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Home » Budget Travel » 25 Best Tropical Islands • Vacation Destinations for 2024!

25 Best Tropical Islands • Vacation Destinations for 2024!

Aquamarine waters, chalk-white beaches, nodding palm trees, and fragrant jungles – who doesn’t lust after the balmy beauty of tropical islands?

It feels like anything is possible in the tropics. With all kinds of adventure activities to keep you busy, you can easily spend days diving, sailing, trekking, and practising yoga. There’s nothing quite just like planting your tush on the sands of tropical beaches and breathing in those sunkissed vibes.

But of all the beautiful tropical places that grace the planet, how to choose which one to visit next?

Everyone deserves their fair share of vitamin sea, which is why we’ve scoured the globe to collate the  25 best tropical islands!  Whether you’re after adventure or simply want to practice your supine pose under the sun, one of these tropical island paradises are sure to float your boat. First up, it’s to the island of the gods…

Bali – The Tropical Island of the Gods

Seychelles – tropical paradise at a premium price, barbados – caribbean islands are a no-brainer, phuket – southern thailand is magnificent, the maldives – the ritziest destination in south asia, the perhentians – two tropical places to visit for the price of one, palawan – for some of the best diving in the philippines, fiji – a growing top island destination on people’s radars, the galapagos islands – exotic islands don’t come much more exotic, niue – technically it’s not a tropical island, koh rong – thai isle feels at a more chilled pace, raja ampat – for a tropical vacation off the beaten path, vanuatu – an overlooked gem of a tropical destination, koh lipe – like the maldives but cheaper, lombok and the gili islands – lots of islands, lots of vibes, bohol – tropical sights and adventure delights, mauritius – man, mauritius is just… the best, kauai (hawaii) – expensive, yes, but worth the cost, bermuda – tropical vacay gone mia, ilha grande – felicidade, san andrés – colombia meets the caribbean, saint vincent and the grenadines – yet more caribbean islands to visit, the whitsundays – in the tropics down under, the canary islands – it’s not all tropical beaches, bora bora – the pacific isles are woefully overlooked, in conclusion, it’s time to plan that tropical island vacation retreat.

Bali is that rare jewel that hits the sweet spot with backpackers, honeymooners, and family holidaymakers alike! Neither the cheapest destination in Southeast Asia nor the priciest, you’ve got the full spectrum tourist accommodation in Bali from fancy beachfront resorts to cosy guesthouses, chilled-out dorms, and wicked party hostels.

In Bali, it’s easy to cram your days with activities and excursions. Steeped in spirituality, there are thousands of Hindu temples dotted around the island with just as many yoga retreats. Or you can find a spot in the sun and kick back with a tropical juice or cold beer – there’s no judgement on Bali.

Take your pick between partying until sunrise or waking up at the crack of dawn to practise your warrior pose on the beach. Choose to eat beside locals at warungs or order the floating breakfast buffet to your private pool. When you’re visiting Bali , it’s all good.

What to do in Bali

• Hire a scooter and explore the hundreds of temples, paddy fields, beaches, and jungles of Bali.
• Strengthen your body and soothe your mind with a cocktail of surf and yoga classes.
• Nurture your Instagram feed with delicious smoothie bowls. 
• Hop on the boat and travel to Nusa Penida , a small tropical island featuring a t-rex shaped cliff and manta ray snorkelling. 

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With the softest sand and the warmest ocean, the name alone makes is enough to relax your sense. This dreamy archipelago of 115 islands sits in the middle of the Indian Ocean, far off the East African coast.

You’ve got a lot of options for choosing where to stay in Seychelles . Choose a base on Mahé , Praslin , and La Digue , and spend your days cruising around the smaller, uninhabited islands. 

Given the location and just how utterly pristine Seychelles is, it’s a very expensive tropical destination for a vacation – especially during December and January. It’s definitely smarter to visit between May and September when temperatures are the most pleasant, and it rains less.

After all, you don’t want to spend all those dollars to just sit in the rain.

What to Do in Seychelles 

• Book a crazy swanky resort complemented suited only to the grandest tastes.
• Dine on a diet of fancy cocktails and the finest imported food (or go find some local grub).
• Sit at the end of your private pier and contemplate the effects of climate change on small island nations .

Barbados is an absolute banger Caribbean island! With zesty nightlife, awesome local communities, and a surprising number of botanical gardens and other more sedate activities, there really is something for everyone in Barbados. It is easily one of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean .

Young travellers relish the vibrant festivals that take place throughout the year ranging from musical throwdowns to the harvest season and even a fish festival.

At the same time, families will also have a hoot! Barbados is a very safe destination swimming in family-friendly resorts and villas. It’s a much-beloved island for a tropical vacation in the Caribbean for travellers with a younger brood.

On the eastern side of the island, you’ll find some rad surfing spots. Every beach on Barbados is open to the public, which means you can take your pick from the 80 tropical beaches the island has on offer. The food is delicious and you can always pick between the pricey restaurants and the cheaper hangouts favoured by locals. 

If you have the cash, you’ll have no shortage of activities to throw it at, but Barbados is also one of the more affordable islands in the Caribbean. There are so many amazing places to stay in Barbados – you’ll find mid-range hotels and hostels to suit a whole variety of budgets. If you want a truly authentic experience, you could consider staying in a vacation rental in Barbados which is usually someones home that they have rented out.

What to Do in Barbados 

• Swim alongside turtles in the warm, azure water. 
• Gorge on fish fry washed down with plenty of locally distilled Mount Gay.
• Visit Scotland. That’s right – the region known as Saint Andrews bears a striking resemblance to the architectural landscape of Scotland (just with much, much better weather). 

Thailand’s largest island is the top tropical vacation for a wide mix of traveller styles and budgets. With its idyllic tropical beaches – pearl-white fringed with palms, glittering seas, and a myriad of peaceful temples – what’s not to like? Although, be sure to do your research when choosing where to stay in Phuket .

As a rule of thumb, central Phuket is popular with backpackers and party animals looking for some of Thailand’s best nightlife. Meanwhile, families or couples seeking a romantic escape may prefer the north or south areas. You’ll find no shortage of digs, ranging from budget hostel beds and homestays to whopping resorts and luxury retreats. 

As a general tip for the Thai islands – don’t write off the monsoon season (May-October). This means sharing Phuket with fewer tourists and netting cheaper accommodation while you’re at it. But don’t forget your rain jacket! It may not be the most tropical place in the world during this season…

What to Do in Phuket

• Embrace the full breadth of Thai culture. Experience an acrobatic massage, the vigour of a Muay Thai match, and find zen in a Buddhist temple all in the same day.   
• Eat, eat, and eat some more. Surf on local delicacies at the various night markets dotted around the island or enrol in a Thai cooking class. 
• Find out why you should never ride an elephant at the Phuket Elephant Jungle Sanctuary . At this ethical retreat, you can instead walk alongside the gentle giants. 

Luminous sapphire seas, blinding white sand, and flowing all-you-can-eat buffets are trademarks of the Maldives. Of the 1,200 islands that form this tropical paradise, around 100 are used for tourism. The most luxurious resorts straddle an atoll in its entirety, providing a more private (and luxurious) accommodation for visitors.  

A top tropical place to visit for affluent explorers, the Maldives is synonymous with honeymooners and loved-up couples with deep pockets. However, a number of the Maldivian resorts are set up to attract families too, with kids’ clubs, water slides, and other fun activities to keep the gremlins occupied. Make sure you check out the target market of any resort so you end up in the right place for your holiday. 

You’re more likely to find a Maldivian bargain between June and October – the monsoon season. ‘Bargain’ being relative: take that with a pinch of salt. They’d charge you for farting in the Maldives if they could. 

What to Do in the Maldives 

• Blow a year’s salary and rent a bungalow over the water to spend your days gazing at the abundant marine life swimming beneath your feet. 
• Discover all manner of world-class diving and snorkelling; the Maldives is a spectacular destination for a liveaboard trip . 
• Utilise the ferry system to escape the all-inclusive lifestyle and explore neighbouring islands with a more local vibe – the real Maldives.   

A short boat ride from the Malaysian coast sits two of the most beautiful tropical islands in Southeast Asia. People come to the Perhenthians for two reasons – to dive or snorkel in the crystal clear water, or to lounge on the beach and do a fat load of nada. Featuring some of Malaysia’s most beautiful tropical beaches , the Perhentians are perfect no matter your preferred travel vibe!

Head to Perhentian Besar for a peaceful escape in a world-class resort with all your creature comforts supplied. This island is popular with families and honeymooners and comprises mid-range to top-tier hotels. 

Those of you counting the pennies, follow the rest of the broke backpackers off the boat at the more rustic and (slightly) rowdier Perhentian Kecil . This is actually one of the most affordable places to get your open water diving certificate in the whole of Asia. The diving conditions are mint too, so it’s totally worth it!

What to Do in the Perhenthians 

• Accidentally-on-purpose miss your boat back to the mainland and extend your stay (indefinitely).
• Don’t even bother asking for Wi-Fi codes on Perhentian Kecil. It won’t work, and you’ve got better things to do. 
• Experience tropical camping on Perhentian Kecil.

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Many say that Palawan is the most beautiful tropical island you’ll find while travelling in the Philippines ; it’s hard not to see why: the beauty of this tropical island paradise slaps you right in the face! (Gently and lovingly.) 

Palawan boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Wiggle into your diving gear and explore Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park or hop aboard a canoe for the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park .

In keeping with the rest of the Philippines, Palawan is a brilliant tropical island for backpackers on a budget. With plenty of hostels and cheap food, you can stretch your money far here. Travellers flock to Palawan, so if you’re travelling solo, you’re guaranteed to make some new travel buddies . 

What to Do in Palawan

• Island-hop around the lagoons and islands of El Nido in the northern stretch of the island. 
• Tickle your tastebuds with Filipino cuisine. Bull’s testicle soup (mysteriously branded Soup Number 5) and boiled duck embryo (balut) are two such delicacies. In fact, the termite of the sea – tamilok – is a Palawan speciality. 

Another of those islands formerly seen as a honeymoon destination, Fiji’s appeal has soared over recent decades. It now attracts a mixed bag of solo backpackers and younger explorers as well as the usual tropical vacation crowd. This is in part because Fiji is not that expensive !

As the most developed Pacific Island, it’s also the most popular for family holidays. Made up of more than 300 islands, there is no shortage of awesome places to stay in Fiji . However, you will find most of the tourism across the western islands – particularly Viti Levu and Vanua Levu .

Fiji has something for everyone! There’s diving and snorkelling, sailing and surfing, hiking and whale watching, and, of course, there’s embracing the tropical island lifestyle by swaying in a hammock for days at a time. The temperature remains mostly constant throughout the year, with cyclones occurring between November and January.

What to Do in Fiji

• Take a break from the beach to slather yourself up in the therapeutic mud baths of Viti Levu. 
• Befriend the friendly locals at a Fijian village. Rather than taking a tour, you can do this independently… as long as you brush up on the customs. Don’t forget to cover up and take a sevusevu (gift) for the turanga ni koro (village chief).

