Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry , departing from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City. There’s also an on-island Mackinac Island Airport for private charter flights.

7. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is the most-visited of Hawaii’s islands—it has Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and the North Shore, with its world-renowned surf breaks and garlic-shrimp vendors, to thank for that. Many of the tourist-heavy attractions are actually worth visiting, like Pearl Harbor and Doris Duke’s Shangri La , but you can dodge the crowds if you know where to look. The North Shore is usually your best bet, with places like Mokulei Beach Park offering excellent snorkeling, whale watching, and calm waters—and few other visitors.

Pro tip : You’d be missing out if you didn't head for a meal in Honolulu’s red-hot Chinatown. Stop by Wing for some shave ice, Char Hung Sut Restaurant for pork buns, and Livestock Tavern for the perfect bacon cheeseburger.

Getting there: Hawaii’s main airport in Honolulu is easily reachable from many U.S. cities.

6. Sanibel, Florida

Separated by hurricanes in 1921 and 1926, the sister islands of Sanibel and Captiva have long drawn visitors with their biking trails, wildlife, and calm Gulf Coast beaches. Sanibel is particularly famous for being the seashell capital of the world—you could spend an entire day with a picnic and bucket at conch-heavy spots like Bowman’s Beach.

Pro tip: Lazy Flamingo has a cook-your-catch policy, letting visitors bring their own freshly caught fish for the chefs to whip up into a delicious meal. The clam chowder and grouper sandwiches are also pretty great.

Getting there: Both islands are just about a one-hour drive from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers via Interstate 75.

5. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Travelers return to this quintessential summer getaway every year to walk among the narrow rows of wood-paneled houses and bike out to the lighthouses that ring the island. Although crescent-shaped Nantucket may be small, it has a mix of terrains, from sand dunes and salt marshes to craggy bluffs, making it nearly impossible to take a bad photograph on the island.

Pro tip: If you’re in Nantucket, you’re eating seafood. For a good old-fashioned clam bake, head to Sayle’s Seafood , where $46 will get you piles of lobster, oysters, mussels, clam chowder, corn, and potatoes.

Getting there: Nantucket is easily accessible via plane from most airports in the Northeast. But we’re fans of the relaxed ferry rides from Cape Cod (one hour) and New York (six hours), where you can enjoy the coastal scenery.

4. Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii’s second-largest island is known for its volcanic beaches, oceanfront resorts, and the towering Mount Haleakala, a traveler favorite to scale for sunrise. It’s the place to be for snorkelers , hikers, and food lovers alike. It also happens to be a great place to travel with kids, with tons of family-friendly resorts and activities for all ages: Think ziplines, turtle-spotting canoe tours, luaus, and even a pretty awesome goat farm .

Pro tip: To catch as much of Maui’s natural beauty as possible, drive the Road to Hana , a 52-mile scenic route featuring dramatic waterfalls that includes the spectacular Seven Sacred Pools.

Getting there: Many mainland airlines offer direct routes to Maui from airports on the West Coast. Otherwise, it’s about a 40-minute flight to the island from Honolulu International Airport (HNL).

3. Amelia Island, Florida

Whether it’s the seemingly endless green spaces or the unbelievably hospitable locals, this Florida island has certainly charmed our readers. The 13-mile strip of land is located off Florida’s northeastern coast, and it feels far more untouched and natural than most of the state’s other beachy locales. After soaking up the sun on nearly deserted beaches, hike a trail through Fort Clinch State Park or explore the downtown area for shopping and local restaurants.

Pro tip: Elizabeth Pointe Lodge is one of the best hotels on the island, with a beachside address and delicious breakfasts. Spend one morning spent eating French toast and gazing at the ocean from the lodge’s wraparound porch, and you’ll soon declare Amelia Island your new favorite destination.

Getting there: Amelia Island is easily accessible, located only 30 minutes by car (over the Intracoastal Waterway) from Jacksonville International Airport.

2. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Island is seemingly custom-made for escaping the drudgery of the work week. Bring the family to the barrier island for a weekend at the luxe oceanfront Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island , rated by our readers as one of the top resorts in the South, for some friendly rivalry on the golf course and tennis court (and plenty of water time in the many pools).

Pro tip: Kiawah Beachwalker Park at the southwest tip of the island is a rare public beach on Kiawah, and one of the best beaches near Charleston —enjoy sand as soft as talcum powder for only a $5 to $10 fee in season.

Getting there: It’s about an hour’s drive from Charleston International Airport (CHS) over a causeway from the mainland.

1. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Remaining in the top spot for several years running, Lowcountry’s loveliest island is a world away from mainland South Carolina on the other side of the bridge. This is the kind of getaway that satisfies all travelers: You could spend a weekend beach-bumming (pick your spot on 12 miles of pristine sand), shopping locally-made handicrafts, eating out at restaurants that compete with those in major cities, or sweating it out on a bike trail, paddleboard, or golf course.

Pro tip: Check into Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort , voted the second-best resort in the South by our readers this year.

Getting there: It’s only about a one-hour drive from Savannah, Georgia, which shares an airport with Hilton Head.

