28 Best Tropical Islands In The World To Explore
We are always busy in our lives and always looking for a good escape. I don’t know about you but for me whenever I want peace of mind I look for a place with minimum noise and complete calmness because that helps in re-energizing my body and soul and what better than visiting the best tropical islands in the world?
There are so many beautiful places in the world that it becomes really difficult to choose which among these is the best tropical island vacation destination.
But for me the most important factors are, it should be very clean with blue or green water, should be quiet, fun things to do like snorkeling, boating and similar kinds of stuff, very good food, drinks and of course a nice place to stay.
These 28 tropical islands cover all of the above and more.
Let’s find out
28 Most Beautiful Tropical Islands In The World
1.Bora Bora
A small island Bora Bora is a beautiful tropical island located in French Polynesia. I had heard about it through my friends and they had really nice things to say about it and since then it was at the top of my bucket list.
It is a paradise on earth and I am not joking it really is, turquoise lagoon is so clean and mesmerizing. Surrounded by plenty of coconut trees it is a major hit among tourists. A perfect place for snorkeling, and scuba diving, you can see the fishes and turtles easily. It serves amazing seafood and also other different delicious cuisines. It is a great hiking location.
If money is not a constraint for you, try over-the-water bungalows, it is completely worth the money.
Four Season Resort and Conrad Bora Bora are the two major tropical islands resort here. I would suggest you hire a motorboat and explore the island.
Motu Marfo is a new man-made island that catches a lot of attention from tourists. We had lunch at Matira Beach Restaurant and the food was awesome.
Related: Best Restaurants In Bora Bora
2. Ko Lipe
Located in Thailand, Ko Lipe is an island that is known for its beautiful sandy beaches which include Pattaya beach, Hat Pramong beach also called Sunset Beach and Hat Chao Ley also called Sunrise Beach. These three are the most popular beaches. It is known for diving and snorkeling and beautiful boat trips.
Pattaya Beach is very popular for its vibrant nightlife. The best time to visit this island is between November and March. When you visit Ko Lipe you must visit Ko Dang Island which is only 10 minutes from Ko Lipe. You can go there by boat. You must see Pirate Waterfall there. It is one of the best tropical places to visit.
3.Sardinia
It is a large Italian island known for pristine beaches, and hiking trails. The capital Cagliari has beautiful Poetto beach. Cagliari Cathedral is also popular here. I simply loved Torre di Pixinni because of the turquoise water. Located in South Sardinia, Sant’Antioco and San Pietro islands are truly spectacular. In northern Sardinia, Costa Smeralda is a popular tourist spot.
Is Arutas is a beautiful beach in Sardinia. I loved spending time here. If you are looking for hiking then visit Gola Su Gorropu which is a beautiful gorge in Sardinia. Bosa is a beautiful town in Sardinia that has museums, a castle, and a Bosa cathedral.
4.San Blas Islands
It is a group of 365 islands located in Panama. A lot of tourists visit this place for sailing, diving, boat tours, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Take the day trip to the San Blas Islands. The best time to visit San Blas Islands is between January and May.
5.The Bahamas
I had seen the Bahamas is mentioned in a lot of movies and I was always curious to know why it is so popular for a movie location and so I decided no matter what I will visit and experience it and so I did. The peak season is from December to April.
It truly lives up to the expectations. With more than 700 islands it is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world. I visited Nassau, the capital of Bahamas, and saw the most famous The Atlantis Paradise Island, its breathtakingly beautiful, and Pirates Of Nassau Museum. Exuma with 365 cays is another place to watch out for. The cruise tour with exotic food will make your trip extra special.
Grand Bahamas and Lucayan National Park are not to be missed. You can feed nurse sharks at Compass Cay.
If you want to shop then you must visit Port Lucaya Marketplace. Cable Beach is the best place for kayaking. If you want to experience the most scenic island in the Bahamas then head to Long Island. It is a great place for diving. To swim with dolphins visit Blue Lagoon Island.
The Bahamas offers you amazing water sports, boating, different fun activities, sightseeing, private flying, and amazing nightlife. To view, the long pink sand beaches visit Harbor Island.
Read:
Hikes In Bahamas-The Complete Guide
Ultimate Destinations In Bahamas
6.Fiji
Fiji has more than 325 islands. Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are the two most popular islands and the largest and second-largest Fiji islands respectively. It is known for beautiful palm beaches and lagoons. The beaches are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and diving.
