24 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Nothing beats a beautiful island. Whether it's the feeling of relaxing on a palm-lined beach, wading into warm crystal-clear waters, or simply gazing out to sea from an infinity pool, islands are what vacation dreams are made of.

But islands come in all shapes and sizes. Tropical islands or sun-drenched atolls with stunning beaches are what usually come to mind, but you can find island adventures in many forms. From exploring the glaciers and lakes of New Zealand's South Island to visiting the temples and cultural attractions of Bali, or enjoying the views from a cliffside town in Santorini, interesting island destinations can be found around the world.

Discover your own piece of paradise with our list of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Maldives

The Maldives are home to some of the world's most ravishing islands, but it's the sea, which truly makes these islands shine. Luminous aquamarine waters with crystal clarity lap upon these dazzling white shores, which barely peek above the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives are also famous for their overwater bungalows, where you can enjoy the calm clear waters from the comfort of your accommodation.

Consisting of 26 natural atolls, the Maldives archipelago is the planet's lowest-lying nation, with the highest point no more than three meters above the sea, a measurement that shrinks every year.

Beneath the waters, coral reefs flourish, luring divers and snorkelers from around the world. Surfers also flock here to ride the uncrowded breaks.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Shaped like a giant sombrero, this lush volcanic island stars in countless South Pacific fantasies. The focal point and best asset of this tropical beauty is its ravishing lagoon in technicolor turquoise. Fish, turtles, sharks, and rays swim in the clear waters, and tiny islets or motus dot the lagoon.

The island, of course, is distinctly French, with mouthwatering cuisine to match. Diving and snorkeling are excellent in the surrounding reefs, and hiking trails weave through the palm-studded forests.

Like the Maldives, Bora Bora is home to luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, where you can fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the sea.

Palawan, Philippines

The island of Palawan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is the Philippines' answer to paradise.

The most stunning area and what sets this island apart from others are the limestone cliffs and beaches on the north end of Palawan, near the town of El Nido. The beaches and views from the town are beautiful, but you can also explore the incredibly scenic Bacuit Bay, which is often what you'll see in photos of Palawan.

Spectacular karst limestone islands covered in greenery jut straight out of the water and tower over slivers of gleaming white-sand beaches fringed with rustling palms. Be sure to take one of the many daily boat tours to see the highlights including Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island among others.

Indulge in a lavish escape at a secluded island retreat, dozing off to the tranquil melody of the ocean following a day of unwinding by the infinity pool and savoring a delectable culinary masterpiece.

The attractions are not limited to above the water. Coral reefs here teem with an impressive diversity of tropical fish and offer some of the best diving in the Philippines.

One of Palawan's top attractions is the World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an impressive limestone cave system with a long underground river. This attraction is best visited from Puerto Princesa.

Seychelles

Pristine and picture-perfect, the Seychelles are worth traveling for. East of Kenya, this relatively unspoiled archipelago of 115 coral and granite islands is packed with attractions, from UNESCO-listed jungles and thriving coral reefs to palm-lined, powdery beaches flanked by giant boulders.

Almost half the total land area of these equatorial isles is protected, and many of the islands lie within fish-rich marine sanctuaries with excellent diving and snorkeling.

The Seychelles also feature some of the planet's richest fishing grounds, making this a top destination for anglers. Add some spicy Créole cuisine into the mix, as well as the plush resorts of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, and it's easy to understand the Seychelles' allure.

Santorini, Greece

Encircling a sea-filled caldera, spectacular Santorini scores top points for its dramatic beauty. Bleached white villas tumble down volcanic cliffs. Blue-domed churches rise against the sparkling sea, and bright sprays of bougainvillea add to the eye-popping color palette.

Perched atop the black lava cliffs, the settlements of Firá and Oia are the island's most picturesque – and pricey, destinations – and Oia ranks among the most photographed locations in the world.

Other highlights of Santorini include Akrotíri Archaeological Site, Ancient Thira, the black sand beach of Perissa, and of course, the sublime sunsets. Sailing into this stunning caldera surrounded by soaring sea cliffs makes an unforgettable first impression.

Read More: Best Beaches on Santorini

The Cook Islands

If you've ever dreamed of being a castaway in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands are for you. Strung between French Polynesia and Samoa but with strong ties to New Zealand, the archipelago's 15 islands are among the underrated jewels of the South Pacific.

Among the islands' top attractions are enticing aquamarine lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and volcanic peaks. Best of all, the locals are among the friendliest in the South Pacific.

Rarotonga is the main tourist hub, with its many resorts, lush peaks, and plentiful beaches. Aitutaki is one of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific. Hibiscus-laced villages snuggle on the hillsides, and 21 motus or small islets lie along its heavenly lagoon, many within kayak distance of the resorts.

