Islands conjure dreams of paradise: an escape from the rat race and a perfect patch of sand where you can relax under rustling palms and gaze at a serene blue sea.
But not all islands are created the same. The beauty of some is defined more by the sea that surrounds them, which can captivate connoisseurs with its crystalline clarity and thriving coral kingdoms.
Other islands feature luxuriant jungles and velvety peaks, and some enchant travellers with their cultural jewels. Whether it’s sublime beaches, stunning topography, or exotic cultures you seek, these islands lie far from the work day clamour but close to creature comforts.
From the Seychelles to Santorini and the Caribbean to Capri, find your very own Shangri-La in this list of the most beautiful islands in the world.
Maldives
The 26 natural atolls of Maldives, in the Indian Ocean, are an incredible sight: coral reefs surround the islands and form natural pools of turquoise water, which in the middle hours of the day become almost phosphorescent; the white sand stands out in contrast with the sea and the palm trees, while the piles combine with the submarine corals. With average temperatures between 26 ° and 31 °C, it is a dream destination throughout the year.
Bora Bora
The volcanic island of Bora Bora, part of the Society Islands archipelago, in the Pacific Ocean, rises in the middle of a lagoon and is bordered by two motus, two shoals that frame it and where there are the most beautiful beaches on the island. The “Pearl of the Pacific”, as the island is nicknamed, is a destination much sought after by couples for their honeymoon, and lends itself to a decidedly high budget. The ideal is to circumnavigate it aboard a luxury charter yacht.
Palawan
Between the Sulu Sea and the South China Sea, the island of Palawan, in the Philippine archipelago, is a concentration of biodiversity protected by the Palawan Biosphere Reserve: numerous species of fish swim in its azure waters and make the island one of the best places in the world for snorkelling or diving. There are natural caves with an underground river, which are part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The island is also characterised by the many fishing villages that are certainly worth a visit.
Maui
The island of Maui, the second largest of the Hawaiian islands, in the Pacific Ocean, is composed of two large volcanoes and is covered with dense vegetation. It is characterised by the presence of different microclimates and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The island is an unmissable destination for water sports such as sailing, surfing and windsurfing, but also a place where you can spot whales during their migration in the winter months.
The Seychelles
Off the coast of Kenya are the 115 islands of coral and granite that make up the Seychelles archipelago. Very fine white sand, jungles protected by UNESCO and a very clean and fish-filled sea. These islands of the Indian Ocean are a perfect destination for those in search of uncontaminated places where they can dive, fish and try the delicious Creole cuisine, a true concentration of flavours.
Phi Phi
Have you ever seen the movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio? It is set right on the beach of Maya Beach in Ko Phi Phi Leh, one of the islands that make up the archipelago of the Phi Phi islands, in the Andaman Sea, in the Indian Ocean. The islands have witnessed an impressive growth in tourism in recent years, but you can still find easily uncontaminated spaces where you can make wonderful excursions, enjoy the emerald waters and observe the colorful aquatic fauna. But if you don’t want to risk finding yourself in the midst of too many tourists, just board a charter yacht.
Kauai
Another Hawaiian island in the ranking: Kauai, the oldest of the archipelago and probably also the most famous. Made famous by over sixty films that have used it as a set (including Jurissic Park and King Kong, but also the cartoon Lilo and Stitch). “Garden Island”, as the island is also called, is characterised by a great variety of ecosystems and vegetation (from the rainforest, to the desert, to the marshy areas), and of course there is no lack of white beaches and turquoise waters. Also with regard to the fauna, the island is very rich: many species of birds can be observed everywhere.
Santorini
We are no longer part of the tropical islands but in the old Aegean Sea, specifically in the Cyclades islands. Santorini, the most iconic and famous island of Greece, is one of the most beautiful in the world, not only because of the amazing blue of its waters, but also because of the domes that surmount the immaculate churches, and the colourful houses that contribute to make its atmosphere incredibly picturesque and unique, especially at sunset. We recommend a beautiful yacht charter vacation to discover the Cyclades.
Capri
Italy, one of the most famous countries in the world for its historical and natural beauties. In the Gulf of Naples, there is one of the jewels of Italy, which is also one of the most beautiful islands in the world: Capri, with its stacks, caves and its steep cliffs. Immersed in the Mediterranean vegetation, with simply breathtaking locations, the island has been linked since the late 19th century to a certain lifestyle and to the world of art and entertainment, and is known throughout the world for its charm and beauty.
Bali
Among the small Sunda Islands, next to the island of Java, there is Bali, the most important Indonesian tourist destination. If you have already seen one of the images of the Hindu temples on the island you know how much Bali can convey a sense of calm which, together with its luxuriant tropical vegetation, makes it an ideal destination for a refreshing type of tourism. But don’t be fooled, because Bali also has a very rich and tasty cuisine, sports activities and a lively nightlife in the Kuta area which has earned it the title “Ibiza of the East”.
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are located between French Polynesia and the island of Samoa, in the South Pacific Ocean. The 15 islands that make up the archipelago are the quintessence of the tropical island: tall palm trees, very white sand and turquoise water will frame your escape in these fabulous atolls. You can go kayaking, climb volcanic peaks or relax on your catamaran or charter yacht.
Mauritius
Near Madagascar, in the Indian Ocean, is the island (and Republic) of Mauritius. This state that is part of the African continent will surprise you with its lush vegetation, its many colourful atolls and the many aquatic species that can be observed by snorkelling; clown fish, manta rays, sharks, moray eels and sea turtles populate the crystalline waters of Mauritius. The island is also famous for its exquisite cuisine, a melting pot of different influences and traditions, and its musical traditions, ranging from the typical séga dance to different varieties of reggae music.
Waiheke Island
Less than 20 km from Auckland, in the northern part of New Zealand (gulf of Hauraki) is the Waiheke island, where you will find a different scenery from the typical tropical atoll, but certainly no less heavenly. It is a predominantly hilly island, but it boasts beautiful beaches where you can dedicate yourself to various water sports such as windsurfing and kayaking. The island is a very relaxing place to stay and enjoy a mild climate.
Easter island
Known as Rapa Nui, or “big rock” or “big island”, Easter Island is immediately recognizable by the presence of the moais, the giant stone busts that perhaps represented ancient tribal chiefs. There are more than 600 busts which are all facing the interior of the island. Its mysterious charm and difficulty to access (it can be done exclusively from Chile with a 5-hour flight), together with the harsh beauty of many stretches, make it one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
Tenerife
Off the coast of Morocco there are the Spanish Canary Islands, among the most beautiful in the world, with their always temperate climate and their wide beaches. Of the seven islands that make up the archipelago, Tenerife is perhaps the best known and appreciated, and it is not difficult to understand why. In addition to the incredible beaches and the clear sea, is the Teide National Park, which extends around the largest volcano in the world and the highest mountain in Spain; it is one of the top destinations in the Mediterranean Sea. Tenerife is a dream destination all year round, but it is even more so in February, when it hosts its flamboyant carnival.
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