Islands evoke visions of paradise: a haven from the grind and the ideal stretch of sand where you may unwind among whispering palms and take in a calm view of a deep blue sea.
But, not all islands were made equal. Some people's beauty is more defined by the sea that surrounds them. With its crystal clarity and thriving coral kingdoms, the sea may enthral connoisseurs.
Some islands charm visitors with their cultural treasures, while others are home to opulent jungles and velvety peaks. These islands are remote from the daily noise but accessible to creature amenities, whether you are looking for exquisite beaches, breathtaking landscape, or fascinating cultures.
Find your personal Shangri-La in this list of the most stunning islands in the world, which includes locations like the Seychelles, Santorini, the Caribbean, and Capri.
1. Maldives
Although the Maldives are home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world, it is the sea that really brings these islands to life. These sparkling white shores, which barely protrude above the Indian Ocean, are lapped by waters of a brilliant turquoise brilliance.
The Maldives archipelago, made up of 26 natural atolls, is the world's lowest country, rising only three metres above the sea at its highest point, a distance that is getting smaller every year.
Coral reefs abound beneath the captivating seas, attracting divers and snorkelers from all over the world. Surfers come in droves to ride the isolated breaks.
Back on land, the opulent resorts of the Maldives serve as the ideal jumping off locations for excursions centred on the sea, the archipelago's greatest asset but also, as the climate of the globe changes, its greatest threat.
2. French Polynesia's Bora Bora
This verdant volcanic island, shaped like a big hat, is the subject of innumerable South Pacific fantasies. This tropical beauty's stunning lagoon, which is a technicolour shade of turquoise, serves as its centrepiece and greatest feature. Little motus or islets dot the lagoon, while fish, turtles, sharks, and rays swim in the crystal-clear water.
Of course, the island is unmistakably French, and the cuisine is delectable to match. The nearby reefs offer good diving and snorkelling opportunities, and trekking trails wind through palm-lined woodlands.
If you can, stay here in an opulent over-the-water bungalow and revel in your good fortune as you drift off to sleep listening to the soft lapping of the waves.
3. Philippines' Palawan
Palawan is the equivalent of paradise in the Philippines. With beautiful limestone peaks rising from a jewel-like sea so clear that you can practically see the expressions on the fish from above the surface, this island province reaches southwest to Borneo.
Many of these jungle-covered islands have slivers of white-sand beaches surrounded by rustling palm trees, and underwater, coral reefs teem with an astounding diversity of tropical fish, making for some of the best diving in the world.
The distinctive animals, green lakes, and charming fishing villages of the islands are further draws. El Nido is one of the most beautiful islands in the series and is home to luxurious resorts in addition to Coron. Island hopping is possible throughout the breathtaking Bacuit archipelago from here.
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an outstanding limestone cave system with a lengthy underground river, is one of Palawan's main tourist destinations. It is placed on the World Heritage list.
4.Seychelles
The Seychelles are pristine and picture-perfect, making them worth the trip. This relatively untouched archipelago of 115 coral and granite islands lies east of Kenya and is home to vibrant coral reefs, UNESCO-listed jungles, and palm-lined, powdery beaches bordered by enormous boulders.
These tropics islands' total land area is over half protected, and many of them are located in fish-rich marine sanctuaries with fantastic diving and snorkelling.
A top destination for fisherman, the Seychelles have some of the richest fishing grounds on the globe. It's simple to comprehend why people are drawn to the Seychelles once you factor in the spiciness of Creole food and the opulent resorts on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
5. Greece's Santorini
Spectacular Santorini, encircling a caldera filled with water, receives top marks for its dramatic beauty. Villas made of bleached white roll down cliffs. In contrast to the glistening sea, blue-domed churches rise, and colourful bougainvillaea sprays add to the eye-catching colour scheme.
The communities of Firá and Oia are the island's most picturesque—and expensive—destinations, and Oia is one of the most famous places in the world for photographs. Both are perched above black lava cliffs.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Ancient Thira, Perissa's black sand beach, and of course the breathtaking sunsets are some of Santorini's other highlights. A striking first impression is made when a ship enters this magnificent caldera, which is ringed by towering sea cliffs.
6. The Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are perfect if you've ever wanted to be a castaway in the South Pacific. The archipelago's 15 islands, which are connected to New Zealand by strong ties yet are strung between French Polynesia and Samoa, are among the South Pacific's underappreciated gems.