Ensconce yourself here in an over-the-water bungalow, or hole up in a rustic beach shack on a remote out island and live your Robinson Crusoe fantasies.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali's intoxicating culture is a feast for the senses. Incense wafts from Hindu temples, rice paddies glow in electric greens, and the food jolts the taste buds. Surfing, swimming, and sunbathing are popular activities at the island's beautiful beaches, and tourists will find so many other things to do on this exotic isle, from temple hopping and sightseeing in the lush countryside to spa treatments, shopping, and hiking.

Soak up the spiritual side of Bali in Ubud, see Seminyak, and family-friendly Sanur, feel the pumping pulse of touristy Kuta, or explore the attractions on the neighboring volcanic island of Lombok.

Far from being undiscovered, Bali is a busy place and you should be mentally prepared to enjoy this little island slice of paradise with others, but this is also what gives the island an energetic vibe.

Looking for somewhere chic to stay? Choose from beautiful beach resorts, and if you're bringing the kids, you'll find plenty of good-value places to stay with the family.

The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

In the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia, the Dalmatian Islands are an enchanting mix of relaxed charm and rich history. Quaint villages and boutique hotels and restaurants dot these gorgeous isles, which are surrounded by sparkling seas and some of the Croatia's best beaches.

Top on the list is Brac with the famous beach strip of Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn). Hvar is also beautiful, with Gothic churches, a car-free old town, and a picturesque fishing harbor. From here, you can zip across to the beautiful Pakleni Islands, known for their crystal-clear water and secluded coves.

Other must-see Dalmatian islands include Korcula, with its red-roofed, white-washed buildings; Mljet with its two inland saltwater lakes; and relatively uncrowded Vis.

Accommodation: Top Beach Resorts in Croatia

Read More:

• Top Tourist Attractions in Croatia
• Croatia Road Trip: Driving the Coast from Istria to Dubrovnik

Fiji

One of Australia's go-to tropical escapes, Fiji ticks all the fantasy island boxes. White-sand beaches, translucent turquoise waters, and teeming coral reefs are all found here in abundance. And the Fijian people welcome visitors with warm, friendly smiles.

Diving, snorkeling, fishing, and, in some areas, surfing are all popular things to do in Fiji, but sprawling under a palm tree and slipping into the silky warm seas can be equally rewarding. With more than 300 islands, it's easy to find the best island for your vacation, from luxurious celebrity hideaways and family-friendly resorts to the sublime Yasawa and Mamanuca group.

Fijians love young children, so this a fabulous destination for families looking to relax.

Kaua'i, USA

Kaua'i is called "the Garden Isle" for good reason: rainforests cloak much of the interior, waterfalls tumble from lava cliffs, and the intoxicating fragrance of tropical blooms hangs heavy on the sultry air.

But the island's beauty lies not just in its luxuriant flora. Its spectacular coastline will take your breath away. Lava sculpted this stunning island, thrusting up from the ocean floor to form velvety ridges and vertiginous cliffs rimmed by gorgeous beaches.

Beneath its cobalt-blue seas, turtles and tropical fish swim along coral reefs, delighting divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Compared to its popular sister islands, Maui and Oahu, Kaua'i exudes a low-key vibe and tends to move at a more relaxed pace.

Explore the lush mountains and coastal areas on some of Kauai's most popular hiking trails. And don't miss Kauai's top attractions: the breathtaking Na Pali Coast, the 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon, and the cloud-capped vistas from the cliffs above Hanalei Bay.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Palm-lined beaches, turquoise seas, and a thriving tourist scene are what you'll find on Koh Samui. Add to that coral reefs and the emerald peaks rising from the sea in beautiful Ang Thong National Marine Park, and it's hard not to fall in love with this tropical Thai paradise.

Koh Samui's smaller sister islands, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, are also worth a visit. In fact, day trips to these idyllic islands are one of the top things to do during a visit to Koh Samui. Other popular places to visit include the beautiful boulder-strewn Chaweng and Lamai beaches, the shops and food stalls of Fisherman's Village, and majestic Buddhist temples.

Read More: From Bangkok to Koh Samui: Best Ways to Get There

St. Lucia, The Caribbean

St. Lucia exudes a dark and brooding beauty. Unlike other islands in the Caribbean, its best assets are not necessarily its beaches, though with their golden sands and graceful palms, they are popular with those who visit. Rather, the island itself is drenched in topographic drama.

The towering Pitons, twin volcanic peaks, preside over the luxuriant landscapes, rising more than 700 meters from the sea, and providing a breathtaking backdrop to the stunning scenery.

Bristling forests of coconut palms, waterfalls, quaint fishing villages, coral reefs, nature trails, and healing hot springs are just some of the sights to explore on St. Lucia. Pretty Marigot Bay and Anse Chastanet Marine Park are some of the highlights. The island's French influences also add to its exotic appeal.

