15 Tropical Islands So Drop-Dead Gorgeous You’ll Reconsider Your Life Choices 🏝️
From the blue lagoons of the South Pacific to the spice-scented shores of East Africa, these dreamy tropical islands are truly unforgettable.
Let’s be honest. Most tropical “bucket list” articles round up the usual suspects: Bora Bora, Bali, maybe the Bahamas if they’re feeling basic.
But you’re not here for basic. You’re here for once-in-a-lifetime places that still feel a little wild, a little out-of-reach, and a whole lot worth it.
The kind of places that make you think, “Could I quit my job and move here?“
After 10 trips around the world, I’m happy to say that I know a little something about the world’s most beautiful tropical islands. And the only thing I enjoy more than island-hopping is sharing those gorgeous islands with the readers of this blog.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Read More: I’ve Been to 175 Countries. Here are the 50 Best Places to See in Your Lifetime.
The world’s best tropical islands are where you’ll always find me anytime I can swing it (in fact, I’m currently a resident of #4 on this list).
So if you like your beaches with a side of culture, your bungalow surrounded by blues you didn’t know existed, and your GPS occasionally wondering, “wait… where are we?” this list is for you.
From the blue lagoons of the South Pacific to the spice-scented shores of East Africa, these 15 breathtaking tropical islands aren’t just beautiful — they’re unforgettable.
So grab a pina colada and let’s get started…
1. The Maldives
The Maldivian Archipelago of 26 atolls stretches over 500 miles from North to South and forms a natural barrier across the Indian Ocean.
The entire country consists of hundreds of tiny, idyllic islands scattered across an expanse of brilliant blue ocean.
With romantic overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons, the Maldives are the epitome of a tropical paradise. Just the seaplane flight to get to your resort should be on everyone’s travel Bucket List, it’s incredible.
Pro Tip: Don’t BYOB, this is a Muslim country. They will search your luggage.
Where to Stay: W Maldives Resort & Spa
Read More: Where are the Maldives? (& Why You Should Go Now!)
2. Palawan, Philippines
Located in the southwestern Philippines, the jungle island of Palawan has often been described as the country’s “last ecological frontier.”
The northern part of Palawan is home to the small fishing village of El Nido. Just offshore… spectacular islands, secret lagoons, and limestone rock formations dating back 250 million years await.
Yep, it’s just as gorgeous as it sounds.
Exploring from El Nido is a breeze, the clever local tour operators have conveniently grouped all those lovely islands and lagoons into four specific day trips known as – Tour A, B, C, and D (creative, right?). If you’re short on time, Tour A and Tour C are the must-do’s.
Pro Tip: Cash is king in El Nido so bring plenty when you visit. ATM’s are few and far between and few places accept credit cards.
Where to Stay: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island (a private island resort)
Read More: The Paradise of Palawan: Your Ultimate El Nido Travel Guide
3. Moorea, French Polynesia
An overseas collectivity of France, the 118 islands and atolls of French Polynesia stretch lazily across the south-central Pacific Ocean covering more than 1,200 miles. It’s a remote honeymoon paradise known for 5-star resorts and overwater bungalows that feature prominently on most travel Bucket Lists.
The distance between the main island of Tahiti and Moorea is just 12 miles, but arriving at the ferry port in Moorea is like entering another world. The island is ringed by a coral reef enclosing a narrow lagoon. There are hues of brilliant blue here that are like nothing else that exists in nature.
Moorea is pure rest and relaxation where the primary activity is jumping into the crystal blue lagoon from your own personal dock and snorkeling for hours. When not in the lagoon, monitor the underwater world through the glass panel in your bungalow floor known locally as “Tahitian television.“
Pro Tip: A lot of people will tell you that Bora Bora is the ultimate destination in French Polynesia but I disagree. Moorea is less touristy, cheaper and easier to get to.
Where to Stay: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Read More: Forget Bora Bora: 3 Reasons Moorea is the Best of Tahiti
4. The Hawaiian Islands (yes, all of them)
A volcanic archipelago, the US state of Hawaii is a captivating blend of stunning natural scenery, rich Polynesian culture, and (most importantly) a warm aloha spirit that stays with you long after you visit.
From the dramatic cliffs of Kauai to the vibrant beaches of Oahu, each island is uniquely special with its own charm. I’ve been visiting the Hawaiian islands since college, most frequently to run the Honolulu Marathon. But my love affair with the islands really took off when my husband took a job on Oahu and we moved to Waikiki.
It’s been such a great adventure that I started a whole new blog devoted specifically to Hawaii and all the amazing things to see and do here (it’s called Next Stop, Hawaii).
Pro Tip: Hawaii has a wide variety of great tour options but if you’re the “do-it-yourself” type like me, rent a car and download the Shaka Guide App. The app is full of local audio guides to some of the most popular day trips like Oahu’s Circle Island Tour or exploring the North Shore.
Where to Stay: For history and elegance, it’s hard to beat The Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
Read More: Next Stop, Hawaii!