Some 1,000 km from the South American continent, the 19 exotic islands that form the Galapagos are a melting pot of all forms if abundant fauna. With its undisturbed ecosystem and isolated location, wildlife is able to flourish in the Galapagos. Rather than lying still on the beach, a trip to the Galapagos Islands is all about early starts and days trawling the coast for nature sightings. 

While the Galapagos used to be exclusively for the wild-loving wealthy, there is more scope for a budget tropical vacation these days. If you have the cash to splash, sure – go ahead and book that liveaboard cruise.

If not, however, you’ll find dorms, guesthouses, and affordable local food. There are cheaper areas in the Galapagos Islands to stay, and then once you’ve got your feet on the ground, you can shop around for tours and excursions. 

What to Do in The Galapagos 

• Ponder what the world would look like if we left nature in peace beyond this cluster of beautiful tropical islands.
• Put down your camera and binge on the extraordinary wildlife you’ll encounter with your own two eyes. 

Not so much a tropical island, the minuscule island nation of Niue is technically a coral atoll. In fact, it’s one of the largest raised coral atolls on Earth (as well as being one of the most beautiful tropical places on Earth… obvs).

You’ve got rock pools in the north and rainforest in the southwest with secret tropical beaches connecting the two. Oh, and it’s so small you can hike across the length of the island in about five hours!

At present, Niue is only accessible from New Zealand, which does make it trickier to access. It’s most popular with vacationing Kiwis (though not the feathery and cute kind), travellers backpacking in New Zealand , and other South Pacific islanders. But it’s way more chill than its neighbouring South Pacific islands, making it one of the top tropical islands in the vicinity for some R&R. 

What to Do on Niue

• Swing by the Police Station to pick up your Niue driver’s licence – mandatory before you hire a car. Best souvenir ever, right?
• Experience the underwater world – diving off Niue comes with a visibility of up to 100 metres. 

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Koh Rong is Cambodia’s answer to Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands. Again, you get to take your pick between two islands to visit both easily accessible for those staying in the Sihanoukville area . 

Koh Rong is the more happening of the two with regular raves and parties at Police Beach . It’s not quite on par with Thailand full moon parties, but it’s getting pretty damn close at this point.

Conversely, however, for a quieter tropical escape, head to the sleepier Koh Rong Samloem and nap on untouched tropical beaches in humble bamboo huts. Alternatively, you can just take the 45-minute boat ride between the two islands whenever you’re feeling like a change of pace!

While Koh Rong works out at a lower cost overall, both islands are ideal for budget travellers. They’re mainly frequented by travellers on a circular lap backpacking around Cambodia , and long-term wanderers who still haven’t left.

What to Do in Koh Rong

• Fill your tummy on the catch of the day at the nightly beach barbecues while local kids dressed in British football shirts run riot. 
• Switch your phone off and embrace the castaway vibe of Koh Rong Samloem – Wi-Fi is in short supply.

The Raja Ampat archipelago bobs around in Indonesia’s distant West Papua province. It’s hardly one of the easiest tropical places to vacation due to its remoteness. That being said, if you want to get as off-grid as possible, then Raja Ampat is your dream destination!

Once you reach this faraway cluster of jungle coated islands, you can choose to immerse yourself in snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and much more. 

A number of protected areas have been established in Raja Ampat to maintain the marine environment. That means, on the one hand, unspoiled nature and thriving wildlife. On the other, it does result in Raja Ampat being a costlier choice for those backpacking around Indonesia’s 17,508 islands . 

What to Do in Raja Ampat

• See for yourself what a difference it makes when we protect the natural environment. 
• Get the full Robinson Crusoe experience with a cruise out to some of the deserted islands in the archipelago. 

Of all the tropical places to visit in the South Pacific, Vanuatu ticks a lot of the boxes for your island escape. Vanuatu has managed to steer clear of mass tourism, and accommodation options are more along the lines of independent boutique bungalows and hideaway retreats. 

This fiery island has an ample scattering of simmering volcanoes, including a number beneath the water. There’s some of the best wreck diving in the South Pacific off the islands, making Vanuatu a top tropical vacation for adventure junkies. 

What to Do in Vanuatu 

• Set yourself the challenge of seeing how many words you can pick up from the 100+ indigenous languages spoken throughout Vanuatu.
• Duck beneath the palm trees with a platter of brie and a bottle of red wine – a hangover from the time the nation was a French colony. 
• Sip on kava – a natural narcotic drink made from the root of the malok plant. 

If you like the sound of the Maldives but are less enthused by the prices, Thailand has the perfect alternative. Dubbed the Maldives of Thailand for its turquoise bays and alabaster-white sand, you could almost convince yourself you really were sitting in the middle of the Indian Ocean. With no jetty to speak off, arriving on Koh Lipe is an adventure in of itself! 

With its romantic beachfront resorts, Koh Lipe is one of Thailand’s best tropical islands for couples. But it also caters well for budget explorers on the Southeast Asia backpacker trail . There’s a scattering of hostels and budget bungalows that – while pricier than other Thai islands – won’t break your budget.

From Koh Lipe, you can even take the ferry onwards to Langkawi, one of Malaysia’s top tropical vacation spots. 

What to Do in Koh Lipe

• Set up camp in one of Koh Lipe’s awesome beach bars and chat the afternoon away with friendly locals. 
• Watch the sun come up at Sunrise Beach and dip back below the horizon at Sunset Beach. 

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Lombok suffered greatly in the wake of the 2018 earthquake, which destroyed homes and paused the island’s tourism. But now, the island is getting back on its feet, and tourists are a welcome sight. Plus, staying in Lombok is awesome; it’s even more laid-back than Bali and way less commercialised.

Besides Bali, Lombok is a springboard to the Gili Islands – three of the most tropical places in Southeast Asia. These are essentially broken down into:

• Air – For mediation, yoga, and wellness as well as stellar diving. 
• Trawangan – For hedonistic backpackers hungry for nightlife. 
• Meno – For a romantic tropical island paradise or family holiday. 

What to Do in Lombok and the Gili Islands 

• Support as many local businesses as you can and tip generously – it’ll help the locals regenerate their lost earnings.
• If you’re short on time, stick to staying on one Gili Island rather than hopping around all three. 

Selecting the most beautiful tropical islands in the Philippines is no simple feat, but the chocolate hills of Bohol make it an easy choice alongside Palawan. 

Bohol is the epicentre of outdoor nature fun in the Philippines. Once you’ve roamed the chocolate hills, you can take your pick from ziplining above the dense canopy, waterfall climbing, exploring caves, and cruising along jungle rivers.

Bohol is one of the most diverse islands in the Philippines. Every day is filled with different landscapes, animals, and adventures.

It’s the perfect area to stay in the Philippines for wanderers on a budget who want to see some otherworldly natural sights.

What to Do in Bohol 

• Let yourself get gooey-eyed over the googly-eyed Tarsiers.
• Take a day trip to neighbouring Panglao Island – accessible via a bridge. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking Mauritius is solely for honeymooners. Mauritius is still one of the best tropical vacation spots out there, even if you haven’t recently declared your undying love for your other half.

There’s not much of a backpacker scene on the island, but you can most definitely backpack Mauritius ! Despite the lack of a budget travel and hostel scene, there are some really dope accommodations on Airbnb fit for less financially buoyant travellers. 

Mauritius is a real playground for those who like their idyllic tropical destinations to come with a side of adventure. Hiking, watersports, skydiving, and regular ol’ scuba diving: it’s an island where all your scary dreams can come true. 

What to Do in Mauritius 

• Take a helicopter tour to see the ‘underwater waterfall’ off the coast of Morne. 
• Find a secluded spot in the less developed south end of the island for a wilder experience.
• Alternatively, head north for tropical beach feels at a slow fishing village tempo.

You can’t go wrong with visiting Hawaii no matter which of the state’s eight islands you choose as your destination. But – if you’re not sure where to start – check out Kauai. Kauai is perhaps the prettiest of the islands, with drop-dead gorgeous natural sights and the beaches to match

Besides that, Kauai is also the most backpacker-friendly Hawaiian island. It’s cheaper than the ultra swanky Maui and quieter than Big Island. Though there are still affordable villas in Kauai for those wanting a more traditional stay.

It’s also the wettest of the islands, seeing short bursts of rain more or less every day of the year. However, it’s for that very reason the ‘garden isle’ is so vividly green and gushing with waterfalls, such as the jaw-dropping Wall of Tears.

That being said, if you’d rather see a backdrop of spewing lava, stick with Big Island. It’s magma -nimous.

What to Do in Kauai  

• Scout out the famous shoot locations used in such films as the Pirates of the Caribbean, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Jurassic Park. 
• Explore the ‘other’ Grand Canyon – Waimea Canyon State Park.
• Leave the accommodation behind in exchange for a tent under the stars. There’s mad camping in Hawaii .

With its pink tropical beaches, swathes of British phone booths, and the biggest monopoly on shipwrecks in the world, Bermuda isn’t your standard tropical paradise.

Bermuda is pricey, but it’s a top island destination if you’re a big spender with money to burn. It’s so expensive that even cooking in your Airbnb kitchen won’t make the slightest difference – even groceries come with x-rated price tags. That being said, it’s a very beautiful tropical island, and easily one of the coolest places to say you’ve visited and there are tons of cool places to stay in Bermuda . 

Another popular option is to join a cruise that stops over at Bermuda. You can pack your beach gear , spend a day soaking up the Bermuda rays, and then be back somewhere cheaper by nightfall!

What to Do in Bermuda

• Swizzle a rum swizzle while watching the skies turn pink over the pink sands
• Take a glass-bottom boat and snorkelling combination tour out to the shipwrecks of the Bermuda Triangle.

Less of a holiday destination in its own right, the small tropical island of Ilha Grande is more a weekend getaway or day trip when staying in Rio de Janeiro . Only an hour’s boat ride away from the city, the island allures with its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and exciting forest trails.

As Ilha Grande has managed to avoid mass development, the island remains mostly unspoiled with an easy-going atmosphere. 

What to Do on Ilha Grande 

• Take a boat tour and visit the even tinier tropical islands around the main island. You’ll find even wilder beaches with marine rich waters crying out for a snorkelling session. 
• Have a wander around the abandoned maximum-security prison, Candido Mendes. You might bump into Julio de Almeida, a former inmate who decided to stay after the prison closed down.

Officially a part of Colombia, the seahorse-shaped Caribbean island of San Andrés brings together a sparkling mix of Latino, English, and Creole culture. 

San Andrés is on the whole populated with Colombians who take advantage of budget flights from the mainland. They also waived the tourist tax fee on arrival. While the exotic island doesn’t generally appear on Latin American travel itineraries, it’s pretty backpacker-friendly. 

What to Do in San Andrés

• Island hop to the Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park, a protected coral islet inhabited by iguanas and reggae tunes. 
• Hire a golf cart from your hotel or local rental company and tour the island in style. 

Comprising the main island and a chain of smaller islands, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines lingers in the south-east of the Caribbean Sea. The topography is unusual; besides your sky-blue seas and emerald green jungle, you’ll also find spiky cacti! 