Capri, Italy

Glamorous Capri, about 20 kilometers off the Amalfi Coast, lives up to all the hype. Sea stacks and soaring cliffs rise from the teal-hued Tyrrhenian Sea, framed by sprays of colorful flowers.

One of its most popular tourist attractions is the blue grotto, a glowing sea cave, where locals row tourists in on tiny boats and sing opera to demonstrate the acoustics.

Once you arrive at the port of Marina Grande, catch the funicular up to the main town of Capri, which feels like a movie set. The piazza here buzzes with impeccably dressed locals and tourists toting shopping bags filled with designer clothes and the island's heavenly perfumes.

While you're here, be sure to also visit the highest town, Anacapri, and take the chair lift up to Monte Solaro for spectacular views across the island and sea.

• Read More: From Rome to Capri: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

Ko Phi Phi is a small archipelago in the Krabi Province of Thailand, and home to some of the best islands in Krabi. Lush limestone peaks rise from the tropical sea, and warm waters lap on palm-lined sugary beaches.

The island's natural beauty still recalls the tropical island dream evoked in the famous Leonardo DiCaprio movie, The Beach, which was filmed here at Maya Beach on the smaller neighboring island of Ko Phi Phi Leh.

Ko Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island and offers day trips to the surrounding islands. Other popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, and superb diving. Don't miss Monkey Beach, famous for its cheeky namesake residents.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Sprinkled along the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands are Australia's version of the classic tropical island fantasy. These 74 lush islands are the peaks of drowned hills rising above the strikingly blue Coral Sea.

Sailing is one of the popular things to do in the Whitsundays, and diving is excellent along the fish-rich coral reefs. This is an extremely fragile ecosystem protected by six national parks, and you can explore some of the islands on hiking trails.

Accommodation ranges from beachfront campsites, eco-retreats, and family resorts to luxury escapes like Hayman Island and Qualia on Hamilton Island.

Don't miss the radiant silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, one of Australia's best beaches, on Whitsunday Island.

Airlie Beach is the main launching point for Whitsunday adventures.

The South Island of New Zealand

Few places on earth have as much natural beauty and diversity packed into such a small area as the South Island of New Zealand. Soaring mountains, glaciers, rushing rivers, beaches, fiords, lush pastures, plus a bit of gold rush history make this place an explorer's paradise.

The South Island of New Zealand isn't located at the end of the earth but it's close. Antarctica is only 2,550 kilometers south. It's this unique geographical location that gives the island natural attractions found nowhere else in the world. The best example of this is the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers that descend from the frozen peaks down into a rainforest near sea level. Hiking to the glaciers and flightseeing in helicopters are two popular pastimes here.

The Southern Alps are spectacular places for hiking. Trails wind their way past jaw-dropping scenery to cobalt-colored lakes, scenic mountain vistas, and along deserted coastlines. Prefer your adventure pre-packaged? Then head to Queenstown where you can go jet boating up narrow canyons, bungee jump off a historical bridge, or explore the gold rush history at nearby Arrowtown.

An often overlooked place on the South Island is the delightful town of Kaikoura. Here, you can swim with friendly and inquisitive dolphins, go whale watching, or take a tour to see albatrosses. The town also has a delightful shoreline walk to seal colonies, home to hundreds of these interesting creatures.

Sardinia, Italy

Blissful white-sand beaches, rugged coastal peaks, mouthwatering cuisine, a unique blend of cultures, and ancient archeological treasures: What's not to love about this saucy Italian isle?

Most travelers have heard of the glamorous Costa Smeralda, or Emerald Coast, with its craggy coves and clear green seas, but this large and diverse Mediterranean isle also lays claim to many other attractions. Sardinia is home to the largest canyon in Europe, Gola su Gorropu; prehistoric archaeological sites; the captivating Catalan-tinged town of Alghero; and the medieval streets of Cagliari, the capital.

Stay awhile at one of the many pampering hotels and resorts, and while you're here, be sure to cruise along some of the scenic coastal drives and soak up the spectacular views.

St. Barts, The Caribbean

St. Barts is one of the most famous islands in the Caribbean. Stunningly beautiful yet understated, it lures movie stars and moguls from around the world – and for good reason. St. Barts offers a luscious taste of France in the tropics, with a relaxed charm that discerning travelers love.

One of St. Barts' top attractions is its glamorous blond beaches, which curve around its coastline, backed by rolling green hills. Privacy and seclusion are the island's other top selling points, but of course, all this comes at a price. This alluring island is one of the Caribbean's most expensive, but if money's no object, you can ensconce yourself in a private villa or boutique hotel, dine on gourmet French cuisine until your heart's content, and live the lifestyle of the rich and famous.

The Domincan Republic

This large island in the Caribbean is blessed with beautiful beaches, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, luxury resorts, and many hidden gems for those who want a quiet escape.