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Best pacific islands to visit.

You may have to trek a bit to reach the thousands of islands that comprise the South Pacific, but the journey is well worth the effort. In this vast area, you'll discover unspoiled beaches, impressive historical sites and a laid-back atmosphere ideal for a relaxing getaway. But with so many islands within Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia to choose from, deciding which remote paradise to prioritize may be a challenge – that's where we come in. To determine the best Pacific Islands, U.S. News considered user votes and expert opinions, plus factors like diversity of attractions, accessibility and affordability. Use these recommendations to plan your next vacation, and cast your vote below to have a say in next year's list.

Cook Islands

Solomon islands.

For a dreamy vacation set amid turquoise waters, lush jungle and extensive coral reefs, book your ticket to Palau. This tiny country in the western Pacific Ocean is known for its premier scuba diving sites and incredible scenery. Get a taste of local culture in Koror, Palau's capital, where you'll find an assortment of craft shops, restaurants, bars and small museums. Other must-do activities include swimming with thousands of non-stinging jellyfish, kayaking Nikko Bay and taking a boat or flight tour of the breathtaking Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Head to one of Fiji's 330-plus islands if you appreciate cultural activities and attractions as much as you enjoy spending time outdoors. In Suva, Fiji's capital city, you can participate in a traditional kava ceremony (which involves drinking yaqona, a root-based drink with mild sedative properties), watch a firewalking festival at Mariamma Temple and explore the Fiji Museum. Meanwhile, Fiji's smaller destinations – including the Yasawa Islands and Taveuni – feature incredible coral gardens, stunning rainforests and some of the world's best beaches . When you tire of sunbathing, snorkeling and hiking, retreat to a rustic bungalow, a trendy boutique hotel or a luxe five-star resort.

One of the smallest countries in the world, Tuvalu is comprised of nine low-lying islands featuring unspoiled white sand beaches, abundant marine life and a laid-back atmosphere. Most of your days here will be spent snorkeling, scuba diving or simply lounging on the beach. However, remember to save time for visiting the Tuvalu Post, which is home to a wide collection of rare decades-old stamps, and checking out the destination's World War II wreckage sites. Despite its beauty, Tuvalu is off many travelers' radars, meaning you won't have to fight hordes of tourists for a spot on the sand.

Newlyweds who want to see a lesser-known side of French Polynesia should consider honeymooning on Moorea. This awe-inspiring island features the same kind of striking natural wonders and romantic accommodations couples will find on Bora Bora, but with a more relaxed atmosphere and lower price tags. What's more, Moorea only sits 10 miles away from Tahiti, making it easy to reach from French Polynesia's main international airport or by ferry. Once travelers arrive on the island, they'll discover eight towering mountains and two beautiful bays, plus several noteworthy attractions, including the Moorea Dolphin Center and Temae Beach.

This string of more than 80 volcanic islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean is a picture-perfect getaway that is well off the beaten path. Port Vila, the country's capital located on the island of Efate, is where you'll find many of Vanuatu's tourism facilities, including a selection of restaurants, shops and accommodations. Top activities in Vanuatu include hiking to the summit of Mount Yasur (an active volcano), swimming in the Blue Lagoon and snorkeling Mystery Island's crystal-clear waters.

Despite its small size, this group of 15 islands midway between New Zealand and Hawaii offers something for everyone. Popular activities range from snorkeling excursions and hikes to waterfalls to village tours. The striking white sand beaches on Rarotonga and Aitutaki also can't be missed. After exploring, savor local staples like ika mata (marinated raw fish) and poke (a pudding-like dish made with tropical fruit) at a market. Meanwhile, make sure to attend an island night celebration, which combines traditional dancing with an umukai (a feast prepared in an underground oven). Because the Cook Islands are associated with New Zealand, visitors can easily fly here from Auckland.

This French Polynesian island is the perfect place to go if you're looking to reconnect with nature, dial up the romance and pamper yourself while on vacation. In Bora Bora, you'll find overwater bungalows and luxurious spas made for honeymooners , plus a beautiful turquoise lagoon and lush Mount Otemanu to explore. For an overview of the island and an adrenaline rush, sign up for a four-wheel-drive excursion or a boat tour that includes a shark and stingray feeding. Then, head to Matira Beach or your resort's private stretch of sand to relax as you watch the sun set.

Tahiti's international airport and variety of big-city amenities (think: diverse restaurants, exciting cultural events and abundant five-star resorts) make it a natural choice for a South Pacific vacation. But don't let the French Polynesian island's hustle and bustle fool you: Tahiti also boasts plenty of rushing waterfalls, towering mountains and pristine beaches to set the scene for your relaxing island getaway. Start your visit by checking out the markets, boutiques and nightlife venues in Papeete (Tahiti's capital city) before escaping to one of the island's jaw-dropping natural wonders. Can't-miss spots include Fautaua Waterfall, the Water Gardens of Vaipahi and Papenoo Beach.