With yacht-filled harbours and chic private islands, this is a top island destination for sailors and boat owners. Affordable self-catering apartments and guesthouses are available on the main island. The further out you travel, however, the costlier and more exclusive your accommodation will become. 

What to Do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Visit Wallilabou Bay, where Captain Jack Sparrow escaped execution at the hands of the British Navy.
• Summit the smouldering La Soufriere. Once at the crater, you can take a rope-guided walk down into the caldera of the volcano and get a closer look at the lava dome.

Some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands are located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Being Australia, the Whitsundays aren’t the cheapest tropical islands to explore, but they can be explored on a backpacker budget.

You’ve got some choices for where to stay in the Whitsundays . Use Airlie Beach as your base if you’re looking to form a crew to split costs with. And while you’re in the area, hitting up the Great Barrier Reef – the longest coral formation in the world – for a spot of diving is an unmissable experience.

What to Do in the Whitsundays

• Book a boat trip to explore the uninhabited islands. 
• Feast on some of Australia’s best seafood. 

Strictly speaking, the islands of Gran Canaria and its neighbours aren’t tropical destinations, but rather subtropical. But who likes rules, ey? Also – these islands have some of the most unique landscapes on the planet, encompassing mini deserts and volcanic black sand.

With guaranteed sun year-round, the Canary Islands are popular with Northern Europeans after some winter sunning. Gran Canaria is one of the most popular areas to stay , however, branching out just means you’re going to discover areas much less ventured by tourists!

You can also score some very budget-friendly package deals or camping spots. You just gotta break off the beaten path!

What to Do in the Canary Islands

• Clamber around the volcanoes of the exotic island Gran Canaria. 
• Visit the lesser-known El Hierro for unspoilt beaches and rural solitude. 

Exclusive, expensive, and dripping with luxury, Bora Bora is one of the tropical places to vacation if you’ve got the cash. It’s expensive to get there, it’s expensive to sleep there, it’s expensive to eat there.

However, it’s also painfully beautiful, and the moment you plant your weary feet into the soft white sand of French Polynesia, all those money-shaped worries will drift away. It may not be one of the cheapest places in the world to travel, but man, it’s one of the best looking.

What to Do in Bora Bora

• Lie back and soak up those desktop wallpaper views.
• Hike up to the summit of Mount Pahia for a close-up of neighbouring volcano Mount Otemanu.

And that concludes our thoughts on the 25 best tropical places to visit! We hope that at least one of these tropical islands has sparked your wanderlust urges. 

While tropical islands used to be reserved for the rich and famous, fortunately, that’s changed. While not always cheap, affordable accommodation is out there – even in places like the Caribbean and Indian Ocean.

A growing emphasis on eco-tourism and sustainable travel also means that it’s not all about booking a deluxe resort anymore. That’s always an option, of course, but many islands have shifted to low-impact or independent accommodations and tours. 

Before you know it, you’ll be sipping on fresh coconut water while the salty sea air ruffles your hair.

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You got me super interested in Bali, yet everything else I read is it’s a dirty shithole, and beaches are filthy and strewn with garbage. Is this still the case?

Hell no! Several of our team live in Bali and they love it.

It is true that certain areas like Kuta can be very crowded and boisterous during high season and the beaches there can get a bit trashed but there are plenty of clean pristine beaches around too.

When I visited Bali last years I was a bit dubious of it myself but soon fell in love with the place and can’t wait to get back.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 Jun 10, 2019 and updated Nov 25, 2022.

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The 23 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Plus, the most idyllic accommodations on each.

Out of all the incredible islands that comprise French Polynesia, Bora Bora is the crown jewel. Just northwest of Tahiti, the island feels utterly remote while being easily accessible for the honeymoon, anniversary, or celebratory trip of dreams. Surrounded by a coral reef-protected lagoon, Bora Bora is a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers alike, and it boasts an array of world-class luxury resort properties.

Don't miss out on a stay at the glamorous St. Regis Bora Bora Resort , which boasts the largest overwater bungalows in the South Pacific.

There's a reason the society set has escaped to St. Barthelémy for decades each winter. Known for its pristine, white-sand beaches; jewel-toned waters, fabulous nightlife, and impeccable shopping. St. Barths is a must-visit destination for those seeking the epitome of Caribbean elegance and leisure.

We can't wait to finally visit Rosewood Le Guanahani upon its grand re-opening on St. Barths this fall which will be the only full-service resort on the entire island.

This now-iconic island in the Philippines is widely considered the world's best island, and for good reason. Besides the sugary white sands and crystal-clear waters, limestone rock formations, lush vegetation, hundreds of species of exotic birds, and an exciting culture make Palawan the ultimate destination for those seeking an exotic and tropical escape.

Maremegmeg Beach Club opened in 2018 and has quickly become one of the most luxurious, sought-after stays in the area with immaculate sea views from every room and a fun, boutique-y vibe.

This magical island that lies southeast of India offers the ultimate island adventure for those seeking a vacation beyond sunbathing. Cultural experiences, breathtaking hikes, historic temple tours, fabulous cuisine, and of course, unbelievable surf and sand, draws in travelers of all kinds.

Find stylish seclusion at Eden Villas , with an exciting variety of accommodations that hold up to 20 guests, plus, a dedicated concierge to help you book the curated stay of your dreams.

Thanks to Greek mythology, Crete has been immortalized as a mystical island that was the birthplace of King Zeus. Besides history and folklore, Crete offers some of the world's most swoon-worthy beaches and views of the Aegean.

Opening this June, The Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton offers a haven for families, couples, and solo travelers alike seeking private beaches, incredible gastronomic experiences, and all the sights and sounds of this enchanting isle.

This glorious island in the Eastern Caribbean might surprise first-time visitors by how much it resembles a Hawaiian island. This charming destination features an abundance of terrain, from the aptly named, iconic Sugar Beach to the stunning Piton volcanic mountains. Visitors can always expect thoughtful hospitality, a taste of the French-inspired Caribbean culture, and mystical views.

Marigot Bay Resort offers Caribbean luxury at its finest with its penthouse and residential accommodations, fabulous spa, and glamorous marina for sailing and shopping.

This South Asian archipelago is often considered the home of the world's best beach thanks to its immaculate waters, white-sand beaches, and miles of dreamy coconut palms. This nation of islands is also home to some of the world's best luxury resort properties.

Soneva Resorts arguably offer the best stays in the Maldives with spacious, overwater retreats, unique experiences, and lavish dining establishments.

New Zealand

This magical island-country is full of fantastical changes in terrain, folklore-ish caves and coves, and breathtaking beaches. One of the most popular sights is Milford Sound, shown here, which is a magnificent fjord home to rainforests, waterfalls, black coral, and fascinating aquatic life (think: penguins).

Be at the center of it all with a stay in Queenstown's chic, new accommodations in The Dairy Private Hotel which blends hints of rustic, New Zealand charm with bold, exquisite design in a historic building.

This sun-drenched Greek isle is home to some of the most unique stretches of beach in the world. This historic island on the Aegean Sea features architecture that dates back thousands of years, charming yet cosmopolitan villages, exciting water adventures, and a thriving food and beverage scene.

Book your stay at Parīlio , a fabulous design hotel that blends the best of old and new and offers a slew of amenities when you need a break from sunbathing.

Known for its pink-sand beaches, friendly culture, and obsession with rum, Bermuda is as vibrant as it is beautiful. This British territory lies in the Northern Atlantic and offers iconic beaches, plenty of natural wonders to explore, and breathtaking waters.

Embrace all the pink to be found and stay at the beloved Hamilton Princess hotel, beach club, and marina for a legendary taste of Bermuda.

The Whitsundays

The Whitsundays lie right off Queensland in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, so prepare for strapping on that snorkel or scuba gear upon arrival. Home to 74 island wonders, this region of Australia is home to some of the world's best beaches, like Whitehaven Beach.

Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel is the perfect five-star stay for those who don't want to miss a minute of the Whitsundays' ocean views and adventures.

With a nickname like "The Garden Isle," this Hawaiian island must live up to the hype. The most remote of the archipelago's most popular islands, Kauai boasts lush, green mountains, dramatic rock formations, golden sands, and fantastic waters for surfing and swimming.

Enjoy Kauai at its finest with a stay at The Lodge at Kukui'ula on the island's southern shore, which offers elegant, residential-style stays and one-of-a-kind experiences and amenities.

Jetsetters have found their paradise in this Spanish Baeleric island for decades, thanks to its azure waters, luxurious beach clubs, historic architecture, and dramatic coastline. This beautiful island offers legendary arts, culture, nightlife, and gastronomic experiences beyond the surf and shore.

La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel is the most idyllic and lavish place to make the most of a trip to Mallorca, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Tramuntana Mountains.

Cook Islands

This South Pacific nation consists of 15 islands and is politically tied to New Zealand. This year-round paradise offers sweeping stretches of coconut palms (no hotels can be taller than them!), piercing blue waters, and spectacular marine life.

Pacific Resort Aitutaki , residing on the namesake island, is a lovely place to enjoy a tranquil, tropical retreat via villa or bungalow in the South Pacific.

Seasoned travelers and film aficionados alike will either know of or have been to Anse Source D'Argent, Seychelles' most famous stretch of beach (and the filming location for "Cast Away"), but the entire archipelago is full of fantastical, tropical attractions. Coral reefs, nature reserves, rainforests, and unique wildlife are just a few of the reasons to flock to this spectacular African country.

If you haven't been wowed enough yet, just wait until you arrive at North Island , an eco-friendly private island-resort in Seychelles that is home to spectacular villas, service, and amenities.

This island-state seated just below Australia is wild, rustic, and geographically diverse, as nearly 40 percent of the island is protected for national parks and national heritage wilderness. White sand beaches with sweeping ocean and mountain views are a hallmark of Tasmania, making it an ultimate destination for island getaways.

Those with a penchant for history, art, and design will fall in love with Islington Hotel in Hobart which offers a haute, enlightening experience in Tasmania.

Ah, Santorini, how could we leave you off the list? This ancient isle in the Cyclades is known for its whitewashed, hilltop villages seated above azure waters. Created after a volcanic eruption, its beaches also feature multi-colored lava pebbles and cliffs.

Mystique Hotel offers the quintessential, luxury experience in Santorini you're jonesing for with dreamy accommodations, a fantastic wellness program, and unique experiences that connect visitors to Santorini's lovely culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship.

Bali is the most popular of Indonesia's enchanting islands, thanks to its paradisal terrain, fascinating history and architecture, renowned wellness experiences, and, of course, some of the best stretches of beach in the world. Turquoise waters, bright white sands, and verdant rock formations make for an ideal place to surf, swim, and sunbathe.

Look no further than Amankila , a truly stunning resort property from Aman with all the amenities you've come to know and love from the brand.

Vancouver Island

Off the Canadian Pacific Coast lies a charming island with an eclectic community of creatives, English-style gardens, and impeccable architecture. This unique island features moody, rocky beaches littered with dramatic cliffs, making for a unique, exciting vacation.

Enjoy the best of British Columbia at Fairmont Empress in Victoria, an enchanting, harbor-side resort that offers traditional high tea and well-appointed suites.

Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before going on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light , and she covers all things lifestyle from interior design and luxury travel to wine and wellness.

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The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

By Brian Major

I’ve been fortunate to travel widely across the Caribbean over the last 30 years. I’m also a descendant of Caribbean people, so many folks assume I’ve visited every island. Not likely—the Caribbean consists of 28 islands encompassing just over one million square miles. So while I’ve visited most, there are still a handful I’ve yet to encounter. But that’s a good thing. Many know the Caribbean of picture-perfect views —all lush green hillsides, soft beaches, sunny skies, sun loungers, and poolside cocktails. But that’s really just the white-sandy surface of this region, where each island has something distinct to offer. On Dominica , hiking is unmatched, notably its Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, where you can traverse across the rim of an active volcano. The best island hopping is in the British Virgin Islands , while Barbados is the action island, where the historic Garrison horse racing takes place year-round.

If you’re looking to soak up some winter sun by a pool lounger and nothing more, then any island in the Caribbean will do—the hotels in St Barth's are amongst some of the best in the world. But if you’re willing to dig a little deeper and venture beyond the resort gates, these are the best islands in the Caribbean.

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

When little travelers are involved, the ease of a resort jam-packed with activities can take the strain off parents and let everyone enjoy the trip. For this reason, Barbados is the ideal Caribbean island for families, and there’s everything from larger, more affordable resorts to smaller boutique offerings. For intergenerational holidays and trips with slightly older children, consider hiring out a villa— Oliver’s Travels allows customers to filter results by ‘great for kids.’

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best island for: action

Barbados might just be one of the best all-rounder islands in the Caribbean. Some of the top hotels in the region are found here, as are some of the best beaches, all accessible to the public—there are no private beaches in Barbados. Poolside beverages are spiked with rum, distilled on the island and best learnt about at St. Nicholas Abbey, a plantation house, museum, and rum distillery. Those looking for more diverse action can find it at the heritage railway, the racing car circuit, and the Garrison Savannah, a popular horse race that takes place throughout the year. And then there are the surrounding reefs, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel with seahorses, and spy whales in winter months.

Where to stay: Sandy Lane Hotel is one of the most glamorous hotels on the island complete with a British or American country club vibe—there are three golf courses on the hotel grounds. For something more low-key, Little Good Harbour ’s rooms feel more like private cottages and its fuss-free restaurant, The Fish Post, is beloved as one of the best in Barbados. For more ideas, consult our list of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island .

Best island for: romance

The Caribbean is synonymous with honeymoons but it's St Lucia that tops them all when it comes to serving up romance. You can thank the island’s mountainous landscape for that—it’s all about a room with a view of the 2,000-foot high Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s calling card.

There’s adventure to be found too, like exhilarating zip lines high above the island’s rainforest canopy or mud baths in Sulphur Springs, a geothermically active basin of hot springs and fumaroles within the the dormant Qualibou volcano in Soufrière.

Where to stay: Coconut Bay is the biggest crowd pleaser on the island—all inclusive and catering to couples, families, and even wedding parties. For something more private, Ladera is an eco-lodge where rustic suites have private plunge pools. See our edit of the best resorts in St Lucia for more.

Best island for: beaches

In a region characterized by beautiful beaches , Anguilla has the best in the region. Partly for their mesmerizing ribbon of blue water but also because their powdery white sands invariably host only a handful of other beach-goers. There are 33 beaches in total, and while each one I’ve encountered has been memorable, the standouts to see include Cove Bay, Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Shoal Bay.

Anguilla is also a worthy choice for its culinary scene. Refreshingly there are no chain restaurants on the island. Instead, restaurants and eateries tend to be small family-run businesses. If you visit just one, make it Tasty’s, which serves up a stellar coconut-crusted fish and marinated conch salad by Anguillan chef Dale Carty.

Where to stay: The Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is the newest shiny address on the island, with seven restaurants and bars and a fleet of private jets transporting guests to and from the property. Find more editor-vetted Anguilla hotels here .

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) territory has few chain restaurants and no large hotels or mass tourism attractions. Instead, you’ll encounter turquoise waters, lush green hillsides, and distinctive cuisine and culture across the four main islands: Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.

Hopping from island to island—whether via public ferry or private catamaran—is the characteristic way to explore the BVI. On my last visit I sailed to Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, home to casual beachfront eateries serving dangerously delicious rum cocktails and locally caught fish. Another fantastic spot is Willy T’s Floating Bar and Restaurant near Norman Island. Moored offshore, the cargo ship has been converted into an ultra-relaxed eatery.

Where to stay: Located on a broad, secluded calm-water bay on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay has 80 villas and suites each staffed with a personal butler. The Reef House is one of three restaurants and features farm-to-fork dining with fresh provisions sourced locally.

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Best island for: diving

The calm waters surrounding Dominica make it one of the best diving spots in the world. The rainbow-colored seascape is best viewed at Champagne Reef, named for its bubbling waters generated by volcanic thermal springs rising from on the ocean floor. The reef also comprises plummeting cliffs, towering volcanic formations and the remains of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck.

Another highlight is L'Abym, a dive site located on the island’s southern tip and suited to all skill levels due to Soufriere Bay’s gentle current. Underwater wonders are visible from 20 feet below the surface right down to a 1,500-foot maximum depth. An underwater wall extending its entire length gives the site its name.

Where to stay: Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is the smartest place to stay on the island. All of the classic hallmarks are here—a full service spa, four swimming pools—but it’s the lush grounds, which incorporate Cabrits National Park, that make this spot memorable.

Best island for: natural beauty

Grenada’s 133 archipelagic square miles are laced with waterfalls, hot springs and tropical rainforests across three main islands: Grenada, Petit Martinique, and Carriacou. Ringed by 45 white- and nine black-sand beaches, the hilly isles are dotted with acres of fruit and spice trees.

One-ninth of Grenada’s land mass is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, best seen on a guided hike of Grand Etang Forest Reserve. Sister Island Carriacou is a worthy day trip too, especially for the top-shelf diving and snorkeling.

Where to stay: Few places capture Grenada's understated magic like the Silversands Grenada resort , found at the sleepy end of the two-mile Grand Anse Beach. The biggest draw here is the 330-foot infinity pool, said to be the longest in the Caribbean, which stretches from the hotel’s entrance all the way to the sea.

Puerto Rico

Best island for: history and culture

There’s a distinct energy to Puerto Rico , one that draws upon a fascinating blend of Hispanic, African, American, and Caribbean culture and history. To see it start in colonial San Juan , the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Head to the old town where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Spanish buildings housing trendy bars, boutique shopping and all-night entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Africans arrived in Puerto Rico via forced migration in the colonial era. Their contributions to the island’s culture, art, music and cuisine live on today in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population. You can witness it via the artwork on display at Samuel Lind Studio, or at the Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena which puts on traditional music and dance workshops.

Where to stay: Caribe Hilton is within walking distance of historic Old San Juan and the Condado entertainment district. Designed in tropical modernist style by legendary Puerto Rican firm Toro Ferrer, the grounds incorporate 17 acres of tropical landscaping as well as nine restaurants and an oceanfront pool complex. See our edit of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for more.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Best island for: visiting two islands in one trip

Lush natural beauty and historic attractions are the hallmarks of this twin-island nation. Most travelers visit both islands, as smaller Nevis is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from larger St. Kitts. Sightseeing on St. Kitts is best done via the scenic train—the only working railway in the Caribbean—which circumnavigates the island on routes that once transported plantation sugar cane. Another highlight is the Brimstone Hill fortress, built of hand-chiseled stones by enslaved Kittitians and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand among the fort’s ramparts and cannon while taking in panoramic views of neighboring Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, and St. Barths .

Tiny Nevis’ resplendent landscape is overlooked by 3,232-foot high Nevis Peak, located at its center and visible from virtually every point on the island. Mountainside hiking and ATV tours uncover haunting ruins of colonial-era plantations and sugar mills.

Where to stay: Hide away in one of the traditional West Indian–inspired cottages at Belle Mont Farm . As the name suggests, dining here is farm-to-table, serving up freshly foraged organic fruit and vegetables plus seafood plucked straight out of the ocean.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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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.

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.

More on Seychelles

The best islands to visit right off the US coast

Whether you are still working or retired, sometimes you just want to get away to experience a change of pace in a beautiful, easy-to-get-to place with wonderful beaches, decent hotels and inns, and fun things to see and do. Islands just off the U.S. coast fit the bill.

Fly near or to these islands, or pack the car for a trip that will take you across a causeway or aboard a ferry to these patches of paradise.

Here are TPG's picks for the best islands off the U.S. coast.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Hilton Head Island

With 12 miles of beaches and 32 golf courses (about two dozen of the championship variety), Hilton Head, South Carolina , is well known. But don't let that dissuade you from visiting. While it's certainly no secret, Hilton Head remains picture-perfect and offers plenty of activities and great places to stay.

About 30 miles from Savannah, Georgia, and accessible from the mainland via a causeway, this Lowcountry barrier island brags of the warmest water on the Eastern Seaboard.

Pull yourself from the beach for a while and escape into nature. Embark on a gentle kayak paddle through scenic marshland or stroll along paved pathways and keep a look out for resident wildlife at the Audubon Newhall Preserve and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Santa Catalina Island

Known locally as Catalina Island, this rocky patch of land jutting into the Pacific some 29 miles off the coast of Long Beach, California, offers an easy escape from the city. Catch a one-hour Catalina Express high-speed ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro or Dana Point, or the Catalina Flyer catamaran from Newport Beach, both operating year-round. It's not uncommon to see dolphins following your boat.

On the island you'll find quaint towns, sandy beaches and a wealth of water activities such as parasailing, glass-bottom boat tours to reefs and shipwrecks and diving and snorkeling opportunities in the clear waters.

Visitors are not allowed to drive cars on the island, but you can rent a golf cart or a bike to explore the main town of Avalon and take Jeep and bus tours to see the interior. About 90% of the island is a protected nature preserve. For a workout, trek up 2,103-foot Mount Orizaba.

Related: Catalina Island: What to see and do, and where to stay

Mackinac Island

When you get off the ferry on this remote Michigan island in the Great Lakes, you might have the feeling you've been transported back in time. Victorian architecture abounds, and one of the popular modes of transportation on the carless island is horse-drawn taxis.

The hillside, Victorian-era Grand Hotel goes by the moniker of America's Summer Palace. It's certainly a jaw-dropping sight with its 660-foot front porch, and it remains a bastion of tradition where guests still dress for dinner.

About 80% of the island is protected as Mackinac Island State Park, adding to the utopian allure. Explore by bike or golf cart. Historic sites include Fort Mackinac, a Revolutionary War fortress that also played a big role in the War of 1812.

The island is in the Straits of Mackinac where Lake Huron and Lake Michigan meet. Ferry service from the mainland is from Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) and St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula). Both Mackinac and Mackinaw are pronounced "ma-kuh-naa."

Amelia Island

With its uncrowded beaches and sand dunes, Amelia Island is a tropical paradise off Florida's northeast coast. It's connected to the mainland by two bridges and you can get there in 45 minutes from Jacksonville, Florida.

