paradise islands to visit

30 Best Paradise Islands you Should Visit

• 29 Pinterest

Planning your next trip but you do not know where to start? You have come to the right place; we have selected for you the best paradise islands you should visit in 2021 . Whether you crave culture, adventure, or simply want to relax on a beach, at least one of these islands should fulfill your travel dreams.

TourScanner is the No 1 meta-search engine for tours & travel activities. Search over 15 bookings websites and find your ideal travel activity at the best price .

• Visit TourScanner

1 – Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is a stunning archipelago that has been ranked as the most beautiful island in the world multiple times. Discover the best things to do in Palawan . Famous for diving, hiking, beaches, and fishing, this is one of the best tropical travel destinations in Southeast Asia.

Check out the recommended hotels in Palawan

2 – Maldives

Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are an archipelago often described as a tropical paradise. The islands offer its visitors pure white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and an amazing marine life experience. You will be surprised by the variety of  activities in the Maldives .

Check out the recommended hotels in the Maldives

3 – French Polynesia

A group of small volcanic islands in the South Pacific, French Polynesia is probably one of the most stunning islands on earth.

Don’t miss the fun things to do in Bora Bora : snorkeling, hiking, beaches – simply a paradise waiting to be explored.

Check out the recommended hotels in French Polynesia

4 – Seychelles

Seychelles lies off the coast of East Africa and forms an archipelago of 115 islands featuring idyllic beaches and crystalline blue waters. There are so many things to do in Seychelles ! With its untouched nature, it became one of the favorite destinations for honeymooners.

Check out the recommended hotels in the Seychelles

5 – Santorini, Greece

As one of the best Greek islands to visit , Santorini combines amazing beaches, ancient cities, volcanic landscapes, and delicious local food and wine. Enjoy this beautiful island and all the amazing things to do in Santorini !

Check out the recommended hotels in Santorini

6 – Cook Islands

Located in the heart of the Pacific, the Cook Islands are an oasis of freedom with crystal blue waters, pure white sandy beaches, and warm weather all year round.

Among the best things to do in the Cook Islands, it is highly recommended to do jungle trekking, snorkeling and try the local cuisine! Check out the recommended hotels in the Cook Islands

7 – Hawaii, US

Hawaii is an archipelago of breath-taking beauty; its pristine beaches and stunning scenery make it a perfect paradise destination for many travelers.

There are plenty of things to do in Hawaii, both in Oahu , Maui , Kauai or Big Island . Go surfing, watch dolphins, fly on a helicopter , explore the amazing landscapes, witness the stargazing and enjoy this unique experience!

8 – Saint Lucia

Located in the Eastern side of the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is home to volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts and fishing villages.

It is simply an ideal destination for romance or relaxation. But you can take part in many other activities in Saint Lucia : it is also very famous for sailing trips, diving, and explore nature.

Check out the recommended hotels in Saint Lucia

9 – Capri, Italy

Situated only a few miles from the mainland in the Bay of Naples, the natural beauty and calm of the island have been inspiring poets, artists, and musicians for centuries.

Discover all his beauties and the activities in Capri.

10 – Whitsunday Islands, Australia

This paradise sits at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef midway along the Queensland Coast of Australia.

The islands are laid-back and beautiful with plenty of activities to choose from. Wonderful boat trips, watersports and outdoor activities departing from Airlie Beach !

Check out the recommended hotels in the Whitsunday islands

11 – Boracay, Philippines

With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, everywhere you turn in Boracay provides a postcard-pretty scenery. All the amazing  things to do in Boracay  will make your stay an incredible experience!

Check out the recommended hotels in Boracay

12 – Corsica, France

Stylish beaches, unspoiled nature, and picturesque villages make the island of Corsica a great choice for many travelers who are looking for relaxing holidays in the Mediterranean.

Canyoning, hiking, watersports and many other fun things to do in Corsica make the most out of your stay!

13 – Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Located on the northeast coast of Malaysia , the Perhentian Islands are renowned for their coral reefs and clear waters offering awesome diving spots to their visitors. It is famous for snorkeling, diving, boat trips, beaches, and nature.

Check out the recommended hotels in the Perhentian Islands

14 – Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Consisting of hundreds of jungle-covered islands, the Indonesian archipelago of Raja Ampat is well known for its beaches and coral reefs offering stunning marine life for passionate divers. Famous for: diving, cruise, beaches, and wildlife.

15 – The Aeolian Islands, Italy

Off the North-eastern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are a great destination for island hopping. You will instantly fall in love with its turquoise lagoons and rocky hills – an ideal pit-stop for sailors.

Discover these beautiful islands and the best activities in the Aeolian Islands .

Check out the recommended hotels in Sicily

The South Pacific archipelago of the Fiji islands is blessed with pure white sand beaches and crystal blue waters, making it a perfect place for romance, escapism or simple relaxation.

There are many  things to do in Fiji , from nature excursions to watersports, boat trips, and snorkeling to enjoy a perfect trip!

Check out the recommended hotels in Fiji

17 – Galapagos, Ecuador

Located in the eastern Pacific Ocean, 600 miles off the West coast of South America, the Galapagos Islands offer landscapes and wildlife you can’t find anywhere else on earth.

It is considered one of the world’s foremost destinations for wildlife viewing. It is also famous for snorkeling, hiking, and bird watching.

Check out the recommended hotels in the Galapados

18 – Zanzibar, Tanzania

The archipelago of Zanzibar, situated in the Indian Ocean just 15 miles off the coast of Tanzania, is a breath-taking paradise steeped in culture and history.

Discover the best things to do in Zanzibar  and visit this amazing archipelago! Check out the recommended hotels in Zanzibar.

19 – Komodo Islands, Indonesia

Made up of rusty-red volcanic hills, the Komodo islands are famous for being the habitat of the 3 meter-long dragon monitor lizard.

Its surrounding waters of seagrass beds, mangroves, and coral reefs attract divers from all over the world.  Famous for: diving, wildlife, sailing trips, hiking.

20 – Reunion, France

Located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar – the beautiful volcanic island of Reunion is a destination that draws adventurers, seafarers, and traders from far and wide.

This incredible island is famous for its nature, watersports, beaches, boat trips, and many other activities in Reunion Island .

Check out the recommended hotels in Reunion Island

21 – Mauritius

Often described as heaven on earth, Mauritius Island offers a spectacular view of wild nature to its visitors. Situated in the Southwestern part of the Indian Ocean, it is a perfect destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers thanks to all the activities in Mauritius .

Check out the recommended hotels in Mauritius

22 – Gili Islands, Indonesia

Situated just off the coast of Lombok, the three Gili islands have often been described as true paradise islands attracting a range of travelers – from the backpacker to the luxury traveler attracted by snorkeling, cruising, watersports and paradise beaches.

Check out the recommended hotels in the Gili Islands

23 – Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean Sea , with splendid sandy beaches and a mountainous interior crossed with stunning hiking trails.

Experience one of the fun things to do in Sardinia to enjoy the best of this island. Sailing trips, hiking, amazing beaches and delicious food will let you have an unforgettable experience.

Check out the recommended hotels in Sardinia

24 – Madeira, Portugal

Madeira Island is a sub-tropical archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean located Southwest of Portugal. Thanks to its beautiful volcanic landscapes, delicious food, and beaches of all colors and shapes, the island became quickly a top travel destination for Southern Europeans.

Discover the best things to do in Madeira , enjoy dolphin & whale watching, cuisine, nature, boat trips and many more activities!

Check out the recommended hotels in Madeira

25 – The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India

This stunning archipelago situated in the Bay of Bengal is famous for its elephants diving into the sea. Its azure waters and beautiful beaches make the islands a perfect escape from the busy modern life.

26 – Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, is a perfect destination whether you are after romance, rejuvenation, or adventure.

Its mountainous rainforest and palm-fringed beaches have been drawing travelers from all over the world. You will find plenty of fun things to do in Koh Samui : diving, fishing, boat trips, nature, wildlife.

Check out the recommended hotels in Koh Samui

27 – Ré Island, France

Located off the coast of La Rochelle in the Atlantic Ocean, this island has preserved all its charm and authenticity. You will find amazing beaches, beautiful forests and small picturesque harbors.

Check out the recommended hotels in Ré Island

28 – Bali, Indonesia

Bali Island, often named “the Island of the Gods” has been one of the most popular travel destinations in the world for many years. With its varied landscape of hills and mountains, lush rice terraces, sandy beaches and coral reefs, and the many  things to do in Bali , it satisfies every traveler.

Check out the recommended hotels in Bali

29 – Palau Islands

The archipelago of Palau , located in the Oceania & Australia continent, consists of about 200 largely pristine limestone and volcanic islands, surrounded by an amazing turquoise lagoon – an ideal destination for diving holidays, watersports, fishing, and of course relaxing!

30 – Hvar & The Pakleni Islands, Croatia

For travelers seeking the opportunity to relax by the sea, Hvar and the Pakleni islands are the perfect islands to visit this summer . You will definitely be amazed by their stunning scenery and rich culture. Enjoy one of the many activities in Hvar , amazing beaches, sightseeing and parties are waiting for you!

Check out the recommended hotels in Hvar

Have you already decided which one you will visit? Let us know in the comments below.

We hope to have inspired your travel plans. You can find a lot of fun ways to enjoy your next holiday on TourScanner ! Happy travel to everyone!?

The 15 Best Paradise Islands in the World

It wasn’t meant to be this way. 

Back when I was first planning to travel long-term, I didn’t think my journey would have a focus. I wanted to see it all: cities, villages, lakes, mountains, rainforests, glaciers, deserts, and beaches. 

I had no idea that last item on the list would become the main driving force for my decade of travels.

It began with the Philippines.

I’d been travelling solo for three months at this point, hopping from city to city as I made my way through Eastern Europe and Eastern Asia. From Zagreb to Ljubljana to Budapest to Kyiv to Moscow to Taipei to Shanghai to Beijing to Seoul , and then I found myself in Hong Kong , unsure of where to venture next. 

My original plan would see me drifting back into China to explore the southern regions of the country, but after I found my first visit challenging, I was having second thoughts. 

I jumped on Skyscanner and decided to search for flights from Hong Kong to everywhere . I considered Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia… and then I saw the word Cebu .

Cebu? Where was that?

A quick search showed me that it was in the Philippines. Back then — this was in 2011 when blogging was in its infancy! — I had yet to read a single travel blog post about the country, so I opened up Google Images and searched for photos of the Philippines. Immediately, I was slapped in the eyeballs by a thousand breathtaking photos of the most incredible beaches I’d ever seen. 

“Holy shit,” I mumbled to myself. “I’ve gotta go to the Philippines.”

Three days later, I boarded a midnight flight to Cebu, then a second flight to Caticlan. From there, I took a ferry to Boracay, and a tricycle to my hostel.

When I arrived in Boracay, I was smitten. 

You see, I thought travel was always about culture and ruins and gazing at historic monuments in ancient cities. You mean to tell me I can also spend my year in paradise, hanging out on beautiful beaches for weeks on end?

From that moment on, I made it my mission to visit as many tropical islands as possible.

Whether it’s attempting to visit every inhabited island in Thailand, making annual trips to isolated spots in the South Pacific, or planning my Africa travels around the best beaches — if there’s a destination with a beautiful stretch of sand, it’s probably on my bucket list. 

I’m excited, then, to share with you the 15 islands that I believe represent paradise. I’ve been to all of these in person, so you can trust that they’re as good as I tell you!

Fulidhoo, the Maldives

The Maldives has long held a reputation for being full of paradise islands, and for a long time, it was believed the only way to see them was to have a lot of money. 

I shattered those beliefs way back in 2014 when I booked a trip to this island nation and discovered it’s possible to visit the country for as little as $50 a day. The secret is simple: avoid all of the expensive resort islands with their overwater bungalows and $10 bottles of water, and instead head for the local islands. 

Having been to a resort island and a handful of local islands, I can say that the islands I visited in the Maldives were universally beautiful. The beach on Fulidhoo was just as impressive as the beach on the resort island of Olhuveli, but I was paying $50 a night rather than $500 a night to sit on it. The beaches on Fulidhoo were so freaking pretty. 

There were other benefits, too, to visiting Fulidhoo. By staying on a local island, you’ll gain an insight into local Maldivian life that is impossible to obtain on the resort islands, and get to try more of the typical island dishes, as opposed to the international food at the resorts. Maldivian breakfasts are my favourite type of breakfast of any country in the world!

And Fulidhoo is a great destination for solo women, too! Whenever I ventured out alone, I’d find myself chatting to a local woman, sharing a bar of chocolate, and comparing our different ways of life. That never happened when I was exploring with my boyfriend. 

Read all about it:  Fulidhoo: The Only Tourists on the Island  |  How to Travel the Maldives on a Budget

Zanzibar, Tanzania

I decided to head to Zanzibar to celebrate the end of my twenties. 

I was about to turn 29 and that, combined with a cheap flight I spotted to Tanzania, had me setting off for white-sand shores. Yes, I set off for a solo birthday celebration.

I couldn’t have chosen a better place to do so.

Zanzibar is nicknamed the  Spice Island , and there was once a time when it was the largest producer of cloves in the world. If you love your spices, you’ll adore this island. I know I did.

The capital, Stone Town, is a special place, filled with ornate doors, winding alleyways, and spectacular sunsets, but it’s the parts of Zanzibar outside of Stone Town that are most impressive. Head out into the centre of the island to Jozani Forest and you’ll stand a good chance of spotting the mega-rare red colobus monkeys that are only found in Zanzibar. Tour the slave caves to gain an insight into the island’s tragic past and take a spice tour to sample the flavours that made it such a wealthy part of the continent. 

And the beaches, of course. Most people come to Zanzibar for the beaches. 

My favourite was Nungwi, which is pictured above, at the northernmost tip of the island. There, you’ll be able to watch carpenters build fishing boats on the beach, sunbathe on pristine white sand beaches, and take a tour of the nearby village. 

One thing I regret not doing while I was in Zanzibar was visiting the famous Rock restaurant in Paje. When the tide comes in, you have to wade through the turquoise ocean to reach the restaurant, which is — you guessed it! — on a rock. It looks so incredible. 

Read all about it:  Becoming a Spice Girl in Zanzibar  |  How to Visit Zanzibar on a Budget

Ask me about my favourite place in the world, and I’ll tell you about Matafonua. Yes, there’s nowhere quite like this gorgeous spit of sand on the small island of Foa, in Tonga. 

Have you ever stayed in a guesthouse that seems to attract only wonderful people? A place where it’s easy to make friends, where everyone is infinitely more focused on conversation than technology, and where you immediately extend your stay because you’re not convinced travel gets any better than this?

Thanks to the nightly communal dinners, being a solo traveller at Matafonua meant making friends and always having somebody to chat to. When you throw in the spectacular location that made everybody spend all day at the lodge — why would you  choose  to leave? —  this was a spot where, even in the low season, it was impossible to feel lonely.

For somewhere so isolated, there’s still plenty to keep you busy: kayaking, snorkelling, kite boarding, SCUBA diving, and even swimming with wild humpback whales if you visit in the dry season. Leopard sharks are a regular occurrence in the channel just outside the restaurant, and paddling out to the small island opposite means getting to swim alongside them. 

Part of me wanted to stay forever. 

Read all about it: Ha’apai: My South Pacific Island Paradise  |  What’s it Like to Travel in Tonga?   | The Cost of Travel in Tonga

Koh Mook, Thailand

I’ve fortunate to have been to a dozen Thai islands over the past decade, and my favourite by far was Koh Mook. 

It has everything I could possibly need from an island paradise. 

I had so much fun here! The locals were seriously welcoming and it’s home to some of my favourite restaurants in Thailand. Koh Mook felt like one of those islands where you could just arrive and end up staying for months. 

There are two main beaches on the island — Sivalai Beach and Charlie Beach — and both offered up something different. Sivalai was quieter and we had it mostly to ourselves. There were shallow seas, soft sands, and hundreds of palm trees. Charlie Beach is more popular with backpackers — it’s beautiful and crowded, with Mong Bar offering up excellent mango shakes on the beach. 

I have to tell you about Koh Mook’s Emerald Cave, because it was one of my highlights from the year I’ve spent in Thailand. 

You start off by leaping off your longtail boat at the entrance to a small, dark hole. After paddling through the tunnel for around 20 metres, using a waterproof torch for light, you’ll suddenly turn a corner. In front of you will be the most incredible beach, surrounded by limestone cliffs and invisible from anywhere else on the island. If you time your visit right, you’ll have the entire place to yourself. 

It was one of the most magical moments of my travels. 

Read all about it:   Why Koh Mook is My New Favourite Thai Island | The Ultimate Guide to the Trang Islands in Thailand

Aitutaki, the Cook Islands

More than anywhere on this list, Aitutaki meets my definition of a paradise island. 

I mean, just look at the colour of that water! Sometimes I can’t believe I actually took this photo. Sometimes I can’t believe a place like this actually exists. Sometimes I can’t believe that I was actually there. 

Aitutaki is amazing. 

When you take a tour of Aitutaki’s lagoon, you’ll typically be taken to four desert islands and three separate snorkelling spots, and they all look photoshopped. On my tour, I got to snorkel with giant trevallies, swim above giant clams, marvel at bright purple coral, explore a shipwreck in the shallow lagoon waters, get my passport stamped at the world’s smallest post office, and generally feel as though I was skipping through the pages of a travel magazine.

The white-sand beaches, the photogenic palm trees, the turquoise waters — it all comes together to make Aitutaki one of the most special places on the planet. 

Read all about it:  You Have to Take a Lagoon Cruise in Aitutaki  |  What’s it Like to Travel in the Cook Islands? | How to Visit the Cook Islands on a Budget

Koh Rong, Cambodia

You know a place is something special when you get devoured by sandflies, but still come away listing it as one of your favourite places in Southeast Asia.

Still, it’s changed a little since I was last there in 2012. Back during my first visit, there was terrible internet access, little electricity, and what power there was regularly dropped out. It was a place that was all about isolation and living out your desert island fantasies. It was an island where you could walk along the soft sand for 20 minutes and find yourself on a deserted beach, then not see a single other human for the rest of the day. A place where you could dance in the sea after dark and watch the water glitter from the bioluminescent plankton.

There are plenty more guesthouses on the island these days, a handful of resorts, and even a road has been built to give access to more of the island’s beaches. And yet, it’s still relatively underdeveloped. You still won’t find an ATM on the island, for example, and while there’s internet, it sucks more often than not.

The reason why I wanted to include Koh Rong is because it has some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia. Because swimming in the water is like taking a bath. Because the beaches are so beautiful. 

As long as you apply plenty of insect repellent, you’ll have the best time ever here. 

Read all about it:   Koh Rong: An Island Paradise Riddled with Sandflies | How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Cambodia?

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

If you’re looking for paradise that’s a little more off-the-beaten-path, the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique could be exactly what you’re searching for. 

It has sandbanks for dayyyyyys . 

First of all, it’s affordable to visit. I based myself in Vilanculos and paid just $30 a night for a private room at a kickass hostel on the beach. Everybody is in Vilanculos for one reason: to get out on the water and explore the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. These are some of the most breathtaking spots on the planet. 

I decided to head to  Ilha de Magaruque  — the third largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago — and had one of my favourite African travel experiences while I was there. I spent the day on a beautiful beach, snorkelling alongside octopi, keeping an eye out for the elusive dugongs that have made this coastline their home, tucking into a fresh seafood barbecue, sailing in an old fishing boat, and clambering up dunes to take photos of the sandbanks.

I love this part of the world so much. 

Read all about it:  A Perfect Day in the Bazaruto Archipelago  |  What’s it Like to Travel in Mozambique? | The Cost of Travel in Mozambique

Huahine, French Polynesia

Huahine is my favourite island in French Polynesia, which is really saying something, because I’ve been to Bora Bora. And while Bora Bora was just as incredible as you might imagine it to be, it has nothing on Huahine. 

