22 of the Most Beautiful Islands in the World
Why We All Love Tropical Islands
Everyone longs for that fantastic remote island getaway. A vacation to remember, one that is far away from the everyday rat race of modern society. A holiday where you can relax beachfront and stare off into the wild blue yonder and just be one with your thoughts. Where the palm trees sway in the whistling tropical breezes and a fruity cocktail awaits your eager lips. A place where you can take it slow and enjoy all the wonder that this life has to offer. Where the stresses and thoughts of paying bills and keeping up with the Jones’ all evaporate from your consciousness. Places that were once so remote and isolated that they were unreachable to the everyday person. But all this can be achieved if you really want it. Whether you're looking for a luxurious 5-star resort or a simple beachside cabana, there's a perfect tropical island retreat for everyone.
Here is our list of 22 of the Most Beautiful Islands in the World
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Mauritius
Mauritius
If you asked around, most people would probably have never heard of Mauritius. This lesser-known tropical island country is located off the east coast of Africa. It is popular among people in the know, for its sapphire waters, white sand beaches, and luxurious resorts. Mauritius is more than just the beach, there’s plenty of hiking in the forests and mountains as well as diving and snorkeling in the ocean. You can hire a boat for an excursion to the nearby islands. Mauritius provides excellent wildlife watching and has some unique flora and fauna.
Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia
The lush tropical island paradise known as Saint Lucia is small in size and population but has enough cultural and natural wonders to keep you busy. It is a friendly and down-to-earth place that is teeming with wild beauty.
Known for its gorgeously colorful Caribbean-style resorts and eco-cabin getaways. For nature lovers, you can hike to one of the many waterfalls that are wonderfully embraced by lush the jungle. You can also climb up to the tops of volcanoes or go swimming and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Galapagos Islands
Known as the birthplace of Darwin`s evolution theory, the Galapagos Islands are a habitat for the unique creatures that call the islands home. These animals inspired Darwin and helped add evidence to his, at first controversial theory.
The islands are volcanic in nature and mostly devoid of vegetation. There is development on the islands, which is geared towards the tourist economy.
The islands are very isolated laying 900 km from the closest landmass, which would be Ecuador. The unique biodiversity is what drives most tourism and visitors can check out the giant tortoises and marine iguanas.
Palawan, Philippines
Palawan
Palawan, Philippines has become world-famous for its spectacular islands and their sharp limestone peaks. With blue seascapes that rival anywhere else on the planet. Nicknamed “the Last Frontier of the Philippines”. Palawan is 650km and stretches all the way to Borneo in Indonesia. Palawan is covered in tropical rainforests and is abundant in wildlife, though nowadays many of those species are endangered.
The islands are presently booming with tourism, but it is still relatively unknown to the average person. The same is also with Vietnam, where a lot of foreigners come lately for tourism and some of them even decided to move there. The pristine interiors of the rainforest remain relatively untouched and unexplored. In the northern parts of the islands, the most popular spots are, and those would be El Nido and Coron.
Easter Island, Chile
Easter Island
A mysterious and mythological past could provide the perfect description of Easter Island. It is one of the most isolated islands on Earth and is a whopping 3700km from its home country of Chile. Perhaps most well recognized for its ancient stone statues called the moai, which were constructed by the Rapa Nui, the native Polynesian inhabitants of the island.
Diving, snorkeling, and surfing are some of the other activities on Easter Island. There are also a couple of large sandy beaches to relax on.
Seychelles
Seychelles
Seychelles is Mother Nature`s perfect experiment, a picturesque paradise whose islands lie strewn across the Indian Ocean. Awe-inspiring beaches are the main attraction of Seychelles. Gorgeous ribbons of pure white sand blanketed by clear blue waters with a background of lush tropical landscapes. Few places on the planet earth provide the kind of warm waters and abundant marine life that Seychelles do. Mahé is the busiest island, with the capital of Victoria. If you take a boat further out, there are more remote islands to be explored. Seychelles is also an island known as an offshore destination for foreign investors who benefit from the opportunities met there.
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca
Mallorca is one of the most sought-after Mediterranean island destinations and for good reason. It has a year-round sunny climate, near-perfect beaches with azure water, and large mountainous areas with quaint historic villages and towns.
Mallorca sits atop the list of Europe's most incredible places with its stunning coastline and immense mountain ranges. Coves with white sand beaches like Cala Boquer and Platja de Formentor are numerous all around the island.
For hikers and cyclists, the Serra de Tramuntana's dramatic persona offers up a good challenge. Wherever you plan to spend your vacation in Mallorca, surely you won’t be disappointed. Intriguing hilltop monasteries sit high above the ancient vineyards and fincas below.
All around the island you will find old houses and estates in ruins and nowadays revamping them for vacation rentals is a popular growing trend.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora
Bora Bora could be described as perfect and if you don’t think so, then shame on you. From the air, the water shows off its intense color profile. Situated in a dreamlike setting, Bora Bora is a postcard paradise. There are also action-packed adventures like diving, snorkeling, and hiking. Bora Bora is generally a quiet and laid-back island, so don`t expect too many wild parties. Along with all of the fancy five-star resorts, they also have a few mid-range hotels and vacation rentals for more budget-friendly travelers.