Attractive blue lagoons, palm-lined beaches, and volcanic peaks are just a few of the islands' outstanding sights. The South Pacific's friendliest people can be found here, which is the best part.
With its numerous resorts, green peaks, and several beaches, Rarotonga serves as the primary tourist destination. One of the most stunning islands in the South Pacific is Aitutaki. Villages covered with hibiscus nestle against the hillsides, and 21 motus, or little islets, are scattered along the lovely lagoon, several of which are accessible by kayak from the resorts.
Maldives.
— Enived Travels LTD (@Enivedtravels) June 2, 2021
Situated in the Indian Ocean is the gorgeous island nation of the Maldives. With over 1,192 coral islands, it is one of the world’s most dispersed countries, with a population of over 409,000. Maldives offers you a dreamy beach holiday. Its top attractions include pic.twitter.com/oCpgzwruc5
Live out your Robinson Crusoe fantasies by settling down here in an over-the-water cottage or hiding away in a basic beach house on a far-off island.
7. Bali in Indonesia
The entrancing culture of Bali is a feast for the senses. Rice fields shine neon green, Hindu temples emit incense, and the food shocks the palate. At the island's stunning beaches, surfing, swimming, and sunbathing are common pastimes. Visitors will also discover a wide range of other activities on this exotic island, including spa treatments, shopping, hiking, and sightseeing in the verdant countryside.
See Bali's spiritual side in Ubud, visit Seminyak and family-friendly Sanur, feel the buzz of touristic Kuta, or discover the sights on the nearby volcanic island of Lombok.
Searching for a stylish place to stay? There are several lovely beach resorts to choose from, and if you're bringing the kids, there are lots of affordable locations for the family to stay.
You will be overcome by Bali's alluring energy like a warm, tropical wave, that much is certain.
8. Croatia's Dalmatian Isles
The Dalmatian Islands are an alluring blend of laid-back charm and extensive history in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. These stunning isles are ringed by glistening oceans and some of Croatia's best beaches, and they are home to charming villages, boutique hotels, and restaurants.
Top on the list is Brac, which has the well-known Zlatni Rat beachfront (Golden Horn). With Gothic churches, a pedestrian-only old town, and a charming fishing harbour, Hvar is also stunning. From here, you may quickly travel to the stunning Pakleni Islands, which are renowned for their hidden coves and crystal-clear water.
Other must-see Dalmatian islands are Vis, which is not very populated, Korcula, which has red-roofed, whitewashed homes, and Mljet, which has two interior saltwater lakes.
9. Fiji
Fiji is one of Australia's favourite tropical getaways and meets all the criteria for a dream island. Here, you may find plenty of white-sand beaches, transparent blue waters, and bustling coral reefs. Also, the Fijian populace greets guests with a genuine smile.
In Fiji, popular activities include diving, snorkelling, fishing, and, in some places, surfing. Yet, lying under a palm tree and dipping into the warm, smooth waters can be just as satisfying. Finding the ideal island for your holiday among the more than 300 available is simple, from opulent celebrity hideaways and family-friendly resorts to the exquisite Yasawa and Mamanuca group.
Families seeking relaxation should visit the Fiji Islands since the people here like small children.
10. USA, Kauai
With waterfalls plunging from lava cliffs, rainforests covering much of the interior, and the heady scent of exotic flowers permeating the air, it's no wonder that Kaua'i is known as "the Garden Island."
But, the island's attractiveness extends beyond its magnificent flora. Its breathtaking coastline will leave you speechless. This beautiful island was carved by lava, which rose up from the ocean floor to create velvety ridges and precarious cliffs surrounded by lovely beaches.
Turtles and tropical fish swim along coral reefs beneath its cobalt-blue oceans, enticing divers and snorkelers from all over the world. In contrast to its well-known sister islands, Maui and Oahu, Kaua'i emanates a low-key attitude and moves more slowly overall.
The stunning Na Pali Coast, the 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon, and the cloud-covered vistas from the cliffs above Hanalei Bay are some of Kauai's top sights that shouldn't be missed.
11. Thailand's Koh Samui
Koh Samui is sheer tropical eye candy, with beaches backed by jungle, waters with jewel tones, and gracefully arching palms. It's difficult not to fall in love with this tropical Thai paradise when you factor in the colourful coral reefs and the green peaks rising from the blue water in the sublimely magnificent Ang Thong National Marine Park.