Huahine is home to some beautiful beaches — just as beautiful as the ones on Bora Bora — but you won’t have to pay a fortune in order to see them. Huahine is one of the more affordable islands I’ve visited in French Polynesia. I paid $43 a night for a stay in a lovely guesthouse, hired a bicycle for $5 a day, and most meals came to around $10 a day. 

It’s relatively quiet, too. Most of the tourists in French Polynesia flock to Bora Bora, Tahiti, or Moorea, leaving Huahine calm, uncrowded, and relaxed. 

Huahine has everything you could possibly desire from a South Pacific island. You’ve got the amazing white sand beaches, palm trees lining every road, extinct volcanoes to climb, glistening lagoons to paddle in, dense jungle, old Polynesian ruins to explore, smooth roads to cycle along, vanilla bean plantations to wander through… It’s definitely a paradise island in my eyes. 

Read all about it: Why Huahine is My Favourite Island in the South Pacific  | What’s it Like to Travel in French Polynesia?

La Digue, The Seychelles

If you’re searching for a paradise island, then look no further than La Digue, in the Seychelles.

This island country is located off the coast of southeast Africa and comprises 115 beautiful spots of sand. Don’t let that overwhelm you, though, as there are just three main islands that you won’t want to miss out on: Mahe (the island you’ll fly into, with heritage buildings and fantastic hiking), Praslin (which is full of magnificent beaches), and La Digue (which is home to even more magnificent beaches).

On La Digue, you’ll want to head straight to Anse Source d’Argent, which is pictured above. Regularly voted the best beach on the entire planet, this is where you’ll bury your toes in the softest white sand, wade out in the warmest turquoise water, and marvel at the unique granite rocks that serve to give this beach a truly prehistoric vibe.

And most excitingly of all? It’s possible to visit this incredible beach on a budget.

Yes, really.

I booked a stay at the excellently-reviewed Chez Mera , which is rated 9.6 on Booking and priced at only $97 per night. On Praslin, you have La Residence D’Almée for just $98 a night. And on the island of Mahe, I recommend the incredible Chez Coco at $82 a night. Who knew you could visit paradise without spending hundreds of dollars a night?

Oahu, Hawaii

I spent three weeks island-hopping my way around Hawaii, checking out the Big Island, Oahu, and Maui and to be honest, I think I could put all three islands on this list. When I held myself down and forced myself to choose just one, though, I settled on Oahu. 

I loved sunbathing on iconic Waikiki Beach; driving the circumference of the island over the space of a week and stopping off at the most beautiful beaches. I loved spending Christmas Day watching the surfers out on the North Shore Beaches, snorkelling with sea turtles, taking a tour of breathtaking Kualoa Ranch, and eating so much good food in Honolulu.  

The one thing I wish I had done: hiked Diamond Head! I actually drove to the parking lot at 4 a.m. with the intention of hiking it for sunrise, but back then, I despised hiking, so decided to nap in the car. What a dumbass. 

Man, I really need to get back to Hawaii. 

Read all about it:  My Quest to Find All of the LOST Filming Sites in Oahu  |  A Tour of Kualoa Ranch in Oahu  

Boracay, the Philippines

I kicked off my introduction with a love letter to Boracay, and I couldn’t not include it in this list.

White Beach, on Boracay, is one of my favourite places in the world. Yeah, it’s touristy as hell and there are touts everywhere, but I simply don’t care. The beach here makes me so happy and it’s my definition of paradise.

The sand is bright white, the water is clear, calm and shallow, and the party scene is so much fun. This is a place where you’ll go drinking every night, sleep off your hangovers on the most perfect beach during the day, then do it all again the next evening. 

I still remember the first time I stepped foot on White Beach. 

I’d had high expectations because I’d seen all those pristine photos on Google Images, but I’d assumed they’d been heavily edited. I made my way out of my guesthouse and walked until I reached the sand, looked up, and let out an audible gasp. 

I had never seen anywhere like it.

Until I arrived on Boracay, I didn’t believe a beach could look so breathtakingly perfect. 

I’ll never forget that moment. It was the one and only time that a sight has literally taken my breath away. 

Read all about it:   23 Incredible Things to Do in Boracay, the Philippines

Sao Miguel, The Azores

If you’re ever looking for a way to break up the journey between the U.S. and Europe, I highly recommend visiting the Azores. In particular, the island of Sao Miguel. 

SATA Airlines fly between Boston and Portugal, and offer a free stopover in the Azores for up to seven days. I opted for four and it was the perfect amount of time to spend on Sao Miguel. I spent one day roaming the capital of Ponte Delgada, one day scootering out west, one day exploring the centre of the island, and one day exploring the east. 

So, what’s so special about Sao Miguel?

Everything . Most of all, it’s such a foodie destination. You’ll find incredible wines, cheeses, and fruits grown here, and the restaurants are incredible. You can even eat a stew that’s been cooked inside a volcano! 

It’s an island of lagoons, as you can see from the photo above. There are waterfalls, hot springs, black sand beaches, beautiful villages, geothermal activity, and it’s so easy to explore by car or scooter. There’s even an old abandoned hotel to wander around.

It’s a ridiculously beautiful island that’s inexpensive to see and full of impressive viewpoints. 

Read all about it:  13 Reasons Why You Should Plan a Trip to the Azores  |  Exploring the Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel in Sao Miguel

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

If you asked me where you could find the most turquoise waters in the world, I’d direct you to Isla Mujeres. The water here is the most incredible shade of aqua. 

Fortunately, the beaches are just as pretty. Playa Norte receives most of the tourists and for good reason, as it’s one of the best beaches on the island, but it’s still so easy to escape the crowds. 

Simply get on a scooter, or if you’re old and American, a golf cart. Kidding . I would have probably rented a golf cart had I not had a scooter-proficient boyfriend by my side. Anyway! Get your hands on some form of transportation and hit the road. You’ll find quieter beaches all along the coastline, as well as a shit ton of iguanas. The inland villages are so pretty and colourful, the food’s great — as it is everywhere in Mexico — and it just has such a lovely, laidback vibe. One of the cooler things you can do on the island is visit the Underwater Museum, where you can snorkel or dive to see hundreds of sculptures and statues on the ocean floor. So badass.

In the summer months, you can even swim with whale sharks off the coast of Isla Mujeres.

Read all about it:   Isla Mujeres: My Mexican Island Paradise

Ithaca, Greece

I’m very fortunate to have friends who know how to sail. 

Every few years, we charter a yacht in the Greek Ionian and spend a week exploring paradise. Our favourite place to head to is Ithaca. I love this island.

It’s far less crowded than the more famous Greek islands, like Santorini and Mykonos. It attracts fewer tourists than its Ionian neighbours, Corfu, Lefkada, and Kefalonia. It’s chilled out, the food is incredible, the beaches are wonderful (although stony), and the locals so friendly. Most interestingly of all, the water is actually pretty warm around here! The Mediterranean normally makes me shiver, but there’s something about the Ionian that has me repeatedly jumping into the water. I just don’t feel the cold!

As for the spots on Ithaca itself, I love meandering through the adorable village of Kioni, pictured above from the water. I love spending time in the picturesque village of Frikes. I love eating at the incredible restaurants in Vathy’s bay. I love it all.

This isn’t just a destination for sailors, though. It’s easy to reach Ithaca from the mainland, and simple to get around once you’re there. In fact, I’m hoping to one day visit while not on a sailing adventure because all of my previous visits have felt far too short.

Read all about it:  11 Highlights From My First Trip to Greece  |  Conquering My Fear of Sailing in Greece  

The Glaring Omissions on My List

Obviously, it’s the Caribbean. 

Yes, for all of my love of beaches and tropical islands, I have yet to make it to the Caribbean. I count it as one of my biggest travel oversights. Top of my Caribbean list at the moment is Jamaica, St Lucia, and the Dominican Republic, but it changes all the time. 

The Comoros, Sao Tome and Principe, and Cape Verde are also high up on my African island destination list. 

The South Pacific always calls my name, as you know, and I’m craving heading to Samoa, Vanuatu, and the Fijian Yasawa Islands, in particular. 

And there’s a whole bunch of islands in Latin America, too. The Galapagos. Easter Island. The San Blas Islands. The Corn Islands. Roatan. 

What about you guys? Which is your favourite island in the world, and which ones do you still have on your bucket list?

Lauren juliff.

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

Related Posts

My Packing List for Long-Term Travellers: Ten Years Later

The 10 best cities in europe.

How to Deal with Travel Burnout

100 Best Travel Tips From 11 Years of Travel

How to Find Cheap Flights Around the World

34 comments.

Bermuda! Beautiful pink sand beaches and really easy to get to from eastern North America (3 hour flight from Toronto). It is somewhat expensive compared to the Caribbean but they offer good deals in the low season (eg April). I was not a beach vacation person really until I visited here.

Ahhh, yes! I would love to get to Bermuda! After so many years spent focusing on the South Pacific, I’ve been feeling as though it’s time to start checking out the Caribbean instead. It’s a lot easier to get to from the U.K., at least :-) I’m off to google the pink sand beaches now…

If you’re not a “just sit on the beach and read” kind of person (i.e. I like to do stuff) are most of these islands 3-4 day types of islands or are there any which are week long vacations?

Zanzibar definitely has enough to fill a week, and so does Huahine. And Oahu, obviously. You could easily spend an action-packed week in the Azores, for sure, visiting Sao Miguel and one other island.

The Yasawas have some of the most stunning beaches in the world so I’m sure you will love them. I also loved Isla Mujeres. Some of my favorite islands are in Canada, not white sand beach tropical islands, but just as beautiful

I want to go so badly! I even planned to spend a month-long trip in the Yasawas a few years ago, but cancelled it after getting islanded-out in the Cook Islands and French Polynesia. One day!

When I sent my mum this post, she replied to tell me her favourite island in the world is Vancouver Island! I definitely need to see more of Canada :-)

Yes Yasawas Fiji

We were in Jamaica over NYE. It was incredible. The culture, the people, the food. It quickly became our favorite Caribbean island. Great post – I’ve added a few more options to our travel list (most likely for 2021).

That’s so good to hear! When I finally am able to travel again, I think Jamaica will be one of the first places I travel to.

Your photography is absolutely gorgeous, Lauren! I’m glad you’re going to continue to share travel content and looking forward to more roundup posts!

Oh, thank you so much, Dale! :-)

I went to Zanzibar in 2011 (wow, I didn’t realize it was almost 10 years ago!), and it will forever be one of my favorite places. I’m almost scared to ever go back, out of fear that it won’t live up to my memories (and I’m sure it’s changed so much since then). But I do really want to go to Pemba eventually!

Love!! I’ve been dying to get to Mozambique ever since you went and started posting about it. That’s first up when I can get back on a plane!

Zanzibar is absolutely amazing, and so is Oahu. And Greece never gets old!

Mozambique is just the best! It has some of the best beaches in the world and hardly anybody knows about them! You’re going to love it there :-)

I love Santorini and Mykonos

I can’t believe I still haven’t been to either! I’d like to go soon, though, and compare them to the Ionian islands I love so much.

You have been to some very beautiful places – lucky you!

Yes, I’ve definitely been very lucky!

Man, this list is incredible!!! The Diamond Head hike is nice, but there are lots of better hikes on Oahu, if you do get back there! I’m still mad that I didn’t go to Koh Rong, but we had to get to Thailand for Songkran! Having to actually schedule travels around events?? Dammit haha. Hopefully some time in the future!

Oh, and you know, I actually had to cut short my time in Cambodia to head back to Thailand to catch the Yi Peng lantern festival! So I can definitely relate to the frustration :-)

You have to get to Brazil! There are so many amazing beaches there, plus I love their beach culture in terms of it always being easy to get yummy food and drinks but without vendors hassling you.

Mílos, Greece is my favorite.

Thanks, Lauren for sharing this beautiful article.

Wow, this is such a fantastic list! Sao Miguel is officially on my travel bucket list, it looks stunning.

The islands off of the coast of Croatia are also amazing and absolutely worth a visit if you haven’t been. Since you have friends that know how to sail you would be able to see a lot of the hidden gems and visit some pretty spectacular islands :)

Thanks for sharing!

Very nice and inspiring post, Lauren. Honestly, I hoped to see Brazilian or Latin America islands/beaches on your list. These places are definitely worth the trip. Best, Francine.

I know! I was aiming to be in Brazil at this time, actually, but alas. Hopefully once the world opens up again, I’ll be able to finally spend more time in Latin America.

I went to Huahine inspired by your post and loved it! Paradise and much cheaper than Bora which of course is a must see …

That makes me so happy! I’m so glad you enjoyed it :-)

Wow , Iwas so shocked to see that you started this blog with Boracay! I totally agree with you, it is just perfect. I’ve only been there once (although I’m a Filipino) and I really loved the place. We went to the different beaches and every one of them is awesome! Thank you for appreciating our country. :)

Hope you can visit the Philippines again to check out other lovely places here!

Like Dan, my husband and I also went to Huahine after reading your blog post, and we loved it! So many great memories. I’m eager to try more of your recommendations after this pandemic.

I just found your blog today and am loving it! I loved Jamaica when I went (1995). We stayed in Ocho Rios which didn’t have great beaches, but the location made it possible for many fun excursions. We climbed the Dunn’s River Falls, bicycled down Blue Mountain, went to a tropical garden full of beautiful flora and fauna and did a catamaran day trip complete with snorkeling along the reef. While I personally haven’t been to these next two locations, my mother and step-dad called Dominica their favorite place on earth. The diving/snorkeling is nothing short of amazing given the photos they brought back. The next little gem I have recently started reading about a unique little island (some would say best-kept secret in the Caribbean) known as Saba (pronounced Say-buh). The flight into the airport is not for the faint of heart, but the island looks like an amazing adventure. Hopefully, the quarantine will be over soon and I can read about your Caribbean adventures!

i booked our trip to zanzibar & mozambique based on many of your suggestions – but we had to cancel…thanks 2020! i, like you, am a bit of a beach whore! :) seychelles was amazing and peaceful, we went during shoulder season and enjoyed practically deserted beaches! in the carribbean, imo anguilla has the best beaches i have ever seen (& ive hit my share of thai islands too!). bvi & usvi are great spots too (st johns is all its hyped up to be!) skip jamaica – its obligatory for US travelers…but there are far better and less american infested spots! sorry – had to be said!

You’d love the Caribbean. I’d recommend going South from South Vincent to Grenada by ferries, with Bequia, Tobago Cays and Carriacou on the way. Another good island-hopping route: St Lucia – Martinique – Dominica onto Guadeloupe. Flying to Miami from either ends of both routes is relatively easy. All are vastly different. Grenada – very low-key and lush, Carriacou is like the islands probably were in the 50s, totally unspoiled and rural with probably best beaches anywhere. Tobago Cays and St Vincent are where “Pirates of the Caribbean” was filmed, nuff said. Martinique: very civilized, with best food in 300 miles radius. Dominica, rarely visited, is probably the most authentic culturally. Then there’s Barbados – a fun combo of a party place, hilarious British retirees and ultra rich mixing it all up. Then there’s Tobago way to the side. Some are utterly americanized tourist traps, Punta Cana, Aruba and Caymans coming to mind, yet their immediate neighbors are anything but : Cayman Brac or Bonaire. Some are very rarely visited and hard to get to : Montserrat, Saba, Statia, all worth it. Island-hopping is expensive, inter-island flights ridiculously expensive in relation to distance (same as South Pacific), ferries are limited to few clusters (3rd is St Martin – Anguliia – Antigua) and not for everyone. But it’s fun and rewarding. Then you have the big islands, all as different as the 2 nations sharing Hispaniola. Jamaica and Cuba are in a league of their own. Even the South and Central American shores share this special je ne sais quoi vibe.

Just found your blog through backpackingbanter as I am thinking of going to the Maldives. I live in the Greek island of Kos and from Athens it is the only place open to visit. Like you I want to go to the local islands and had already picked out Maalfushi And Fulidoo so you have just confirmed my choice. I have been checking out trip advisor forum but it’s mostly asking which resort to pick. Just waiting for our lockdown restrictions to be reviewed in 7/1 but it’s looking like a distinct possibility

What an informative blog. Thank you for including Boracay in the list. I’ve been there four times already yet it looks like I never had enough of that place. The powdery beach front, the amazing view of the sunset and the beautiful clouds that made the sunset even more beautiful. A paradise indeed. Sugary beach on the other side of boracay made me love the place even more. God bless on your blogs.

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Meet Lauren Juliff

Plan Your Trip to Paradise Island: Best of Paradise Island Tourism

Essential Paradise Island

Trending in the forums

Paradise Island Is Great For

Historical tours.

Ports of Call Tours

• Warwick Paradise Island - Bahamas
• The Royal at Atlantis
• Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island
• The Cove at Atlantis
• The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas
• Poseidon's Table
• Viola's Bar & Grill
• Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville
• Cafe Martinique- Atlantis Paradise Island
• Rose Island
• Marine Habitat at Atlantis
• Atlantis Casino
• Marina Village
• Aura Nightclub at Atlantis Paradise Island
• Nassau Food and History Bus Tour
• Buggy Rental in Nassau Bahamas with Bluetooth speaker
• Bahamas ATV tour in Nassau with Full Bahamian Lunch
• Nassau Bahamas Private Boat Charter to Rose Island
• Nassau Narrated Jeep tour with Full Bahamian Lunch and Drink

How to choose an island in the Bahamas

Mar 16, 2021 • 8 min read

The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands, here's our guide to picking the best one for you © Peter Sitterli / 500px

Travel anywhere in the Bahamas and you'll find pristine beaches with crystal-clear water lapping at their shores. While gorgeous strips of sand ring every island of this 700-island archipelago, the destination is a multifaceted one that offers a variety of distinctly Bahamian experiences for every type of traveler.

Chow down on the catch of the day with locals on Grand Bahama or dive into the cerulean depths in the Biminis, hike to the highest spot in the country on Cat Island or shake your tail feathers at Junkanoo – whether you’re a history buff, a carnival-bound reveler, a beach bum in search of solitude, a honeymooner, or diver, you’re guaranteed to find a corner of the Bahamas that’ll suit you just fine. Here's our guide on how to choose the right Bahamas island for you. 

Editor's note: During COVID-19 , please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice . Events may be subject to change.

Grand Bahama

Best for food, diving, nature

Despite the name, Grand Bahama has always run second to bigger, more glamorous Nassau (New Providence). Yet if you’re looking for a laid-back, accessible getaway with a minimum of fuss and more infrastructure than the Out Islands, Grand Bahama is your island. 

Want to take part in a quintessential Bahamian pastime? Find yourself a fish fry on Grand Bahama . Hang out on the beach with locals, knockback cold Kaliks and watch lobster, conch fritters and catch-of-the-day sizzle on oil drum cookers at dusk. Smith's Point Fish Fry  is a sure bet, and you can join the party every Wednesday night.

Diving wrecks, walls and holes

Grand Bahama’s got a treat for any diver, whether you’re a beginner looking to check out shallow reefs, or a pro wanting to explore underwater caves and wrecks on the ocean floor. 

Hiking at Lucayan National Park 

Check out  Lucayan National Park , where mangrove trails descend to a secluded beach, and birds and turtles nest in its wetlands and forests. The park is also home to one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world. While swimming in these caves is prohibited, a few are open to the public including Burial Mound Cave, which served as the final resting place of the island’s earliest inhabitants.

Top 14 beaches in The Bahamas 

Long Island

Best for landscapes, beaches, diving

Straddling the Tropic of Cancer, Long Island is one of the most scenic Out Islands , a slender 80 miles (130km) north–south expanse of sand with stunning white-and-sky-blue churches, lush greenery, elaborate cave systems and bougainvillea-draped village.

Hamilton's Cave 

Long Island possesses some of the most dramatic and varied terrain in the Bahamas. The east coast is lined with precipitous cliffs, fringed by lush flora, while desolate plantation ruins grace the island’s north end. Hamilton's Cave, located a few hundred feet off Queen's Highway, is the Bahamas' largest cave system and dates back to the Lucayan Indians who called the caves home in 500 CE. 

Subterranean adventurers will find a honeycomb of caves with otherworldly rock formations. The landscape is an adventurous ramble and the trails are not clearly marked, however, so it's best to enlist the help of a local guide.