5. Aitutaki, Cook Islands
The 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands are situated northeast of New Zealand, between French Polynesia and American Samoa. Most of the islands’ population of roughly 18,000 lives on the main island of Rarotonga but the real magic happens when you hop a 40-minute flight to the atoll of Aitutaki.
While Aitutaki is minuscule in landmass, it is surrounded by miles and miles of the most magnificent lagoon you’ve ever imagined. So many hues of blue it’s easy to lose count.
Aitutaki is, to this day, still the most beautiful tropical island I’ve ever seen. And that’s a bold statement when you’ve visited 175+ countries.
Pro Tip: It’s possible to do a day trip to Aitutaki with Air Rarotonga. But don’t settle for just one day, spend a few nights in this South Pacific paradise.
Where to Stay: Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Read More: Are the Cook Islands & Aitutaki the Best Kept Secret in the South Pacific?
6. New Caledonia
Located about 750 miles east of Australia, New Caledonia sits in the middle of the South Pacific between Australia and Fiji.
The French Overseas Territory consists of the main island (or Mainland), the Isle of Pines (Ile des Pins) to the southeast, and the four Loyalty Islands (Mare, Lifou, Tiga, and Ouvea) to the east.
New Caledonia is home to the world’s second-largest reef (second only by a hair to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef) and the world’s largest lagoon – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to the obvious underwater sights, there’s also an interesting blend of French culture and US WWII history to explore.
Pro Tip: Just a short ferry ride away, time seems to stand still on nearby Ile des Pins with its turquoise lagoons, sparse Melanesian tribal population, swaying palms and soaring Araucaria pines. Don’t miss the chance to visit this lovely island.
Where to Stay: Le Meridien Ile des Pins
Read More: Paris in the Pacific: Bonjour! New Caledonia
7. Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Located off the coast of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of its popular neighbor. With beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax.
Known primarily as a haven for divers and surfers, Lembongan and its sister islands of Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida are home to a variety of dive sites for both novice and expert divers.
More importantly, the island is a haven of vast stretches of empty beachfront. So if you’re visiting Bali and the tourist crowds are getting to you, book a ferry to Lembongan.
Pro Tip: The best way to get around the island and explore is by golf cart, your hotel can usually arrange one for you.
Where to Stay: Get away from it all at the Bay Shore Huts (Mushroom Bay)
Read More: 3 Reasons Nusa Lembongan is the Perfect Escape from Your Bali Vacation
8. San Blas Islands, Panama
These self-governing islands off the coast of Panama could easily fall under the “remote adventure destination” category as well. They are not easy to reach and the infrastructure is minimal (power and running water are not really a thing).
Run by the indigenous Kuna, this autonomous region is a 140-mile stretch of Caribbean coastline with almost 400 tiny palm-lined islands just offshore.
An island for each day of the year, they like to say.
But my favorite part of visiting these remote Caribbean islands was meeting the local Kuna families. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with a truly remote culture.
Read More: Around the World in 30 Extraordinary Travel Experiences
Pro Tip: The absolute best way to explore the islands is with a few off-the-grid days on a charter sailboat. But it is possible to visit from Panama City with this Day Tour to the San Blas Islands Visiting 4 Islands. Just keep in mind this is a VERY long day with the drive from the city.
Where to Stay: Hotels in the San Blas are more of the “shack” variety. But here’s a terrific charter option – Private Sailing Yacht “Guji” With Crew All Inclusive.
Read More: Kokomo, Kuanidup & the Kuna Yala: The San Blas Islands, Panama
9. Zanzibar
A semi-autonomous part of Tanzania, the Zanzibar archipelago is actually made up of a number of islands, the largest of which are Unguja (commonly referred to as Zanzibar) and Pemba.
The capital of the islands is Zanzibar City (located on Unguja) and its historic city center is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town which is claimed to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa.
As part of the “Spice Islands,” it did a bustling business in the spice markets for centuries and was also a major hub for the East African slave trade.
Today, tourism tops the still bustling spice trade. The island’s beaches are sensational and a visit to Stone Town to explore it’s rich history is essential.
Pro Tip: I don’t recommend renting a car and driving yourself in Zanzibar (traffic is chaotic and involves multiple police checkpoints). To get out and explore, hire a private guide through your hotel or book a day tour like this Full-Day Private Stone Town +Spice Farm and Prison Island Tour.
Where to Stay: Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa Beach)
Read More: Zen in Zanzibar
10. Fiji
When you visit Fiji, don’t settle for the main island of Nadi, where most of the mega resorts are located, like I did on my first trip. The real beauty of Fiji can only be found when you get out to the outer island groups – the Yasawa islands and the Mamanuca islands.
The Mamanuca Islands are a tropical haven with white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and world-class resorts. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, diving, and just soaking up the sun in a picture-perfect setting.
Pro Tip: I’m especially partial to the Mamanuca island group and this is an excellent day trip that explores all the best sandy shores.
Where to Stay: Sheraton Tokoriki Fiji (we stayed here on our Fiji honeymoon stop!)
Read More: The Song of the South Pacific: Fiji & the Mamanuca Islands
11. Vanuatu
An archipelago made up of 83 islands, the island nation of Vanuatu is about a 2 ½ hour flight from either Brisbane, Australia or Auckland, New Zealand.