Bouma National Heritage Park is a great hiking experience. Yasawa Group which has 20 islands is one of the most sought-after places. October to November is considered the best time to visit Fiji. Surfing and skydiving are the major adventurous sport here. Taveuni Island and Denarau Island are the two other tourist attractions. Mamanuca Islands are a must-see.
7.Canary Islands
Tenerife is the largest island in Canary and the carnival is popular here which is held in February every year. The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago and popular for black and white sand beaches. Roque de Agando in La Gomera Island is one of the most beautiful rock formations. El Hierro has few beautiful hiking trails. Gran Canaria also has beautiful hiking trails and white sand beaches.
Lobos Island has the best-looking beaches. Teide National Park is a must-see on the Canary Islands. Fuerteventura has beautiful white sand beaches and it is a big holiday destination.
8.Saint Barthelemy
A Caribbean island, St. Barts is known for beautiful sandy beaches. The island is famous for its delicious French and other cuisines. If you are looking for windsurfing or snorkeling or any water sport then you must visit the beautiful Baie-de St-Jean beach. People who want a quiet beach can head to Anse des Flamands.
The capital of St. Barts or Saint Barthelemy is Gustavia which has some amazing shopping malls and restaurants.
9.Bali
It is located in Indonesia and also known as the Land Of Gods. It is a tourist delight as you get to do all the things you ever desire in your life.
Bali is famous for its beaches, architecture, sculptor, traditional dance, and rich culture. Kuta beach is spectacular. It is also called Sunset Beach.
Some of the most famous beaches in Bali include Mushroom beach, Jimbaran bay. Bali has both white and black sand beaches which makes it extra special. The beaches are a delight for people who love surfing. Bali Swing is the best Instagram spot.
Lombok island located to the east of Bali is also a delight to watch especially for surfing enthusiasts. Visit Bali between April To October as that is considered the best time. The spa treatment here is first-rate.
Bali Safari And Marine Park is another adventurous place to go. Seminyak and Sanur are other two popular places in Bali.
Mount Batur is a great volcano hike. It is completely safe and takes around 2 hours to hike. You must go to Ubud which is only 2 hours drive from Bali. There are ancient temples, art, and museums in Ubud.
You must see Gili Island also which is 3 hours from Bali. You can hop on a fast boat to reach there.
Book Your Tour–Northern Charm-Lake Bratan, Handara Gate, Waterfall, and Swing
10.Naxos
Naxos is a Greek Island known for pristine beaches. It is the biggest island of the Cyclades Island group. Portara is a historical landmark in Naxos. Agios Prokopios is a beautiful beach around 6 kilometers from Naxos town. Palak Beach is another beautiful beach in Naxos. Mount Zas is a perfect place for hiking.
11.Tahiti
Located in French Polynesia, Tahiti is one of the most popular honey destinations in the world. La Plage de Maui is a beautiful clean beach here. Between May and October is the best time to visit Tahiti. Papenoo beach is one of the major highlights of Tahiti island. Museum Of Tahiti And Her Island is a great museum that teaches you about the archipelago.
Faarumai water fall is simply spectacular. Tahiti is a great place for surfing and scuba diving. The food is outstanding.
11.Seychelles
When we talk of the best tropical islands in the world how can we forget Seychelles? Consisting of 115 islands this place has a lot to offer; beaches, amazing food, water sports, scuba diving, and a lot of amazing places to visit.
Anse Lazio beach is perfect for diving and snorkeling and if you want to see giant tortoises go to Curieuse which is a small island. The best time to see this island is between April-May. You will love the boat tour on Mahe Island. La Digue is also a beautiful island too.
12.Galapagos Islands
Located around 900 km from Ecuador, it is one of the most beautiful tropical islands to visit. It is known for wild species. It is a great place for snorkeling and diving. Santa Cruz island is the most popular Galapagos Islands. You must see El Chato Tortoise Reserve here. Isabela Island is the largest island in Galapagos and it is a must-visit.
13.The Island Of Hawaii
It is also called Big Island and it is the largest US island. There are so many beautiful places to see in Hawaii like Oahu, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, Pearl Harbor Museum, Kauai, Akaka Falls, Hanalei Bay, Maui, Waimea Canyon, and many more. Hawaii is one of the largest producers of macadamia nuts. Road to Hana is one of the most interesting scenic drives.
Haleakala National Park and Diamond Head are popular destinations in Hawaii. There are beautiful beaches here. Waikiki is one of the best beaches for snorkeling and diving. There are 900 coffee farms in Hawaii.