Love Beaches 

This long finger of land has something for every kind of sun worshipper, from shallow protected coves and long stretches of coarse pink sand with natural “swimming pools”, to secluded romantic resorts on powder-white sand and beaches busy with locals grilling fish. 

The Love Beaches are a beautiful string of pink-sand beaches near the  Stella Maris resort .

Dean’s Blue Hole

While not quite bottomless, this ink-blue cavern leading into the ocean depths is the world’s second-deepest blue hole. Watch local daredevils plummet into it from the cliffs above, or don scuba gear to explore it yourself.

Why Long Island should be your next Bahamas vacation  

Andros Island 

Best for diving, fishing, birdwatching

Known as “the Big Yard," Andros is the country’s largest but most sparsely populated major island – 2301 sq mi (5960 sq km) of mangroves, palm savannas and eerie pine forests full of wild boar and (as legend has it) an evil man-bird known as the chickcharnie. It’s largely uninhabited – considerable distances separate tiny settlements dotting the east coast, while the entire western side is an uninhabited patchwork of swampland known, appropriately, as “the Mud.”

Andros Barrier Reef

Andros Island is home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef (190 miles), which teems with a rainbow of tropical fish and schools of sharks, while deep blue holes throw down the gauntlet to serious divers.

The Wetlands 

Fly-fishermen frequently cast their lines along the streams and channels in Andros' wetlands. Thanks to its intricate network of shallow waters and banks, the island is home to the largest bonefish habitat in the world, earning it the title of “the world bonefishing capital”.

The vast mangrove swamps and mudflats of the Bahamas’ largest island are home to an astounding 300 types of winged creatures. Tour operators are available to guide wildlife enthusiasts and anglers alike to the best viewing and fishing spots.

Best for sport fishing, diving, snorkeling

On the edge of the Gulf Stream, closer to Miami than Nassau, this pint-sized paradise comprises North, South and East Bimini and a scattering of private and uninhabited islets. Once home to Prohibition-era rum runners and one of Papa Hemingway's legendary haunts, it's now a favorite destination of serious fisherfolk and sunseekers from the States and beyond.

Go fishing in the Gulf Stream  

Appropriately shaped like a fish hook, the Biminis are  the sports fishing destination in the Bahamas. Hemingway got his inspiration here for Old Man and the Sea and Islands in the Stream , and today fisherman troll the big blue for immense tuna, marlin and swordfish.

Diving on the northern coast 

Biminis’ spectacular underwater walls and reefs attract the big guys: expect hammerhead, stingray, turtle and dolphin encounters. Numerous wrecks are a playground for advanced divers.

Best for views, culture, music

The heart of traditional Bahamian culture still beats on Cat Island, one of the islands least touched by tourism. Cat has several interesting historic sites, including plantation ruins and the Mt Alvernia Hermitage.

Mt Alvernia

On top of Mt Alvernia (called Como Hill by locals) is a tiny stone church built by the hermit Father Jerome and marks the highest spot in the Bahamas (a towering 207ft above sea level). You can enter the small chapel, tiny cloister and a guest cell the size of a large kennel. Climb the rock staircase for a 360-degree view at sunset or sunrise.

Rake n' scrape music 

This former pirate haven is the birthplace of the Bahamas’ rake and scrape music, with tunes extracted from recycled objects such as tin washtubs, fishing lines, and goatskin drums. Those wanting to see a stellar show should be sure to catch the  Rake n' Scrape Festival that takes place during the Bahamas Labor Day weekend (first Friday in June).

New Providence

Best for waterparks, food, carnival

Most travelers and locals use Nassau (the capital city) and New Providence (the island it occupies) interchangeably. Undoubtedly the hub and nerve center of the Bahamas, what New Providence/Nassau lacks in size, it more than makes up for in energy, attitude and devil-may-care spirit. This 21 mile-long (34 km) powerhouse of an island is a perfect fit for the extroverted tourist with money to burn. 

Aquaventure Waterpark 

Whizz down a Plexiglass tube slide into a shark-filled lagoon, cannonball along high-speed water slides into lagoons and grottoes, float along a gentle river ride, or kayak and snorkel in a man-made lagoon at this impressive park in Nassau.   

Eating in Nassau & Paradise Island 

Nassau and Paradise Island, connected by a bridge, form the epicurean epicenter of New Providence. Dining options range from hole-in-the-wall joints cooking up curry goat or Fish Fry serving up conch fritters to celebrity chef restaurants serving designer sushi rolls and arty fusion dishes at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island.

Junkanoo hits Nassau with a vengeance on Boxing Day (the day after Christmas) and New Year's Day, with costumed revelers filling the streets and the air thick with conch shell blasts, and the thumping of drums and shrill whistles. Parade floats, dancing and music competitions are all part of the action.

Best for diving, snorkeling, getting away from it all

More than 300 islands and cays scattered across the central Bahamas, the Exumas are renowned for blissfully isolated beaches, world-class diving, and serene resorts. The main islands are Great Exuma and Little Exuma, wonderful in their own right, and then there's the stunning Exuma Cays: a string of mostly uninhabited ocean outposts surrounded by blooming reefs and astonishing ecological bounty.

Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park

Beneath the aquamarine water around these tiny specks of land, you'll find spellbinding reefs, walls, blue holes, coral gardens and wrecks that attract an astounding diversity of fish. You won't be taking any of them home with you though, as the marine life at the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park  is protected from any kind of fishing.

Thunderball Grotto

This cathedral-like underwater cave system , popular with snorkelers, was made famous twice by 007 in Thunderball and Never Say Never Again .

An island getaway

Exumas are completely exempt from the hustle and bustle of many other Bahamas islands. They are uninhabited and hard to get to, so visitors can only access them if they sign up for a trip on one of the live-aboard dive boats or befriend a yachter in search of their own private slice of tropical paradise. Unless you happen to own your own yacht – then, may the wind fill your sails!

Best for birdwatching, history

Separated from Marsh Harbour by six miles (10km) of clear, shallow sea, historic Elbow Cay is one of the prettiest islands in the Bahamas. Greeted on arrival by the photogenic candy-striped lighthouse, visitors glide into a broad sheltered harbor flanked by brightly-painted timber cottages, studded with sails and framed by low greenery.

Elbow Cay Lighthouse

Elbow Cay's candy-striped 19 th- century lighthouse disrupted the local business of salvaging loot from shipwrecks. Admire great sea views from the top.

Car-free, picture-perfect Hope Town welcomes visitors with its bougainvillea-clad white-and-pastel cottages. Founded in 1785 by Loyalists from South Carolina, this village is a beautifully preserved historical settlement.

Tilloo Cay Reserve

Battered by Atlantic Ocean waves, the pristine Tilloo Cay Reserve attracts nesting herons, numerous seabirds and their binocular-wielding admirers.

You might also like:

Top 10 Bahamas experiences   Top 7 places to dive with sharks  Celebrate Christmas in the Caribbean at these 5 destinations  

This article was originally published in January 2016 and updated in March 2021.

This article was first published January 2016 and updated March 2021

Explore related stories

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Summer is just around the corner in the northern hemisphere. Here's where the Lonely Planet team is going.

Jan 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Nov 24, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 12, 2023 • 6 min read

Jul 14, 2023 • 5 min read

Jul 13, 2023 • 7 min read

May 6, 2023 • 9 min read

Jan 5, 2023 • 8 min read

Dec 23, 2022 • 8 min read

Dec 4, 2022 • 5 min read

The Complete Travel Guide to Nassau and Paradise Island in the Bahamas

The most luxurious places to eat, stay, lounge, and indulge throughout the archipelago.

While the Bahamas is comprised of over 700 islands and cays in total, Nassau and Paradise Island alone are enough to fill an upscale itinerary for both the stationary and the adventurous. Here's a guide to the best of both.

WHERE TO STAY

Once you’ve touched down in Nassau, either hop in a cab or a private transfer with the resort’s chauffeur (which can be arranged in advance). The ride to Paradise Island is approximately 40 minutes, and there’s no shortage of beach views, palm trees, or colorful clusters of buildings along the way. Before you know it, you’ll have reached the gates of the Ocean Club , which became a Four Seasons resort in November. Chances are you won’t want or need to leave, although there’s plenty to see and do should you change your mind.

The Island House

This intimate 30-room hotel is perfect for those who prefer a boutique feel. A mélange of guest rooms, cottages, and apartments make up the accommodation side of the posh hideaway, and with two stunning restaurants, a café, a cinema, and a holistic spa , the Island House is a testament to the many facets of luxury Nassau has to offer.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Dune By Jean-Georges Vongerichten

It’s only fitting that a destination run by the Four Seasons should have a culinary name as esteemed as the caliber of the resort itself. Jean-Georges Vongerichten (Jean-Georges, the Mark, ABC Kitchen and Cocina, Matador Room, and Perry Street, among others) is behind the elevated beach vibes served at Dune , a waterfront bar and restaurant boasting a semi-open kitchen and French-Asian fare. The restaurant serves three meals a day, and the Bahamian breakfast buffet from 7 to 11 a.m. is not to be missed.

Mahogany House

For a menu highlighting the local seafaring bounty, head to Mahogany House , which is located inside The Island House hotel. Or, if you're in the mood for Asian cuisine, check out the equally delicious Shima on the top floor of the hotel instead.

Graycliff Restaurant

Graycliff is among Nassau’s most widely recognized and celebrated names, and with good reason: the colonial mansion-turned-hotel in which the restaurant sits is a sight to behold inside and out. Graycliff Restaurant also happens to be the island’s first five-star restaurant—block off an entire afternoon or evening to experience the outstanding Bahamian cuisine sandwiched between a cigar rolling demonstration and a chocolatier tour.

The Martini Bar

The Martini Bar, located inside the Ocean Club's cozy Library Lounge just past the lobby, might look familiar: it made a brief cameo in Casino Royale . Order the house specialty, a 50/50 Lillet Martini.

Café Matisse

Café Matisse , located just off of Bay Street in Downtown Nassau, has been favored by locals since its opening in 1996. The menu, which changes approximately every six months, is always Italian-inspired and best when enjoyed on the lush veranda.

Nobu fans will feel right at home at the Coral Towers outpost of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s eponymous Japanese restaurant family, situated beyond an illuminated archway at Atlantis resort on Paradise Island. Ask to visit the hidden sake cellar.

Lukka Kairi

Contemporary cuisine meets traditional methods at Lukka Kairi , a nod to Bahamian culture in elevated dining form. The restaurant overlooks the historic harbor and is located in Downtown Nassau between the Straw Market and Pompey Square—ideal for a post-lunch or dinner stroll.

Café Martinique

Jean-Georges makes yet another appearance, this time as an expression of French-Thai influences in his reimagining of the historic Café Martinique , which also made a cameo in a James Bond film.

WHERE TO SHOP

Marina Village

Located just next to Atlantis, Marina Village is made up of 20-plus shops including various jewelry boutiques, duty free, and Tortuga Rum Cakes (a must).

Crystal Court Shops

Also housed within Atlantis, the Crystal Court Shops feature luxury brands like Versace, David Yurman, Gucci, and Chopard, to name a few.

Straw Market

While a bit on the casual side, Bay Street’s Straw Market captures Nassau’s island spirit through handmade trinkets and souvenirs worth the extra checked bag on the way home.

The Ocean Club Spa

The spa at the Ocean Club is a quiet cluster of ivy-clad bungalows offering a wide variety of services inspired by ancient Asian tradition and influenced by Bahamian culture. While its villas are about as serene as one could hope for, you can also opt to have your massage or treatment in the comfort of your room or in an oceanfront cabana.

Seaplane Charters at the Cove Atlantis

From sustainable fishing in Bimini and culinary excursions to art-focused mini-getaways, the brand new seaplane dock at the Cove Atlantis on Paradise Island offers uniquely designed private day trips to guests who wish to explore the outer islands. (Charters begin this fall.)

Designer Cabanas at Sip Sip

As a Bahamian dining and drinking institution, Sip Sip on Harbour Island has won the hearts of bold-faced names like Eric Ripert, Robert de Niro, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Elle Macpherson, among many others over the past fifty years. This November, owner (and renowned chef) Julie Lightbourn will open a new outpost at the Cove Atlantis on Paradise Island, which many are looking forward to for the one-of-a-kind Lulu DK-designed poolside cabanas in addition to the iconic Sip Sip take on local fare.

Private Tennis Lesson or Golf Outing

Get your fill of athleticism with a private lesson under the instruction of the Ocean Club resort’s resident tennis trainers, or spend the day golfing on a 7,100-yard, Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole green while trying not to be distracted by the stretches of ocean surrounding the course.

Underwater Activities

No trip to Nassau would be complete without at least one underwater experience. Ask your hotel concierge to arrange for a private dive or snorkeling trip; you can also inquire about chartering personal submarines (no diving experience necessary).

Jane Waterous Gallery

You’ll likely notice the striking art on the walls of the Ocean Club’s entrance, and should you find yourself taken by one of the installments, you can request a personal meeting with the artist herself, Jane Waterous, whose nearby home doubles as a gallery.

John Watling’s Distillery

No trip to the Bahamas would be complete without a rum tasting, and John Watling’s Distillery does not disappoint. The tours of the newly (and masterfully) renovated historic estate last about 10 to 15 minutes and culminate in a visit to the shop followed by an optional tasting or cocktail break.

Morning Yoga

The Ocean Club hosts yoga each morning at 8 a.m. sharp on the sunny beach deck near the New Ocean Pool. Private appointments can also be arranged at an additional fee.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} T&C Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

10 Wonderful Places to Spend Thanksgiving

14 'Outlander' Filming Locations

The World's Best Adults-Only Resorts

38 Luxurious All-Inclusive Resorts

Easy, Labor Day Trips to Book in a Jiffy

Things to Do in London At Christmas Time

8 Special Places to Visit in December

The 9 Best Places to Go in November

The Best of Charleston, South Carolina

London's Best Christmas Markets

20 Ski Towns That Are Just as Great in the Summer

Protect Your Trip »

Best islands in the world for 2024.

Sprawling beaches , rich cultures and untouched pockets of wilderness are just a few alluring characteristics of the best islands in the world. According to experts and U.S. News readers, each of the beautiful islands listed here boasts a little something extra that keeps travelers enchanted – whether it's impressive coastlines, immersive experiences or the ease of getting there. Use this list to start planning your island getaway, then cast your vote below to help us rank next year's list.

Whitsunday Islands

South island, new zealand, galapagos islands, turks & caicos, kaua'i.

This Philippine archipelago's 1,700-plus islands and islets entice adventure seekers and beach bums alike. Here, island hoppers can swim in the exceptionally clear Kayangan Lake in Coron, tour the lagoons of Bacuit Bay in El Nido and kayak through caves on the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Those who prefer to vacation at a slower pace can lounge on serene beaches overlooking limestone formations or catch a glimpse of marine life on a snorkeling tour. While Palawan's dry season (November through May) is the best time to visit, it's also the most popular. Plan your accommodations and tours in advance.

A popular Mediterranean cruise stop, this Italian island has garnered international allure with its subtropical climate, sprawling beaches and a culture steeped in tradition. Sardinia's Costa Smeralda boasts 12 miles of powdery sand and shallow turquoise water, along with plenty of luxurious resorts and quaint villages. Meanwhile, those who want to soak in some culture, as well as sunshine, can visit Cagliari, the island's hilltop capital, to explore museums, historic churches and an ancient Roman amphitheater. Visitors should save time to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle through one of Sardinia's many festivals, its distinctive cuisine and its own language (Sardo).

This surprisingly cheap tropical destination is revered for its coastline and often serves as a post-safari oasis. Sitting 22 miles off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar's fine sand beaches paint an idyllic picture, and its clear waters make for great snorkeling excursions. But visitors would be remiss to skip out on exploring the island's heritage. UNESCO-honored Stone Town showcases Zanzibar's collision of African, Indian, Arabic and European cultures through its architecture, cuisine and markets.

You've heard the adage that the best places are often the most difficult to reach, and that certainly rings true for this African island, situated about 500 miles east of Madagascar. While it takes nearly 24 hours to reach Mauritius from the U.S., this island's calm beaches and natural beauty welcome travelers who don't mind a journey. Plus, its cultural diversity makes it like nowhere else on Earth. Spend your days exploring waterfalls, mountains and geological wonders, or while away the hours on palm-fringed beaches. No trip is complete without exploring local cuisine and sega music, which is recognized by UNESCO for its important heritage.

This popular honeymoon spot is more than a hideaway for amorous duos. Oenophiles can savor top-notch vino during a winery tour . Meanwhile, history buffs can explore the remains of Ancient Thira and Akrotiri. Plus, the Greek island's volcanic setting gives travelers the chance to admire unique red and black sand beaches, such as Red Beach and Kamari Beach, before hiking to the top of the caldera for awe-inspiring views of whitewashed villages and blue-domed churches. After taking in their surroundings, visitors can stroll through the famous cliffside village of Oia, which features multiple restaurants, shops and stunning sunset panoramas.

If ring-tailed lemurs come to mind when you think of Madagascar, there's a good reason. This Indian Ocean island off the east coast of Africa is home to more than 100 species of lemurs, along with rare frog, bird, chameleon and plant species that make it one of the most biodiverse places in the world. Beyond its wildlife, this vast island (it's nearly the size of Texas) attracts visitors with its scenic national parks and reserves and pristine beaches. Get lost in the otherworldly limestone formations at Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, or venture off-shore to the beaches and resorts on Nosy Be.

With its white sand beaches, forested nature trails and ancient ruins, Cyprus appeals to a wide array of travelers. Beach lovers can head to Nissi Beach to swim in its crystal-clear water, while history and architecture enthusiasts can admire the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. This Mediterranean island is home to both Greek and Turkish descendants, giving it a wealth of culture and a unique cuisine full of wine, slow-cooked meat and lots of halloumi cheese. Work up an appetite with a hike through Cyprus' jagged mountains or a walk around the town of Paphos – the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite.

When you're not surfing or sipping tropical cocktails in your overwater bungalow , explore Tahiti's striking natural wonders, including the white sands of Plage de Toaroto and the cascades at Faarumai Waterfalls. Looking for more adventure? Hop on a boat and head to Tahiti's sister island, Moorea, to hike breathtaking Magic Mountain. Then, return to Tahiti to explore the shops and markets in the bustling Papeete, French Polynesia's capital. No visit would be complete without traveling roughly 10 miles east of central Papeete to the lesser-known Papenoo Beach, where you can lounge on the gorgeous black sand shore.

Head to this beautiful collection of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia, to enjoy a laid-back vacation filled with swimming, sunbathing, sailing and lots of snorkeling. The Whitsundays' proximity to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef makes it an excellent place to base yourself when visiting iconic sights like Heart Reef. When you're not exploring above or beneath the water's surface, sink your toes into the soft white sand at some of the best beaches in the world. Admire the incredible scenery at Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island or hike to the top of Passage Peak on Hamilton Island.

A dream Bora Bora vacation includes days spent lounging on Matira Beach, boat trips through clear aquamarine waters and four-wheel-drive tours through the French Polynesian island's lush forests. Gazing at extinct Mount Otemanu from above during a helicopter tour or from below in the lagoon is a must. Adventurous travelers should also save time for swimming with sharks and stingrays. Although this destination is already pricey, vacationers should save up to splurge on an overwater bungalow for a once-in-a-lifetime Bora Bora experience.

New Zealand's South Island is the place to go if your ideal island vacation has less to do with lounging on a beach and more to do with having an adventure. On the larger of New Zealand's two main islands, you'll discover ice blue lakes, towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, pristine glaciers and lush forests waiting to be explored. Start your trip hiking or boating through Fiordland National Park on the island's southwest side. Then, sign up for a bungee jumping excursion in Queenstown before heading east to the Otago Peninsula, where it's common to spot wild animals like penguins and albatrosses.