Founded in 1562, the island is the only place in the country that has been under the sovereignty of eight different flags. You can learn all about its history on a horse-drawn carriage tour of the 50-block historic district in Fernandina Beach, where you'll also find antique shops and Victorian homes and inns — many on the National Register of Historic Places.

The 18-mile-long barrier island has 13 miles of beaches (with more than 40 public beach access points), golf with views of the Atlantic and resorts such as the splurge-worthy beachfront Ritz-Carlton, with its 18-hole championship golf course and sea-inspired spa. Nature areas include Amelia Island State Park, where you can ride a horse on the beach.

Related: Florida's top 10 vacation regions for different types of travelers

Martha's Vineyard

A 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the low-key, 96-square-mile island of Martha's Vineyard is full of New England charm and history.

Visitors find sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs overlooking the sea, charming inns, five lighthouses and such tranquil scenes as sailboats in harbors. Since Victorian times, affluent travelers have been drawn to the island.

What surprises many visitors is that outside the main towns such as Victorian-era Oak Bluffs, with its famous 1876 Flying Horses Carousel, and postcard-perfect Edgartown, much of the island is still rural and populated with working farms. Head to the West Tisbury Farmer's Market on a Saturday to sample local goods and to spot celebrities who frequent the island.

Another quintessential Vineyard experience is grabbing a lobster roll at Larsen's Fish Market to munch on Menemsha Beach — one of those good-to-be-alive moments.

Orcas Island

Located off Washington state and one of the San Juan Islands, Orcas Island is a ruggedly beautiful paradise with the bonus of thriving arts and culinary scenes.

Come to the island to bike, hike, go horseback riding, explore lush old-growth forests and swim in lakes — when you aren't dining on farm-to-table cuisine or checking out the galleries and boutiques in the historic village of Eastsound.

On a clear day from the lookout tower on top of 2,409-foot Mount Constitution, accessible by car or bike, you may catch 360-degree views of the Salish Sea, San Juan Islands and the mainland, including snowcapped Mount Baker and Mount Rainier.

You can get to the island on the Washington State Ferries system year-round from Anacortes, about 80 miles north of Seattle. The ferry ride is about 70 minutes (make reservations to bring your car).

Mount Desert Island

Accessible via a causeway, and the largest island off Maine at more than 108 square miles, Mount Desert Island, or what locals call MDI, is best known as the home of Acadia National Park and the small town of Bar Harbor, a longtime hangout spot for rich and famous New Yorkers. Quaint towns on the island also include Northeast Harbor, which Martha Stewart has been known to frequent.

Visitors come to admire the rocky coastline, eat lobster, go on whale-watching tours (to see humpback, finback and minke whales), shop at galleries and boutiques, see the leaves change color in the fall and take the perfect photo of a fishing boat loaded with lobster traps.

Related: This is why you should visit Maine's Acadia National Park

The national park covers a large swath of the island, with a 27-mile loop road. A key attraction is 1,532-foot Cadillac Mountain, the first place in the continental U.S. to see the sun rise. Visitors get up in the wee hours to catch the sunrise, a quintessential island experience (from late May to late October, a vehicle reservation is required to drive Cadillac Summit Road).

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

These adjacent laid-back barrier islands off Fort Myers Beach, Florida, are such special places that the causeway out to Sanibel is sometimes referred to as the Path to Paradise.

Visitors come for the gorgeous, lightly populated beaches that are perfect places for strolling and shell collecting. Sanibel is the self-proclaimed seashell capital of the world, and you can find everything from tiny shells to conchs.

These islands, devoid of high-rises, offer plentiful paved bike paths and walking trails, as well as protected parks such as the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. On Captiva, connected to Sanibel by the 1918 Blind Pass bridge, golf carts are a primary mode of transport.

If you're lucky, your views may include dolphins popping out of the water, manatees and many species of birds. Mother Nature puts on an impressive light show at sunset — sometimes complete with the "green flash" phenomenon.

Protect Your Trip »

44 cheap tropical vacations that feel expensive.

These tropical vacation spots boast affordable accommodations, incredible scenery and more.

(Getty Images) |

Stretch your dollars further on your next trip.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Phuket, Thailand

Zakynthos, Greece

Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Pedasí, Panama

Corfu, Greece

Gili Islands, Indonesia

Krabi, Thailand

Crete, Greece

Menorca, Spain

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Sarandë, Albania

Koh Lipe, Thailand

Marmaris, Turkey

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Cancún, Mexico

Langkawi, Malaysia

Kefalonia, Greece

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Patras, Greece

Milos, Greece

Ischia, Italy

Bahia, Brazil

Isla de Providencia, Colombia

Djerba, Tunisia

Catalina Island, California

Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Ubatuba, Brazil

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Costa del Sol, Spain

Cebu, Philippines

Puerto Rico

Rosario Islands, Colombia

Koh Rong, Cambodia

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

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17 Of The Cheapest Islands To Visit Around The World

• Island vacations are often considered expensive, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options available that offer all the amenities of pricier destinations.
• From Malta to Puerto Rico, there are islands around the world that provide beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, and affordable accommodations.
• Whether it's exploring historical sites in Malta or volunteering in Puerto Rico, budget island vacations offer a unique and rewarding experience for travelers.

Visiting island destinations is undeniably more expensive than strolling around the city. The idea of an island retreat has already been branded a luxurious experience that many penny-saving tourists think twice about. However, many travelers don't realize that an idyllic island vacation doesn't have to break the bank. While many jet-setters with deep pockets choose the most expensive islands in the world, budget vacationers tend to be a little smarter with their funds to make them stretch further.

Naturally, many cheaper getaways often mean sacrificing luxuries, such as avoiding the world's most expensive restaurants , lavish accommodations, and fun entertainment. But this really doesn't need to be the case, for there are more than enough budget islands around the world that offer everything that their pricey counterparts do, but without emptying the wallet. Nothing is more satisfying than enjoying beautiful and budget-friendly vacations (especially as a couple) , which is why this list of low-cost vacation spots has been created to help discerning travelers with their hunt for the world's best cheap island vacation destinations.

UPDATE: 2023/09/27 05:53 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

World's Cheapest Islands To Visit

For most people, an island vacation sounds like an expensive affair. Granted, the world's most famous islands tend to attract the high and mighty in society, possessing an infinite budget. But that doesn't have to be the case for the ordinary vacationer. This updated article highlights the cheapest islands in the world worth visiting.

Related: 13 Best Islands In The Maldives For Travelers On A Budget

Malta is a historically rich and culturally diverse jewel of Europe and one of the finest cheap islands to visit in the Mediterranean. It has had a tremendous impact on the histories of Asia, Europe, and northern Africa because of its location at a crossroads for several empires and civilizations. There are so many things to see and do in Malta . Besides its beautiful beaches, there are several distinctive sites, temples, and monuments.

• Things to do: Mosta Rotunda, Mdina, Malta National Aquarium, Blue Grotto, St. Elmo Heritage Building, Hagar Qim, Barrakka Gardens

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

When island-hopping in Thailand or traveling on a budget in Southeast Asia, this little island in the Andaman Sea is a must-visit location. While it's not the cheapest island to visit in Thailand, it's definitely among the most beautiful that's still within many budget travelers' reach. With its soft turquoise waters and lush green tropical cliffs, Koh Phi Phi is not only breathtaking but also surprisingly affordable. Less than ten dollars a night is what hostels in Koh Phi Phi charge.

Tourists don't need to limit themselves at all because dining out, partying, and purchasing souvenirs are all inexpensive. Additionally, tourists may select boat cruises that take them around the islands. Cruise tickets can be as cheap as $20 per person for a tour.

• Things to do : Phi Phi Viewpoint, Bamboo Island, Ton Sai Beach, Monkey Beach, Nui Beach, Wang Long Bay

Turks & Caicos Islands

This island lies in British Overseas Territory, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean that features powdery white sands and turquoise sea waters. Looking for a cheap island to travel to would definitely help tourists stay on a budget. There are many budget-friendly hotels operating on the beach, but staying in a vacation rental is a good alternative. In terms of food, it is advisable to go grocery shopping to avoid luxurious restaurants around the Island. The prices of the beach resorts vary; they cost less during spring or fall than during the peak seasons in the months of winter and summer.

Related: 10 Tips For Planning A Trip To The Cayman Islands

Puerto Rico, USA

Puerto Rico is a stunning Caribbean destination that's a great alternative to Florida . It's a cheap island to visit, yet it has perfect beaches, lush tropical rainforests, and a historic old town booming with culture. Located just off the coast of southeast USA, it's the perfect holiday hub for solos, couples, and families alike, where there's so much to do and see. Visitors can saunter by the vibrant colonial buildings in San Juan, explore the El Yunque Rainforest on foot, and even marvel at the bioluminescent plankton that glows in the water at night.

Plus, the island is a fantastic place for backpackers and those seeking an enriching experience in which they give back to the community. Many volunteer opportunities allow visitors to work with the locals, such as volunteering at restaurants and bars, chocolate and coffee farms, and so many more placements that give a unique, intimate opportunity to immersion-hungry travelers who want to be more than just tourists.

• Things to do : Castillo San Cristobal, San Juan National Historic Site, Casa BARCADI, El Yunque National Forest, Flamenco Beach

San Juan and Rincon are popular vacation spots in Puerto Rico .

Related: A Travel Guide To Puerto Rico: Tourists Should Plan Their Trip Around These 10 Things

Varadero, Cuba

The 18-kilometer coastline of Varadero Beach has public entrances, which make it inexpensive. This small town is just a two-hour drive from Havana; if tourists prefer to commute, the most convenient ride to Varadero is through the Viazul buses; a one-way ticket costs $10. After reaching Varadero, booking beachfront Airbnbs or home rentals for these is less expensive. Varadero also features underwater caves, affordable Cuban food, and a picturesque view of turquoise blue waters. This is one of the cheapest islands to travel to if tourists want a low-key vacation in Cuba away from the hustle and bustle of Havana.

• Things to do: Cueva de Ambrosio, Parque Josone, Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, Varadero Dolphinarium, La Comparsita

Related: Everything You Need To Know About Traveling To Cuba

Isla Holbox, Mexico

Isla Holbox is a perfect destination to visit for a more retreat vacation. The Island is known for being "car-free," and the only standard modes of transportation here are golf cars and bicycles. Isla Holbox has a lot to offer; it is rich in marine biodiversity and aquatic creatures. Tourists may visit the mangrove sanctuary and watch the whale sharks. Additionally, some flamingos stroll around the Island. Isla Holbox also features beautiful sunsetseeing, bioluminescence, and street art.

• Things to do : Refugio Holbox Animal Sanctuary, Punta Mosquito, Holbox Adventure, Playa Punta Cocos. Playa Holbox

Isle Of Skye, Scotland, UK

While Scotland may not deliver an idyllic tropical beach vacation like many of the other destinations on this list, it does provide an extraordinary retreat away from the stresses and chaos of Western life (although it does offer several shorelines said to be some of the most beautiful and best beaches in Scotland ). The Isle of Skye is one of the most ideal islands for travelers searching for rugged natural beauty and pure escapism amidst vast green lands and mountainous terrain. It's a low-cost island compared to the rest of the UK and offers an authentic exploration of Scotland's wild side.