14.Maldives
Located in South Asia, Maldives is one of the most popular islands in Asia and the lowest and flattest country in the world. It is a hit with tourists because of its amazing culture and delicious food. There are 1192 beautiful islands in the Maldives. You should visit the Maldives between November-April as this is considered the best time.
The beaches are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving and the white sand beaches make it look surreal. Maaya Thila cove is a great place for scuba diving. You must see Glowing Beach on Vaadhoo Island, it is surreal. If you have a good budget there are lots of amazing luxury resorts and they provide top-quality service.
Six Sense Laamu is a popular 5 star hotel here. If you want to do water skiing then visit Meeru Island.
Hulhumale is a man-made island that is very famous here and looks beautiful at sunset. Meeru Island is my favorite island here. Maafushi island is perfect for snorkeling. Maafushi hotels serve amazing food and service.
15.Saint Lucia
Located in West Indies, it is one of the most beautiful islands. Rodney Bay is a beautiful scenic spot. Reduit beach is one of the most loved beaches in Saint Lucia. Anse Chastanet beach is great for snorkeling and diving. Diamond Falls Botanical Garden is simply spectacular. Marigot Bay is one of the most popular places in Saint Lucia.
Pitons are the two volcanic mountains and these are major attractions here.
16.Cook Islands
Located around 2000 miles from New Zealand, this South Pacific island country comprises 15 beautiful islands. Aitutaki is a beautiful island in Cooks Islands. It is famous for turquoise-colored lagoons, volcanic peaks, and kayaking. One Foot Island or Tapuaetai is also one of the most beautiful islands here. Rarotonga is the largest island in the Cook Islands. The best time to visit is between October and November.
Cross Island Trak is a great place for hiking in Rarotonga. If you want to know about the marine creatures of Cook Islands then visit Discover Marine Wildlife & Eco Centre museum.
17.Palawan
It is one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the Philippines. The best time to visit is February and March. Because of the white beaches and amazing views, it attracts a lot of visitors. The pristine lakes and wildlife are two major attractions here.
El Nido and Coron Island are two of my favorite islands here and are surrounded by mountains and a delight for hikers.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a long cave with an underground river. If you like to go on a safari you must visit Calauit island. Kayangan lake has the countries cleanest water. Nacpan beach offers a spectacular sunset view.
Book Your Tour–Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Full-day Island Hopping Tour
Read:
Cheapest Tropical Vacation Destinations In The World-Top 11
18.Curacao
This Dutch Caribbean island is one of the most popular Caribbean islands. The island has beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. It is a very popular scuba diving destination. Playa Lagun, Blue Bay, and Cas Abao are beautiful beaches. Shete Boka National Park has some splendid locations.
Handelskade is a perfect place to get pictures for Instagram and certainly one of the best tropical islands.
19.Azores
Comprises of 9 islands Azores is a great place for hiking, diving, surfing, and seeing beautiful landscapes. It is located in Portugal. Sao Miguel is one of the popular islands of Azores. Lagoa Do Fogo is a beautiful lake in Sao Miguel. Marina da Horta offers an amazing scenic view. Mount Pico is the highest mountain in the Azores.
Whale watching is another opportunity in Azores. You can see blue whale during Spring.
20.Bermuda
Famous for pink sand beaches Bermuda is located in the North Atlantic Ocean.
The food is delicious here and though Bermuda is very expensive still if you have a limited budget you can find your way.
Elbow beach is my favorite beach here and it is perfect for snorkeling. If you have a good budget Cambridge beach is a must for you.
I also went to Horseshoe bay, it is very calm and quiet out there.
Crystal cave which is around 490 m long is a major hit among tourists. Blue Hole Park is spectacular. Bermuda Aquarium, Museum And Zoo will be loved by kids and adults alike.
Book Your Tour–Bermuda Private Tour
21.Perhentian Islands
These are beautiful islands in Malaysia. There are two major islands here Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. You can do snorkeling in this crystal clear blue water or go jungle trekking. If you are a fan of the fire show you must visit Bubu Lone Beach. The best time to visit this island is between March and November.
22.Santorini
This Greek island is one of the most popular places for tourists because of its pristine beaches and surreal scenic beauty. Oia offers a spectacular view. Santo Wines is a beautiful winery that is known for delightful wines and exquisite cuisines. Akrotiri Lighthouse offers a spectacular view. Fira is a must-see especially the Archaeological Museum Of Thera. The white villas make the entire island look so beautiful.
Ancient Thira is a great historical landmark. Megalochori is a small village but you will love to see the culture and everything there. Perissa black sand beaches is another tourist attraction. The best time to visit Santorini is between September to October.