A 21-square-mile British territory in the Atlantic Ocean, the small but breathtaking Bermuda features hidden coves, pink sand beaches , friendly people and a relaxing atmosphere – all of which draw vacationers in droves. Easily accessible from the East Coast, Bermuda offers posh stores and restaurants, as well as several picturesque golf courses. The island boasts the world's highest concentration of golf venues per square mile. When travelers are not hitting the links, shopping or sunbathing, they can admire St. George's colonial architecture or snorkel at Horseshoe Bay Beach or Tobacco Bay Beach.

Composed of nine lush islands in the Atlantic, the Azores have grown in popularity over recent years (and are accessible via direct flight from New York City). These Portuguese paradises are perfect for hiking, whale watching and eating fresh seafood. Choose to visit the largest island of São Miguel for its lakes and charming downtown, the smaller island of Flores for its waterfalls and jagged coastline, or the picturesque island of Pico for its towering volcano. Regardless of which unique island you pick, you'll find a relatively untouched setting that exudes authenticity and promotes sustainability.

In the nearly 200 years since Charles Darwin discovered this natural wonderland about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands have yet to lose their magic. Countless birds, iguanas and tortoises roam this archipelago, and herds of sea lions and sharks swim in the surrounding waters. Bring your hiking shoes so you can make your way to the islands' sky-high rock formations and Sierra Negra Volcano, home to the second-largest crater on the planet. While the Galápagos are certainly not your typical beach getaway and you won't find many luxury resorts, you can still enjoy relaxing beaches like La Lobería and Tortuga Bay.

This South Pacific archipelago's white sand shores offer fantastic scenery, but there's more to Fiji than what you'll see from your beach chair. You can hike to hidden beaches on the Mamanuca Islands, peruse the boutiques of Suva or venture beneath the surface and snorkel with the islands' colorful fish. Plus, Fijians are known for their warmth and close-knit communities, and the islands offer unique cultural experiences like firewalking ceremonies and tastings of a traditional plant-based beverage called kava. Just be sure to bring a small gift, or sevusevu, to present to the community you're visiting.

Just uttering the name of this island chain in the Atlantic Ocean conjures images of tropical sun, fine sand and drinks in hand, but there are also plenty of action-packed activities to enjoy in this popular beach destination. Escape the crowds of Nassau and head to Harbour Island for its pink sand beaches or the cays of Eleuthera for its prime surfing. And as the islands are home to the third largest fringing barrier reef in the world, underwater cave systems and crystal clear water, snorkeling and diving excursions are not to be missed.

Located off Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, Hvar is as beautiful and energetic as it is historic. With many of the island's top attractions located within Hvar Town's centuries-old medieval walls, you should make a beeline here as soon as you arrive. Touring St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Fortica Fortress are must-dos, but don't forget to set aside time for wandering through Hvar's romantic cobblestone streets. When you need a history break, head to Dubovica Beach to cool off in the glittering Adriatic Sea or take a day trip to the nearby Pakleni Islands. In the evening, unwind with a drink at one of Hvar's many bars and nightclubs.

With breathtaking mountains and pointed pagodas, it's no wonder why Bali is home to the "gates of heaven" (at Lempuyang Temple). On this Indonesian island, you can tour ancient sacred sites like the waterfront Uluwatu Temple and Tirta Empul, where you'll see worshippers praying in a large pool. You should also save time for exploring Bali's photogenic rice terraces and simply lounging on resplendent stretches of sand like Sanur Beach and Geger Beach before bedding down at a five-star resort in Jimbaran or Nusa Dua.

Home to one of the largest coral reef systems in the world, the Turks and Caicos Islands are a diver's paradise. Visit the Bight Reef to see hundreds of colorful fish near the shore, or head to Smith's Reef to swim with stingrays and turtles. Above the surface, this network of dozens of named islands and cays plays host to a bevy of luxurious hotels and picturesque beaches perfect for sunbathing or horseback riding. Families should spend time in Taylor Bay's shallow, crystal-clear water, while others will want to check out Grace Bay's beautiful white sand and adjacent restaurants.

Renowned for its stunning resorts and sun-drenched stretches of sand, Mallorca is a popular summer beach getaway for Europeans. Beyond its nearly 300 beaches, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands also lures visitors with its natural wonders (think: caves and mountains) and enchanting towns and villages. If you can tear yourself away from the sand, you'll find the capital of Palma de Mallorca is chock-full of history and vibrant city life, with attractions like Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, bustling markets and shaded gardens.

Malta is ideal for those who want to take a step back in time. The ancient city of Mdina dates back to A.D. 60 and features narrow streets, stone gates and well-preserved city walls, while Valletta offers 16th-century wonders such as St. John's Co-Cathedral and Casa Rocca Piccola. That's not to say that Malta can't compete with other islands' beaches. Golden Bay, situated on Malta's northwest coast, is one of the region's most popular shorelines, and on Gozo, Malta's sister island, Ramla Bay is popular for its unique red sand. And when the sun goes down, St. Julian's offers a vibrant nightlife scene.

This dreamy Thai island in the Andaman Sea balances cosmopolitan flair with rugged beauty. Here, you'll find white sand beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi sidled up next to mountainous rainforests and towns full of ornate Buddhist temples, such as Wat Chalong. For the best views of the sea, venture to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point of the island, or sign up for a boat tour. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the shopping, dining and rollicking nightlife scene in Patong.

Kaua'i is the oldest and most rugged of the Hawaiian archipelago. Adventure seekers will love hiking Waimea Canyon's crested buttes and gorges, while the Napali Coast beckons to photographers with its 17 miles of dramatic cliffs and gorgeous ocean vistas. Those who would rather spend their vacation swimming and sunbathing on Hawai'i's tranquil beaches should head to the shorelines of Po'ipu Beach Park and Hanalei Bay, both of which typically offer calm waters. Think about renting a car to easily get around this unique island, and make sure to bring your best walking shoes or hiking boots, as some of Kaua'i's most beautiful sights are only accessible on foot.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

British Virgin Islands

Cayman Islands

Faroe Islands

You May Be Interested In

Best Beaches in the World for 2024

Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean for 2023

Best U.S. Beaches for 2024

Best Places to Visit in Winter

Which Greek Island Should You Visit? Our 2024 Top Picks

Australia & The Pacific

Best Pacific Islands to Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The 20 Best Tropical Islands in the World

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

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

They are a sanctuary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. The Seychelles

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

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

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES:

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

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

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

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

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

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

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES

• Go Diving or Snorkeling
• Explore Malé
• Go Parasailing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Go Jungle Trekking
• See Turtles at Turtle Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 4-Day Island Hopping Adventure
• Go Snorkeling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Go Kayaking
• Snorkel with Wildlife

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

The 16 Best Island Vacations in the World, According to Our Travel Specialists

By Caitlin Morton

It doesn’t matter if you’re planning ahead for a classic summer getaway or want to swap hemispheres to escape your winter blues : The best Island vacations in the world await. Those OOO messages pretty much write themselves when you arrive at your slice of paradise, surrounded by water on all sides. 

But how exactly do you start planning your tropical trip? We tapped our network of travel specialists to put together this list of the best island vacations to take this year, ranging from classics in the Caribbean and Mediterranean to relatively undiscovered gems in Scandinavia and French Polynesia. Given the list’s geographical and cultural diversity, you’re sure to find something to fit your specific vacation needs.

Read on for 16 of the best island vacations in the world, chosen by people who plan trips for a living.

Answers have been edited for length and clarity. 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.

Con Dao, Vietnam

Con Dao is often overlooked as a beach destination in  Vietnam , and I almost don’t want to share it so it stays that way! Located off the Southern Coast of Vietnam, Con Dao is a smaller island with very little commercial development. With this, the beaches are quiet and the few resort options allow for a special retreat. The beaches are long with soft sand and are great for light water sports like SUP and kayaking—but are just a short kayak away from a beautiful reef for snorkeling. The downtown area has a cute seaside atmosphere with little restaurants, and there are connections to history if you’re interested in exploring more.

Best things to do:  Watch the turtles hatch: On the neighboring island, you can head over at night and stay at the ranger station where you will be informed when they spot a mother turtle laying her eggs. If you’re there in August, it’s likely you’ll catch this magical experience. Stay through the morning when the turtle sanctuary supports the release of the hatchlings and watch them find their way to the big blue sea.

If you’re interested in history, I recommend a visit to the Con Dao Prison which was built during the French colonial era and used through the Vietnam-American War.

How to get there:  From Saigon, take a commercial flight to the island. The flight is about one hour long and Vietnam Airlines runs multiple flights a day.

— April Cole , COO of   Kaanect Travel

Lanai, Hawaii

For travelers looking to get off the beaten path, look no further than Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island—Lanai. Only nine miles off the coast of Maui , this quaint island was originally home to pineapple plantations but now offers the perfect mix of rugged adventure and ultra-luxe relaxation. Arrival to the island is an experience in and of itself, whether you take a scenic 30-minute flight from Honolulu or watch for dolphins on a 45-minute ferry from Maui.

On arrival, expect a swift transfer to your hotel, either the ocean-side paradise of the  Four Seasons Resort Lanai or the adults-only wellness retreat at the  Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort . From there, you can fill your days as you wish, from relaxing on quiet beaches to exploring the island by boat, 4-by-4 Jeeps, or even horseback—though we definitely recommend a quick jaunt through the “bustling” Lanai City, with only three paved roads and no traffic lights.

Best things to do:  Go horseback riding along wooded valleys and trails, keeping an eye out for axis deer, turkeys, and sheep. Take a tour of the island (with a packed picnic!), or snorkel in the protected marine reserve of Hulopoe Bay to see tropical fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks. Be sure to also visit Keahiakawelo, Lanai’s “Garden of the Gods,” to see the unique, lunar-like landscapes.

How to get there: Lanai Air offers 30-minute nonstop flights from Honolulu to the island, or you can take a 45-minute ferry over from Lahaina, Maui.

— Samantha Collum , Director of Operations and Senior Travel Advisor at   River Oaks Travel

Mauritius is a fantastic island destination for honeymooners, couples, friends, families with children, and even solo travelers —really anyone looking for beautiful, warm tropical weather and lots of adventurous things to see and experience. Because of the reef that surrounds most of the island, Mauritius offers calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling straight from the shore. The west coast offers the best beaches, the most magical sunsets, and the calmest water conditions. The diving in Mauritius is really enjoyable, with a number of reefs and wrecks to enjoy.

Best things to do:  A few of my favorite things to do in Mauritius, aside from scuba diving and sipping cocktails on the beach, would include swimming with dolphins and turtles, full-day catamaran cruises around the island, and snorkeling at reefs off the coast.

How to get there: There are direct commercial flights from South Africa—most days from Johannesburg and seasonally from Cape Town —making it an easy combination with a South Africa safari or Cape Town city experience. There are also direct flights from Nairobi, which makes it easy to combine after an East Africa safari. There are also direct flights from a number of European hubs such as France, London, Frankfurt, etc, as well as Dubai. Flights are directly into Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), and then you will take a taxi/cab, shuttle, or private road transfer to your respective resort, roughly 1-2 hours from the airport.

— Ashley Gerrand , Africa Safari Expert at  Go2Africa

Mallorca, Spain

The Balearic Islands are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and Mallorca , which is the third largest island in Spain, is once again on the rise, receiving quality tourism. There are many reasons to visit Mallorca, such as the beauty of the natural environment and the culture that has been preserved there for centuries. Mallorca is as much for those who seek rest as for those who like adventure or history—a very complete island that brings together nature, incredible beaches and coves, city sightseeing, gastronomy, and cultural options.

Best things to do:  Mallorca is known for its wide variety of landscapes and coastlines with impressive cliffs. On your visit, you cannot miss the Serra de Tramuntana region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northwest of the island, where there are some of the most beautiful Majorcan villages such as Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, and Fornalutx. You can sail, paint a picture by the coast, visit a winery and taste its wines, and meet locals while staying in this area for a few days.

How to get there: You can take a direct flight from Barcelona , Madrid, and other cities in Europe, or you can take a ferry from Barcelona or Valencia.

— Pablo Calvo , Spain Manager at   Tours For You

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Koh Samui, Thailand

No Thailand trip is complete without a stay on one of the country’s islands, since they boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Koh Samui is particularly wonderful as it offers a nice blend of gorgeous beaches, an array of fantastic resorts, and easy exploration on your own.  Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui does everything right and is a reason to visit alone—it offers well-appointed rooms with beautiful views, beyond exceptional service, fun activities for all ages (try Muay Thai boxing with a former pro in Four Seasons’ own boxing ring with tropical views), a wonderful spa, and delicious food. 

Best things to do:  Spend a few hours (preferably at sunset) sailing around Koh Samui and nearby islands with Blue Voyage . Their exceptional yachts and staff will ensure you have a fabulous time while marveling at the scenery. Experience even more of the beauty of Thailand’s islands by stopping for a picnic on a secluded, private beach.

How to get there: Koh Samui is one of the easiest Thailand islands to reach as you can take a 1-hour flight from Bangkok or a 2-hour flight from Singapore.  If you are exploring Northern Thailand prior to visiting the islands, you can take a 1-hour 45-minute flight from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui.

— Tisha Neufville , Luxury Travel Advisor at   Neufville Travel

Vancouver Island, Canada

Vancouver Island is home to the charming small city of Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, known in particular for its British influence and flower gardens (including the famous Butchart Gardens about 30 minutes from the city). Many people don’t realize, however, that Victoria is at the southern tip of the island and that the island is nearly 300 miles long. There’s far more to Vancouver Island than Victoria. One of my favorite places on the island is Tofino , a small town on the far west coast about halfway up the island that’s a great destination for outdoor adventures with fantastic food and lodging.

Best things to do: Whale watching for orcas from Victoria, and for gray whales and humpbacks from Tofino. There’s also bear watching (black bears from Tofino and brown bears/grizzlies from the Campbell River area on the northeast part of the island).

How to get there: Take a flight from Vancouver or Seattle depending on the part of Vancouver Island you’re going to, or by ferry from Vancouver or Port Angeles Washington.

— Sheri Doyle , Owner of   Pacific Northwest Journeys

Zanzibar is a really special island off the coast of Tanzania, known as Spice Island (and where Freddie Mercury was born). It is rich in history and culture, and it offers beautiful white sandy beaches and warm tropical weather. There are parts of the island that are quite tidal, meaning that the ocean goes out far for a period of the day, making it a great time to explore the animal life left behind in the rock pools. If you want to avoid the tides, the north coast is the least affected and has the best beaches. There is also a really stunning resort off the coast of Zanzibar called Mnemba Island, which is home to  Mnemba Island Lodge , a very exclusive resort, and has some of the best diving nearby.

Best things to do:  Stone Town tours and rooftop dinners, swimming with turtles, sunset show cruises, exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, and diving.

How to get there: There are direct flights from Nairobi and Tanzania, as well as some European countries and Dubai. Flights go directly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), and then you will take a taxi, shuttle, or private road transfer to your respective resort, roughly 1-2 hours from the airport.

— Ashley Gerrand , Africa Safari Expert at   Go2Africa

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Of the 572 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands territory, only 38 are inhabited and 26 open to visitors—and for decades, the atoll’s remoteness and lack of infrastructure, but abundance of coral reefs, have attracted serious divers, adventurous backpackers, and intrepid A-listers like Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet.

Still, hundreds of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are completely unpopulated. Its remoteness was once its purpose: For decades, the British used the Andaman Islands (namely Port Blair) as an inescapable prison for freedom fighters up until independence. Today, visitors can find white sand beaches (including Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island, regularly named one of Asia’s best), mangroves, and lush tropical rainforests.

Best things to do: Named after the jagged, black rocks strewn along the coastline, Kalapathar Beach offers an isolated destination for trekking amongst exposed root tangles of 100-year-old trees and aged driftwood carved into captivating designs by the aftereffects of a tsunami, creating a unique, moorish landscape dotted with shells. After the trek, the Kalapathar lagoon just before Butler Bay offers a beautiful secluded spot for swimming and great ocean views through a cave in the cliff face.

In the capital city of Port Blair, Cellular Jail is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and tourism mascot. A former British prison, Cellular Jail National was something like a holy place for the freedom fighters, who exchanged books, ideas, and debates despite walls and wardens. The Light and Sound Show in the evening is a must-see.

How to get there: Fly into the main airport at Port Blair, which is well-connected on a non-stop service stop from Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata. (Note: If you were to fly out of Mumbai, the best course is to fly into Kolkata first and take a connecting flight to Port Blair.) From Port Blair Airport, it’s a 20-minute drive to the Ferry Terminal and a 90-minute ferry ride to Havelock Island.

— Sunita J. Hedau , Founder & Luxury Travel Advisor/Wellness Travel Expert at   Kora Journeys Powered by Frosch

So often I hear people talk about how  Caribbean islands are devoid of history. They most certainly are not—and thankfully, much of its complicated history is starting to be talked about and will hopefully pave the way for more concerted historical landmarks in the future. But while many islands have focused more on blue water and white sand than their historical pasts, Nevis provides the cultural richness some travelers are looking for, with its restaurants and colorful past as a once-bustling Caribbean hub. (If you’re reading this and don't already know Alexander Hamilton was born here, you’re likely in the minority.)

It’s the Goldilocks of the Caribbean: easy to get to (see below), but still enough of a trip to keep the nonstop-flight-only masses away. It has beautiful beaches, while offering a safe environment to eat in off-property restaurants and explore the island outside of the resort. It feels off the beaten path, yet is home to true luxury resorts and charming hotels. (While Nisbet Plantation closed permanently during the pandemic, the  Golden Rock Inn is another boutique gem, and the luxurious  Four Seasons Resort Nevis offers activities for everyone.) 

Best things to do: Take a historical tour by taxi around the island—there are several taxi driver-guides that do this, and they will become your best friends over the course of the morning! (Your hotel concierge can help set this up.) Explore the jungle (and Nevis’s voluminous monkey population) in an ATV tour, or charter a sailboat for the day to explore the wildlife by water and experience some of the Caribbean’s famous winds. 

How to get there: Nonstop flights fly in season from most East Coast hubs to St. Kitts. After that, a short taxi ride will take you to the water taxi, which typically arrives on Nevis in less than 10 minutes. 

— Louisa Gehring , Luxury Travel Expert

Tikehau, French Polynesia

Tikehau is a hidden gem within French Polynesia . Its remoteness means you’ll be close to nature and raw, undisturbed beaches—think crystal clear waters with an abundance of fish and coral reefs, which you can enjoy from an overwater bungalow. Pristine, beautiful pink sand beaches make it ideal for enjoying the sun or watching the perfect sunsets. Book a stay at  Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts (highly recommended), where the pastry chef has mastered French cuisine, from perfect croissants to preparing fish you caught earlier that day.

Best things to do:   Snorkeling and diving are the focus here, given the vast number of fish, untouched corals, and vibrant clams, along with the chance to swim amongst the sharks. Another popular activity is kayaking around the atoll into small bays to explore.

How to get there:  From the U.S., fly to Papeete on the island of Tahiti; from there, use the inter-island flights through Air Tahiti. This may require an overnight stay before catching a flight to Tikehau, followed by a short boat ride to your resort of choice . 

— Erika Commisso , Travel Advisor at   Journey with Erika

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

People visit the Galápagos Islands mostly for the incredible wildlife viewing, including endemic species such as the blue-footed boobie, Galápagos penguin, marine iguanas, flamingos, sea lions, and many more. The Galápagos marine reserve is one of the largest and most bio-diverse in the world, making for exceptional diving and snorkeling. This unique archipelago was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 and consists of 18 islands and more than 100 small islets, located approximately 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean.

Best things to do: There is so much to explore in the Galápagos Islands, especially for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers . The best way to see the Galápagos is via sea, visiting all of the diverse islands in the archipelago. Hiking Isla Bartolome will feel like you landed on Mars. This volcanic moonscape is home to Galápagos hawks, blue-footed boobies, and lava lizards. You can also snorkel among sea lions, flightless cormorants, sea turtles, and—our favorite—the Galápagos penguins. 

Visit Floreana’s Post Office Bay to participate in a tradition dating back to the 1800s where sailors would leave mail to be retrieved and delivered by another sailor passing through. Today you can do the same by leaving your own postcard and retrieving another postcard for delivery back home. Another exciting adventure is visiting the Highlands of Santa Cruz, where you will experience the high-altitude microclimates where the giant tortoise lives before preparing for their long migration to the shorelines.