Home to about 170 islands, Tonga is known as the last Polynesian monarchy. Tonga vacationers can spend time relaxing on crowd-free beaches, touring the Mapu'a 'a Vaca blowholes and enjoying a traditional Tongan feast. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, don't miss an opportunity to swim with Tonga's graceful humpback whales, an activity that is possible between July and October. Other adventurous travelers will want to go for a dip in the 'Anahulu Cave, an underground freshwater pool surrounded by ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

Water lovers, eco-tourists and culture hounds will all love visiting tranquil Samoa. Here, you'll find breathtaking natural wonders like the To Sua ocean trench (a giant swimming hole), the Alofaaga Blowholes and the Sopoaga and Papapapaitai waterfalls. Additionally, Samoa offers an array of cultural attractions, including the Samoa Cultural Village (with traditional tattooing and tapa cloth-making demonstrations) and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. Once you've gotten your fill of sightseeing, head to a local market for fresh produce or seafood before retiring to a fale (a rustic beachfront accommodation) for the night.

Thanks to its abundance of untouched natural wonders and lack of traditional accommodations, the Solomon Islands are an ideal destination for eco-tourists. Visitors can explore dense jungles, surf uncrowded waves and even climb a dormant volcano. The country was also a battle site during World War II, so history buffs can find historic relics like abandoned tanks and amphibious vehicles scattered throughout the islands. But perhaps the most unique sights are those found in the islands' surrounding waters. Divers from around the world flock here to see the Solomon Islands' sunken WWII seaplanes, submarines and oil tankers.

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American Samoa

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Top Destinations

• Food + Drink

Explore the best of the world. Access insider tips and hotel recommendations from our travel tastemakers

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• 1 Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
• 2 Marco Island, Florida
• 3 Nantucket, Massachusetts
• 4 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• 5 Maui, Hawaii
• 6 Mackinac Island, Michigan
• 7 San Juan Islands, Washington
• 8 Block Island, Rhode Island
• 9 Catalina Island, California

America’s Best Island Vacations (No Passport Required)

Island getaways are typically reserved for all-inclusive Caribbean idylls, but we've got plenty of sensational stays right in our backyard. From the New England summer colonies favored by socialites and celebs, to miles of tropical sugar-sand beaches off of Florida's west coast, here are the best island vacations in the US of A.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard has made quite the name for itself as a New England summer staple for affluent locals, socialites, celebs, and democratic bigwigs-alike (we see you, Obamas and Clintons). That said, what’s all the hype about? Well, barring a lengthy laundry list of accolades, MV wows with high-end gastronomic options, a rich history and pure scenic beauty throughout it’s six towns. Food options here are endless, but ask around and you’ll find Among the Flowers Cafe , in Edgartown, is the place for breakfast and you can guess what Larsen’s Fish Market, in Menemsha, is good for. This summer, for a midnight snack, traipse to the actual back door of Martha’s Vineyard Gourmet Café & Bakery for Back Door Donuts . The treats are served from 7:00 pm to 1:00 am on the dot. Ride that sugar high through till morning when you storm the island by moped. Wednesdays and Saturdays are reserved for sifting through vintage finds at the Chilmark Flea Market , while the shops and gingerbread cottages on Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs are always there when you have time. Keep things cozy at the Harbor View Hotel , a collection of seaside-chic cottages just a stone’s throw from the historic mansions of downtown Edgartown.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Martha's Vineyard, MA hotels

Marco Island, Florida

Not far from the Everglades and Naples, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, Marco Island is the largest developed chunk of Florida’s “Ten Thousand Islands.” Poised in the Gulf of Mexico, it has all of the Floridian mainstays holiday-seekers are accustomed to finding: luxury resorts, sun-washed beaches and a tropical climate that hovers in the 80s, rarely dipping into the 50s, even in the dead of winter. For an Everglades experience without actually stepping foot in the Everglades, hit the mile-long boardwalk at Collier-Seminole State Park . The system of mangrove swamps and salt marshes is home to rare flora and fauna like the royal palm, American alligators and crocodiles, and Florida black bears. For a gourmet bite, La Tavola serves up a mean grilled Spanish octopus with andouille sausage, red peppers, fig balsamic, fresh herbs and greens. When it comes to choosing a stay, your pick is between a slew of well-known mega-resorts, and tiny inns, but you’ll be comfortable whether you retire at the massive Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort Golf Club & Spa, or mini Marco Island Lakeside Inn .