Madagascar
Madagascar
Madagascar is unlike anywhere else in Africa or Asia and has its own unique history and blend of cultures. There are many ethnic groups in Madagascar including Southeast Asian, East African, Arab, Indian and European ancestry.
Madagascar is so diverse in plants and animals that 5% of all known species in the world can be found on the island. The star of the island is the lemur, which can be found nowhere else on earth. Aside from lemurs, there are many strange creatures and plants that exist only on the island of Madagascar.
Madagascar is the world’s fourth-largest island and its infrastructure is poor, so getting around could get challenging, but that is all part of the adventure. There are remote national parks that are relatively empty receiving mere hundreds of visitors a year and there are some resorts so remote that you need to take a plane or boat to get there. Other activities include; hiking, diving, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Fantastic scenes of eco-diversity can be found in Madagascar and you can go from lush rainforest to the desert in just a few hours. Nicknamed the Red Island due to its infamous red soil found. The island has over 5000 km of coastline, so the beach is never too far away.
Azores, Portugal
The Azores
The Azores are volcanic in nature and lie directly on the tectonic plates, which has forged the mighty calderas that have sprung up from the depths of the ocean.
The Azores are an island destination that remains relatively unknown to the general public but don’t let that fool you, the Azores are superb in their beauty and adventure.
This far-out archipelago is smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and is an autonomous region of Portugal. In recent years the islands have seen an influx of tourism and this should not come as a surprise given the dramatic setting of this island nation.
Canary Islands, Spain
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are like a slice of the African Sahara dropped into the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. A place where you can explore the pine forests of Gran Canaria and its mountainous interior or visit the waterfalls of La Palma or the lush greenery of La Gomera’s Parque Nacional de Garajonay. The Canary Islands have warm year-round temperatures that attract plenty of tourists who are trying to escape the winter chill.
There are many hiking trails that criss-cross the islands, from mellow coastal walks to laborious mountain treks. And if hiking is not your thing, well there is plenty of relaxation to be had in the Canaries. The beaches on the islands are numerous and spectacular from rolling dunes to sandy arcs and warm welcoming water.
The Canary Islands are technically part of Spain, but keep a separate and proud culture all to their selves.
North island New Zealand
North Island, New Zealand
Auckland is the largest city on New Zealand’s North Island and is a wonderful cosmopolitan area with lovely temperatures year-round. Head south towards Rotorua and enjoy incredible scenery the whole way.
The North Island has a great combination of forests, mountains, and beaches for unlimited adventures. In Northland, the Coromandel Peninsula offers wild surf beaches and you can spend some time exploring the many trails of the Coromandel Forest Park.
The North Island has many indigenous Māori people, who are of Polynesian descent and they make up a high percentage of the island`s population.
Maldives
Maldives
Unrivaled stunning white-sand beaches and incredible marine underworld make the Maldives the vacation destination of a lifetime.
The Maldives is home to some of the best beaches on the planet and over 1,200 islands. Though remote, this heavenly island country brings in over 1 million visitors per year.
The clear waters of Maldives offer magnificent snorkeling or scuba diving experiences. There is a rich variety of brightly colored tropical fish living in the reef. In the deep water, you can spot manta rays, turtles, sharks, and the world’s largest fish, the whale shark.
The Maldives has undergone an uptick in popularity within the last 10 years and uninhabited islands have been opened to tourism. Travelers don`t have to worry about high prices as vacation rentals are available at more affordable rates than the numerous luxury resorts.
New Caledonia, France
New Caledonia
New Caledonia is a uniquely attractive tropical playground and has been nicknamed the “Isle of Pines”, for its tropical variety of pine trees that are found nowhere else in the world. It has a charming mixture of French and Melanesian cultures. Long breathtaking beaches lined with cozy cafes and bars. Kayaking provides you with the ability to explore this remote island up close and personal.
Hawaii, USA
Hawaii
It's not hard to imagine why Hawaii has become the epitome of paradise with its incredible tropical islands scattered in the cobalt-blue Pacific Ocean. Daily sunrises and sunsets are so spectacular that they will make you appreciate every second you have on these lovely islands.
Hawaii maintains its own distinct cultural identity that is different from the mainland USA and a truly vibrant island lifestyle is very evident when you visit. Hawaii has a strong multicultural heritage, but the original inhabitants were descendants of Polynesians. Europeans, Americans, and Asian immigrants have now mixed in with the indigenous population and created modern-day Hawaiians, or Hapa, as they are called in the Hawaiian language.
Whether it's surfing, swimming, fishing or picnicking encounters with nature are a must on the Hawaiian Islands as well as learning love and respect for the land. You can hike ancient lava flows and dive off of high sea cliffs. Surfing is an ancient Hawaiian pastime and is one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii.
Dominica
Dominica
Dominica is so green and thick with vegetation that it has been called ‘the nature island,' Dominica draws in off-grid lovers and eco-adventurers with fun adventures like the boiling lake, majestic volcanoes, hot springs, diving, and the Waitukubuli Trail, which is a long-distance hiking trail.