Renting a car is a fantastic way to travel through the island and get to know it intimately, whilst other travelers may appreciate a guided tour. Additionally, one of the best parts about this place is that its most famous and beautiful attractions are produced by nature, which means they're free of charge to enjoy. Noteworthy highlights to look out for include the mighty rock formations, such as the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. There are also cascading waterfalls and inviting pools to discover - some of the most impressive being the Kilt Falls waterfall and the Fairy Pools nestled up in the mountains.

• Things to do: The Fairy Glen, Fairy Pools, Skye Museum of Island Life, Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, The Storr

Related: Isle Of Skye: This Itinerary Is Just As Magical As Scotland's Legendary Island

Oahu, Hawaii, USA

People often conclude that traveling to Hawaii would be costly, yet many tourists do not know about the wonderful world of being a backpacker in this state. Aside from various cheap incentive flights, the island of Oahu has a lot of more affordable accommodation lodges where camping is also an excellent alternative. If travelers desire to see the cheap island's beautiful attractions, it becomes cheaper without going with organized tours. The more inexpensive way to enjoy outdoor activities is by renting boogie swimming boards and snorkeling; many food trucks are everywhere.

• Things to do : Lolani Palace, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Kailua Beach Park, Bishop Museum, Arizona Memorial, Kualoa Ranch

Related: Small State Tourism: Top TripAdvisor Attractions In Rhode Island

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Among the cheap islands to travel to are these stunning gems in Spain. The Canary Islands' Tenerife (which offers many off-the-beaten-path attractions) is the perfect place for an ideal island getaway. Taxis within the Island are pretty expensive; the best alternative to roaming around the Island is renting a car that starts at around seven euros per day. Tourists also have numerous dining choices to fill their stomachs. Restaurants around the Island serve world-class cuisines and local delicacies. Affordable tours include jeep tours through Mount Teide, whale watching, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

• Things to do : Parque Nacional del Teide, Cueva del Viento, Siam Park, Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park, Mount Teide, Loro Park

Related: Things Visitors Must See At The Canary Island Of Tenerife

Ios Island, Greece

Greece is not just all about luxurious beach destinations. Backpackers have been clinging to the gem of the Aegean Sea – Ios Island. The Island is not just home to beautiful beach towns and fun nightlife. It is home to Homer's Tomb, which lies in Plakotos. Many accommodation options operate in the city, with prices starting at $15 per night. Visiting the Island would get extra expensive during peak seasons – early bookings would benefit backpackers much more.

• Things to do: Chora, Paralia Milopotas, Agea Theodoti, Church of Panagia Gremniotissa, Tzamaria Beach, Tomb of Homer

Sifnos, Greece

What is the cheapest island to visit in Greece? Some would say Sifnos - a hidden Greek gem. Branded as one of the cheapest islands to visit in Europe yet serves as a treasure trove is Sifnos Island. From Athens, the most convenient mode of transportation to the small Island of Sifnos is by ferry in Kamares. Aside from its lovely sand beaches, several hiking trails also reside on the islands. It is also known for producing excellent hand-crafted souvenirs. Accordingly, a fishing village near Faros Beach features a picture-perfect town.

• Things to do: Church of the Seven Martyrs, Cheronissos Beach, Kamares Beach, Chrisopigi Monastery, Panagia Poulati, Apollonia

Related: Kayak Tours: Get Up Close With The Channel Islands Sea Caves

Boracay, Philippines

One of the gems of over 7000 islands in the Philippines , Boracay boasts some of the best beaches globally. It is a small island yet has much to offer, from majestic sunset views, numerous beachfront hotels, restaurants, bars, stores, and fabulous nightlife to water activities and outdoor massages featuring the mesmerizing waves of the waters. Tourists coming from the West would find Boracay as an amazingly cheap vacation destination.

• Things to do: Bulabog Beach, Boracay PubCrawl. Puka Shell Beach, Ariel's Point

Related: Most Budget-Friendly Places To Visit In The Philippines

Bohol, Philippines

Unlike Boracay, Bohol is an underrated island destination in the Central Visayas region in the Philippines. One of the best places in the Philippines , this island is rich in aquatic and terrestrial wonders, featuring the famous Chocolate Hills freely open to the public, the Hinagdanan Cave, the Tarsier Sanctuary, island tours, dolphin watching, and snorkeling to the crystal clear waters of the Island. There are also luxurious hotels with a relaxing ambiance that offers low prices. Some restaurants also offer a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Island, which is, again, very affordable.

• Things to do: Chocolate Hills, Baclayon Church, Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area, Loboc River Cruise, Danao Adventure Park, Hinagdanan Cave

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Related: 10 Instagramable Things To Do In The Philippines

Aruba, Caribbean

Aruba is an Island Country in the southern part of the Caribbean Sea and a budget-friendly destination for every traveler. Several destinations around the Island are costly, but some hotels and accommodation places offer discounts, especially during off-peak seasons. For cheaper food, going grocery shopping for restaurants is expensive. Aside from the pretty white sand beaches, other attractions include the Balashi ruins, the capital Oranjestad, and the California Dunes.

• Things to do: Butterfly Farm, Arikok National Park, Donkey Sanctuary Aruba, Conchi Natural Pool, Eagle Beach

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Despite being the biggest island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is surprisingly easy to explore without breaking the bank. This tropical paradise spoils newcomers with an array of fun activities, including going for a dip in one of its many gorgeous beaches . A street food haven, foodies can find scrumptious bites spread on the side of streets for a cheap price. And although the hostel prices here are slightly higher than on the mainland (because of the tourists), it is much cheaper than other popular islands.

• Things to do: Sao Beach, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, Hon Thom Departure Terminal, Suoi Tranh Waterfall, Vinwonders Phu Quoc

Travelers with a penchant for off-the-beaten-path destinations can pack their holiday bags and head to this idyllic island off the East Coast of the U.S. Popular with American vacationers looking for cheap thrills, Bermuda offers world-class attractions, but at no fees. Its picture-perfect beaches are free to explore, and the same goes for the colorful capital, Hamilton. Accommodation options are very affordable, and flights from the USA cost between $100 and $200...not bad!

• Things to do: Crystal and Fantasy Caves, Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo, Gibb's Hill Lighthouse

Unguja, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Not just for epic safaris, Africa's tropical island archipelago of Zanzibar is a beach and history lover's paradise. The islands are beautifully situated in the Indian Ocean, just off the east coast of Africa. The archipelago's main island of Unguja is just 15 miles from Tanzania, and thus it's easy to get a short flight or a two-hour ferry to reach it. The entire place is as gorgeous as it is low cost, with many hostels offering rooms for between 10 and 20 USD per night.

Most of the beaches are free of charge to access, and the historic and charming Stone Town bustles with beautiful architecture and lots of cheap entertainment. Overall, this stunning island is one of the best to visit for travelers who want the perfect exotic tropical getaway in Africa but at an irresistible fraction of the price.

• Things to do: Kendwa Beach, Jambiani Beach, Cheetah's Rock, Jozani, Old Slave Market

Check out some top tips for first-timers heading on a safari in Tanzania before planning a trip!

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits PNG, saying Pacific nations aren't 'the backyard' of other countries

China's top diplomat Wang Yi has taken a swipe at the geo-political jostling for influence in the Pacific, saying Pacific Island countries aren't "the backyard of any major country". 

The foreign minister made the remark during a visit to Papua New Guinea, where he held bilateral talks with his PNG counterpart and provided grant funding for PNG's disaster relief efforts.

The trip comes just days before Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrives in Port Moresby to walk the Kokoda Track in a symbolic visit highlighting the shared wartime history of Australia and PNG.

Mr Wang was last in PNG in 2022, during a regional visit where China unsuccessfully sought a regional security and trade deal .

China has however signed major security and policing agreements with PNG's neighbour, Solomon Islands, which caused considerable consternation within Canberra.

The Australian government then secured a bilateral security agreement with Papua New Guinea late last year .

Amid speculation, PNG's foreign minister, Justin Tkatchenko, told his Australian counterparts earlier this year that PNG was not pursuing any security agreement with China.

In a press conference following the bilateral meeting, where no questions were allowed, Mr Wang urged for the "non-interference in the domestic affairs of Pacific Island countries".

"Pacific Island countries have a right to invite friendly cooperation with all development partners," he said.

"Both China and Pacific Island countries are members of the global south and are developing countries.

"It is honest and open of our two sides to help each other.

"Pacific Island countries are the home of the people in this region, they are not the backyard of any major country."

'Friendship built on trust'

Following the bilateral meeting, China and PNG signed several agreements, relating to the export of PNG cocoa and coffee, cooperation on information communication technology and $1.7 million in disaster relief.

Mr Tkatchenko said the pair reached "very positive understandings" on a number of issues.

"I want to reassure the foreign minister of the importance PNG places on its bilateral relationship with China," he said.

"A friendship that has been built up on trust, PNG values China as an important bilateral partner."

Mr Wang also used his remarks to PNG media as an opportunity to criticise the AUKUS partnership, claiming it created "division" that isn't "in line with the urgent needs of Pacific Island countries".

It was revealed this month that the AUKUS partnership, which would see Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines, is considering bringing Japan into the fold for the second pillar of the agreement.

"The AUKUS partnership … insists on introducing nuclear submarine development in this region," Mr Wang said.

"It causes serious nuclear non-proliferation risks, threatening regional peace and security.

"Recently, they're also making excuses to take more countries into it.

"Such acts … instigating division is not in line with the urgent needs of Pacific Island countries."

Solomon Islands election

In his remarks, Mr Wang also said he wished "success" for the Solomon Islands, as votes are being counted in their elections.

"All parties should respect the choice of the people of Solomon Islands and should not interfere in the internal affairs of Solomon Islands," he said.

"We believe the people have the wisdom to decide the future of their own country independently."

Mr Wang will finish his trip to Papua New Guinea with a meeting with Prime Minister James Marape today.

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30 Secret Islands to Visit for the Ultimate Secluded Vacation

From tropical luxury to frosty serenity, there's an island to suit every traveler's taste.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

You think of an island getaway , and certain heavy hitters likely rush to mind: Bali , Hawaii , Santorini . The big-shot isles of the world certainly have their place on any dream travel list, but there are secret, unknown islands hidden all around the globe that you can visit — if you know where to look.

Those wanting to get far off the grid can head to Rodrigues, an itty-bitty volcanic dot in the vast Indian Ocean, hundreds of nautical miles from neighbors in any direction. Mystery lovers could opt for the Nordic island of Sandön, where the foggy, forested landscape has inspired many a crime novel (perhaps you'll read one there for a real thrill). Prefer something closer to home? On North Carolina's Outer Banks , there's an island so remote, most state residents have no idea it exists.

Whatever your daydream, you'll find a destination to match it on our list of relatively unknown islands around the world.