How to get there: There are no direct flights into the Galápagos from U.S. or Europe. You’ll need to fly from mainland Ecuador—either Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE)—to the islands. Most people fly into San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) or Seymour Airport (GPS), which serves the island of Baltra and connects to Santa Cruz via water taxi. 

— Dawn Oliver , Founder/Travel Advisor at Well Xplored, An Affiliate of Embark Beyond

Vega Island, Norway

Vega Island is located a few miles south of the Arctic Circle, just off the coast of Helgeland in Norway . You should visit because of its amazing natural beauty, wildlife, wide variety of cool activities, and unique cultural heritage. Vega is part of an unbelievably large archipelago with thousands of small islands, and it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004.

Best things to do: Sea-kayaking, fishing, hiking, and visiting the unique island community that produces pillows and duvets from the down given by wild eider ducks.

How to get there: First you fly from Oslo to Brønnøysund Airport at Helgeland. From there, you drive to Horn and take a car ferry to Vega.

— Jan Sortland , Owner & General Manager of   Norwegian Adventures

Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island , offers a staggering amount of diversity in one destination, making it perfect for travelers that want to have a wide range of experiences. Relax on the white sands of Hapuna Bay or marvel at the jet-black hue of Punalu’u Beach . Feel the heat off the Kilauea Volcano or bundle up to summit snow-capped Mauna Kea. Go off the grid and hike the lush valleys of the Hilo coast or head to the well-known coffee plantations outside of Kona. No matter your interest, there’s an activity to suit your style on the Big Island.

Best things to do: Go snorkeling (or diving) at night with the manta rays, swim in waterfalls in North Kohala, or stargaze at the top of Mauna Kea—one of the best places for stargazing in the world. Also visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see the lava tubes, volcanic formations, and steam vents.

How to get there: Flights from the continental U.S. can go directly into Kona, or take a 45-minute flight over from Honolulu. 

Lord Howe Island, Australia

This tiny World Heritage-listed island (just over 5 miles long and less than 1 mile at its widest part) packs a real punch, offering a spectacular diversity of landscapes and activities: two towering mountains to hike and dozens of beaches to explore (from the tranquil sheltered lagoon to the uncrowded waves of Blinky’s surf beach), lush rainforests home to spectacular birdlife, and turquoise waters teeming with vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Lord Howe Island ’s natural treasures and adventures are complemented by a collection of luxury stays and a laidback Australian coastal lifestyle that invites indulgence and relaxation—but only for an in-the-know privileged few. The island has a cap of just 400 visitors (and a permanent population of less than that) at any one time. Paradise found!

Best things to do: While the temptation may be to simply slip into the private plunge pool on the balcony of your  luxury lodge accommodation or lose yourself in the pages of a good book in the shade of the kentia palms at your private island house, visitors to Lord Howe Island are spoiled for choice with activities that explore the island’s many natural treasures: snorkeling or scuba diving, hiking or biking (the island’s main mode of transport), swimming or surfing, SUP-ing, kayaking, golfing, stargazing, birdwatching, or fishing—just to kick off the list. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to hand-feed the fish at Ned’s Beach, scout for turtles at Settlement Beach, picnic on a secluded beach, or mingle with the locals at a “fish fry.”

How to get there: Located approximately 435 miles northwest of  Sydney , daily direct scheduled flights from Sydney are the easiest way to access the island (less than a 2-hour flight time). Private charter flights can also be arranged. 

— Stuart Rigg , Owner/Director of   Southern Crossings

Thanks to easy air access, St. Lucia has long been known as the lush, adventurous capital of the Caribbean. But Dominica provides the same connection with nature, with a slightly more undiscovered slant . The “Nature Island” isn’t for people who want to walk for miles on white, sandy beaches—as a volcanic island, many of the beaches have a darker hue. The tradeoff of islands with powdery beaches for miles is that often there is a risk of being bored on the beach—not here!

Best things to do: Incorporate a series of hikes into your trip—there are many trails from easy to strenuous with incredible views, often with the gift of a waterfall. Dominica is also a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving. If you’re not certified, you can take your classwork prior to your vacation and complete your certifications on the island. Champagne Reef is a favorite—it gets its name from the bubbling waters that come up from the underwater thermal springs.

How to get there: For years (COVID didn’t help) it was quite difficult to get to Dominica in one day from the U.S., but starting in early April, there will be a direct American Airlines flight from Miami daily, which opens up this island to a host of new adventurers.

Crete, Greece

Crete has the best of everything: pink sand beaches, ancient history, natural beauty, and charming harbor towns. It is the largest and most southern island of Greece, so the weather and water are warmer before and after the summer season. Crete has maintained its own identity. It has a different cuisine, dialect, and traditions. It is one of my favorite places in the world.  

Best things to do: The charming harbor town of Rethymnon is a medieval walled city full of interesting handicraft shops and traditional restaurants. AVLI is a boutique property consisting of several apartments that have been converted into a hotel. There is also a natural food store in the hotel that offers several types of olive oil and honey raki. The restaurant is a courtyard with 10 tables offering the freshest ingredients and cooking classes by the owner of AVLI, Katina.

You can drive to Crete’s other must-visit sites in under two hours. Visit the uninhabited island of Spinalonga, the pink sand beach of Elafonisi, the Cove of Balos, and the Samaria Gorge—one of the deepest and longest canyons in Europe.

How to get there: Take a direct flight to Crete from Athens, or take the year-round ferry from Piraeus or the seasonal, summer ferry from Santorini.

— Ronnie Liadis , Travel Specialist at Liadis Travel

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Nassau to Exuma Day Trip

• Day Trip to Exuma
• Day Trip to Eleuthera
• Compare Exuma vs Eleuthera
• Thunderball Grotto
• Plane Wreck
• Staniel Cay
• Air Charter
• Exuma Guides
• Islands Guides
• Islands Map
• Nassau Attractions
• Nassau Beaches
• Out Islands

Join the List. Sign up for deals!

Contact Info

[email protected]

+1 786-289-8977

Mon – Sun 9.00 – 17.00

4300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref No. ST41785

Bahamas Day Trips

Staniel Cay Tours Miami to Bahamas Day Trips Nassau to Exuma Day Trips Swimming Pigs Excursions Harbour Island Day Trips

Paradise Island

Paradise Island Bahamas houses some of the biggest and swankiest resorts in the country. However, like Nassau, it’s also home to interesting history, fun cultural sites, and more. 

Most travelers are familiar with Paradise Island Bahamas, as it houses some of the most famous resorts in the country. From Paradise Island Atlantis to The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort, accommodation options are bountiful. However, there are many other things to do in Paradise Island, even if you’re just in Nassau for the day. 

Paradise Island Bahamas: The Resort Island of the Archipelago 

Nassau paradise island: a history.

The Nassau area began its transformation into the tourist destination it is today in the mid-20th century. 

During that time, property developers started buying up beachfront land and constructing resorts. This transformation caused  Hog Island , as it was known in the past, to evolve into the Nassau Paradise Island of today. 

As global travel became more popular, Nassau went from being a luxury destination for the rich to an accessible tropical paradise for the many. Paradise Island Bahamas became further developed, as a result.

Today, Paradise Island is home to many different accommodation options, including the famous Paradise Island Atlantis. Travelers arrive from across the world to enjoy the island’s upscale amenities and world-class beaches. 

Things to Do in Paradise Island

1. paradise island atlantis.

Paradise Island Atlantis features several accommodation options like Royal Towers.

Paradise Island Atlantis is arguably the most famous of the Paradise Island resorts. Stretching across 154 acres, it has multiple accommodation options, dozens of amenities and attractions, and prime access to the beach.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Nassau, Paradise Island Atlantis is always a great choice. Atlantis options like  The Coral  are more budget-friendly, whereas options like  The Cove  are for guests looking to splurge. 

2. Aquaventure at Atlantis

Aquaventure Waterpark is one of the best things to do in Paradise Island.

Aquaventure  is the Atlantis waterpark and is one of the highlights of Paradise Island Bahamas. It’s free to use if you stay at an Atlantis property. Otherwise, day pass rates (as of 2023*) are $250 for adults (ages 13 and older) and $125 for children (ages 4-12).

Aquaventure features water slides, pools, lazy rivers, and more, making it the perfect place to beat the heat. 

3. Predator Lagoon at Atlantis

Predator Lagoon is one of several Paradise Island Atlantis aquariums.

Predator Lagoon  houses different species of dangerous animals, including sharks, rays, and predatory fish. If possible, visit the lagoon at night to beat the crowds and enjoy an illuminated experience. 

4. Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach may be the prettiest beach in the Nassau area.

While Nassau is home to many beaches,  Cabbage Beach  may be the most beautiful. With palm trees swaying in the wind, sprawling dunes, and uninterrupted views of azure, crystal-clear water, it’s hard not to be impressed when you visit. 

Most travelers enter the beach in the Paradise Island Atlantis area and, because of that, are met with crowds of other tourists. A 15-minute walk down the beach is all it takes to rid yourself of most other travelers and enjoy a much more tranquil experience. 

5. The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort

The portion of Cabbage Beach in front of the Ocean Club is quiet and tranquil.

The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort, is the most luxurious resort on Paradise Island Bahamas. Room rates can cost thousands of dollars per night, but if you can afford it, the resort will offer an unparalleled experience. 

Staying at the resort also lets you enjoy access to the Ocean Club Golf Course. The range offers world-class golfing and scenic views.

6. French Cloisters and Versailles Garden

The French Cloisters and Versailles Garden are a stunning Nassau Paradise Island attraction.

The French Cloisters are the remains of a 13th-century French monastery. Brought from Europe and then reassembled on Paradise Island Bahamas, they, along with the verdant Versailles Gardens that surround them, create one of the most visually stunning places on the island. 

7. Ocean Club Golf Course

The Ocean Club Golf Course is one of many Ocean Club amenities.

The Ocean Club Golf Course is a world-renowned golfing destination located in Nassau, Bahamas. Designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Weiskopf, this 18-hole par-72 course is nestled within the luxurious Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort on Paradise Island.

It boasts breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean and features lush fairways, challenging bunkers, and meticulously manicured greens. Golfers can enjoy a tropical paradise setting, complete with swaying palm trees and gentle ocean breezes. The Ocean Club Golf Course offers a premier golfing experience, combining natural beauty with challenging play, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

Getting Into Paradise Island Bahamas

Nassau and Paradise Island Bahamas are connected by a bridge. If you’re staying on Nassau, you’ll probably find taxiing over to the island to be the most straightforward way to get there.

That said, there’s also a Paradise Island ferry service that runs from New Providence to Nassau Paradise Island. Besides offering spectacular views of the islands and getting you where you need to go, the ferry lets you enjoy a narrated tour. Ticket prices (as of 2023*) are $5. 

Taking a boat from Paradise Island to Nassau is easy from the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal. Allows visitors to enjoy a picturesque boat ride between Paradise Island and the Nassau Cruise Port.

Getting Around

Once you’re on Paradise Island Bahamas, getting around depends on where you want to go. 

Some of the top Paradise Island attractions are at Atlantis, so you could purchase a day pass and stay there. However, you could also make your way to Cabbage Beach (for free) and then stop by the Atlantis Marina Village on your way back.

Some Paradise Island resorts like the Ocean Club may not allow you to enter their property unless you’re a guest.

Our Travel Guide Suggests… 

While several resorts border Cabbage Beach, understand that all Nassau beaches are public. Because of that, you’re allowed to walk wherever you please. Umbrellas and chairs, however, may cost money to rent. 

Paradise Island Attractions: Don’t Miss Out

Paradise Island Bahamas is most famous for its many resorts, like Paradise Island Atlantis. However, the island is worth visiting even if you’re in the Bahamas for an afternoon. With beautiful beaches and unique attractions, Paradise Island is home to some of the best Nassau attractions. 

After touring the sites on Paradise Island, consider taking a trip to nearby  Rose Island . Back on New Providence, you should also check out  Potter’s Cay , under the Paradise Island bridge, and  Fort Montagu , on the northeastern part of the island. 

If you’re looking for all things Bahamas, you’ve come to the right place. Check out our other guides and interactive Paradise Island Map to start planning your dream Bahamas vacation. 

Connect to Us

Related tours.

Take a day trip from Nassau to Staniel Cay in the Exumas and visit the famous Swimming Pigs, Sharks, Iguanas, Sand Bars and Thunderball Grotto.

The Bahamas Blog

5-Star Rated Tours

• Booking Terms
• Website Terms
• Privacy Policy
• Join the List

20 paradise islands you MUST explore before you die

Posted: February 27, 2024 | Last updated: February 27, 2024

The Island of Moorea is a French Polynesian jewel featuring turquoise lagoons and spectacular volcanic mountains. Dive into crystal-clear waters to explore the island’s remarkable marine biodiversity or hike to the Opunohu lookout for breathtaking views overlooking the bay. Other heavenly spots include the Three Coconuts Pass trail and Ta’ahiamanu and Temae beaches.

Crete , Greece’s largest island, is famous for both its emblematic beaches, such as Elafonisi and Balos Lagoon, as well as other captivating treasures. Explore the ruins of the Palace of Knossos, the cradle of Minoan civilization, then stroll through the charming streets of Chania to visit its sublime Venetian port. Outdoor enthusiasts should add a hike through the heart of the Samaria Gorge to their itinerary.

Nestled in the south of Japan, amid the crystalline waters of the Pacific, Okinawa offers white sandy beaches and coral reefs, perfect for diving. Explore remnants of the Ryukyu kingdom at Shuri Castle and soak up the tranquillity of the Shikinaen gardens. Famous for the longevity of its inhabitants, Okinawa also offers an exceptional quality of life for adventurers who want to stay a little longer.

Idyllic Sardinia , Italy’s second-largest island, is home to Costa Smeralda and other golden sandy beaches as well as hidden coves, like Cala Goloritzé. Explore the mysterious Su Nuraxi complex in Barumini and other Bronze Age Nuragic ruins dotting the landscape. Also boasting authentic Mediterranean cuisine and excellent vineyards, Sardinia is an island rich in tradition and varied landscapes.

Isla Mujeres

Located off the coast of Mexico, about 10 kilometres (6 miles) from Cancún, Isla Mujeres represents quintessential tropical beauty. The clear waters surrounding this island offer exceptional snorkeling opportunities in the famous MUSA underwater museum, while beaches like Playa Norte invite visitors to sit back and relax. Fascinating discoveries also await at its Mayan ruins, bustling markets, sea turtle sanctuary, and delightfully colourful streets.

Located just east of Bali, Indonesia, Lombok is sure to please surf enthusiasts who visit Selong-Belanak and other pristine beaches. Hiking enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either, with impressive peaks including Mount Rinjani. Less crowded than Bali, Lombok immerses visitors in Indonesian culture with its traditional villages, flamboyant festivals, and spectacular waterfalls.

Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is well known for its relaxing reefs, lagoons, and breathtaking beaches , such as Trou-aux-Biches and Belle Mare. Those looking to explore Mauritius’s splendid rainforest, replete with waterfalls and lush flora, should add Black River Gorges National Park to their itinerary.

Located off the West African coast, the beloved Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary archipelago. In addition to charming villages and bucolic landscapes, Tenerife is also home to the imposing Teide volcano , the highest mountain in Spain. Travellers visiting before Lent can also join in Santa Cruz Carnival festivities.

Nicknamed “the garden island,” Hawaii’s Kaua’i gives the impression of strolling through a veritable paradise on earth. Must-see stops include the majestic Wailua waterfalls, magnificent Hanalei Bay, and Waimea Canyon. Nature lovers can also kayak down the Wailua River or hike along the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali coast. Regardless, you certainly won’t be bored on this vibrant yet peaceful island.

If you’ve always dreamed of going to Fiji in search of a bit of seclusion, consider a trip to the heart of the Yasawa Islands . In addition to translucent lagoons, explore Sawa-i-Lau and other mysterious sea caves, where you’ll feel like you’ve entered secret natural pools. Located off the beaten track, the idyllic Yasawa archipelago is sure to charm travellers looking to relax in a serene setting.

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Thailand’s Koh Lanta Island is an incomparable seaside destination worthy of everyone’s bucket list. Renowned for cuisine combining authentic Thai flavours with fresh seafood, Koh Lanta also offers a tranquil atmosphere in an enchanting setting. You’ll also discover rich and diverse marine life, making it an ideal island for diving.

Located in the heart of the Galapagos Islands, Bartolome entices travellers with its volcanic landscapes and exceptional biodiversity. Diving enthusiasts can explore its waters rich in marine life, while hiking trails offer panoramic views of the famous Pinnacle Rock. Bartolome is also known for its resident penguins, sea lions, and other iconic wildlife, making this natural gem worth exploring at least once in your life.

Renowned for their luxury, splendour, and hospitality, the Maldives offer a heavenly getaway for anyone venturing to the Indian Ocean. Their crystal-clear waters and peaceful lagoons are the perfect playground for scuba diving and relaxing under the sun. Top places to visit during your trip include the romantic island of Milaidhoo , Huvafen Fushi’s high-end spa, and Banana Reef’s incredible coral formations.

Head to Croatia’s Brac Island to bask on the golden sands of Zlatni Rat, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, the “Golden Horn” attracts windsurfers, surfers, and swimmers every year. The island is also home to several beautiful fishing villages, Roman ruins, and the pretty town of Milna.

Between May and October, the Seychelles’ La Digue Island provides an unparalleled tropical escape with sparkling beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Must-do activities include discovering iconic beaches, such as Anse Source d’Argent, famous for its impressive rock formations, and Anse Coco, accessed via a scenic hike through the jungle. Travellers may also wish to explore the Veuve Special Reserve, a protected habitat for rare birds.

Famous for its incredible karst formations, Palawan is the largest island in the eponymous Philippines province. Lovers of water sports and secluded beaches will find this island an ideal destination. Visitors can also explore its incredible seabed on a variety of boat trips. Be sure to stop by the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and the municipality of El Nido to explore Taraw Peak and Nacpan Beach.

Often referred to as “Europe’s Hawaii,” the Portuguese island of Madeira seduces visitors with its breathtakingly diverse landscapes and various activities. Activities include exploring the levadas that wind through lush forests and venturing to the summit of Pico do Areeiro for exceptional views of the island. Madeira is also famous for its fortified wine and traditional celebrations, such as the Flower Festival. With mild weather year-round, this island is a magical destination offering dreamlike experiences from day one.

The Isle of Skye , one of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, seems straight out of a fairy tale. The spectacular Quiraing cliffs and lush green valleys will charm nature lovers, while the Dunvegan and Eilean Donan castles are sure to delight history buffs. Also visit the Fairy Pools, magical waters of Sligachan, Cuillin Mountains, and Kilt Rock for breathtaking views of nature.

Nestled off the coast of Norway , the Lofoten Islands offer a unique arctic experience with stunning scenery. Trip highlights include hikes along coastal paths to admire fjords and rugged mountains followed by sea fishing for the famous Arctic cod. Featuring colourful houses and illuminated harbours, Reine, Hamnøy, and other fishing villages offer a glimpse into traditional Norwegian life. The Lofoten Islands also offer renowned views of the northern lights in winter and midnight sun in summer, a truly unforgettable natural experience.

Located in Australia’s Whitsunday archipelago, Hamilton is a tropical paradise famous for its aquamarine waters and white sandy beaches. Visitors can indulge in a multitude of water activities, such as diving at the Great Barrier Reef and swimming in Hill Inlet’s natural pools. Meanwhile, hikers can explore the island’s interior and enjoy breathtaking panoramas from Passage Peak and other lookouts.

More for You

Trump campaign accused of breaking federal law by hiding millions in legal payments

The best college on the East Coast is not Harvard, according to data. See the top 50.