On the island country of Dominica, English is the first language and many inhabitants also speak Dominican Creole French. It is safe to say that Dominica is off the beaten path and for the average person, who can’t charter a private flight, the island has to be reached by ferry or boat coming from the neighboring islands. This keeps any major forms of tourism away from the island's traditions and Dominica is still very much wild and has a culture that immerses itself in nature.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini
Santorini is a world-famous member of the Greek islands, an absolute mind-blower of an island, which is easily recognizable for its whitewashed buildings perched high atop rocky cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. With its dazzling panoramas, jaw-dropping sunsets, and attractive sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why the island is on top of so many tourists’ bucket lists.
Santorini can be a really expensive holiday destination, especially in the north of the island where the luxurious cliffside resorts are located. Don’t let that deter you from going to Santorini because the east coast offers a more affordable and relaxed vacation. There are gorgeous multicolored beaches with the Red Beach being one of the most popular
Santorini is rich with history and has been occupied by great civilizations for thousands of years, so if you're a history fanatic this Greek island is definitely for you.
Palau
Palau
The Republic of Palau is a magical little island nation that contains around 340 islands and a population of only 17,907 people. Palau remains largely unknown to the general public and has not been bothered by commercial tourism, yet. Diving is the favorite pastime on the islands and they have some amazing dive sites. The water surrounding the islands has been nicknamed 'the underwater Serengeti' for the insane plethora of marine wildlife.
You can also partake in off-road driving through the jungle where you will see a number of WWII relics.
Getting to Palau is not easy and the island remains isolated and basically cut off from the outside world and for that reason, it is an attractive destination for any adventure tourists, who like their trips to be out of the ordinary.
Malta
Malta
Malta is an island archipelago nation packed with prehistoric temples, immense cliffs, hidden coves, awesome diving, and deep history.
Malta is full of prehistoric sites that were constructed by ancient temple builders, who left many artifacts behind. Perhaps the most extraordinary sight of all is the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a 5000-year-old necropolis carved out of the earth.
Malta's landscape consists of rocky coastlines with limestone cliffs with large sheltered bays that hold gloriously clear water and fine red sands. Snorkelers and divers will have their hands full with all the underwater adventures there are to be had as well.
Malta has a mixture of cultures that have come together over the generations to make something unique. The Maltese people are nice and friendly, so asking for help or directions should be fairly easy. If you wander off into the countryside you will find small villages that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Malta is also a country that offers good conditions for starting a business and was chosen by many foreign investors who wanted to benefit from a taxation point of view.
Bali, Indonesia
Bail
Bali has become known the world over for its richly diverse culture and environment. Bali is a very spiritually centered place where nearly everything has spiritual value. The Balinese are very warm, friendly, and in general very kind people.
Bali’s landscape is dominated by ominous volcanoes with the tallest peak being Gunung Agung.
Bali can be cheap and backpacker-friendly, but Bali can also be family-friendly and renting an amazing tropical pool house, that can fit the whole family is no problem. Ubud has the main airport and is the hub of Bali and is usually where you will start your journey around the island.
Fiji
Fiji
Memorizing pure white sands, perfect tropical vegetation, and waters so blue you won’t believe your eyes. On the islands of the Mamanucas and Yasawas, Fiji you’ll find beaches that are the poster child for paradise, attracting thousands of visitors eager to discover these magnificent beauties.
Fiji has ample hiking as well as wildlife watching, especially on the island of Taveuni, which is also known as ‘The Garden Island’ for its thick evergreen rain forests.
With more than 1500 species of fish and other sea creatures, Fiji’s underwater world is well worth the time and effort. Divers and snorkelers will have plenty to explore in these amazing ocean sanctuaries.
The Fijian people are an open and welcoming culture. Fijians are also very proud people who are known for their hospitality and warmth, which makes it easy to communicate and socialize with the locals.
Bermuda, United Kingdom
Bermuda
Surrounded by the balmy waters of the blue Sargasso Sea, is the small chain of islands that is known as Bermuda. The islands of Bermuda are a small archipelago and are just 20 miles long by 2 miles wide. One of the most popular attractions is the amazing pink sand beach. The islands are dotted with many pastel-colored houses and beachfront mansions backed by lovely tropical greenery. Bermuda gives off a very British feel, but with a warm tropical vibe mixed in with North American, African, Portuguese, and West Indian influences.
Dominican Republic
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean on the island of Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic mesmerizes visitors with its unrivaled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. As I delve into this enchanting paradise, I am transported to a world where pristine beaches, lush mountains, and captivating history meld together to create a truly unforgettable experience. While visiting the Dominican Republic we highly recommend checking out Ocean Adventures Punta Cana for catamaran and snorkeling adventures.
If you're looking to explore more, consider traveling to puerto plata from punta cana for another stunning beach experience. Whether it's the world-renowned Punta Cana, the picturesque sands of Bavaro, or the secluded shores of Playa Rincon, each beach has a unique allure. As I stroll along the powdery white sand, with turquoise waters lapping at my feet, I am reminded of the true meaning of paradise. Use this travel guide as a resource to help you plan your perfect Dominican Republic vacation. It might just be the best decision you make this year.
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