RELATED: 9 Hidden Beaches in Florida Locals Keep Secret

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Marco Island, FL hotels

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket joins Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts’ roster of highly-flocked to summer colonies. Thirty miles off the coast of Cape Cod, the seaport stunner doesn’t have to clamor for attention, but just sits back and reels it all in with its perfectly-worn wharves, shingled family homes, cobblestoned streets and sandy dunes. Drop your bags in your own apartment-style loft at the harbor-front White Elephant and take to the island by bike , or board with a little aid from the Nantucket Island Surf School . Energy spent, direct your remaining attention to Oran Mar where exquisitely plated, incredibly colorful dishes are the name of the game. Not ordering the entire menu is an exercise in self constraint, but we wouldn’t fault you for going for a couple plates, say the garlic-laced roasted Pocmo Meadow oysters, black truffle bucatini and Berkshire pork belly.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Nantucket, MA hotels

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Just 45 minutes from Savannah and Beaufort, this low-country island is all about southern hospitality. Between hitting the links – the resort town is lauded for its world-class golf courses (it does host the PGA tour Heritage Golf Classic) – you can hit the sands at Coligny Beach , or stop in Harbour Town , marked by its eponymous and iconic red and white-striped lighthouse, to take a gander at the yacht basin and peruse the shops, ice cream cone in hand. When it comes time to really chow down, a l ow-country inspired meal at Live Oak is always the answer. If you catch them during Saturday or Sunday brunch, you can recline with $8 unlimited Mimosas and $10 bottomless Bloody Marys (living in NYC, it pains me to write this). Otherwise, start with skillet bacon cornbread with pimento cheese, honey butter and jalapeno marmalade, then go for something classic like shrimp and grits or southern fried chicken. In the Palmetto Dunes neighborhood of Hilton Head, fresh off of a $17 million redesign, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort waits with spacious, brightly-appointed suites and 11-miles of lagoon ready for kayaking.

RELATED : America's Coolest Southern Towns

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Hilton Head, SC hotels

Maui, Hawaii

Ask nearly anyone and they’ll tell you that Maui doesn’t just land the list of America’s most beautiful islands, but the world’s, too. Luxury resorts and plush guest homes meet every watersport imaginable (the diving is a must) sprawling gardens right on the ocean’s edge, volcanic landscapes pocketed by dormant craters, and the food isn’t too shabby, either. At the Lumeria Maui , a restored, elegant 1909 estate, six manicured acres of lush garden cocoon yoga, meditation, and gardening classes along with an expansive indoor/outdoor wellbeing center and saltwater pool. For a meal that hasn't failed to impress locals and visitors for the last 26 years, head west to the Lahaina Grill . A menu spilling over with contemporary bistro cuisine means you'll be eating your weight in ahi poke, crisp Shanghai spring rolls, and Kona coffee roasted rack of lamb.

RELATED : The Best Hotels in Hawaii

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Makawao, HI hotels

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Stepping onto the resort Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time. The 3.8 miles of land floating in Michigan’s Lake Huron is home to less than 500 year-round residents, but that's just the start of its small town feel. Visitors are instantly captivated by the unmistakable Americana and early 1900s atmosphere the island evinces, due in large part to horse buggies (the island’s car-free), monumental historic hotels (that happen to have the longest porch in America ) and a Main Street brimming with the bright, columned facades of general stores, inns, and artist markets. Despite a count-them-all-on-one-hand populace, the island has a wealth of tasty restaurants. The waterfront patio at the Pink Pony slings a pretty good bistro burger and rum runner (that’s the talk of the island). If you’re looking to keep the night going, the Cuppola Bar at the top of the Grand Hotel is what follows. Grab a drink and sit back to enjoy the live music, but beware, the one-of-a-kind Carleton Varney decor might just steal the show (get a load of the chandelier). Head home at the end of the day to The Inn At Stonecliffe , a Tudor Revival mansion kitted out with new and old-world touches like original stained glass windows, clawfoot tubs and a former-library-turned bar.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Mackinac Island, MI hotels

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands off the northwest corner of Washington state comprise some 172 land masses and reef bodies, but it’s Orcas, Lopez, Shaw and San Juan (singular) that hold all the goods. Hopping a quick ferry or flight from Seattle, Bellingham, or Vancouver, you’ll be mesmerized by the archipelago’s rugged Pacific Northwest landscape – subalpine forests, rocky beaches and reef-studded bays. Your trip calls for a stay at the Friday Harbor House in San Juan where after days of exploring the island’s thriving art scene, covering the streets of the seaport inch by inch (it’s only a mile) and visiting the Pelindaba Lavender Farm during the “peak of purpleness” (July and August), you’ll lounge fireside in your own oversized tub, taking in the island’s bluffs through your room’s picture window. Dedicate a day to the San Juan Islands Scenic Byway which connects the beaches, alpaca farms, mountains, harbors and vineyards of the archipelago’s many hamlets and fit in a whale watching excursion as the island's are famous for their three pods of killer whales. When hunger strikes, find a table at Coho Restaurant where seasonal Pacific-style meals are spun with a Mediterranean twist.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Just about 14-miles equidistance off the coasts of Montauk and mainland Rhode Island, Block Island is an enchanting summer destination chock full of New England-style inns, B&Bs and guesthouses. Ringing in at around 9 miles – but with 17 beachy miles of coastline – the island tempts guests with bicycling, yachting, specialty boutiques and art galleries. Since the tiny slice of land is home to only 900 year-round residents, it maintains a level of rustic simplicity with steep ocean bluffs, winding roads and stoic 18th-century lighthouses (which were once architectural marvels). Scarf down the freshest lobster rolls at Southeast Light Delights on the Mohegan Bluffs near Southeast Lighthouse , or if you’re anti-seafood, try out a ricotta grilled cheese on sourdough, stuffed with local blueberries, blackberries and strawberries, and then drizzled with honey. For a sweet stay that’s removed from the 24/7 comings and goings of downtown – but don’t worry, you’re only a mile off the beaten path – tuck your things away at waterfront Payne’s Harbor View Inn . The three-story retreat has just 10 rooms and 3 grand balconies with sweeping views of the ocean and New Harbor.