Dow Plunges 700 Points—Worst Day In 14 Months As Disappointing GDP Report Accelerates Stagflation Fears

Here’s Why There Are 10 Hot Dogs in a Pack, But Only 8 Buns

Denise Austin’s daughter shares the best advice her mom ever gave her

Barber Coins Are Worth Thousands: Here’s How To Spot Them in Your Spare Change

Age at which you're officially old has changed

What 50 music icons looked like at the very start of their careers

Why You Should Be Tossing Rotten Tomatoes Down Your Garbage Disposal And Not The Trash

Taco Bell brings back beloved menu item for limited time only

Trump Media CEO renews assault on ‘DJT’ short sellers — but the math doesn’t add up

I moved my family from California to Austin, Texas, and regretted it. Here are 10 things to consider before making an expensive mistake.

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

I Am Doing a PhD at 16—My Mother's Death Is the Reason

Meta loses nearly $200 billion in value after Mark Zuckerberg announcement

Your Cream Cheese Frosting Is Missing These 2 Ingredients, Ina Garten Says

The films everyone should see at least once before they die, according to critics

Dow closes lower by more than 370 points as inflation, growth worries resurface: Live updates

The 10 happiest places to live in the US

6 Money Moves To Make When Your 401(k) Hits $1 Million

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Island Vacations

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.

• Tropical Vacations

20 Most Beautiful Islands In The World

From bora bora to bali, these are the most beautiful islands in the world to visit..

If you've seen an island on a postcard, it's probably on this list. Some grant access to beaches, bays, boulders and blowholes; others offer caves, coves, cliffs, culture, ruins, reefs, rainforests and rum. Whatever your version of paradise, these 20 islands across the world deliver eye candy galore.

Travel to Capri, Italy, for natural beauty and an unforgettable, elevated vista. Or visit Thailand and, at the same time, the former sets of Pierce Brosnan's James Bond movies. Looking to be more immersed in island culture? Plan a trip to Samoa, and experience the "Fa'a Samoa" way of life. You also can't go wrong with the Greek island of Paxos and its perfect representation of Greek culture and life.

Get ready to be blown away by the most beautiful islands in the world.

Capri, Italy

Who hasn't been spellbound by images of Capri's electric Blue Grotto? This glowing sea cave impresses even veteran globetrotters, and it's only the beginning of one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Ash-white limestone cliffs, hidden slivers of beach, a towering natural arch — it's no wonder Capri has been a tourist hub since ancient Roman times.

Tip: Climb up to the ruins of Emperor Tiberius' Villa Jovis, circa 27 CE, for a heart-stopping vista.

Whitsundays, Australia

The delicate Great Barrier Reef is one of the earth's most extensive coral-reef system, supporting more than 1,600 species of fish, whales, rays, octopuses, dolphins and more. Nestled in the heart of this world wonder are the 74 Whitsunday Islands, all but four of which are protected national parklands.

Bask in luxury at a high-end resort like Hamilton Island , and book a seaplane or helicopter flight to admire sights like Heart Reef and the swirling silica sands of Whitehaven Beach's Hill Inlet at one of the best islands in the world.

Bali, Indonesia

What's most stunning in Bali ? Dazzling beaches like Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Jimbaran Bay? Ubud's terraced rice fields, sacred forest and ancient monuments? Or the island's 10,000 intricate temples, including Pura Empul (the one you bathe in) and Uluwatu sea temple?

Experience all of the above, and decide for yourself. The Land of the Gods also boasts a loveliness that is more than skin-deep, thanks to its warm people and ubiquitous, inclusive spirituality.

James Bond Island, Southern Thailand

A limestone spike rising dramatically from the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island (Koh Tapu; "Nail Island" in Thai) earned its moniker from appearing in two 007 movies: The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997).

Excursions depart from the popular resort areas of Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi on photogenic lontail boats. On the tour, explore secret lagoons, craggy sea caves and a floating village at one of the most famous islands.

Kauai, Hawaii

Christened the Garden Island, Kauai's splendor extends from its vermillion Waimea Canyon, plunging down 3,600 feet, to its rugged Napali Cliffs, stretching up 4,000 feet. Often dotted with dozing monk seals, Kauai's Poipu Beach has appeared on Dr. Beach's esteemed list of America's Best Beaches .

Rivers, rainforests and waterfalls garnish the interior. Don't miss a photo op of Wailua Falls, famously featured in the opening credits of Fantasy Island, on one of the prettiest islands in the world.

Bora Bora, the Islands of Tahiti

Every imaginable shade of blue manifests in the lagoon of Bora Bora , aka the Jewel of the South Seas. Coral motus ring the main island like a sandy sash, and, beneath the surface, dolphins, rays, sharks, turtles and colorful fish throng. Presiding over it all is the moss-green volcanic peak of Mount Otemanu where God descended to the island on a rainbow, according to local lore.

Timeless grass-skirted dancers and overwater bungalows round out the sublime scene on one of the most exotic islands.

The Seychelles' towering beach boulders are a mainstay on computer desktops, but they're more than merely aesthetic: They also fascinate geologists who have identified the Seychelles as the only mid-ocean islands formed of granite.

Other superlatives: The archipelago is the oldest on the planet, and it has the cleanest air. Naturally, celebrities flock here. If you want to vacation a la British royalty, stay on North Island , where Prince William and Kate Middleton spent their 2011 honeymoon.

Santorini, Greece

Possibly the location of the storied island of Atlantis, Santorini is the stuff of screensavers and wall calendars. Red-, black- and white-sand beaches rim its caldera lake — one of the largest in the world — while iconic whitewashed buildings stair-step up the hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Photo ops abound, from centuries-old windmills and ancient ruins to blue-domed churches and colorful wooden fishing boats. Stay in a boutique cave hotel for the full experience.

St. Lucia, Caribbean

Nicknamed "The Helen of the West" (an allusion to the beauty of Helen of Troy), St. Lucia stuns with its signature feature: the UNESCO-listed twin Pitons. Reaching heights of about 2,500 feet, the voluptuous volcanic spires complement the island's other attractions, including verdant jungles, sparkling silver-sand beaches, haunting sugar-estate ruins, and a mineral-rich natural mud bath.

Meanwhile, the island's most famous resort, Jade Mountain, is an architectural gem in its own right.

Drop-dead gorgeous Fiji is a filmmaker's dream. Spy its Mamanuca island chain in Cast Away and Survivor; ogle its Yasawa archipelago in the 1980 version of Blue Lagoon . A dizzying amount of natural beauty — from mountains and mangroves to rivers and reefs — swathes Fiji's 333 islands, and awe-inspiring wildlife (whales, sea turtles, dolphins, parrots) is the icing on the cake.

For scenery with a side of luxury and exclusivity, reserve a bure (villa) at one of Fiji's numerous private-island resorts.

Big Island, Hawaii

The Island of Hawaii (i.e., the Big Island ) contains 10 of the world's 14 climate zones, the only place on the planet with so many condensed into one small region. Lush, tropical terrain rules the green, wet, windward side of the island (see Akaka Falls and Waianuenue/Rainbow Falls) while more arid beauty is on display at Hapuna Beach Park.

You can even enter an ice climate at the mystical summit of Mauna Kea volcano. Also, Lake Waiau is one of the highest lakes in the United States.

Holding the largest number of overwater-bungalow resorts in the world (more than 75 and counting), the Maldives understands its best asset is the gin-clear, abundant waters of the Indian Ocean. When you're not snorkeling , diving or gazing at the rich marine life through the floor windows of your water-top villa, continue enjoying the underwater display while dining at 5.8 Undersea Restaurant — or even while getting pampered in Huvafen Fushi's submerged spa.

Palawan, Philippines

Described as the Philippines' last frontier, Palawan boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (don your dive gear) and the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park (hop in a canoe for a guided tour).

Striking limestone formations, like Ugong Rock and Karst Mountain Elephant Cave, rise starkly from the rice fields of the interior. You can even find overwater bungalows on outlying islands, courtesy of El Nido Resorts .

Hvar, Croatia

With a history dating to the Stone Age, Hvar is as fascinating as it is beautiful. Thirteenth-century walls surround Hvar Town and its red-tiled roofs. The ancient stone ruins of Stari Grad Plain became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. A jaunt to the interior reveals rugged mountains, lush vineyards and fragrant lavender fields.

Embark on a boat trip to the Adriatic to snorkel, swim in sea caves and wander secret beaches and seaside hamlets.

Martinique, Caribbean

Dubbed the Isle of Flowers and crowned by 4,583-foot Mount Pelee, Martinique may be the Caribbean's best-kept secret. Some exploration is required to uncover the island's treasures, like the Balata Gardens' Treetop Trail of suspension bridges, Saint-Pierre's 18th-century theater ruins and the poignant Anse Cafard Slave Memorial.

Cocos Keeling, Australia

A group of 27 coral islands that form two atolls in the Indian Ocean, the Cocos Keeling Islands were virtually unheard of until beach activists Brad Farmer and Andrew Short named Cocos Keeling's Cossies Beach as the best in Australia for 2017.

Called the continent's last unspoiled paradise, the remote destination is as special for what's not there (i.e., high-rise resorts, chain restaurants, crowds, traffic) as what is: pristine white sand and a turquoise lagoon that's home to 30,000 sea turtles .

Paxos, Greece

Take everything you want Greece to be — olive groves and tavernas, fishermen and bakers leading quiet village lives, stone villas and cypress trees and brilliant bougainvillea — and put it on a tiny, Ionian island only reachable by boat: That's Paxos.

On the western coast, sheer cliffs, rock arches and 40 sea caves put on a stunning show. Daytrip to the neighboring island of Antipaxos for powder sand and water so aqua, it rivals the Caribbean Sea.

Known as the Cradle of Polynesia, Samoa is notable for its "Fa'a Samoa" way of life. It's a 3,000-year-old social code that prizes family, tradition and the environment. Happily, the landscape is as lovely as the local culture.

On the main island of Upolu, a plunge into the To Sua Ocean Trench swimming grotto is a must. On Savaii, Samoa's largest island, visit caves, waterfalls, blowholes and the Saleaula lava field, formed by a 1905 volcanic eruption that buried five villages.

Cook Islands

Glass-bottom boats with thatched canopies ply shimmering lagoons. Tanned locals in "pareus," a local garb, play ukuleles. Ridged velvet-green mountains punctuate the skyline. Palm trees reach higher than any roof. This is reality in the Cook Islands, a 15-isle archipelago marooned in the South Pacific.

Go on a mountain safari on the main island of Rarotonga, or head to Aitutaki to stay in an overwater bungalow .

Guadeloupe, Caribbean

The so-called pearl of the French Caribbean, Guadeloupe is a butterfly-shaped archipelago of five main islands where volcanoes tower, and 200-plus beaches come in shades from black and white to red and pink. Basse-Terre's tropical forest and the bay of Grand-Cul-de-Sac Marin were declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1993.

From there, island-hop to discover Grande-Anse Beach on Les Saintes; Marie-Galante's rum estates; and La Desirade's 900-foot plateau.

Recommended

• Visit Oyster on Facebook!
• Visit Oyster on Pinterest!
• Visit Oyster on Instagram!
• Visit Oyster on Twitter!
• Subscribe to stay up to date!

Yes, send me expert tips and deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• Subtract one room 1 Rooms Add one room
• Subtract one adult 2 Adults Add one adult
• Travel Tips

Which Bahamas Island Is Right for You?

See recent posts by Kyle Valenta

Beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back pace of life all make the Bahamas one of the most amazing destinations in the Caribbean. And while the Abaco Islands and Grand Bahama were devastated by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, the rest of this island nation is open for business. With around 30 inhabited islands to choose from, though, knowing which Bahamas island is right for you can be tricky. You see, stunning tropical scenery and picture-perfect beaches aside, each has its own special vibe — from Harbour Island's Pink Sand Beach to laid-back Cat Island and the family-friendly Atlantis Resorts on Paradise Island . Luckily, we've spent a lot of time in the Bahamas, and have the perfect island escape for any kind of traveler.

New Providence Island (Nassau) Is Great for Travelers Who Want to Be Near the Action

Beach at the SLS Baha Mar/Oyster

While downtown Nassau (on New Providence Island) isn’t really the Caribbean escape most travelers have in mind, it is the capital of the Bahamas. From souvenir markets like the Straw Market to Fort Fincastle and the Queens Steps, things to do in Nassau are abundant enough for a day entertainment. It’s also home to local bars and nightclubs. However, if you’re staying on New Providence Island , you’d do well do sample its more luxurious side. That’s best expressed at Baha Mar, an exclusive development along the island’s central north coast. Here, some of the world’s most famous luxury resort brands sit together in a beautiful gated community that overlooks amazing Cable Beach. Baha Mar resorts also include excellent boutiques and shops, plus the chance to gamble like a high-roller at the largest casino in the Caribbean. Visiting New Providence Island is also one of the easiest escapes in the Bahamas, as it’s home to the largest airport in the country.

Your Luxury Hotel Pick on New Providence Island and Nassau: Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Pricing for Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Sitting right on the crystal-clear waters of Cable Beach, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar isn’t small by any means, but the sheer number of features here give any resort on nearby Paradise Island a run for its money. The Grand Hyatt has six attractive pools, the Caribbean’s largest casino, impressive spa and fitness facilities, and an excellent golf course. Dining options range from haute Chinese cuisine and a seafood restaurant to Mexican food trucks. It’s a great escape for families and couples alike, and rooms are chic and spacious.

Paradise Island is Perfect For Families With Kids

Beach at the Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island/Oyster

The vast majority of travelers who think of the Bahamas are thinking of Paradise Island . This is the Bahamas at its most resort-heavy and bustling — and it’s also home to the world famous Atlantis Resorts. Knowing exactly where to stay on Paradise Island can be tricky — each of the Atlantis Resorts has their own personality, after all ( you can check out our breakdown of them here ). There are also non-Atlantis properties found on the island, most of which provide access to at least some of the Atlantis amenities. Those include everything from water parks to nightclubs, and all hotels offer numerous offshore activities. Because the resorts here pack in amenities for guests of all ages, Paradise Island is easily the most family-friendly spot in the Bahamas. Just keep in mind that this is the most popular destination in the Bahamas and can be busy.

Your Upscale Hotel Pick on Paradise Island: The Cove at Atlantis

While The Cove is home to the only adult pool at The Atlantis properties, it’s still incredibly family-friendly. It’s also worth a stay because it’s the most modern and attractive of the Atlantis resorts, while still offering access to the dizzying number of family-friendly features on offer (like the water park). The Cove shares a separate beach and large family pool with neighboring Reef Tower , making it a great spot for travelers of all kinds. 

Pricing for The Cove at Atlantis

The Exumas Are Great for Lovers of Picture-Perfect Beaches

View from hotel at the Fowl Cay Resort/Oyster

There’s a good chance you’ve heard of the Exumas . In fact, the islands that make up this part of the Bahamas are some of the most famous and picture-perfect you’re likely to find. Yes, Pig Beach is part of the Exumas (though whether you should visit is subject to some serious ethical concerns ). But swimming pigs aside, the Exumas are fringed with stunningly white sand that almost glows, making this a beach-goers delight. The islands of the Exumas also tend to stay less crowded that other Bahamas islands, though you’ll be paying a pretty here. Even casual mid-range properties can be pricey — but that’s to be expected given how close to paradise you’ll feel.

Your All-Inclusive Hotel Pick in The Exumas: Fowl Cay Resort

Crowded beaches are unheard of on this private island resort, where a maximum of 28 guests at a time have free range of 50 acres and three beaches. Personal boats for daily excursions, on-call service, spacious villas with fully stocked kitchens and wet bars, and a host of all-inclusive activities make Fowl Cay a standout gem in the Exumas.

Pricing for Fowl Cay Resort

Eleuthera Is Ideal for Island Vibes and Escaping It All

Beach at the French Leave Resort/Oyster

If you want to avoid the crowds, Eleuthera is ideal — there are less than 15,000 residents on the island, and hotels here tend to be smaller boutique properties like the chic French Leave . While it’s tiny, that doesn’t mean that Eleuthera is lacking for things to do. The historic capital city — Governour’s Harbour — makes for a charming day trip or night visit, with its colorful colonial architecture and vacation vibe. You can dine at 1648 for local fare like grouper, jerk chicken wraps, and conch, or popular spots like Front Porch. You’ll likely want to visit Governor’s Harbour on Friday, when the Anchor Bay Fish Fry becomes the hot spot for locals and visitors to feast on the catch of the day, sip tropical cocktails, and enjoy music and dancing. If you’re after beaches, it’s hard to top those found here — in fact, Eleuthera’s pink sand beaches are almost as famous as those found on nearby Harbour Island.

Your Eleuthera Luxury Hotel Pick: The Cove Eleuthera

This 40-acre boutique resort on Eleuthera has been a hot spot for privacy-seeking celebs since it opened in 2013. One look and you’ll understand why. The Cove features a jaw-dropping infinity pool and cliffside bar, all tucked between two pretty private beaches. Chic, airy rooms have white decor, and enormous villas with private plunge pools and state-of-the-art kitchens are on offer.

Pricing for The Cove Eleuthera

Long Island Is Great for Adventurous Travelers

Beach at the Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort & Villas/Oyster

While the Exumas and Eleuthera are great for lazing away the day, the Bahamas isn’t all about low-energy getaways. Not far from the Exumas is Long Island , a great spot for fishing, diving, snorkeling, and eco tours. In fact, shark diving is a big deal here, and a great option for true adventure seekers. The fearless can dive into Dean’s Blue Hole, one of the world’s deepest blue holes, while on land the Lucayan Indian Cave is great for exploring. You can head to a different beach every day and find virtually nobody, making this a great destination for adventurers who like their share of peace and quiet as well. There are also small restaurants up and down the island that will satisfy your craving for great island fare — Max’s Conch Bar and Tiny’s Hurricane Hole are always popular.

Your Long Island Hotel Pick: Stella Maris Resort Club

Stella Maris Resort Club is precisely the kind of property that fits right in on Long Island. The landscape is natural and the vibe is entirely low-key. With a variety of hotel rooms, cottages, and villas with up to four bedrooms, the resort has lodging options to fit most parties and budgets. There are three pools at the hotel, but keep in mind that swimming here isn’t an option as the beach is quite rough. If you’re after a swimmable beach, check out Long Island’s Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort instead.

Pricing for Stella Maris Resort Club

Cat Island Is the Most Secluded Island in the Bahamas

Beach at the Pigeon Cay Beach Club/Oyster

With only 1,500 residents spread out over 150 square miles, you’d be hard-pressed to find a less densely populated Bahamian island. What’s that mean for travelers? An incredible chance to truly get away from it all. You won’t find any Paradise Island-style resorts here — in fact, most of the properties feel like a bed-and-breakfast across Cat Island . You also won’t find a wide array of places to eat or drink, like you would on Harbour Island. Even so, it’s easy enough to organize diving, snorkeling, and fishing expeditions — as well as daily island-hopping adventures — from Cat Island. However, we’d suggest packing a few books and simply curling up in a hammock for a week to really soak up the unplugged vibe of this special place. If you’re after a full breakdown of Cat Island, check out our guide here .

Cat Island Hotel Pick: Pigeon Cay Beach Club

Pigeon Cay Beach Club is a barefoot-style property that draws couples, solo travelers, and families alike. The powdery white sand on the nearby beach stays blissfully uncrowded, and the resort’s seven rustic bungalows make you feel like you’ve escaped it all. Just don’t expect TV or internet. Amenities like free bikes, kayaks, and snorkel gear make unwinding a treat.

Pricing for Pigeon Cay Beach Club

Harbour Island Is Famous for Pink Sand Beaches

Beach at the Coral Sands Hotel/Oyster

While Eleuthera has its share of pink sand beaches, the real star of the Bahamas’ show is Harbour Island . Here, the stunning coral-infused sands make for a dramatic backdrop that feels otherworldly. Part of the island’s appeal is just how remote it feels — getting here generally requires flying to North Eleuthera Airport, then a cab ride, then a boat ride, and then another cab ride to your hotel. But that has made this one of the more exclusive hideaways of the Bahamas — think of Harbour Island as the glitzed-up counterpoint to laid-back Cat Island. The foodie scene is big here, and you’ll want to make reservations at your favorite spots well in advance. What’s the best way to get around Harbour Island? Rent a golf cart — it’s only three miles long, after all.