23.Phi Phi Island
Located in Krabi province, it is one of the most popular islands in Thailand shown in a number of Hollywood movies. It is the most popular destination in Phuket.
Ko Phi Phi Don And Ko Phi Phi Leh are the two largest islands in Phi Phi.
You can get to Phi Phi islands either through ferries or speed boats. My favorite is Maya Bay in Ko Phi Phi Leh, purely for its pristine beauty and amazing view. Lo Samah Bay is also spectacular.
Bamboo Island is a hit among snorkelers. Loh Moo Dee beach is known for its white-sand beaches. Tonsai Bay is the mecca for rock climbers.
Pileh bay lagoon is perfect for swimming, the water is turquoise and crystal clear. Shark point is also one of the famous spots and a major diving site in the Phi Phi islands.
Book Your Tour–Phi Phi Islands-Early Bird Tour From Phuket and Khaolak
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24.Barbados
This island country is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Harrison’s cave is one of the most beautiful caves. You will love the authentic beverages here. It is a paradise for snorkelers and windsurfers. Don’t miss the sunset cruise. The experience is simply mindblowing. For golf lovers, there is Country Club at Sandy Lane.
There are many bars and clubs to make your nightlife beautiful. For nature lovers, Andromeda Botanic Garden is a great option. Carlisle Bay is a beautiful beach. My other two favorites are Dover and Bathsheba beach. Barbados Broadwalk is one of the most popular tourist attractions.
25.Dalmatian Islands
Located in Croatia, it is comprised of 79 beautiful islands. Hvar and Brac are the two most popular islands here. Hvar apart from pristine beaches has vibrant nightlife too. Dragon’s Cave in Bol is another place to watch out for. Mljet and Limoni are the two beautiful uncrowded beaches. Blue Cave in Vis Island is another place I love to go.
26. Whitsundays Island
Whitsundays Island is one of the most famous and beautiful tropical islands in Queensland, Australia, and consists of 74 islands. It is 390 miles from the Great Barrier Reef. It is a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
Whitehaven Beach is simply spectacular and the largest in Whitsundays Island. Mirage Whitsundays Resort, for me, is the best hotel resort in Whitsundays Island situated in Airlie beach, gives a cool view of the area with exotic food and drinks.
Hamilton Island is also one of the most popular islands on Whitsundays Island. It catches a lot of tourist attention because of the airport and various activities like golf, hiking, tennis, snorkeling, sailing, diving, motorboat rides.
If you have deep pocket you can visit Hayman Island but as I mentioned before, it is expensive.
Airlie Beach is also quite popular, especially for the Bicentennial walkway. For hiking the best option is Conway National Park. Cedar Creek Falls is so beautiful. Long Island is a great place to enjoy some quiet time.
Book Your Tour–Whitsundays Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Adventure From Airlie
Read:17 Caribbean Tropical Islands
27.Isla de Providencia
It is also called Providencia. It is located between Jamaica and Costa Rica. Crab Cay is a beautiful island for snorkeling. Southwest Bay is the most popular beach in Providencia. Morgan’s Head is another best option for snorkeling. For hikers, The Peak is the best option. The other things you can do on this island are kayaking, horseriding, and fishing.
Freshwater Bay Beach and Almond Bay Beach are the other two beautiful beaches here.
28.Capri
Located in Italy, Capri is a beautiful island which you can see through a boat tour. Mount Solaro is one of the most beautiful places in Capri. The beaches in Capri are crystal clear. Blue Grotto sea cave looks surreal. Anacapri is a beautiful town on Capri island. The Gardens Of Augustus is one of the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen.
Via Krupp offers spectacular view. Via Camerelle is an iconic shopping destination but it is expensive. Villa San Michele is an iconic landmark in Anacapri.
Few other in the list of tropical islands that I consider worth a visit are the Florida Keys in Florida, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and Ambergris Caye in Belize.
Travel Essentials
Before we travel we do a lot of shopping for our travel needs. The best option for me is amazon.com, everything in one platform.
Must Read: Best Travel Backpack To Carry With Comfort
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I prefer Agoda.com which is a part of world leader Booking Holdings and always gives multiple hotel options.
Flights
I book my tickets through Trip.com as it gives the best deal
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance covers all mishaps like illness, accidents or thefts or anything so I prefer Worlds Nomad.
There are many other tropical islands still left to be explored but these are definitely the 9 best tropical islands in the world for sure.
Let me know your experience when you visit these tropical islands and if you find some more apart from these beautiful islands share with me I would definitely like to explore it as well.
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