Catalina Island, California

Santa Catalina, or just Catalina, as it’s known to those who frequent it, has everything the jetsetting elite are keen on (Marilyn Monroe herself once called the island home) – namely swaying palms, white sandy beaches, exquisite dive sites, and a soothing island vibe. Getting there is a cinch, with ferries regularly leaving from Long Beach, Dana Point, Newport Beach and San Pedro, and once you’re on the island, in main town Avalon, which is only a mile, you’ll see everyone gets around on foot (no joke, there’s a 14-year wait list for residents to get a car on the island). Take lunch at the Inn on Mt. Ada where your meal will be met with panoramic views of Avalon Bay, the island’s blissful backcountry and a clear view of chewing gum-tycoon William Wrigley Jr.'s mansion. If you’re planning an overnight, Snug Harbor Inn should serve as your temporary home base. The Cape Cod-style charmer is a favorite among celebs trying to avoid having their vacay splashed across the homepages of TMZ and Perez Hilton.

RELATED: 10 Incredible Places to Visit in California

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10 Most Beautiful Islands Near Bali

Bali, otherwise known as the Island of the Gods, is the top travel destinations in Indonesia. Combining incredible history with an exotic, spiritual culture, Bali offers something for everyone. Best of all, the island is truly beautiful, boasting everything from lush green forests to mountains to white sand beaches. While Bali is a bucket list destination for many, don’t forget about the many islands near Bali that are just as exciting and scenic.

10. Moyo Island

About 280 km (170 miles) from Bali is Moyo Island, which is located just north of the island called Sumbawa. Moyo Island is relatively remote and mostly undeveloped, save for one luxurious resort. As a result, Moyo Island is the epitome of a luxurious escape for those who want to see a less crowded, more natural side of Indonesia, but who also want to make the most of upscale amenities. Most of the island is covered in the Moyo Island Hunting Park, where there are no buildings and plenty of wildlife. The entire coastline of the island is a marine conservation area, making it ideal for those who enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling.

9. Nusa Ceningan

One of the islands directly south of Bali is called Nusa Ceningan. Accessible by a bridge from two neighboring isles, Nusa Ceningan is small but absolutely worth a visit. Many of the local residents are involved in seaweed farming, and you’ll definitely want to see them harvest the seaweed while you’re there. If it is breathtaking scenery that you’re after, head to Blue Lagoon for the ultimate photography destination. For those in search of adrenaline, Mahana Point is a must-see spot. A bar at the top of the point offers exceptional views, and many visitors jump off the cliff into the clear, deep water below.

The large island west of Bali is called Java, and it is where you’ll find major cities like Jakarta. If you want to experience the rich cultural history and heritage of Indonesia, Java is an unforgettable place to go. Many guided tours from Bali can help you hit the Javanese highlights in just a day or two, taking care of the logistics along the way. You might explore ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples like Borobudur or tour amazing structures like the Sultan’s Palace, the seat of Indonesian royalty. Volcanoes, temples, and beaches are just a few of the appealing attractions that Java has to offer.

7. Komodo Island

West of Bali is Komodo Island. As you might anticipate based on the name, Komodo Island is home to many Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizard. Much of the island is part of the Komodo National Park which also includes the islands of Rinca and Padar, creating a preserve for the local wildlife and their habitats. You can get to Komodo Island via ferries, and many visitors come on guided tours from Lombok though a tour from Bali is also possible. Although the animals on the islands are a big draw, the surrounding sea is also wildly popular for scuba diving. In particular, the reefs off the coast of Komodo Island house sharks and even manta rays.

6. Nusa Penida

The largest of the Nusa Islands off the southern coast of Bali is Nusa Penida. Daily ferries and private speed boats bring you from Bali to Nusa Penida, and most visitors come for secluded beaches and a less touristy vibe than much of Bali. Crystal Bay boasts pristine white sand, clear water and great snorkeling, making it one of the busier beaches on Nusa Penida. If you’re looking for more secluded spots, plan a walk to the limestone caves of Goa Giri Putri or go birdwatching in the lush Tembeling Forest. As is the case for much of Indonesia, scuba diving opportunities abound.

5. Nusa Lembongan

The third of the Nusa Islands near Bali is Nusa Lembongan, a destination that is quickly earning a reputation for breathtaking scenery without a lot of tourism infrastructure. Jungut Batu is the busier beach, a favorite of surfers and budget travelers. More privacy can be found on the south of the island in places like Devil’s Tear, where low cliffs provide spectacular views over the water. In addition to an abundance of beaches, Nusa Lembongan is home to seaweed farms, mangrove forests and the impressive Hindu Puncak Sari Temple.