The sister islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, are also worthwhile excursions. In fact, one of the best things to do while visiting Koh Samui is to take a day excursion to these gorgeous islands. The stunning beaches of Chaweng and Lamai, which are dotted with boulders, the stores and food stands in Fisherman's Village, and imposing Buddhist temples are other well-liked tourist destinations.
https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/turkey-tr.htm
Looking for a place to stay in Koh Samui? There are a variety of lodging options, including luxury villas, hostels, and beachside resorts.
12. St. Lucia, a Caribbean island
St. Lucia has a melancholy and brooding allure. Its beaches are popular with visitors thanks to their golden sands and beautiful palms, but unlike other Caribbean islands, they are not always its best features. Rather, geographical drama is permeated into the island itself. Twin volcanic peaks known as the Pitons, which tower over the lush surroundings and rise more than 700 metres above sea level, provide as a breathtaking backdrop to the amazing scenery.
There are many attractions to discover on St. Lucia, including waterfalls, charming fishing villages, coral reefs, nature paths, and therapeutic hot springs. Highlights include the lovely Marigot Bay and Anse Chastanet Marine Park. The island's French heritage adds to its allure as an unusual location.
13. Italy's Capri
Around 20 kilometres off the Amalfi Coast, glamorous Capri stands up to all the hype. The teal-hued Tyrrhenian Sea is framed by flowery sprays while sea stacks and towering cliffs rise from it.
The blue grotto, a shimmering sea cave where locals wheel guests inside on miniature boats and sing opera to showcase the acoustics, is one of its most well-known tourist attractions.
Take the funicular up to Capri's main town, which has a movie-set vibe, after you get to Marina Grande dock. The piazza in this area is bustling with immaculately dressed locals and visitors carrying shopping bags full of fine clothing and the island's wonderful fragrances.
When you're here, be sure to stop by the town with the greatest elevation, Anacapri, and ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro for breathtaking sea and island views.
14. Thailand's Ko Phi Phi
Warm seas lap on palm-lined sugary beaches at Thailand's Krabi Province's Ko Phi Phi, a small archipelago where beautiful limestone cliffs rise from the tropical sea.
Ko Phi Phi, which was hit by the tsunami in 2004, has now recovered. The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed here at Maya Beach on the smaller nearby island of Ko Phi Phi Leh, and its natural beauty still evokes the tropical island fantasy.
The sole inhabited island is Ko Phi Phi Don, which also provides day tours to the nearby islands. Swimming, snorkelling, and excellent diving are some other well-liked pastimes. Don't miss Monkey Beach, which is renowned for its sly namesake inhabitants.
15.Australia's Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsunday Islands, scattered throughout the Great Barrier Reef, are Australia's take on the traditional tropical island ideal. These 74 beautiful islands rise above the stunningly blue Coral Sea like the summits of submerged hills.
In the Whitsundays, sailing is one of the most popular activities, and diving is fantastic among the coral reefs' rich fish populations. There are six national parks protecting this incredibly delicate ecosystem, and you may go across several of the islands to learn more about them.
Beachfront campgrounds, eco-retreats, family resorts, and opulent getaways like Hayman Island and Qualia on Hamilton Island are all options for lodging.
Whitehaven Beach, one of Australia's top beaches, is known for its brilliant silica sands and is located on Whitsunday Island.
The primary starting point for Whitsunday excursions is Airlie Beach.
16. Italy's Sardinia
Beautiful white-sand beaches, craggy coastal peaks, delectable food, a distinctive fusion of cultures, and historic archaeological treasures: This fiery Italian isle has so much to enjoy.
The Emerald Coast, also known as the Costa Smeralda, is well-known to tourists for its rocky coves and emerald waters, but this vast and varied Mediterranean island also boasts a number of other attractions. The intriguing Catalan-influenced village of Alghero, the largest canyon in Europe, prehistoric archaeological monuments, and the mediaeval alleyways of the island's capital, Cagliari, can all be found on Sardinia.
Stay for a bit at one of the numerous luxurious inns and resorts, and while you're here, make sure to drive down some of the breathtaking coastal routes and take in the breathtaking scenery.
17. St. Barts in the Caribbean,
One of the most well-known islands in the Caribbean is St. Barts. It draws movie stars and business moguls from all over the world because it is breathtakingly gorgeous but understated, and for good reason. With its laid-back appeal and luscious taste of France in the tropics, St. Barts is a popular destination with discerning tourists.