Harbour Island Hotel Pick: Coral Sands Hotel

Coral Sands Hotel sits right on one of the Caribbean’s most gorgeous beaches and has a beach-chic vibe that’s hard to beat.  The beachfront Bahamian cottages are easily worth the splurge, though all rooms feature perks like memory foam beds and huge bathrooms. It’s all about relaxing at Coral Sands, from the beautiful infinity pool and beach to cocktails at the laid-back beach bar or even yoga classes.

Pricing for Coral Sands Hotel

Bimini Is Great for a Quick Long-Weekend Trip

Paradise Beach at the Resorts World Bimini/Oyster

Think you need to deal with multiple planes, taxis, and boat rides to reach the pretty beaches of The Bahamas? Think again. Bimini — one of the smallest sets of islands in the Bahamas — is only a 30-minute flight from Miami. That makes it perfect for a long-weekend recharge. We like Bimini because it’s developed just-enough. You can find plenty of restaurants and bars to keep yourself happy, and there are numerous beautiful beaches to choose from. It also has all kinds of options for travelers’ tastes. You can opt for frozen cocktails and beach clubs with buzzing vibes (at the Resorts World Bimini ) or kick back in your own rental villa and be independent. In any case, if you need a quick dose of sun to get through the winter, Bimini is your spot. For a more detailed breakdown of Bimini, check out guide here .

Your Upscale Hotel Pick in Bimini: Hilton Bimini

Opened in 2015, the Bimini Hilton is one of the most popular spots on the island and has loads of on-site amenities. The hotel is part of the Resorts World Bimini condo complex, and many of the amenities are shared. Expect access to multiple pools and eateries, a marina, spa, and casino. The 305 rooms are gorgeous and contemporary — many have sea views or swim-out access to the Lazy River Pool.

Pricing for Hilton At Resorts World Bimini

What to Bring to the Bahamas: A Packable Sun Hat

Eric Javits Voyager Squishee® Sun Hat

As beautiful as the Bahamian sun can be, sometimes she can become super brutal. Protect your head with this stylish, easy to pack fold-down sun hat and make sure that scalp stays safe.

You’ll Also Like:

• The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Bahamas
• Bahamas vs. Aruba: Which Is a Better Vacation Spot for You?
• Is it Safe to Visit the Bahamas?

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

Top Stories

Top 11 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

By Christina Vercelletto

• Dominican Republic

Hotel Face-Off: Excellence Punta Cana vs. Excellence El Carmen

By Megan Wood

12 Things to Ask for When You Check Into Your Hotel Room

By Toby Orton

• Travel Safety

The 11 Safest Travel Destinations in the Caribbean Right Now

By Lilly LeClair

11 Things To Do In Paradise Island: Complete Guide To The Bahamas' Hottest Destination

Experience a little bit of tropical heaven with a visit to the Bahamas' hottest spot. Here are the top things to do in Paradise Island.

Read update

There Are More Things To Experience While On Paradise Island!

The Bahamas is the quintessential definition of a tropical paradise! Its cozy sunny weather, pristine beaches with white powdery sands, and clear turquoise waters offer the perfect mix of ingredients for a beach lover’s dream destination. And out of the 700 islands in the Bahamas , there is no better spot for tourists than Paradise Island. The tiny island, merely measuring 1.1 square miles, hits way above its weight class as far as vacation hotspots go.

Located off the shores of the capital city, Nassau, and connected to New Providence Island by a 2,600-foot bridge, Paradise Island has long been considered the ultimate playground for holidaymakers in the Caribbean region. However, its profile was raised with the launch of the Atlantis Island Paradise Resort & Casino, an electric nightlife Mecca that wows visitors with its grandiosity and lavishness (think Vegas in the heart of the tropics). World-class resort aside, Paradise Island has all the hallmarks of the perfect holiday spot. From beautiful beaches and luxury resorts to endless fun activities, there is never a dull time in one of The Bahamas’ most charming islands !

UPDATE: 2023/08/01 18:40 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding traveling to Paradise Island in the Bahamas and things to do here. From the world-famous Atlantis Resort to a pirate museum and beyond, Paradise Island is the place to be. Have fun!

Things To Do

Paradise Island has always been reserved for tourists in the Bahamas. It is where the rich and famous go to play , awash with shops, restaurants, resorts, and exciting water-based activities, such as snorkeling, sailing, diving, and boating. There are enough adventures to fill a visitor’s itinerary for at least a week; here are the top ways to spend time on Paradise Island.

1 Spend The Day At The Pirates Of Nassau Museum

• Address : 3MH4+23H, King and George St, Nassau, Bahamas
• Hours : Tuesday - Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM
• Tickets : $14.02 per person

While not far from Paradise, a 13-minute drive will get travelers between their hotel and the Pirates of Nassau Museum in Nassau, Bahamas. The museum showcases the city's history as an 18th-century pirate base, with replica pirate ships and exhibits. This is a great spot to spend a couple of hours with groups or kids, and it's indoors.

Downtown Nassau is very fun to stroll along, lined with shops, restaurants, and places to absorb the island sun, so for under 15 minutes in a cab: this is worth the endeavor.

• Price: Tickets are also very affordable here, at $14 per guest.

2 Escape The Crowds At Rose Island

• Coordinates : 25°05′15″N 77°13′10″W / 25.08750°N 77.21944°W

Something to do while on Paradise Island would be to island hop to Rose Island, a quieter, remote location accessible only by boat. Like many Bamahas islands, Paradise is located near other smaller locations, where people can unwind and relax without having to head to a big hotel or crowded beach.

One thing to remember, however, is that Rose Island in the Bahamas does not have hotels, roads, and places to stay: so this is a very temporary spot to visit. Some Paradise Island hotels offer services to get here, as well as cruise lines, so this isn't a wild unknown spot either.

According to past adventurers, the island is a 30-minute boat ride from Paradise, so it shouldn't be too much of a hassle to get from point A to B. Again, this would be more of a half-day trip for vacationers, so 2–3 hours should be feasible.

The boat ride to Rose Island from Paradise Island is roughly 30 minutes, with ferries running from the main island by the hour. People generally charter here with a dedicated captain, so that's one cost to consider.

3 View The Marine Habitat At Atlantis

• Address : One Casino Drive, Suite 20, Paradise Island, Bahamas
• Hours : Open 24 hours daily
• Tickets : Free for guests, and day passes available to non-guests

For those in Paradise Island, Bahamas, the Atlantis Hotel is where many activities exist on the island. Here is where the Marine Habitat at Atlantis sits, boasting lagoons, caves, coral formations, and underwater ruins filled with exotic marine life.

Notably, the Marine Habitat features animals like sharks, rays, barracuda, eels, and critically endangered Smalltooth sawfish. This aquatic center is also home to the largest open-air marine habit on Earth, which is certainly something to brag about.

During hotter summer months, heading to this aquarium could also be a nice way to cool off, so that's something to consider too.

With 250+ species inside, this is easily a 2-3 hour adventure while on Paradise Island, so make sure and allow enough time to see everything.

4 Make The Most Of The Water-Based Fun

• Many hotels and companies offer snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming with animals.

Paradise Island offers an endless list of entertaining water sports. Snorkeling and scuba diving are among the favorites for visitors to the island, providing the opportunity to experience the beautiful coral reefs and explore shipwrecks or interact with amazing underwater life up close.

Alternatively, kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski for a more adrenaline-filled activity. Those not trying to get wet can charter a boat to scope out the series of almost 300 islands and undisturbed cays dotting the area.

Related: Island Adventures For Less: Discover 10 Affordable Cruises To The Bahamas

5 Soak In The Sun At The Beach

• Paradise Beach, Cove Beach, Cabbage Beach, and Arawak Beach are all popular.

Paradise Island is home to some of the most exquisite beaches in the Bahamas. From Paradise Beach and Cove Beach to Cabbage Beach and Arawak Beach, first-timers can enjoy the ultimate beach experience, highlighted by silky-smooth white sands, clear blue waters, and imposing palm trees.

The weather is near-perfect for most of the year, serving healthy doses of vitamin D to the early risers.

The setting is ideal for lazily lounging while enjoying the scenic sea views as the gentle waves hit the shore. Tourists can rent a chair and umbrella and carry a snack to make it a complete beach picnic.

6 Visit Atlantis Island Paradise Resort

• Address : Paradise Island, Bahamas
• Hours : Open 24 hours, seven days a week

Taking up a good share of the Paradise Island skyline, this flashy pink resort is the first thing tourists see when approaching the dreamy destination. The sublime super resort was designed to evoke the legend of Atlantis and delivers an unforgettable experience to guests by spoiling them with a raft of luxury amenities.

It is easily one of the top luxury resorts in the Bahamas and boasts a world-class entertainment complex, water park, aquarium, numerous pools, and an 18-hole golf course. Hotel guests have free access to the thrilling 141-acre Aquaventure waterscape, which features popular high-speed slides, including the Leap of Faith, endless swimming spots, and a relaxing cruise on the Lazy River Ride.

Do due diligence before booking a stay at the Atlantis to have a memorable experience at this world-class resort paradise.

7 Get In On The Buzzing Local Nightlife

• Paradise Island is known to have bustling nightlife throughout the week and weekend.

Those keen to sample the local nightlife don’t have to look far or wide to experience Paradise Island’s entertainment scene after hours. Numerous bars and clubs, thronged by cruise ship passengers and other guests, entertain visitors with an endless flow of drinks, delicious cuisine, and packed dance floors.

Top joints on the island include The Moon Club, Dragon’s Ultra Lounge, Aura Nightclub, and Dune Bar, each offering a unique nightlife experience. Sip a cocktail, enjoy a local snack, and dance the night away to the upbeat island tunes for an unforgettable time on Paradise Island.

8 Hit Up The Casinos

• Atlantis Resort boasts a massive casino with 700 slot machines and 85 gaming tables.
• Many compare this casino to one in Las Vegas.

Tourists looking to get lucky can spend time gambling at the Atlantis Island Resort. The hotel’s casinos provide vacationers with a Vegas-style vibe with a tropical twist. The establishment has at least 700 slot machines and 85 gaming tables, allowing guests to participate in their favorite casino games.

Whether gambling poolside or in a private room for high rollers, the fun never stops at the Atlantis.

This is a great way to spend time with family, and non-gamblers can seek out other fun pastimes while kids splash in the gigantic water park on-site.

9 Take A Day Trip To Nassau

• Nassau is 13 minutes from Paradise Island when driving the main road.

Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas and boasts diverse attractions and things to do . Located just 13 minutes south of Paradise Island, it is the perfect escape for tourists seeking to venture outside the town.

Aside from its beautiful beaches , Nassau is home to historical museums, shopping venues, dining destinations, and fascinating adventures. A tour of the Pirates of Nassau Museum introduces guests to the legend of the “Pirate Republic” in the Bahamas , while the Straw Market has all the souvenirs to take back home after the holiday.

From Paradise Island, travelers can get to Nassau by cab, jitney, or ferry boat. A round-trip ticket will cost around $8 per person.

10 Attend The Exciting Junkanoo

• The Junkanoo Festival is considered a fun way to spend the day in Paradise.
• This is a half-century tradition on the islands.

One of the best ways to experience raw Bahamian culture is to participate in the colorful Junkanoo festival. The annual festival combines spectacular costumes, upbeat music, and captivating dances, culminating in an overwhelming atmosphere for participants.

The half-century tradition is a cultural phenomenon that provides visitors with front-row access to the raw Bahamian experience. Crowds gather on the streets to watch dance parades and celebrate local art, crafts, and cuisine, reflecting the exuberant spirit of Bahamians.

Junkanoo happens on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. It takes place in downtown Nassau, from 2 am to the early morning hours.

11 Marvel At The Wonders In Predator Lagoon

• Predator Lagoon boasts clear seawater, marine life, and a 100-foot tunnel.

Predator Lagoon is an exciting attraction that will suit vacationing families. This unique underground cave, surrounded by a stunning lagoon with clear seawater, harbors diverse marine creatures.

A 100-foot-long tunnel passing underneath the lagoon offers vivid views of spectacular species like barracudas, sting rays, sharks, and sawfish that visitors see behind protective glass. The facility welcomes thousands of visitors annually, making it one of those unique attractions only accessible in the Bahamas .

Related: 10 Facts You Won't Believe About The Bahamas' Crystal Cave

12 Best Time To Visit Paradise Island

Paradise Island enjoys sunny weather throughout the year, and tourists will cherish visiting the island in any season. However, the best time for tourists is between December and April, when the weather is perfect for spending time at the beach.

Temperatures range between 73 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit, with the cooler month coming in January (71) over the five months. This is also the peak season on the island, and beaches are crowded with tourists craving to enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic.

Hotels are in high demand during the peak season, and prices significantly hike, so book well in advance to avoid the exorbitant rates.

The best time for budget travelers is in the off-season, between July and August. Crowd numbers drop on the island; the same is true for accommodation rates. However, this also falls within the rainy season, which can be limiting to visitors keen on enjoying the outdoor attractions.

Paradise Island lies within the hurricane belt and faces a threat of hurricanes and tropical storms from July to October (Atlantic Hurricane Season). Travelers should take safety precautions when visiting the island during the hurricane season .

13 Best Ways To Get Around Paradise Island

The best way to get to Paradise Island is to take a taxi upon arrival at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, which takes less than 20 minutes and cost about $50. Once on the island, there are multiple options for getting around, including:

Taxis are a quick and convenient way of exploring the island. Several Paradise Island operators will take visitors wherever they like at their preferred time. The taxis are not metered; travelers should establish the exact fare with the drivers before starting the journey.

Car hires are another option for moving around, although not highly recommended. Rental prices are relatively high, and gas is expensive on the island. The roads are not in the best condition, so chartering a taxi will be the better alternative.

Motorists on Paradise Island stay on the left side of the road, which can be confusing for American drivers.

Public jitneys

Jitneys (buses) make up the local public transit mode and offer a cheaper way to get around. They only cost about $1.5 for a one-way ride and traverse major areas like the Western Esplanade, Fort Charlotte, and Arawak Cay’s Fish Fry. Passengers must pay before boarding the jitney; the driver will only accept exact change.

• Fares : Adults $1.5, Children $1
• Hours : Operate daily, 6:30 am – 7 pm

Jitneys can be crowded and chaotic without defined schedules or stop points. They may not be the best option for tourists and are best left to the locals.

Water taxi/ferry boat

Water taxis offer a unique way to move around the island and come in handy for those planning a day trip to Nassau and other neighboring islands. The most common operator is the Bahamas Ferries, which serves Nassau, Long Island, Exuma, and Harbor Island.

• Fares : Around $3 per person
• Hours : Daily, 9 am – 6 pm

Related: This Medieval Garden On Paradise Island Is Perhaps The Most Unique Stop In The Bahamas

14 Where To Eat On Paradise Island

Seafood is a mainstay in Bahamian cuisine, and Paradise Island has several eateries serving fresh and raw seafood. Tourists can also enjoy it steamed, deep-fried, or stewed. Foodies can look forward to a sumptuous dining experience featuring local and international flavors.

Here are the top joints in Paradise Island.

For breakfast:

Louis & Steen's Market Orleans

• Address : Windsor Field Rd Unit 2, One West Business Park, Nassau, New Providence Island
• Hours : Monday to Friday, 8 am – 3:30 pm
• Food to order: Ethiopian coconut latte, baked croissant

Athena Cafe & Bar

• Address : Bay & Charlotte Street, Down Town, Nassau, Nassau New Providence Island
• Hours : Monday to Saturday, 11 am – 5 pm
• Food to order: Gyros, humus

Humidor Churrascaria

• Address : West Hill Street, Nassau, New Providence Island
• Hours : Monday to Saturday, 6 pm – 10:30 pm
• Food to order: Barbecue steak

For drinks:

Bahama Barrels

• Address : W Hill St, Nassau, Bahamas
• Hours : Open daily, 9 am – 5 pm

Related: Ranking The 20 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In The Bahamas

15 Where To Stay On And Around Paradise Island

Paradise Island is a relatively small stretch of land almost exclusively reserved for tourists. While tourists may not find traditional residential neighborhoods on the island, its proximity to the capital, Nassau, and New Providence allow quick access to waterfront communities.

The island is home to some of the highest-rated resorts in the Bahamas , where tourists can look forward to a dreamy stay in the tropics. Here are areas to consider staying around Paradise Island.

Lyford Cay spans around 1100 acres and traces its history to the 1950s. The premier gated community needs no introduction to the moneyed tourists visiting Paradise Island and hosts rich and famous homeowners from around the globe.

The area boasts an 18-hole golf course, full-service marina, clubhouse facilities, and boutique hotel.

Old Fort Bay

Old Fort Bay is a quaint community steeped in history, dating back to the 1700s. It has a community clubhouse set on a ridge overlooking one of Nassau’s most beautiful beaches.

Several canal islands, club villas, and beachfront estates provide enough accommodation for visitors, with lush amenities like a small marina, parks, tennis courts, and a gym on the offing.

Ocean Club Estates

Ocean Club Estates is a premier residential community with pristine beaches and the picturesque Nassau Harbor. More than 200 properties line the waterfront perimeter, while a golf course in the middle of the estate provides a laid-back activity for guests. More facilities include a beach clubhouse, tennis courts, and a gym.

Some of the top accommodation options in the area include:

Luxury option:

The Cove at Atlantis

• Address : 1 Casino Drive, Nassau
• Rate per night: Starts at $460 2 guests
• Amenities : Private beach, Outdoor pool, Beachfront, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker

Mid-range option:

Riu Palace Paradise Island - Adults Only

• Address : 6307 Casino Drive, Nassau
• Rate per night : Starts at $285 for 2 guests
• Amenities : Spa and wellness center, Adults only, Fitness center, Beachfront, Infinity pool, Restaurant, Outdoor pool, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Tennis

Budget option:

Bay View Suites Paradise Island

• Address : Bay View Drive, PO Box Ss-6308, Nassau
• Rate per night: Starts at $84 for two guests
• Amenities : Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Coffee shop, Free parking, Business center, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries

16 Tips For Visiting Paradise Island In The Bahamas

For those coming to Paradise Island, there are some things to keep in mind. First, this island is walkable, with most tourists walking to and from their hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. Therefore, it's not necessary to rent a car, but rather rent a cab or ride a bike.

Pricing here is also expensive within resort areas, like Atlantis, so during peak winter and spring times: expect hiked-up rates. Locally-owned businesses won't overcharge like resorts do, so that's an incentive to support small. After all, this island relies heavily on its native people, who are known to be incredibly kind to tourists.

17 How To Spend The Perfect Day On Paradise Island

The Atlantis Resort is the centerpiece of Paradise Island; it's only fair to start the day by touring this one-stop entertainment center. There are enough activities to last the whole day at the super-resort, so tourists might have to clear their schedules. Try to get lucky at the casino on any of the 85 gaming tables.

Explore the Lost World theme park and swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Cay Atlantis. Head out to the coast and dip in the warm waters at the multiple white sandy beaches at the resort. Later, try the Atlantis Aquaventure package for all manner of water fun. From high-speed water slides and long-river rides to high-intensity rapids, it never gets more entertaining than this.

Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the resort, then go for a sightseeing tour of the remarkable Predator Lagoon. Admire the rich marine life from the underground tunnel before breaking the monotony with a trip to the interesting capital of Nassau , a short drive away.

Explore the museums, shopping venues, and bubbly markets till late evening before capping the day off with sumptuous Bahamian cuisine at Athena Café & Bar and later drinks at Bahama Barrels.

18 What Is Paradise Island Known For?

Paradise Island is famous for hosting the sprawling resort of Atlantis. It has all the amenities to make the bucket list of any first-timer on the island , including pools, beaches, casinos, an aquarium, water parks, animal habitats, and more.

19 Is Paradise Island Expensive?

Vacationing on Paradise Island can be pricey. For instance, a week-long couple's vacation could cost around $5000. However, knowing all the costs of visiting Paradise Island in advance can help schedule a suitable budget.