4. Gili Air

Just off the coast of Lombok is a collection of islands known together as the Gili Islands. One of these is Gili Air, the island closest to Lombok. Gili Air has a reputation as the most relaxed of the Gilis, and it is a mecca for outdoor activities. Scuba diving, snorkeling and freediving are all popular off the coast, and a rich underwater life and beautiful coral reefs give you plenty to see. The local culinary scene revolves around fresh grilled seafood, and while nightlife is minimal, there is always an open bar and some live music to enjoy.

3. Gili Meno

Gili Meno is the middle island in the Gilis, and it is largely known as the most romantic spot in Indonesia. As a result, it is often couples that come to Gili Meno, and it is a prime honeymoon destination. In addition to cocktails at sunset and romantic strolls on the beach, Gili Meno is ideal for animal lovers. Taman Burung is a fantastic aviary, and at Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary you can watch turtles and their young safely make it to the beach. There are several spots around the island where you can take PADI certification classes to start scuba diving, or you could opt to rent snorkeling equipment right from beachside vendors.

2. Gili Trawangan

If Gili Meno is for romantics and Gili Air is for intrepid travelers, then Gili Trawangan is for nightlife lovers in search of a good party. Trawangan is the largest and most popular of the Gili Islands, and there is always something going on there, day or night! During the day, you can take yoga classes or try scuba diving, or you might opt for surfing lessons and a boat tour. At sunset, however, the island truly comes alive and everyone starts to let loose. Plenty of bars and clubs host party nights, ensuring there is always something going on until dawn.

Lombok is a large island east of Bali, and it is a diverse and scenic spot to explore on vacation. On the south of island, you’ll find the beach town of Kuta, where surfers gather. Almost a world away from the same-named beach town in Bali, Kuta offers spectacular beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. In North Lombok, a less visited part of the island, you can hike to the summit of Mount Rinjani, admire some of the many waterfalls in the area or take a ferry over the Gili Islands. For a busier, urban atmosphere, head to Mataram, the island’s largest city. In Mataram, you can tour an 18th century palace at Mayura Garden or embark on a culinary street food adventure with a stroll along Jalan Udayana.

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Wealth of Geeks

24 Cool Places in Florida To Visit With Kids

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

Let’s be honest—kids are harder to impress these days. When it comes to family travel, they’re looking for unforgettable experiences. There’s no better choice than these places than the Sunshine State. From the Everglades to Disney and all the beaches in between, there are plenty of cool places in Florida to visit with kids.

Cool Places in Florida Your Kids Will Love

The diverse attractions make Florida a desirable vacation state. Eco-adventures await at some of the unique national parks, and there are theme park thrills and big-city fun. Visitors can experience it all in one trip because the driving distance from the Gulf to the Atlantic is only a few hours. Forget the WiFi and stop stressing over screen time. Your kids are sure to be entertained by these cool places in Florida.

1. Crab Island

Crab Island is one of the most popular attractions on Florida’s Emerald Coast. If your kids love waterslides, splashing around all day, and spending time on sand bars, it’s where you want to be. Shallow sea water, floating obstacle courses, slides, and adult bars make it a popular day destination. Visitors can only access Crab Island by boat. Anchor all day and be prepared with plenty of sunscreen for a day in Florida’s sun.

2. Legoland Florida Resort

Head to  Legoland Florida theme park if you want a multi-day family destination that younger kids will love. With more than 50 attractions, the park is themed around the popular brick toy. Legoland is recommended for kids ages 2 – 12, with a special Peppa Pig Theme Park for tiny ones. If you’re visiting during the summer, beat the Florida heat by splashing around at Legoland Water Park.

3. Sweet Pete’s

If your kids have a sweet tooth, head to  Sweet Pete’s  in Jacksonville for the biggest candy emporium you’ll ever see. Sweet Pete’s is 23,000 square feet with all the sugar you can dream of. Parents will love the nostalgic candy picks that’ll take them back to their childhood, while kids have wall-to-wall colorful candy to pick from. They offer candy-making classes if you want to learn how to make sugary delights long after your vacation ends. Transform into a chocolatier for a day, or learn how to spin sugar.

4. The Great Florida Reef

Underwater adventures await, where schools of fish swim around you at The Great Florida Reef. It’s the third-largest barrier reef system, the only one of its kind within the continental United States. Snorkelers and divers aren’t the only ones who can enjoy the reef. Kids can opt to ride on a glass-bottom boat to see the reef. The reef sits between the serene waters of Biscayne National Park and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

5. Perdido Key State Park

If a Florida beach day is your idea of fun, Perdido Key State Park offers the perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The park has white sand beaches filled with shells, and during sea turtle nesting season, you might come across turtles coming onto the shore. Surfing and hiking are popular park activities, but the sunsets are incredible. Pack a family picnic, spend the day, and enjoy the orange hues of the sun setting.

