From pristine beaches and breathtaking views to delectable food and thrilling adventures, these 10 best islands in the world have something for everyone. Explore Crete’s distinct culture and history, the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand’s South Island or the gorgeous archipelago of Palawan.
From towering mountains to thriving marine life, these islands have it all. So pack your bags and plan a getaway to one of these amazing destinations.
1. Isle of Sky
The Isle of Skye, Scotland’s largest island, is an indented coastline of peninsulas and lochs that radiate from the mountainous interior. The landscape is awe-inspiring, with spiky pinnacles and rocky plateaus; rugged cliffs and serene bays; moody moorlands and magical pools.
Hikers will love the challenge of climbing the Cuillin Range and Trotternish Ridge; with 12 Munro peaks to bag there is much to enjoy here for rock-lovers. The Fairy Pools are a mystical highlight; translucent rock pools at the foot of waterfalls where legend has it that fairies may dance in the water.
The capital of Skye, Portree, is a quaint town to explore; it is also home to the Talisker Distillery where you can tour the production line and sample their delicious whiskey! If you can, time your trip to attend the Skye Show, a traditional festival that celebrates rural island life.
2. The Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands are known for their crystal clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches and lush green forests. The Mahatma Gandhi National Park offers a rare ecosystem which is home to various species of flora and fauna. Prior permission is required to enter the national park.
The North Andaman island is adorned with verdant forests and picturesque bays. It is also the site of Saddle Peak, Thullier and Mount Harriet which are among the tallest peaks in the union territory.
The Andaman islands offer a plethora of activities like boating, swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing all year round. Monsoons (May to September) and winters are the best time to visit as tourists get relief from the scorching summer heat and chilling cold respectively. Monsoons also bring along medium to heavy rains which enhance the scenic beauty of the island.
3. New Zealand’s South Island
The larger of New Zealand’s two islands is home to ice blue lakes that get their water from glaciers, towering mountains for hiking, and adventure sports for adrenaline junkies. For a more tranquil island escape, you can enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards or relax in a natural hot spring.
The southwest portion of the island is dominated by the awe-inspiring Fiordland National Park and steep-sided glacier-carved Milford Sound. On the northern end, Abel Tasman National Park features golden beaches and sculptured granite cliffs. Road-tripping through the Catlins region offers coastal adventures like visiting Cathedral Caves, which are actually sea-carved tunnels that stretch to 30m in height and 200m in length. Lake Tekapo is another must-see destination. Its vibrant blue-green color is a result of glacial flour, which is suspended in the water by the nearby glaciers.
4. Palawan
Known for its crystal-clear lagoons and reefs teeming with marine life, Palawan’s a naturalist’s paradise. But it’s also a place to relax, with pristine beaches and jungle-clad mountains that stretch for miles.
The northern section of the island, including El Nido and Coron, is dominated by karst formations and spectacular limestone cliffs. Here, resorts set up among the emerald waters, offering plenty of activities both on and off-water.
Coron Island is home to dramatic sights like Kayangan Lake, a freshwater lagoon that’s held sacred by local Tagbanua people. This is a great spot for swimming, kayaking and spotting wildlife, with jungle-clad karsts towering over the water. It’s also been called the cleanest lake in Asia! This is a must-visit for any Palawan adventure.
5. The Whitsunday Islands
The 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays are gorgeous from the water but their beauty becomes even more stunning when viewed from above. Take a scenic flight and see rocky bays, expansive coral reefs and pretty stretches of beach from an entirely new perspective. Some of the reefs even resemble hearts, making the region an ideal destination for engagements and marriage proposals.
Daydream Island is the smallest of the Whitsunday Islands and home to the world class Daydream Island Resort which recently underwent a multi million dollar facelift. This family friendly destination is a popular choice for day trippers and offers guests a luxurious beachside escape.
Scenic hikes to hill inlet are also a highlight on the island. For dinner, sample the fresh seafood on offer at one of the many restaurants dotted around the island where you can expect to be joined by wild cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets.
6. The Maldives
The pristine waters of this remote, fragile paradise are famous around the world and there’s plenty to do in terms of water-based activities. Explore the marine life from a snorkel or scuba diving mask, try your hand at paddle boarding or ride a speedboat to get some incredible pictures.
The high season in the Maldives is December to March, but it’s possible to visit at other times of year too. May to October is a little rainier, but it’s still warm and the resorts tend to be slightly quieter.
One of the best things to do in The Maldives is take a sunset cruise on a local dhoni. It’s an excellent opportunity to see the beautiful Maldivian landscape and the dolphins. The local music and dance traditions are worth checking out too. A popular performance is a bodu beru, which features drumming on a coconut shell – the actual ‘bodu’ beru – and a traditional dance.
7. Aruba
With gorgeous beaches, beautiful architecture, and bustling festivals, Aruba is a vibrant Caribbean paradise. Whether you’re looking for serene natural aloe or an ever-evolving street art scene, this island has something for everyone.
Get a taste of local art in colorful San Nicolas, known as the “sunrise city.” Here, mural-adorned streets are the highlight of this up-and-coming neighborhood and make for a unique backdrop to try Aruban cuisine like johnnycakes, fried plantains, and spicy saco.
The ruins of the Bushiribana Gold Mill are also worth checking out, as are the natural pool at Conchi and the two beaches on Renaissance island—including one where you can spot friendly flamingos. The other beach, Malmok, is a dramatic stretch of sandy beach with rocky coastline views and a natural pool carved from limestone. The nearby Arikok National Park features cactus-covered hills, beaches, and wildlife like the rare white-tailed deer.
8. Croatia
With dazzling coral reefs and secluded beaches, this group of islands has much to offer. The locals love visitors and are proud of their natural environment, which is protected as a national park. Respecting their customs and avoiding noisy behaviour will help your experience here.
Corsica is technically French but is infused with Italian flair. Its idyllic beaches are backed by picturesque villages and cathedrals, while rare plants and animals can be spotted on nature trails.
Take part in a range of activities on Obonjan, a boutique adults-only glamping destination that’s open for the long European summer. Guests can participate as much or as little as they like, with a programme that includes yoga, stargazing, and cookery classes. Or, for a more action-packed adventure, head to the Cetina River for rafting. The river has gentle parts as well as third-grade rapids, so you can choose your level of challenge.
9. Ibiza
Ibiza draws millions of visitors each year eager to see if the pictures they’ve seen online really look that beautiful in person. With a slew of beaches and coves with crystal-clear waters, Ibiza has a little something for everyone.
Work on your tan and relax by the sea, wander through boho markets or dance until dawn in one of the world-famous nightclubs. There is so much to do on this island, you’ll never get bored!
Explore the waterfront, port and backstreets of enchanting Eivissa (Ibiza’s old town) on a bike tour. Or learn about the island’s history at Puig des Molins, a medieval necropolis that was originally built by Phoenicians before being taken over by the Punics and Romans. It even has some of its original cannons!
10. Bali
Known as the “Island of the Gods”. The sand and surf are of course world famous but there’s also beautiful rice paddies, spectacular temples and thriving wildlife habitats.
The island’s cultural heritage is a draw, with Balinese painting and music a prominent feature of its many temples. You can also visit the Ubud Monkey Forest or Mason Elephant Park for some great animal encounters.
Another popular activity is to explore the islands’ stunning waterfalls such as Sekumpul and Banyumala Twin Waterfalls. Or head to the clifftop Uluwatu Temple, which stands 70 meters above sea level. You can also try your hand at scuba diving and snorkelling off the coast of Bali’s offshore island Nusa Penida to see the beautiful marine life in the clear blue waters. Alternatively, you can enjoy some of the country’s fun cafe culture and beach bars.
