9 Best Island Vacations in the World

Updated On November 18, 2023
Best Island Vacations in the World

Are you planning a nice getaway and looking for the best islands in the world to explore?

Or perhaps you’re just looking for a tropical paradise to get away from the winter blues.

If you’re unsure where to start, this guide will provide you with a list of some of the best island destinations to consider traveling to.

With confidence, you’ll find something to fit your unique needs.

Best Vacation Islands

1. Lanai, Hawaii

Lanai, Hawaii

If you’re already in the United States, traveling to Hawaii isn’t going to be much of a challenge.

In fact, it’s only nine miles from Maui.

It is known for its elegance.

If you’re looking to relax, this is the perfect location to do so.

Here is a list of several things you can do while visiting Lanani:

  • Horseback riding along trails and valleys
  • Tour the island
  • Snorkel in Hulopoe Bay
  • Visit Keahiakawelo and check out unique landscapes

If you’re wondering how to get to Lanai, you can easily catch a 30-minute flight from Honolulu or a 45-minute ferry.

2. Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, Spain, made the list for being one of the top islands to vacation in the world.

It’s a popular tourist attraction and is considered the third-largest island in Spain.

Whether you’re looking to just relax or go on an adventure, Mallorca has a lot to offer, in addition to its rich history.

It’s an island that combines nature, coves, beaches, and diversity.

Mallorca is famous for its coastlines and landscapes.

If you visit here, don’t forget to check out the Serra de Tramuntana region.

Here, you will find some amazing villages, including Fornalutx, Valldemossa, and a few more.

The best way to get to Mallorca is to catch a flight from Madrid, Barcelona, or several other cities in Europe.

You can also catch a ferry from Valencia or Barcelona.

3. Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is a beautiful island located in Thailand.

Some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world are located in Koh Samui.

Not only will you find plenty of amazing beaches here, but you’ll also find a variety of resorts to choose from.

For example, if you visit alone, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is perfect, as it provides spacious rooms with excellent service and awesome views.

The best way to get to Koh Samui is by taking an hour-long flight from Bangkok.

You can also catch a flight from Singapore.

4. Vega Island, Norway

Vega Island, Norway

Just several miles from the Arctic Circle is Vega Island.

It’s considered a hidden gem and has a lot to offer, from various wildlife to plenty of fun adventures.

There are thousands of small animals who call Vega Island home.

In fact, UNESCO declared Vega Island a World Heritage Site in 2004.

A few things to do here include hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

You can also explore the community and take a peek at the production of duvets and pillows.

These are all made from the down of wild eider ducks.

To access Vega Island, you must first catch a flight from Oslo to Bronnoysund Airport.

You can then drive to Horn and catch a ferry to Vega.

5. Nevis

Nevis

When most people think of traveling to the islands, they think of the Caribbean islands.

Nevis is considered the Goldilocks of the Caribbean.

It’s easy to access, and you’ll find plenty of great food and a rich culture.

Overall, the environment here is relatively safe.

Nevis is home to some of the most beautiful hotels and resorts in the world, including the Golden Rock Inn and the Four Seasons Resort Nevis.

While you’re here, feel free to explore the jungle and spot the monkeys hiding in the trees!

Also, you can take an ATV tour or catch a sailboat to view all the wildlife nearby.

The best way to access Nevis is to catch a nonstop flight from any East Coast hub directly to St. Kitts.

6. Lord Howe Island, Australia

Lord Howe Island, Australia

Lord Howe Island is about 5 miles long and 1 mile wide.

It offers tourists plenty of activities, striking diversity, and much more.

For example, there are two mountains here that are perfect for hiking.

There are also more than a dozen beaches for those looking to relax and get away from the crowds.

Lord Howe Island is also home to beautiful waters and an amazing bird population.

Lord Howe Island offers tourists the opportunity to bike, hike, scuba dive, swim, surf, fish, and even birdwatch.

You can also head to Ned’s Beach to feed the fish.

To get here, you will have to catch a flight directly from Sydney, as it is located just 435 miles northwest of the city.

7. Dominica

Dominica

While St. Lucia is known as the capital of the Caribbean, Dominica provides a similar experience for tourists who travel here.

Dominica’s beaches have a darker shade to them, so you won’t find white, sandy beaches here.

But, even still, Dominica has made the list of the best islands in the world for a reason.

There are plenty of things to do here, including hiking, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Currently, you can take a flight directly from Miami to Dominica if you’re considering traveling here.

8. Galápagos Island, Ecuador

Galápagos Island, Ecuador

Tourists often flock to the Galápagos Islands to check out the wildlife, including penguins, flamingos, iguanas, sea lions, and much more.

The Galápagos Islands have one of the largest marine reserves in the world.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling and diving.

The Galápagos Islands offer guests a lot.

You can snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions, and even cormorants.

You can also go hiking on Isla Bartolme.

Another adventure worth checking out is the Highlands of Santa Cruz.

Here, you will be able to check out where the giant tortoises reside before making their way to the shorelines.

To get to the Galápagos Islands from the United States, you will need to catch a flight from Ecuador directly to the islands.

9. Crete, Greece

Crete, Greece

We can’t forget to mention Crete, Greece, as being one of the best islands in the world.

The islands of Crete are also full of history, sandy beaches, and synthetic beauty.

Crete is different from the rest of Greece. It has its very own dialect, cuisine, and traditions.

There are also several harbor towns within Crete, one of which is Rethymnon.

Rethymnon is full of restaurants and shops.

There are other towns that you can drive to in Crete that are worth seeing.

For example, the island of Spinalonga has beautiful sandy beaches, and the Samaria Gorge has one of the most lengthy canyons in Europe.

To get to Crete, you will need to fly in from Athens.

You can also take the ferry from Piraeus or Santorini.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the benefits of visiting islands?

One of the biggest reasons people vacation on islands is to enjoy the beautiful weather.

Most islands have sunny and warm conditions, no matter where you go.

Island vacations are perfect to go to during the summer or winter.

Other reasons include entertainment, adventure, and dining.

What makes for a perfect island getaway?

The perfect island getaway includes lots of fun and entertainment.

There are plenty of activities to partake in at the beach.

The perfect island getaway also has plenty of tourist attractions and various cuisines to taste.

Why are islands so beautiful?

Islands are typically adjacent to clear blue water, pristine beaches, and abundant forests.

Islands have a lot of natural beauty that can help those who visit feel more at peace and relaxed.

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