Côn Đảo, Vietnam

The Vietnamese island of Phú Quốc might be considered a mini Phuket, but those looking to get far off the beaten path head to Côn Đảo, a little-known archipelago off Vietnam's southeastern coast. An hour-long flight from Ho Chi Minh City brings you to Côn Sơn, the largest (and only inhabited) member of the 15-island chain. Here, soaring granite cliffs border deserted beaches and crystal-blue water — imagine a tropical Amalfi Coast without the crowds. Most Côn Sơn accommodations are hostel-like budget spots, though there are a handful of boutique resorts, like the upscale Poulo Condor Boutique Resort and Spa and Six Senses Con Dao . Rent a motorbike or hire a private guide to take you to the area's most remote spots, including a 19th-century hilltop lighthouse and the spectacular Dam Tre Bay lagoon.

Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Searching for the Bali of, say, 1970? Head to Gili Trawangan, a tiny island near Lombok dotted with laidback cafés, surf schools, and dive centers. No motorized traffic is allowed here, so it's up to your own two feet to walk or bike everywhere you go. The daily agenda involves nothing more than fishing, diving, or kicking back with a cold beer at Scallywags or Le Petit Gili , a charmingly ramshackle bar and eatery. On the southern coast, Pondok Santi Estate has thatched-roof bungalows scattered about the 17 acres of tropical grounds, a one-time coconut plantation. Hop the ferry to Mount Rinjani, an active volcano on Lombok.

Pico, Portugal

When Columbus made his world-changing expedition, Pico, part of the Azores , was considered a last outpost before you, well, fell off the earth — and the island still feels almost as remote as it did in 1492. Those who make the ferry or flight are met with wines unlike anywhere else and footpaths weaving through beautifully eerie lava landscapes. In the middle of a UNESCO-designated vineyard is the PocinhoBay , where six chic basalt bungalows take in views of the Atlantic. For dinner, head to Ancoradouro to sample regional specialties such as polvo guisado (stewed octopus).

Sandön, Sweden

There's a reason Swedish crime writers Stieg Larsson and Viveca Sten chose Sandön — aka Sandhamn — as a setting for their thrillers: The island is covered in a forest of moss and pine trees, and light fog dependably shrouds the windblown beaches. Check in to the modern Sands Hotell or the sweet eight-room Missionshuset Bed & Breakfast , both in the island's only village. At Sandhamns Värdshus , a historic restaurant (open seasonally) and pub (open year-round), feast on classic Swedish dishes such as house-marinated herring and pytt i panna, a traditional hash with fried egg and beets. Rent a mountain bike from Sandhamnsguiderna and pedal through the forest to Trouville, Sandön's best stretch of sand.

Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands

The name may suggest otherwise, but a trip here hardly constitutes roughing it. Once a pit stop for explorers, this island was virtually uninhabited for decades — until the luxe Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina opened its doors. What to expect? Spacious hillside villas, sea kayaking, and island-hopping day trips. Hike to the top of the island for an unforgettable sunrise.

Skopelos, Greece

An hour-long ferry ride from Skiathos (or about 20 minutes on a high-speed boat), the island of Skopelos is so picture-perfect (hidden coves, charming tavernas, hundreds of Byzantine-era churches) that Hollywood chose its Kastani Beach as a set for "Mamma Mia." Nearly every room at the seasonal Adrina Resort & Spa and its sister property Adrina Beach Hotel look out onto the turquoise Aegean. After a dinner of lobster pasta and slow-cooked lamb kleftiko at waterfront The Muses , walk along the beach-hugging road to the open-air Mercurius Cocktail Bar (open Easter through September) or to the hilltop Anatoli for ouzo and live rebetiko music.

Caye Caulker, Belize

There's nary a traffic light on this colorful, laidback island — a five-mile strip of land that's barely a 10-minute flight from Belize City. Water activities are the name of the game here: Snorkel among nurse sharks and stingrays or scuba dive in the underwater caves of Blue Hole. Aboveground, try the meat pies and rum cake baked daily at Reina's , or whole grilled lobster and jerk chicken at Dee N D's , a Caribbean barbecue spot right on the water. On the eastern side of the caye, the beachfront Colinda Cabanas has 14 brightly painted suites and cabanas, all with kitchens and outdoor space, tucked amid the palms and almond trees.

Flatey, Iceland

Don't expect to see much night sky here: In the summer, daylight shines for up to 21 hours on this one-mile, car-free hideaway in Breiðafjörður Bay. Lush meadows, multicolored timber houses, and incredible birdlife dot the scenery, and the mainland's Snæfellsjökull volcano is always within eyeshot. In town, Hotel Flatey stays true to simple Scandinavian design (blond-wood furniture, whitewashed walls), and the downstairs restaurant is a superb spot for local, fresh, seafood-centric fare. Swing by Iceland's oldest (and smallest) library, built in 1864.

Gozo, Malta

Rolling hills, crumbling castle walls, and a Bronze Age fortress are some of the most endearing features on Gozo. Check in to the upscale Hotel Ta' Cenc & Spa overlooking the sea from the island's highest point. From there, it's a short drive to rugged Dwejra Bay, where you can take a dip and gaze upon the famous limestone arch. Head to the ancient village of Xagħra for a hearty meal of fish soup, pasta with rabbit sauce, and fig ice cream at Oleander Restaurant . Bring home handblown objéts d'art from Gozo Glass .

Swaraj Dweep, India

Bone-white beaches and crystalline water make Swaraj Dweep, also known as Havelock Island, perhaps the most appealing of the 500-odd islands and atolls in India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Make a cottage at the much-loved SeaShell Havelock your island crash pad for days of snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boating, and jungle trekking. Ocean breezes and down-home cooking take center stage at Anju Coco , a roadside seafood shack and breakfast spot. The mellow atmosphere and 28-page menu require at least one return visit .

Rodrigues, Mauritius

With 3,300 miles of Indian Ocean between it and Perth, the nearest civilization to the east, this fish-shaped island is about as remote as it gets. Verdant valleys, numerous islets, and shallow lagoon waters surrounding the island make Rodrigues heaven for hikers, kite surfers, and water lovers. Shack up in one of the island's Creole-style guesthouses, like the three-room Case Corail or the more upscale Domaine de la Paix . For freshly caught seafood, don't miss the down-to-earth Le Marlin Bleu . Spot gigantic Aldabra tortoises and tropical birds at the François Leguat Reserve before descending into limestone caverns (a welcome respite from the sun) .

Great Barrier Island, New Zealand

At 110 square miles, "The Barrier" is one of the largest islands off the Kiwi coast, but it's also one of the most pristine. Spend your days hiking through dense kauri woods or exploring jagged inlets. Then refuel over locally caught seafood at Currach Irish Pub . The four-bedroom, glass-walled Oruawharo Beach House has spectacular views of Oruawharo Bay; smaller accommodations on the property include a cabin and cottage. Take a scenic stroll to soak in the Kaitoke Hot Springs .

Pulau Mabul, Malaysia

Diving enthusiasts flock to Pulau Mabul, off the southeastern coast of Malaysia, where the marine life is on par with the Galápagos — native sea moths, bobtail squids, and the elusive paintpot cuttlefish are just a few of the inhabitants. Sleep over the sea at Mabul Water Bungalows , which offers dive packages and has an on-site spa. For local souvenirs, head to Tawau village's Sunday market in nearby Sabah.

Jicaro Island, Nicaragua

You may experience cognitive dissonance upon arriving at Jicaro Island . There are palm trees and thatched roofs, even a shadowy volcano in the distance, but the air has none of the tropical tang you'd expect, and there are no waves or powdery shores. That's because Jicaro is located on Lake Nicaragua (Lago Cocibolca), a freshwater lake near the country's western edge. Ten to 20 minutes by boat from the colonial town of Granada, the island is home to seven luxury treehouse casitas , stylish with their slatted façades and mosquito-netted beds, that are crafted entirely from Nicaraguan timber, salvaged from trees downed in storms. The food is organic and locally sourced, solar power heats the water, and there's a private pool for leisurely afternoons. Spend an afternoon hiking around the cloud forest on the upper slopes of the nearby volcano, Mombacho. You might just zipline down.

Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile

A one-hour flight west of Santiago, this rugged isle earned its fame from the 18th-century sailor Alexander Selkirk, whose wild spell as a castaway here inspired the novel "Robinson Crusoe." The aura of adventure still endures (there's even a rumor of buried treasure). Travelers arrive on a seven-seater plane, then take an hour, 30-minute boat ride to the town of San Juan Bautista. The best place to stay is perhaps in one of the 15 rooms at the Crusoe Island Lodge . The hotel will organize scuba dives, on which you might see a centuries-old shipwreck.

Colonsay, Scotland

A two-hour, 20-minute ferry ride from the west-coast whisky town of Oban takes you to this distant Hebridean island. Sheep far outnumber people, and those who have made the wildflower-carpeted island home are the sort of characters who would have inspired Robert Burns. Lay your head in the 1750-built Colonsay Hotel , a family-owned, nine-room Georgian inn with white pebble-dashed walls, sloping slate roofs, and spare furnishings. Meet all the locals at the village hall, where, in the summer, the weekly ceilidh dance is as authentic a gathering as you'll find in the British Isles.

Inis Meáin, Ireland

The pleasures of Inis Meáin are simple: a walk along the coast to the thunder of Atlantic swells, a tableau of fissured limestone that glimmers in the mist, and a mile-and-a-half cliff walk with the Cliffs of Moher as your backdrop. You can get the full experience with a stay in one of Inis Meáin's stone-walled suites . For an extra fee, you can add meals to your stay. Historically, this immersive hotel has served locally caught seafood and homegrown vegetables.

La Maddalena, Sardinia

Think you can't find Caribbean-blue waters in the middle of Europe? Set your sights on La Maddalena, an unassuming understudy to some of Italy's splashier islands, like Capri. A 15-minute ferry ride from the northern coast of Sardinia, La Maddelena spoils its visitors with pristine beaches, rare birds, and hidden coves. The sea-facing terrace at Hotel Excelsior is a perfect perch for watching the ferries ply the teal waters. Cala Coticcio, a short drive from La Maddalena's city center on the neighboring island of Caprera, is said to be one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. There, you can tour the Compendio Garibaldino, where the 19th-century politico Giuseppe Garibaldi lived.

Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates

The roaring traffic sounds of Abu Dhabi, about 112 miles to the east, are replaced by the sound of lapping waves on this cluster of Arabian Gulf islands. Sir Bani Yas — with its wadis (dry riverbeds), mangroves, and Christian monastery excavation site — is the only island with overnight facilities of any sort. Luckily, those accommodations are provided by Anantara, a luxurious resort brand with a small collection of Sir Bani Yas hotels. The original, Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara , includes 64 chic rooms and an opulent spa.