In 2007, Vanuatu was named the Happiest Country in the World by the New Economic Foundation’s “happy planet index.” This brought a surge to their tourism industry.
After all, who wouldn’t want to visit the happiest country in the world?
It’s easy to get around the island and explore using the whimsical “B” for bus system. But if navigating public transportation isn’t your jam, this is great Full-Day Vanuatu Round Island Tour from Port Vila that hits all the highlights.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss a visit to the Hideaway Island Resort to mail a waterproof postcard from the world’s only underwater post office.
Where to Stay: Erakor Island Resort & Spa (on a private island accessible only by boat)
Read More: Vibrant, Vivacious…Vanuatu: The Happiest Country in the World
12. Corn Islands, Nicaragua
The Corn Islands are a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering a laid-back vibe and unspoiled beauty. These small islands are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and experiencing a more rustic and authentic Caribbean.
To get here, it’s a flight from Managua to Big Corn Island and then an adventurous panga ride over to Little Corn. Both islands are are terrific but Little Corn Island’s “off-the-grid” Caribbean vibe really won my heart.
Hotels here are basic beach bungalows right on the water. It’s truly an unspoiled paradise.
Pro Tip: Little Corn only has power a few hours a day, don’t forget to charge your devices (or just pour yourself into a hammock and let them die).
Where to Stay: Little Corn Island each & Bungalow is basically the only game in town, but it’s a gem.
Read More: The Best Caribbean Islands You’ve Never Heard Of: Nicaragua’s Corn Islands
13. The Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Floating off the coast of Queensland, the Whitsundays are a cluster of 74 sun-drenched islands tucked between Australia’s tropical northeast and the Great Barrier Reef. It’s the kind of place where the sand squeaks under your toes and the water looks filtered — but it’s not.
The main draw? Whitehaven Beach. With its swirling turquoise shallows and super-fine silica sand, it’s consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches on Earth. This part of Australia is pure eye candy — best explored by sailboat, seaplane, or snorkel.
You can stay on a few of the islands, but much of the Whitsundays are protected national parks — making them feel wild, untouched, and tailor-made for a castaway fantasy.
Explore the reef itself with a day trip like this Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise to one of several full-service pontoons located around the reef.
Pro Tip: Seeing the Great Barrier Reef from above is truly the only way to properly appreciate its grandeur. Don’t miss the chance to take a Scenic Flight over Heart Reef and the Whitsundays. It’s a little pricey, but worth every penny.
Where to Stay: Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort
Read More: How to See the Whitsundays & Great Barrier Reef (even on a budget!)
14. St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Located between St. Lucia and Grenada in the southern Caribbean Sea, the multi-island nation of St. Vincent & the Grenadines (SVG) includes 32 islands and cays spanning 45 miles. Of those 32 islands, only 8 are populated.
The largest of the islands is St. Vincent. Home to the majority of SVG’s population of 110,000, it’s also the home base for the island’s booming yacht charter industry. Popular destinations for sailors include the islands of Bequia, Union, Cannouan, the Tobago Cays, and Mayreau.
Like the popular Virgin Islands, the Grenadines offer turquoise waters and a closely-grouped abundance of picture-perfect islands but at a more affordable price (and with fewer tourists!).
Pro Tip: If you’ve always wanted to learn how to sail, the Grenadines are a pretty fabulous place to do it. Week-long sailing courses depart Kingstown regularly offering the chance to combine a vacation with a learn-to-sail course. (Fair warning, I’ve done this course and it’s far more work than it is vacation – but it was still awesome!)
Where to Stay: The Grenadines are also well-known for a handful of exclusive private island resorts on Mustique, Petit St. Vincent, and the luxe Palm Island Resort.
Read More: A Learn to Sail Caribbean Vacation: Rookie to ASA Sailor in 7 Days
15. Koh Lipe, Thailand
Tucked away in the far south of Thailand near the Malaysian border, Koh Lipe is often called the “Maldives of Thailand” — and for good reason. With powdery white sand, vibrant coral reefs, and neon blue water, it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning (and still semi-hidden) island escapes.
Part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, Koh Lipe offers a perfect balance of rustic charm and laid-back luxury.
It’s small enough to walk across in 30 minutes, but big enough to offer postcard-perfect beaches like Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and the ever-popular Pattaya Beach.
Pro Tip: While the island is open year-round, the best weather is from November to April. Ferries run from Pak Bara on the Thai mainland and from Langkawi, Malaysia during high season.
Where to Stay: We chose the gorgeous AKIRA Lipe Resort on Pattaya Beach for our stay. Rooms are spacious and modern, the pool is spectacular, and the location is absolutely perfect.
Read More: 3 Reasons Koh Lipe is the Best Thai Island You’ve Never Heard Of
So pick your island and book that flight!
Whether you’re looking for romance, adventure, or a hut that’s one wave away from falling into the sea (in the best way), these tropical islands belong at the top of your beach travel Bucket List.
If you’re dreaming of warm sun, turquoise water, and places that still feel special… consider this your tropical treasure map.