Gorgeous beaches of golden sand are lapped by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and it's one of the few places where you can find your own deserted patch of sand, untouched by development.

The most well-known destinations in the Dominican Republic are Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, where the waterfronts are adorned with grand all-inclusive resorts that offer a luxurious stay.

For those who prefer a more bohemian atmosphere, Cabarete is a fantastic destination that caters to the thrill-seeking kiteboarding and surfing community. Restaurants spill onto the beach offering great dining and nightlife options.

Las Terrenas is another favorite destination for those who don't want a resort holiday, but enjoy good restaurants and a beachfront hotel.

For those who want to get well away from the crowds, places like the small community of Las Galeras on the Semana Peninsula or Punta Rucia, west of Puerto Plata, offer a quaint escape.

The capital city of Santo Domingo is a world away from the rest of the island and a fantastic cultural experience. The Zona Colonial (the old section of the city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for visitors.

Mallorca, Spain

Sun-soaked beaches, blue bays bristling with boats, limestone peaks, and a lively vibe make Mallorca a Mediterranean hot spot. The largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, this Spanish beauty is perhaps most famous for its staggeringly beautiful coastline, and its buzzy beach scene.

But Mallorca offers more than just dancing on the beach. Head inland to hilltop monasteries, hike the rugged trails of the Serra de Tramuntana, wander aimlessly around historic villages, or feast on sun-infused Mediterranean cuisine. Culture vultures will also find plenty to keep then happy. Museums and galleries are among the top things to do on Mallorca.

The Bahamas

With 700 islands and more than 2,000 tiny cayes, it's easy to find your dream Caribbean hideaway in The Bahamas. The top attractions of these stunningly beautiful islands range from idyllic beaches and thriving coral reefs to fantastic shopping and dining.

Seeking duty-free shops, mega-resorts, and entertainment? Head to the capital of Nassau, a popular cruise ship port on the island of New Providence, or book a stay on Grand Bahama. Is big-game fishing your favorite thing to do? Bimini is the best choice. Maybe you want to explore the underwater world: Long Island and Andros have fantastic diving and world-class bonefishing.

And if you just want to bask on sublime white-sand beaches washed by eye-popping blue water, head to the Out Islands, like the Exumas, Abacos, and Eleuthera – these are among the best Caribbean islands for uncrowded, blissful beach time. Are pink-sand beaches more your thing? Harbor Island should be top on your list.

No matter where you decide to visit, you'll find plenty of idyllic places to stay, from luxury resorts to family resorts, and even cheap all-inclusive resorts.

Samoa

Samoa is a poster child for South Pacific beauty. Volcanic uprisings crafted much of this island's dramatic topography: jungle-clad peaks plunge to the Pacific, and rugged rock islands rise from the sapphire sea.

Samoa is actually an archipelago of 10 tropical islands about halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii. You're in the heart of Polynesia here, and the big hearts of the locals are a big part of the islands' appeal.

Samoa also boasts some of the South Pacific's most spectacular waterfalls, as well as flourishing coral reefs, wild beaches, hiking trails, picturesque crater pools, and surf breaks. Loll on Lalomanu Beach; hike lush rainforest trails; or take a dip in the To Sua trench, a picturesque crater pool ringed by tropical gardens. Staying on Samoa means soaking up an authentic taste of the South Pacific.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Not all beautiful islands are tropical. Norway's Lofoten Islands, in the Arctic Circle, are a case in point. Jagged peaks and sheer rock walls soar above mirror-like fjords. Secluded beaches tucked beneath towering sea cliffs, and bright red fishermen's cabins complete the picturesque scene.

Winter is equally beautiful when a dusting of snow imbues these jaw-dropping vistas with a fairy-tale charm. But despite its location in the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are not as cold as you might expect. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, the islands offer relatively mild winters and warmer summers than other destinations at this latitude.

Nature lovers will be in heaven here. Popular things to do in the Lofoten Islands include hiking, kayaking, boating, surfing, birding, and whale watching. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Isle of Skye means "cloud island" in old Norse. Lay eyes on this Scottish beauty, and you'll know why. Clouds of mist shroud velvety green hills, infusing a mystical feel to this remote island, the largest of the Inner Hebrides.

This brand of beauty is bleak and rugged. Wind-whipped beaches, toothy crags towering over apple-green moors, deep lochs, and soaring cliffs tell the tales of nature's power.

Isle of Sky highlights include the jagged rocks known as The Storr, as well as Kilt Rock, a soaring slice of sea cliff washed by the spectacular Mealt Waterfall, and the Fairy Pools grace many a postcard, with misty veils of water spilling into emerald pools.

Portree is the main tourist town, with a scenic harbor and pastel-painted cottages. And when the clouds of mist roll across the island, medieval castles, museums, and art galleries await.