Escape to Paradise: The 11 Best US Islands To Visit Now 

Are you dreaming of an escape to paradise without having to leave the United States? Look no further than these 11 beautiful and interesting US islands you can travel to without even needing to find your passport.

From sandy beaches to mind-blowing natural wonders, these islands have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.

The Pacific

Whether your island paradise is of the warm, tropical variety or the chilly and rugged kind, you’ll find an island that suits you in the Pacific.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is sure to impress with its gorgeous beaches , lush rainforests, and dramatic volcanoes. Plus, you can’t beat the world-class dining and breathtaking sunsets.

The beaches in Maui are truly out of this world — think crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Some of the best beaches to check out include Kaanapali Beach, Napili Bay, and Wailea Beach.

When you tire of lolling on the beach, head to Ho’okipa Beach Park for great surfing, hop on a snorkeling tour, take a helicopter tour of the island, zipline through the jungle, or take the scenic Road to Hana to see cascading waterfalls , black sand beaches, sea caves, lava tubes, and more.

Don’t-miss dining options include fish and seafood at Mama’s Fish Hous e, The Fish Market Maui , and Lahaina Fish Co , and refreshing frozen desserts at Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice .

Catalina Island, California

If you’re looking for a quick and easy getaway from Southern California, Catalina Island is the perfect destination — and it’s just a stone’s throw from Los Angeles.

Enjoy stunning views on the quick ferry ride over. Once there, choose from snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, or zip lining through the trees. Or head over to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden .

The Catalina Island Museum is a great way to learn about the island’s history and culture. The famous Catalina Casino isn’t actually a casino but a stunning venue for events and concerts.

Check out the Lobster Trap , where you can get fresh seafood and fantastic harbor views. And don’t leave without trying some buffalo milk — a local specialty you won’t find anywhere else.

San Juan Islands, Washington

Not one island, but a whole chain of them, the San Juan Islands archipelago is an absolute gem of the Pacific Northwest. Just off the coast of Washington state, it’s a group of more than 170 islands, only four of which are easily accessible to visitors: San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island.

Rolling hills, rocky coastlines, and lush forests provide opportunities for hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and other outdoor activities.

Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is the largest town and has a lively restaurant scene, as well as a plethora of shops and cultural events. The San Juan Island Sculpture Park is a public outdoor art museum with 150 sculptures across 20 acres of fields and woods.

Orcas Island is more laid-back and rural, with a vital farming and artisanal community. It’s an excellent destination for hiking, whale watching, and kayaking. You’ll also find a local art scene, farmers’ markets, and farm-to-table restaurants where you can enjoy the local bounty of fresh seafood and produce.

“Nestled between northwest Washington and Vancouver Island in Canada, the San Juans are quiet, full of local charm, and the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts.” — Bella Bucchiotti, XOXO Bella

The Atlantic

Off the East Coast of the US, you’ll find a whole different island vibe. In addition to pristine beaches, Atlantic islands offer small-town charm, history, and some great discoveries for nature lovers.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Nestled off the coast of Massachusetts, Martha’s Vineyard is a picturesque island known for its bohemian atmosphere, quaint lighthouses, serene beaches, and fresh seafood. It’s a popular spot for sailing, fishing, biking — and celebrity spotting. 

The Vineyard has plenty of beaches to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. One of the most popular is South Beach in Edgartown, a two-mile-long stretch of rolling dunes and crystal-clear water.

Head to Menemsha Beach for spectacular sunsets over the ocean and some of the best seafood shacks on the island. Aquinnah Beach, near the famous Gay Head Lighthouse , features dramatic red cliffs and panoramic ocean views. Kids will love Joseph Sylvia State Beach’s calm waters and gentle waves.

The island’s charming towns of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs are worth exploring, too, with their historic homes, cute shops, and great restaurants and breweries. And don’t miss the iconic Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs.

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

This remote barrier island, with its secluded beaches, stunning sunsets, and relaxed vibe, is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. It offers beautiful beaches plus several nature trails for close-up glimpses of the flora and fauna. Nature lovers should check out Springer’s Point Nature Preserve.

There’s a historical Ocracoke British Cemetery , the Ocracoke Lighthouse , the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum , and Teach’s Hole Blackbeard Exhibit.

Nestled within Northern Carolina’s Outer Banks, this destination is perfect for those after healing relaxation and simplicity. Enjoy quiet walks, collect shells, and build sandcastles down the beach at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Plan a day trip to Portsmouth Island. Travel through Ocracoke’s past at the Ocracoke Preservation and Museum. Taste a local sweet classic at The Slushy Stand. Ocracoke’s stunning beaches have been garnering national attention, thanks to the Dr Beach acclaimed 10 Best Beaches list in the United States. Visitors can quietly recharge peacefully, thanks to the entire wide stretch of the coast, where there’s space for everyone. Ocracoke also maintains a wildlife preservation site that visitors can view from a safe distance.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island is charming and laid back, known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities.

Tybee Island Beach is one of the main attractions — its calm waters are great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Fishing enthusiasts enjoy casting their lines off the pier or taking a charter boat to the deeper waters of the Atlantic.

Hop on a boat tour to see Tybee’s large population of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Natural science buffs will also love the Tybee Island Marine Science Center’s marine life programs, touch tanks, and live animal displays.

The historic Tybee Island Lighthouse , built in 1736, is one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in the country. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the island.

There’s also Fort Pulaski , which played an essential role in the Civil War and is now a national monument. Explore the fort, the museum, and the surrounding nature trails.

Gulf of Mexico

The Gulf of Mexico, bordering Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, is home to several islands, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

Whether you’re an adventure aficionado, nature enthusiast, or after the R and R, you will never run out of things to try and experience in this vibrant region.

Key West, Florida

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise with all the sun, sand, and fun you could want, the Florida Keys, and especially Key West, should be at the top of your list.

The beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. It’s also packed with fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty — from historic shipwrecks and lighthouses to mangrove swamps and wildlife sanctuaries.

Check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory , home to hundreds of butterflies, exotic birds, and tropical plants. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park has one of Key West’s best beaches.

When evening comes, enjoy the sunset at Mallory Square, then move on to historic Duval street and grab a drink at Sloppy Joe’s and a bite at one of the many great restaurants.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Sanibel Island in Southwest Florida is known for its clear blue waters and copious shells.

Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Bowman’s Beach, Blind Pass Beach, and Lighthouse Beach. You’ll find more than 250 species of sea shells on the beaches here, especially on the eastern shore.

Visit the JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge . This 6,300-acre refuge is home to more than 270 species of birds, plus manatees and alligators. Take a tram tour, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or explore the refuge on foot.

There is also a rich history to explore, dating back to the original inhabitants, the Calusa Indians. Visit the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village or tour the 1884 Sanibel Lighthouse.

Head to Periwinkle Way for shopping and dining. You’ll find unique art galleries, specialty shops, fantastic restaurants serving fresh seafood, and more.

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is known for its lively party atmosphere and nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to keep you entertained in the evening, but there are many daytime activities to enjoy, too.

South Padre Island boasts miles of white sandy beaches, including Isla Blanca Park, Andy Bowie Park, and South Beach. You can enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, kiteboarding, and surfing.

The island is home to sea turtles, dolphins, and various birds. Explore the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center or take a sunset cruise to glimpse the local wildlife.

SPI is an angler’s paradise, too, with plenty of opportunities to fish in the Gulf of Mexico or the Laguna Madre Bay.

US Islands in the Caribbean include Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a popular vacation destination because of its beautiful beaches, rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture.

A few favorite beaches are Isla Verde, Condado, Flamenco, and Luquillo. And El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Puerto Rico has several bioluminescent bays where microscopic organisms light up the water at night. Take a kayak or boat tour to see this magical natural phenomenon up close.

Stroll the colorful streets in the historic Old San Juan district, admire the colonial architecture, and visit historical landmarks such as the San Juan Cathedral and the El Morro Fortress.

Puerto Rican cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of Spanish, African, and Taino influences. Some popular dishes include mofongo, a mashed plantain dish, and arroz con gandules, or rice and pigeon peas.

“Puerto Rico is an island not to missed! Incredible food, beautiful beaches, magnificent rainforest, and a vibrant nightlife. It truly has everything.” — Alisa Infanti, The Delicious Spoon

US Virgin Islands

Colorful culture, magnificent waters, and warm Caribbean hospitality await the visitors of the US Virgin Islands. Nicknamed “America’s Paradise”, it is a tropical haven for those seeking a memorable land and sea adventure.

From snorkeling in turquoise oceans and paying respects at historic attractions like Fort Christiansvaern and the Blackbeard Castle, there’s no single dull moment on the island.

Don’t miss out on St Thomas’s exciting shopping districts, and explore St John’s breathtaking natural landscapes and waters. Of course, no adventure is complete without a tasty cuisine exploration. US Virgin Islands’ best dishes range from fresh Caribbean seafood, conch fritters, and their famous “painkiller” cocktail, a popular spicy and fruity St John local concoction that matches the scenery.

What makes the stay here more enticing is that American travelers can enjoy the convenience of using the same currency and a passport is not needed for entry. You are more than welcome to return anytime you want!

The Final Word

Everybody deserves to take some time off from the busy hustle of every day. Up for adventure, a change of scenery, or just want to get away from stress? The islands mentioned on the list have something for everybody. There’s no shortage of fun, culture, and history; what makes it even better is that you never have to leave home to embark on a memorable time.

Looking for more sand between your toes? Check out the best beaches in the US , things to do in Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach .

Choosing to spend your vacation on these beautiful islands also means supporting local economic efforts and tourism sustainability. By choosing your own, you get a deeper connection to the homeland. Why go elsewhere when the best is right in front of you? Soak up the sunshine and sand at these popular best US islands with your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking for a tropical paradise, a cultural hotspot, or a secluded getaway, there’s a US island for everyone. From the picturesque beaches of Hawaii to the charming small island towns of New England, there’s no shortage of beauty and adventure. So forget your passport and plan a US island adventure for an unforgettable trip.

Similar Posts

19 Things to do in Michigan

Spread the loveDiscover the best of the Great Lakes State. From stunning waterfalls to charming wineries, explore the best things to do in Michigan. Michigan is a state brimming with diverse attractions and natural wonders. From the breathtaking sand dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to the vibrant city life of Detroit, there’s something…

The best things to do in Tampa

Spread the loveNestled along Florida’s picturesque Gulf Coast, Tampa is a dynamic city brimming with a diverse array of attractions and activities to suit every traveler’s taste. From its vibrant cultural scene and thrilling outdoor adventures to its world-class dining and entertainment options, there are many memorable things to do in Tampa for visitors of…

Tulsa: The best things to see and do in the Oil Capital of the World

Spread the loveFrom world-class museums and art galleries to outdoor activities and delicious cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do in Tulsa, the Oil Capital of the World. Although it’s known for its deep-rooted oil history, Tulsa is more than just a relic of the past. It’s an exciting blend of outdoor adventures,…

17 Best things to do in Ohio

Spread the loveDiscover the best things to do in Ohio: From wineries and breweries, to theme park and ball parks and everything in between! In the heart of the Midwest, Ohio shines as a diverse and captivating destination, offering a plethora of activities that cater to a wide range of interests. From the cultural hubs…

Cincinnati: A guide to the best things to see and do in the Queen City

Spread the loveNestled on the Ohio River, where the southwestern corner of Ohio meets Kentucky and Indiana, Cincinnati boasts a rich history, magnificent murals, local breweries and much more. Here are the best things to do in Cincinnati. Affectionately known as the Queen City, Cincinnati is a charming city in Ohio with many things to…

Best Things To Do in Syracuse 

Spread the loveSyracuse, New York, is a vibrant and historical city in the heart of upstate New York. Known for its rich history and bustling cultural scene, Syracuse is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the best upstate New York state offers. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travel | Royal Caribbean breaks ground on Nassau beach club

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)

Daily e-Edition

Evening e-Edition

• Entertainment
• Theater and Arts
• Things to Do
• Restaurants, Food & Drink

Things To Do

Subscriber only.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is a 17-acre development in Nassau, The Bahamas set to open in 2025. (Courtesy/Royal Caribbean)

Bahamas government and Royal Caribbean executives break ground during a cermony for the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau set to open in 2025. From left to right: Phylicia Woods-Hanna, director of investments of The Bahamas; Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer, Royal Caribbean International; Dr. Michael Darville, minister of health and wellness of The Bahamas; Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group; Philip Davis, prime minister of The Bahamas; Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International; I. Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation of The Bahamas; JoBeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy and transport of The Bahamas; Philip Simon Jr., president and general manager, Royal Beach Club and Royal Caribbean International Bahamas; and Russell Benford, vice president of government relations – Americas, Royal Caribbean Group. (Courtesy/Royal Caribbean)

Royal Caribbean and the government of the Bahamas broke ground Monday on the joint venture to develop a strip of land in the cruise port of Nassau called Paradise Island.

The government in 2023 gave the OK for the cruise line to develop a 17-acre portion into what will be called Royal Beach Club Paradise Island when it opens in 2025. Cruise line executives and government officials, including Prime Minister Philip Davis, grabbed shovels along the white sandy beaches with turquoise water in the background.

“With the signing of the deal [for] Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, we embark on this project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” Davis said. “Signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry.”

The site is on the western edge of the strip of land that runs alongside the waterway through which ships brought nearly 4.5 million passengers in 2023, making Nassau the world’s busiest cruise port of call.

Royal Caribbean’s site expects about 2,000 visitors a day. They will be ferried over from the port but then return by land going through downtown Nassau.

It’s the first site for the smaller-sized beach club private destination Royal Caribbean plans to build out as opposed to its private island and resort destinations such as Perfect Day at Coco Cay in the Bahamas and Labadee on Haiti’s northern coast.

The Paradise Island spot will play up Bahamian culture alongside traditional offerings such as the beach, cabanas, four food and drink venues and three pools with swim-up bars. The site is being designed by a Bahamian architectural firm, and will give space for local artisan work for sale and live local music.

The project is a public-private partnership under which Bahamians are invited to own up to 49% of it. The plan is for locals to manage the experiences offered at the resort.

The cruise line will own 13 acres of the property while 4 acres go to Crown Land, which is a territorial area owned by the state. The cruise line will also pay a new tourism levy in exchange for the development.

“Marking more than the beginning of the construction process, today’s groundbreaking event symbolizes partnership, momentum and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community,” said Jason Liberty, the cruise line parent company Royal Caribbean Group’s President and CEO. “We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”

The additional attraction to the port augments a $300 million overhaul of the Nassau Cruise Port that had its grand opening last year.

Already the port has expanded its capacity to six ships, including the ability to dock three of the massive Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean at once.

The revamp includes a new terminal building, Junkanoo museum, 3,500-person amphitheater, living coral exhibit plus more entertainment, food, beverage and retail space. Once complete, the port’s capacity will jump to more than 33,000 passengers per day. It had been around 20,000 a day.

More in Travel

The new issue of Explore Florida & the Caribbean takes you places

Travel | National Go Birding Day: Visit Orlando Wetlands Park, a birder’s paradise

Theme Parks | Icon Park introduces fresh eats, more live music

Transportation | Avelo Airlines to test Miami-to-Orlando route for $46 one-way — faster and mostly cheaper than Brightline

U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

More From Forbes

American sportsmen discover new zealand’s hunting and fishing paradise.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

The world's largest red deer stags are the prized attraction for international hunters visiting New ... [+] Zealand.

Long before Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy put New Zealand on everyone’s travel list, hunters and anglers long coveted the island nation’s riches of fish and game. It is a sportsman’s Jurassic Park, where beasts grow to near-mythic dimensions and the stunning landscape inspired the fictitious land of Middle-earth.

New Zealand’s temperate climate, rich volcanic soils, lack of apex predators, and lush pasturelands proved the perfect habitat on which to introduce all manner of the Old World’s famous game—especially red deer.

New Zealand's many mountain-framed lakes provide stunning backdrops for many adventures.

In the early 1900s, the red deer, chamois from the Alps, fallow deer, the large-bodied sambar deer, reclusive rusa stags, Himalayan tahr (a mountain goat-like animal), elk from North America, and wild boar were all brought to New Zealand, a country that originally had but one species of mammal—a bat.

Essentially, game keepers and biologists saw New Zealand as a blank canvas on which to create a wild game masterpiece, so they did. Without natural predators nor severe winters to slow the population growth of the country’s new cast of horned and antlered creatures populations of many of the introduced species exploded. So prolific were the red deer, for instance, that a few decades ago game managers were forced to conduct extensive culling operations to bring the deer numbers back to levels the habitat could support.

The Best Romantic Comedy Of The Last Year Just Hit Netflix

Apple iphone 16 unique all new design promised in new report, rudy giuliani and mark meadows indicted in arizona fake electors case.

John Scurr poses with a pair of pukeko or swamphens, one of several indigenous game birds found in ... [+] New Zealand.

Today, these same red deer have become a popular draw for hunters from across the world—especially Americans. Thousands of U.S. hunters travel to New Zealand annually to partake in big game hunting.

“Most hunters know of New Zealand as the home of the world’s biggest stags,” says John Scurr , a Kiwi native and veteran hunting operator who specializes in arranging custom hunting and fishing experiences for all manner of the nation’s fish and game. “But we have many game species that are thriving here on both the North and South islands.”

Wine tours are just one of many diversions available to visiting sportsmen.

For Scurr, however, it’s about customizing diverse New Zealand tour packages that allow visiting hunters and anglers to immerse themselves in a wide range of attractions and activities that complement rod and gun adventures.

“New Zealand is a his and her (and family) destination, so if a hunter wants to bring a non-hunting spouse or friend here,” says Scurr, “we can arrange a wide assortment of activities from helicopter junkets to volcanos and glaciers, lake excursions, wine tours, glacier climbing, jet boating, hiking and biking, bungy jumping, parasailing, or drives through the countryside to explore any number of our inviting communities.”

New Zealand's wealth of breathtaking scenery is reason enough to visit.

Sportsmen’s dollars, then, are helping support the entire tourism economy, the nation’s second largest industry behind agriculture. In addition, hunting provides the financial incentive to keep lands wild, supporting myriad non-game species that depend on the same cover as deer and other game.

“Rather than sitting in a lodge for a week and then returning home,” says Scurr, “many of our sporting clients want to experience more of New Zealand before they go. And most of our hunting areas are conveniently located near other great attractions.”

The bustling and beautiful town of Wanaka with a population of some 12,000 is located on the shores of stunning Lake Wanaka, a 74-square-mile body of water, and is home base for Scurr’s South Island adventures.

Scurr poses with accomplished Oklahoma hunter Suzie Brewster and her giant stag.

“We put some of our hunters up in well-appointed lakeside condos,” he says, “and we dine in restaurants that are all within easy walking distance. And our hunting areas are located just a ten-minute drive from town. This has been a very popular package for us as non-hunting spouses can enjoy a wide range of amenities offered in Wanaka (spas, shops, restaurants, tours, art, and cultural opportunities) and then come together with their husbands after the hunt to share an evening on the town.”

Nearly as famous as its stag hunting, New Zealand is a celebrated fly-fishing destination for outsized rainbow and brown trout. The plethora of gin-clear rivers and lakes along with a handful of famous lodges, put the country high on most trout anglers’ must-visit list.

The inviting and bustling community of Wanaka is home base for Scurr's South Island offerings.

Adding some bird hunting to the menu is a simple proposition as well, for New Zealand has a mix of endemic and introduced game bird species including the highly prized (and striking) paradise duck.

For hunters who don’t want the hassle of flying with their own firearms, Scurr has a wide assortment of rifles and shotguns for rent. “We find that most hunters choose to use our guns because it saves a lot of headaches dealing with gun licensing and customs. But if a hunter would rather bring his favorite rifle, we’ll assist with the permit process as well.”

For Scurr, sharing the best of New Zealand is his life's passion.

For Scurr, it’s about sharing the wealth of sporting and recreational opportunities that his native New Zealand has to offer. “We have a unique landscape and with that comes special opportunities for visiting sportsmen and others,” he says. “And when someone books with us we want them to go home and share the experience with their friends as they plan their next adventure to New Zealand.”

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions