Island holidays can be full of exciting activities, beautiful beaches, and interesting cultures. Some islands in the world are great for excitement and water sports, while others are a great place to relax. But the best places have both of these things.
Top 10 islands in the world
1. Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs for 1,400 miles off the northeastern coast of Australia. It is home to almost 3,000 coral reefs, which is more than anywhere else’s islands in the world. It is also home to a group of about 900 islands . A reader who has stayed on Hamilton Island more than once said, “The natural beauty of the area is unmatched. Just love Australia’s island and its people.
2. Maldives
There are 1,192 islands that make up the Maldives, but only 200 of them are settled right now. The Maldives are known for having about 3 percent of the world’s reefs. They also have clear emerald waters, luxurious overwater bungalows, and offer tourists a quiet place to relax. One reader said that it’s “heaven on Earth.” The dry season, which usually lasts from November to April, is the best time to go.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has something for everyone, from the busy streets of Ubud to the hip beach clubs of Seminyak to the quiet coves of the north shore. Bali, which is also known as the “Island of the Gods,” is famous for its world-class resorts, luxury spas, and health retreats. Spirituality and tradition run deep on the island, so tourists can also get a taste of the island’s culture by visiting ancient Hindu temples, taking part in a melukat ceremony, or watching a traditional dance performance.
4. Madeira, Portugal
On the Portuguese island of Madeira, travelers can enjoy beautiful views everywhere they go. This is true whether they are hiking along the famous levadas (irrigation channels), visiting the beautiful Laurissilva Forest, or just taking in the views from Pico do Areeiro. One reader said, “From rocky beaches to misty mountains, the island has something for everyone.” And no trip would be complete without trying some of the island’s famous fortified wine and fresh fish.
5. Phuket, Thailand
This tropical paradise is called the “Pearl of the Andaman Sea” because it has beautiful white-sand beaches, turquoise seas that are crystal clear, and endless things to do. Travelers can relax and soak up the sun on the world-famous beaches or do more outdoorsy things like snorkeling around the colorful coral reefs and exploring the secret coves. The close Phi Phi Islands are a two-hour boat ride from Phuket, which is known for its nightlife. Amanpuri, one of the many hotels, was chosen by readers to be the third best resort in Southeast Asia this year.
6. Skye and the Hebrides, Scotland
Off the west coast of Scotland is an island with white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and old ruins. Skye is known as the “Misty Isle,” and it has beautiful lochs, hills, and mountains. One person who has been there said that it is “nature at its best.” Whisky lovers can go on a factory tour to try the famous Scottish spirits, and music fans can go to a local pub for a cèilidh, which is like a Gaelic jam session.
7. Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui is tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand. It has beautiful beaches, a rich culture, and luxury places to stay. You can relax on beaches like Chaweng and Lamai, or you can learn about the spiritual customs of the island at Wat Plai Laem or the Big Buddha Temple. And there’s no better place than the busy night markets to see how people live there. One reader said that Koh Samui is “the most beautiful and paradisiacal island on the planet.” Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort readers’ best places to stay are resorts in Southeast Asia.
8. The Azores, Portugal
Some people call the Azores, which are in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the “Hawaii of Europe.” The group is made up of nine lush, volcanic islands, and each one is different. Fans of nature will love So Miguel’s beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and woods. Hiking trails lead to beautiful spots like the Sete Cidades crater, where people can look at the twin lakes’ different colors. Fresh seafood like rockfish and barracuda, So Jorge cheese, and sweet treats like filhóses are just some of the best things to eat in the area.
9. Golden Isles, Georgia
The Georgia Golden Isles, which include Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Sea Island, are a fascinating place to visit because of their beautiful beaches, natural scenery, and long past. The historic mansions on Jekyll Island, which was once a private retreat for America’s richest families, give a glimpse into the rich Gilded Age. Little St. Simons Island is a secluded paradise with a wide range of landscapes and unspoiled beaches. It’s a great place for nature lovers to get away from it all. Sea Island, on the other hand, is known for its high-end resorts, which have features like golf courses, spas, and fine dining. On St. Simons Island, there is a cute beach town with a beautiful lighthouse and a lively arts scene.
10. Fiji Islands, Fiji
These islands are tucked away in the South Pacific’s clear seas. They have lush tropical landscapes and lively coral reefs. Fiji is a slice of paradise for everyone, but cliff jumping, zip lining, swimming, and scuba diving fans will love it the most. Aside from its beaches, tourists can learn about the culture by going to local crafts markets and taking part in traditional kava ceremonies.