Fogo Island, Newfoundland

This may be the last place you'd expect to find an artistic awakening — it's a fishing community off Newfoundland's northeastern coast marked by craggy shores and miles of blissful nothingness. But thanks to residents like artist Elísabet Gunnarsdóttir, social entrepreneur Zita Cobb, and architect Todd Saunders, the secluded island has become a cultural destination. The trio is behind Fogo Island Arts , a series of four artists' studios. Rent a car from mainland Newfoundland to tour the uber-contemporary structures or hike along the 4.5-mile Turpin's Trail, whose gentle path goes beside rocky coastline and grassy meadows (keep an eye out for grazing caribou). Regain your strength on a vintage school chair at Bangbelly Cafe (open seasonally) with a homemade cod cake sandwich. Feel like you're in a fantasy film at the architecturally stunning Fogo Island Inn , a modern, sustainable spaceship of a boutique hotel at the edge of the Atlantic.

Lummi Island, Washington

Nature enthusiasts and locavores love this nine-square-mile oasis full of working farms and verdant fields on Puget Sound. Immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest lushness with a hike through any four of the nature preserves maintained by Lummi Island Heritage Trust. The 1.6-mile hike through Baker Preserve, specifically, will reward you with sweeping views of Rosario Strait and the San Juan Islands. Don't miss the chance to visit Michael Oppenheimer's Windy Hill Art sculpture park .

Salt Spring Island, British Columbia

Vancouver Island may hog the spotlight, but neighboring Salt Spring is impossibly picturesque (imagine rocky shores, rolling pastures, and sky-high oak trees). Cheesemakers, vintners, and an eclectic group of artists and craftspeople live here year-round. It's precisely that eco-artist vibe that prompted Michael Ableman and Jeanne-Marie Herman to open the sustainable Foxglove Farm , whose three guest rooms (a cottage, a cabin, and a log home) have views of Maxwell Lake. The seasonal Saturday farmers' market at nearby Centennial Park showcases works by potters, jewelers, soapmakers, and food producers.

Southport Island, Maine

Boothbay Harbor ranks as one of the busiest tourist havens on Maine's MidCoast, but nearby Southport Island, accessible by a single swing bridge, has a more low-key vibe with old Cape Cod-style colonial houses, small country stores, and winding roads. On the way to town, you'll spot the decades-old Robinson's Wharf , one of the state's most revered seafood shacks, serving fresh lobster, shrimp, and oysters. Snag a table on the dock facing Townsend Gut. A 20-minute walk away, Ocean Gate Resort has canoes and kayaks (free to guests) for self-paddling tours of the Gut's sheltered waters. Toward the island's far end, the 40-room, oceanfront Newagen Seaside Inn , with clapboard cottages and water-facing hotel rooms, abuts a quaint fishing harbor. This is classic Maine at its best. Plan a picnic on Southport Beach, overlooking Hendricks Head lighthouse.

Islas del Rosario, Colombia

Cartagena may be a Latin American travel hotspot, but consider venturing off the coast to the Islas del Rosario — a chain of mostly uninhabited islands that are home to mangroves, beaches, and the country's largest coral reef. Stay at the tropical-chic Hotel San Pedro de Majagua on Isla Grande. There, you'll find 17 white-on-white rooms, panoramic Caribbean views, and a restaurant where you might dine on fresh-caught snapper, grilled whole. Snorkel and dive the glittering waters, where you can spot butterflyfish, sea turtles, and hundreds of other tropical species. After the sun sets, take a boat or an evening walk to the Enchanted Lagoon, on the other side of the island, to see thousands of bioluminescent plankton twinkling in the night.

La Gomera, Spain

Not even an hour ferry ride from its buzzy big sister, Tenerife, tiny La Gomera is as peaceful as can be. The lushly green Canary Island is a haven for trekkers, with more than 300 miles of walking trails lacing over mountains and misty, subtropical rainforest. When you've hiked to your heart's (or quads') content, get thee to the water. Paddle around the teal waters of pretty, sun-drenched Playa de Santiago in a kayak, or book a boat tour in hopes of spotting pilot whales, dolphins, and other La Gomera underwater residents. The clifftop Hotel Jardín Tecina has far more frills than your average La Gomera hotel, plus head-spinning views of the Atlantic. Plan for at least one meal at the beach-shack-like La Chalana , a local fave serving a daily catch and Canarian specialties. If you need a post-lunch pick-me-up, a barraquito (a Canary Islands coffee drink with condensed milk, lemon rind, and cinnamon — con o sin licor) should do the trick .

Filicudi, Sicily

Filicudi (along with farther-flung Alicudi) is the least-developed outpost in Sicily's Aeolian Island chain. Its sheer remoteness and spectacular volcanic landscape have enticed in-the-know Italians for ages. Explore Filicudi's quaint fishing villages and hiking trails (prepare for thrilling sea views) by foot; when you're ready to take your sea legs out for a spin, there are jewel-toned coves, craggy grottoes, and pebble beaches for swimming, snorkeling, boating, and diving. Cap off your day with seafood hauled in from the surrounding Tyrrhenian Sea and a bottle of natural Aeolian wine. On a sunny afternoon, find a palapa-covered sunbed (and a cold bottle of Messina) at Lido La Sirena to call your own.

Iriomote Island, Japan

When it comes to Japanese scenery, coral reefs and pineapple fields are probably not part of your vision. But Japan's Okinawa prefecture is home to tropical islands straight out of a castaway fantasy, including one of Japan's best-kept secrets, the jungle-clad Iriomote. This hidden destination has stunning waterfalls, mangrove forests, and the kind of coastline you'd expect from southern Thailand — minus the throngs of fellow sunseekers. Beaches like Ida no Hama are startlingly pretty, with shimmering clear shallows and lush vegetation all around. After a day of snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding, retire to Pension Hoshinosuna , a humble inn with great views over the bay and offshore islands. Join a guided tour for a day of kayaking through the mangroves followed by hiking through the jungle up to Pinaisara Falls, a dramatic waterfall cutting through the wilderness .

Portsmouth, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a major vacation destination, yet one of its islands is so secluded, even many North Carolinians have never heard of it: Portsmouth, only accessible by ferry or private boat. Visitors dock in Portsmouth village, a once-thriving seafaring port dating to the 1700s, now a ghost town with a cluster of historic buildings — the post office-slash-general store and a one-room schoolhouse — to check out as you please. Beyond the village, miles of pure coastal wilderness await. Sand paths wind past grassy salt marshes, wispy evergreen shrubs, and sky-blue inlets. Natural dunes sling low over wide-open, empty, and amazingly pristine beaches. Look for shells and sea snails, get hypnotized by the powerful Atlantic waves, or pitch a tent right on the sand. On a clear evening, you're in for the starriest night of your life. When you're ready to reenter society, catch the passenger ferry to Ocracoke and set up shop with fried oysters and hush puppies on the roof deck of Howard's Pub , open seasonally .

Mnemba Island, Zanzibar

Drifting in an aqua lagoon in the Zanzibar archipelago, Mnemba is nothing short of an island paradise. The petite island is occupied by andBeyond Mnemba Island , a boutique resort with all the tropical trimmings you'd want from an Indian Ocean hideaway: a dive center, a handful of rustic, open-air bungalows, and wide swaths of stunning white-sand beach encircling a forested interior. The sparkling waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling over coral reefs, and, at sunset, cruising on the resort's dhow, a traditional Arabic sailboat. Learn about Zanzibar's legendary spices on a tour of Tangawizi , a working spice plantation and cooking school outside of Stone Town .

Boa Vista, Cape Verde

All Cape Verde islands have incredible coastlines, but the vast white- and golden-sand beaches of Boa Vista are arguably the archipelago's best. Kiteboarders and windsurfers flock here (as well as neighboring Sal) to take advantage of the sweeping trade winds from Africa. Jeep and quad-bike outfitters stand at the ready for zipping around the shore and the giant windswept desert dunes that look like they're from another planet. Scoop up locally made pottery in the town of Rabil.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Puppy yoga is becoming increasingly controversial – one country has banned it

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Puppy yoga has become increasingly popular over the years for the stress-free environment the cute animals make but one country has completely banned it.

Italy ’s Ministry of Health insists only adult dogs should take part to protect the health of the puppies.

But what is puppy yoga for those who are not in the know?

It does what it says on the tin. Puppies usually roam around freely while humans take their time to de-stress and practice yoga.

The puppies can sometimes even get involved in the yoga poses or some classes involve playtime with puppies afterwards.

But the health ministry in Italy has ordered local authorities to carry out checks to make sure puppies are no longer involved in the classes.

It says puppy yoga ‘improves wellbeing’ and it should be considered as a kind of ‘animal assisted therapy’ – which by law can only be carried out by fully grown animals.

Italy’s National Board for Animal Protection has welcomed the news and quoted dog expert Giusy D’Angelo, who says puppy yoga is ‘physically and mentally stressful experience’ for the animals.

She fears people who attend puppy yoga will get ahead of themselves and potentially end up adopting some puppies.

Ms D’Angelo said: ‘People are overtaken by a wave of emotion after experiencing sensations of wellbeing from the close proximity to the puppies.

‘This can lead them to make a decision without really thinking through the implications and the consequences.’

She also warned yoga class organisers do not give puppies enough water and are often transported incorrectly.

‘This type of activity is detrimental to the dogs’ wellbeing and only brings financial advantages to those who run the classes,’ Ms D’Angelo added.

It is not just in Italy where puppies wellbeing is being put at the forefront of people’s minds.

The UK’s Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) urged people to consider alternative activities to puppy yoga last July.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

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Tracking Abortion Bans Across the Country

By The New York Times Updated May 1, 4:40 P.M. ET

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Twenty-one states ban abortion or restrict the procedure earlier in pregnancy than the standard set by Roe v. Wade, which governed reproductive rights for nearly half a century until the Supreme Court overturned the decision in 2022.

In some states, the fight over abortion access is still taking place in courtrooms, where advocates have sued to block bans and restrictions. Other states have moved to expand access to abortion by adding legal protections.

Latest updates

• The Arizona state legislature voted to repeal an 1864 ban on nearly all abortions. Officials warned that the near-total ban may be briefly enforceable this summer until the repeal takes effect in the fall. A 15-week ban remains in effect.
• A ban on abortion after about six weeks of pregnancy took effect in Florida , following a ruling by the Florida Supreme Court that the privacy protections of the state’s Constitution do not extend to abortion.

The New York Times is tracking abortion laws in each state after the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization , which ended the constitutional right to an abortion.

Where abortion is legal

In a few states that have enacted bans or restrictions, abortion remains legal for now as courts determine whether these laws can take effect. Abortion is legal in the rest of the country, and many states have added new protections since Dobbs.

Ban in effect

Note: TK note here.

Legal for now

State details.

More details on the current status of abortion in each state are below.

An earlier version of this article misstated the legal status of abortion in Utah. As of 4 p.m. on June 24, the state attorney general had issued a statement saying the state’s abortion ban had been triggered, but it had not yet been authorized by the legislature’s general counsel. By 8:30 p.m., the counsel authorized the ban and it went into effect.

A table in an earlier version of this article misstated which abortion ban is being challenged in Texas state court. Abortion rights supporters are challenging a pre-Roe ban, not the state’s trigger ban.

An earlier version of this article referred incorrectly to the legal status of abortion in Indiana. While Indiana abortion providers stopped offering abortion services in anticipation of an abortion ban taking effect on Aug. 1, the law did not take effect.