6. Shark Valley Observation Tower

Known as Shark Valley Observation Tower by the locals, this tower sits in the middle of Everglades National Park and has a similar architecture to the Seattle Space Needle. The monument is 65-foot-tall, and guests who hike or bike to it will feel surrounded by nature with a panoramic view of the Everglades. Even the kids will enjoy the view, and if they aren’t big walkers, take the park tram instead of hiking.

7. McKee Botanical Garden

Florida’s most diverse botanical garden,  McKee Botanical Garden , looks so surreal that it resembles images from a sci-fi movie. The garden exhibits look like sculptures; art is scattered around the garden, and traveling exhibits bring new wonders every few months. Little ones will love the McKee Children’s Garden, where interactive playtime is encouraged. Kids can play in a fairy forest a pirate shipwreck, and even make noise in the musical maze. 

8. Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens

Adventure and fresh air await families that visit Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens. It’s a collection of lush greenery, blooms, and tranquil waterfalls in Williston, Florida. It’s a spellbinding botanical garden that awakens your senses with the scent of flowers and beautiful colors. The 20-acre paradise is a great place to see butterflies, turtles, and even owls. Teens will appreciate the natural photography backdrops that the beds of flowers make.

9. Ponce Inlet

The secluded area of Ponce Inlet is located near Daytona Beach, but you’ll feel miles away from tourist traps. Immerse yourself in rich Florida history, indulge in gourmet ice cream, or go on the water for an eco-adventure. Everything to do at Ponce Inlet is within walking distance.

It’s home to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, which is the tallest lighthouse in Florida. Standing at 175 feet tall and 203 steps, the lighthouse can be conquered by guests who crave 360º views. The Marine Science Center is near the lighthouse, and the marina has dolphin cruises that depart throughout the day. Park the family car and have fun all day long at Ponce Inlet. 

10. Daytona Speedway

Older kids will love the Daytona Speedway. Daily tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most famous Nascar tracks. You never know when the track will be hot, and you’ll see a few practice laps. The end of the tour provides access to the museum, where you can see the latest Daytona 500-winning car and learn about the track’s history. After your time at the speedway, head to One Daytona across the street for family-friendly dining and shopping. 

11. Walt Disney World Resort

This list cannot exist without mention of  Walt Disney World Resort. There are thousands of ways to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation, and no two trips are alike. Walt Disney World’s four theme parks and two waterparks offer attractions for all ages based upon the characters we love in the beloved Disney movies. Park admission is free for children under the age of three. 

12. Universal Orlando Resort

Home to two theme parks and one waterpark, Universal Orlando offers themed thrills for the entire family. Sip a butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit during  Halloween Horror Nights if you want a scare, or spend the day on the Volcano Bay water park lazy river. 

13. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

A hidden gem in the Palm Coast, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a lush garden escape. It boasts a green color, and the shade of the oaks provides refuge from the heat. It has winding paths, reflection ponds, and gorgeous blooms to enjoy. Go deeper into the park and run into the coastal tide pools that fill up with nature. The tide pools form from the unique shoreline of coquina rock formations. Combinations of garden views and the ocean make this a truly unique state park to visit. 

14. Southernmost Point in Key West

Key West isn’t brimming with family-friendly things to do, but their few stand out. One of the most popular spots on the island is the Southernmost Point Buoy. It’s a landmark that’s the exact marking point of the southernmost point in the continental United States. Enjoy the island watersports and key lime pie as a family, but don’t forget to stop at this infamous photo spot. 

15. Seacrest Wolf Preserve

One of the cool places in Florida to visit if you love thrills with animals is the  Seacrest Wolf Preserve . Come face-to-face with wolves at this wolf refuge as you learn about these misunderstood creatures with animal experts. The preserve has been assisting guests with up-close wolf experiences for two decades. Sign up for the behind-the-scenes tour as a family, and you’ll come home with the coolest vacation photos.

16. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park offers an enchanting twist on Florida’s natural springs with swimming mermaids, riverboat cruises, and a swimming hole. It’s a legendary attraction and one of the cool places to visit in Florida with kids. Swim in Buccaneer Bay, which has waterslides, watch the mermaid show, and rent a kayak. It’s one of the most imaginative state parks we’ve ever seen. 

17. Everglades National Park

The country’s largest subtropical wilderness exists at Everglades National Park. Known for amazing animal sightings, the park is home to numerous rare and endangered species like the manatee, American crocodile, and the Florida panther. Sign up for Ranger-Led Programs to get the most out of your visit. Kids love spotting the wildlife, learning about the ecosystems, and seeing the natural side of South Florida. 

18. Discovery Cove

Paradise is located in Central Florida when you spend the day at Discovery Cove. It’s an all-inclusive day park where families can enjoy one-of-a-kind opportunities to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish and rays, hand-feed exotic birds, and unwind on pristine beaches. There are no lines throughout the park, and food is included with your admission. 

19. Bonnet Springs Park

Bonnet Springs Park is 168 acres of green space in Lakeland, Florida. The former rail yard is now a family-friendly oasis with trails, bike paths, and playground areas. However, the playground equipment looks more like works of art. They can go down slides built into the ground, take a spin on merry-go-rounds, and explore the Crenshaw Canopy Walk, a treetop trail that sits 25 feet above the ground.