The magnificent golden beaches of St. Barts, which wrap around the island's coastline and are flanked by lush green hills, are one of the island's main draws. The island's other major selling factors include privacy and isolation, but of course, all of this comes at a cost. This seductive island is one of the most costly in the Caribbean, but if money is no object, you may live like the rich and famous in a private villa or boutique hotel, indulge in gourmet French cuisine to your heart's content, and enjoy other luxuries.
18. Mallorca, Spain,
Mallorca is a popular destination in the Mediterranean because of its sandy beaches, azure bays brimming with boats, limestone peaks, and lively atmosphere. This Spanish treasure, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, is arguably best known for its breathtakingly gorgeous coastline and its vibrant beach scene.
Yet Mallorca has more to offer than just beach dancing. Wander aimlessly through ancient villages in the interior, see hilltop monasteries, trek the untamed trails of the Serra de Tramuntana, or indulge in sun-drenched Mediterranean cuisine. There is also much to keep culture vultures satisfied. The best things to do in Mallorca include visiting museums and galleries.
19. The Bahamas
The Bahamas makes it simple to select your ideal Caribbean getaway with its 700 islands and more than 2,000 small cayes. These breathtakingly beautiful islands' biggest draws include idyllic beaches, healthy coral reefs, and top-notch dining and shopping.
Looking for entertainment, mega-resorts, and duty-free shopping? Visit the island of New Providence's bustling cruise ship port of Nassau, the capital, or arrange to stay in Grand Bahama. Is fishing for large game your preferred pastime? Bimini is the ideal destination. Perhaps you'd want to see what lies beneath the surface. Bonefishing and great diving are available on Long Island and Andros.
Also, the Out Islands, including the Exumas, Abacos, and Eleuthera, are among the best Caribbean islands for peaceful, uncrowded beach time. If all you want to do is relax on exquisite white-sand beaches surrounded by breathtakingly blue ocean, head there. Do you prefer beaches with pink sand? Your primary priority should be Harbor Island.
No matter where you choose to travel, there are many exquisite lodging options, including high-end resorts, family-friendly resorts, and even affordable all-inclusive resorts.
20. Norway's Lofoten Islands
Beautiful islands are not all in the tropics. A good example are Norway's Lofoten Islands, which are located in the Arctic Circle. Over mirror-like fjords, steep rock cliffs and jagged peaks soar. Private beaches are hidden beneath majestic sea cliffs, and fishermen's huts painted bright red complete the lovely landscape.
Winter is also stunning, when a light covering of snow gives these breathtaking panoramas a charming, fairy-tale quality. The Lofoten Islands, albeit near the Arctic Circle, are not as chilly as you might anticipate. The islands, which are warmed by the Gulf Stream, have milder winters and warmer summers than other locations at this latitude.
Nature enthusiasts would adore this place. The Lofoten Islands are a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, boating, surfing, birding, and whale watching. Also, if you're fortunate, you might even see the northern lights.
21. Samoa
Samoa is a prime example of South Pacific enchantment. Much of this island's stunning landscape was created by volcanic eruptions: craggy rock islands rise from the blue sea, and jungle-covered peaks plunge to the Pacific.
Ten tropical islands make up the archipelago of Samoa, which is located midway between New Zealand and Hawaii. You are in the heart of Polynesia, and a major draw to the islands is the warmth of the people who live there.
Samoa is home to some of the most magnificent waterfalls in the South Pacific, as well as thriving coral reefs, undeveloped beaches, hiking routes, lovely crater pools, and surf breaks. Relax on Lalomanu Beach, trek through the lush rainforest, or cool off in the To Sua trench, a lovely crater pool surrounded by dense vegetation. Staying on Samoa allows visitors to experience the South Pacific in its entirety.
22. Scottish Island of Skye
Old Norse for "cloud island" is Isle of Skye. Once you set eyes on this Scottish beauty, you'll understand why. The largest island in the Inner Hebrides is secluded and has misty slopes that give it a mysterious atmosphere.
This type of beauty is harsh and unforgiving. The stories of the power of nature are told by wind-whipped beaches, toothy crags rising over apple-green moors, deep lochs, and towering cliffs.
Highlights of the Island of Sky include the ragged rocks known as The Storr, Kilt Rock, a towering section of sea cliff washed by the magnificent Mealt Waterfall, and the Fairy Pools, whose misty water veils pour into green pools are featured on numerous postcards.
The main tourist destination is Portree, which has a picturesque port and pastel-colored homes. Castles from the Middle Ages, museums, and art galleries can all be found when the misty clouds pass over the island.