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Ibiza, Spain
While for many Ibiza is a night light destination, other parts of the Spanish island are tranquil with stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and some of the Mediterranean’s best sunset views, plus world-class restaurants and a thriving art scene. Be sure to take in a view of Es Verda (pictured), an island rock formation, and check out some of the island’s sea caves, as well.
Langkawi Island, Malaysia
Pristine beaches, coral reefs, and tree-covered mountains—Langkawi is the ultimate getaway for foodies and nature lovers alike. Visitors can explore the verdant mountains by walking across the sky bridge, which is over 400 feet long. In the evening, the Langkawi Night Market offers up the very best of the local cuisine.
Mauritius
This vibrant volcanic island country in the Indian Ocean known for its waterfalls, mountains, beaches, and lagoons, and a helicopter flight over its underwater waterfall is a must-do. Located around 550 miles east of Madagascar, its culture is a culmination of European, Indian, and African influences.
Bora Bora
Out of all the incredible islands that comprise French Polynesia, Bora Bora is the crown jewel. Just northwest of Tahiti, the island feels utterly remote while being easily accessible for the honeymoon, anniversary, or celebratory trip of dreams. Surrounded by a coral reef-protected lagoon, Bora Bora is a popular destination for SCUBA divers and snorkelers alike, and it boasts an array of world-class luxury resort properties.
St. Barts
There’s a reason the society set has escaped to St. Barthelémy for decades each winter. Known for its pristine, white-sand beaches; jewel-toned waters, fabulous nightlife, and impeccable shopping, St. Barths is a must-visit destination for those seeking the epitome of Caribbean elegance and leisure.
Palawan
This now-iconic island in the Philippines is widely considered the world’s best island, and for good reason. Besides the sugary white sands and crystal-clear waters, limestone rock formations, lush vegetation, hundreds of species of exotic birds, and an exciting culture make Palawan the ultimate destination for those seeking an exotic and tropical escape.
Sri Lanka
This magical island that lies southeast of India offers the ultimate island adventure for those seeking a vacation beyond sunbathing. Cultural experiences, breathtaking hikes, historic temple tours, fabulous cuisine, and of course, unbelievable surf and sand, draw in travelers of all kinds.
Crete
Thanks to Greek mythology, Crete has been immortalized as a mystical island that was the birthplace of Zeus. Besides history and folklore, Crete offers some of the world’s most swoon-worthy beaches and views of the Aegean.
St. Lucia
This glorious island in the Eastern Caribbean might surprise first-time visitors by how much it resembles a Hawaiian island. This charming destination features an abundance of terrain, from the aptly named, iconic Sugar Beach to the stunning Piton volcanic mountains. Visitors can always expect thoughtful hospitality, a taste of the French-inspired Caribbean culture, and mystical views.
Maldives
This South Asian archipelago is often considered the home of the world’s best beach thanks to its immaculate waters, white-sand beaches, and miles of dreamy coconut palms. This nation of islands is also home to some of the world’s best luxury resort properties.
New Zealand
This magical island-country is full of fantastical changes in terrain, folklore-ish caves and coves, and breathtaking beaches. One of the most popular sights is Milford Sound, shown here, which is a magnificent fjord home to rainforests, waterfalls, black coral, and fascinating aquatic life (think: penguins).
Paros
This sun-drenched Greek island is home to some of the most unique stretches of beach in the world. This historic isle on the Aegean Sea features architecture that dates back thousands of years, charming yet cosmopolitan villages, exciting water adventures, and a thriving food and beverage scene.
Bermuda
Known for its pink-sand beaches, friendly culture, and obsession with rum, Bermuda is as vibrant as it is beautiful. This British territory lies in the Northern Atlantic and offers iconic beaches, plenty of natural wonders to explore, and breathtaking waters.
The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays lie right off Queensland in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, so prepare for strapping on that snorkel or scuba gear upon arrival. Home to 74 island wonders, this region of Australia is home to some of the world’s best beaches, like Whitehaven Beach.
Kauai
With a nickname like “The Garden Isle,” this Hawaiian island must live up to the hype. The most remote of the archipelago’s most popular islands, Kauai boasts lush, green mountains, dramatic rock formations, golden sands, and fantastic waters for surfing and swimming.
Mallorca
Jetsetters have found their paradise in this Spanish Baeleric island for decades, thanks to its azure waters, luxurious beach clubs, historic architecture, and dramatic coastline. This beautiful island offers legendary arts, culture, nightlife, and gastronomic experiences beyond the surf and shore.
Cook Islands
This South Pacific nation consists of 15 islands and is politically tied to New Zealand. This year-round paradise offers sweeping stretches of coconut palms (no hotels can be taller than them!), piercing blue waters, and spectacular marine life.
Seychelles
Seasoned travelers and film aficionados alike will either know of or have been to Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles’ most famous stretch of beach (and the filming location for Cast Away), but the entire archipelago is full of fantastical, tropical attractions. Coral reefs, nature reserves, rainforests, and unique wildlife are just a few of the reasons to flock to this spectacular African country.
Tasmania
This island-state seated just below Australia is wild, rustic, and geographically diverse, as nearly 40 percent of the island is protected for national parks and national heritage wilderness. White sand beaches with sweeping ocean and mountain views are a hallmark of Tasmania, making it an ultimate destination for island getaways.
Santorini
Ah, Santorini, how could we leave you off the list? This ancient isle in the Cyclades is known for its whitewashed, hilltop villages seated above azure waters. Created after a volcanic eruption, its beaches also feature multi-colored lava pebbles and cliffs.
Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor who covers all things lifestyle and luxury, with an emphasis on interior design and travel. Lauren began her career in lifestyle journalism as a Dotdash Meredith digital editorial fellow with Cooking Light, then worked as a digital editor for EatingWell and VERANDA before venturing out on her own in 2022. She has been writing for nationally renowned lifestyle publications for six years and has also written for several U.K.-based travel and interior design brands. Lauren lives in Birmingham, Alabama with her husband and son and enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, traveling, and spending time outdoors with her family in her free time.
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