Inside the park, families will find the Florida Children’s Museum, where creative STEM play is encouraged through interactive exhibits. The best part? This is one of the cool places in Florida you can visit for free. 

20. Butterfly World

The world’s largest butterfly and bird park exists in Florida. Butterfly World has “open-air” aviaries with over 20,000 exotic butterflies and tropical birds. Guests can walk through the tropical rainforest habitats and even hand-feed small parrots. Kids will especially love the Live Bug Zoo, where they can see all the creepy crawling things.

21. Busch Gardens

Half theme park and half zoo, Busch Gardens attracts Tampa tourists with over 12,000 animals, live shows, and coasters. It’s home to Florida’s first triple-launch coaster, the Cheetah Hunt. Whether you want to watch the animals all day or ride coasters back-to-back, you’ll find plenty of things to do with your kids at Busch Gardens.

22. Kennedy Space Center

Words cannot describe the amazing things families learn at the Kennedy Space Center. The experience opens your eyes to the future possibilities of space exploration while growing a deeper appreciation for NASA’s past accomplishments.

If you’re looking for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, you must take one of the center’s bus tours. Each bus tour is about 40 minutes long, with a stop at the Apollo/Saturn V Center. That’s where guests can see NASA’s Project Apollo come to life and learn more about space technology. 

23. Blue Spring State Park

Visiting  Blue Spring State Park  is an immersive experience that captivates the senses. Visit during the winter season to see hundreds of manatees take refuge, or visit during the summer when you can float up the river on a tube. There’s also an extraordinary two weeks where thousands of fireflies light up the night sky. It’s one of the best Florida state parks to visit with kids, and there’s no wrong time to go. 

24. Lion Country Safari

Just outside West Palm Beach, Lion Country Safari is home to the state’s only drive-thru safari with over 900 animals. Large herds of animals roam wide open and come to your car for an unbelievable experience. They have other things to do outside your vehicle, like rides and animal feeding opportunities. 

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The 20 Best Islands in Europe in 2022

The best islands in Europe, according to Travel + Leisure readers, combine fabulous food, rich history, and beautiful surroundings.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite islands in Europe.

There are few things more delightful than sipping a cold drink while lounging on a remote island, especially when it also involves earning a European stamp in your passport. This year's list of the best islands in Europe offers no shortage of inspiration, with seaside escapes so glorious that seven of them land on the World's Best Islands list.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.

Greece retains bragging rights, with seven highly lauded islands, including Mílos (No. 2); Páros (No. 3); and Crete (No. 7). These three appear on the World's Best Islands list as well, thanks to their photogenic beaches, fresh seafood, and ancient sites. To the west, France's Corsica (No. 8) earned plaudits for its boating activities, while the Italian island of Sicily (No. 11) drew praise for its multifaceted history. As one history buff wrote, "Sicily awaits the intrepid and prepared traveler with unbelievably pristine beaches, Greek ruins, and fabulous architecture of the late Middle Ages and period of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies."

Coming in at No. 17 is Scotland's Skye and the Hebrides (No. 17), a collection of more than 40 islands known for their dramatic landscapes and ancient Gaelic culture. Skye, which is now reachable by bridge, is a hiker's paradise with otherworldly rock formations, waterfalls, and fairy pools. At the Skeabost Hotel, which has 20 luxuriously appointed rooms, there's a nine-hole course for golf enthusiasts, while fishing fans can catch salmon in the river that runs through the 23-acre grounds.

Still, no island impressed T+L readers as much as Italy's Ischia, which was crowned not only No. 1 among the best islands in Europe, but the world.

1. Ischia, Italy

This 18-square-mile volcanic island, located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, just offshore from Naples, delights readers with its quaint towns and a plethora of natural hot springs. Many of Ischia's hotels, including the 128-room grande dame Regina Isabella and the 73-room San Montano Resort & Spa, have their own thermal pools. For a more intimate experience, consider the 10-room Tenuta del Poggio Antico, set on a hill overlooking the water. Italian hospitality is also alive and well on the island. "People were all very nice and helpful," one reader remarked.

Score: 94.61

2. Mílos, Greece

Score: 92.50

3. Páros, Greece

Score: 90.62

4. Azores, Portugal

Score: 90.48

5. Ibiza, Spain

Score: 89.89

6. Madeira, Portugal

Score: 89.78

7. Crete, Greece

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 89.40

8. Corsica, France

Score: 88.30

9. Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

Score: 87.60

10. Corfu and the Ionian Islands, Greece

Score: 87.53

11. Sicily, Italy

Score: 87.04

Score: 86.28

13. Santorini, Greece

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 86.20

14. Mallorca, Spain

Score: 86.04

15. Sardinia, Italy

Score: 85.90

16. Capri, Italy

Score: 85.80

17. Skye and the Hebrides, Scotland

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

Score: 85.47

Score: 84.67

19. Rhodes and the Dodecanese, Greece

Score: 84.59

20. Mykonos, Greece

Score: 83.63