The best tropical island escapes around the world

Dreaming of crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, and the kind of peace that only comes from being completely off the grid? A tropical island vacation offers all that and more. Whether you’re after luxury, adventure, wildlife, or just a quiet beach to call your own, you can have it. In this guide, you’ll discover some of the best island escapes around the world, complete with travel tips, a packing list, and more. From hidden gems in Central America to bucket-list escapes in the Pacific Ocean, there’s an island destination here for every kind of traveler.

The best tropical vacations for an island getaway

There’s no one-size-fits-all island getaway. From all-inclusive luxury to off-the-beaten-path adventures, these are the 21 best tropical island destinations to inspire your next trip.

Corn Islands, Nicaragua — best for beautiful beaches

Corn Island diving is among the best things to do in Nicaragua. Located off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast, the Corn Islands offer an authentic island experience minus the crowds. Big Corn is more developed, while Little Corn is a backpacker’s paradise with no cars and sandy paths.

You can also snorkel around coral reefs or swing in a hammock with a cold drink in hand. The seafood is fresh, and the sunsets are unforgettable. It’s ideal if you want to escape touristy resorts and embrace a slower pace. You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret destination.

San Andrés and Providencia, Colombia — best for Caribbean culture

These two islands offer a blend of Colombian culture with a Caribbean twist. Expect a San Andrés island vacation to be lively, with Afro-Caribbean culture and delicious seafood. Providencia is more tranquil, offering pristine diving spots in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

You can explore mangroves, hike up to El Pico for stunning views of the Caribbean, or snorkel the vibrant barrier reef. The Raizal culture and Creole language add a unique charm. If these two islands are enough reason to travel to Colombia, add a visit to the Rosario Islands to boot.

Phuket, Thailand — best for food and nightlife

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a favorite for travelers seeking a bit of everything. From the lively nightlife in Patong to quiet beaches like Nai Harn, there’s something for every mood.

Explore temples, hike through the jungle, or take a boat to nearby islands like Phi Phi. Thai cuisine here is as good as it gets, so don’t miss the street food markets. Bangla Road comes alive after dark, providing a vibrant nightlife scene, with seemingly endless live music bars and clubs.

Whether solo or traveling with family, Phuket delivers on excitement and relaxation. It’s also about an hour away from one of the best views in Thailand, Samet Nangshe Viewpoint.

Bocas del Toro, Panama — best for surfers

This island group on Panama’s Caribbean coast is full of color, music, and Caribbean charm. Bocas Town on Isla Colón is the hub, packed with beach bars, hostels, and surf shops. Take a water taxi to quiet beaches, visit a chocolate farm, or surf at popular spots like Bluff Beach.

It’s a great spot for digital nomads or anyone seeking a mix of adventure and nightlife. The energy is infectious, but you can also find solitude on the surrounding islands. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure place, straight out of a Panama guide book.

Gili Islands, Indonesia — best for island hopping and diving

Just off the coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands are a trio of tiny tropical destinations with big appeal. Gili Trawangan is the liveliest, with beach parties and diving schools. Gili Air is more balanced, offering nightlife and chill vibes, while Gili Meno is secluded and romantic.

There are no cars, just bikes and horses, which makes exploring extra fun. Dive with sea turtles, take a cooking class, or just soak up the sunset views. Horseback riding on the beach is also popular, and snorkeling at the underwater sculpture park is simply out of this world.

Enjoy an island-hopping tour to get a taste of all three of these tropical vacation spots. Swinging on a sea hammock is also a must-do when visiting the islands of Indonesia.

Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica — best for luxury in nature

Located on Costa Rica’s northwestern Pacific coast, Peninsula Papagayo blends eco-tourism with five-star comfort. You can stay in luxury resorts surrounded by jungle, then step outside to zipline, kayak, or hike. It’s a rare find in a typical Costa Rica travel guide, but it’s worth visiting.

The beaches are quiet and ideal for snorkeling, while the nearby rainforest teems with diverse wildlife, from monkeys to toucans. It’s perfect if you want both adventure and pampering.

Sustainable travel is a focus here, so you’ll feel good about your carbon footprint while you unwind. Don’t miss out on indulging in some authentic Costa Rican cuisine like gallo pinto.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia – best for marine biodiversity

Tucked away in the eastern corner of Indonesia, Raja Ampat is a dream for nature lovers and underwater explorers. This remote island group is home to some of the richest marine life on the planet, perfect for diving and snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, manta rays, and sea turtles.

The islands themselves are rugged and wild, with dense jungle, limestone cliffs, and hidden lagoons. You’ll find a handful of eco-resorts and homestays run by local families, offering a peaceful and authentic stay.

If you’re looking for a tropical island vacation far from the crowds, Raja Ampat delivers untouched beauty and unforgettable experiences.

Zanzibar, Tanzania — best for spice markets and Swahili history

Zanzibar offers a fascinating mix of African, Arab, and European influences. Start your trip in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of winding alleys and vibrant spice markets. Then, head to the beaches in Nungwi or Paje for white sands and turquoise seas. Go snorkeling in Mnemba Atoll or take a tour of a local spice farm.

Zanzibar is one of the best places to visit in Tanzania if you’re looking for diversity in a single destination. You can go from meeting a giant tortoise on Prison Island to having a unique dining experience at the Rock Restaurant, all in one day. It’s a destination rich in culture and natural beauty. Perfect for travelers who want more than just a beach vacation on an island in Tanzania.

Palawan, Philippines — best for dramatic scenery

Palawan is often called the most beautiful island in the Philippines, and with good reason. Limestone cliffs rise from emerald lagoons, while jungle-covered hills lead to hidden beaches.

El Nido and Coron are home to some of the best beaches in the Philippines, known for their island-hopping tours and epic snorkeling. You’ll find quiet fishing villages, untouched nature, and warm hospitality. It’s ideal if you want raw natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Azores, Portugal — Best for eco-travelers

Rising from the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are Portugal’s wild, volcanic island chain. São Miguel is the most accessible island, known for crater lakes, thermal springs, and diverse landscapes.

You can hike, maybe spot some whale sharks, or swim in geothermal pools. The Azores are quiet, uncrowded, and ideal for nature enthusiasts. Sustainability is a core focus here, so it’s a great destination if you travel with the planet in mind. It’s Portugal’s best-kept tropical secret.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia — best for sailing

Off Queensland’s coast, the Whitsundays are a string of islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Whitehaven Beach is one of the most photographed spots in the world thanks to its swirling white sands. Australia may be the outback, but an island escape might change that.

Book a sailing trip, snorkel the reef, or just enjoy island time in a tropical setting. Hamilton Island offers resorts and restaurants, while others are uninhabited. The marine life is incredible, and the views are unforgettable. A sailing adventure is one trip you shouldn’t miss in Australia.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador — best for wildlife encounters

The Galápagos Islands are unlike anywhere else on Earth. Located about 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, these volcanic islands are packed with rare and fearless wildlife.

Snorkel with sea lions, walk beside giant tortoises, and watch blue-footed boobies dance. Guided tours and eco-cruises help you explore responsibly. It’s not a place for resorts, it’s a place for connection with nature. Every day feels like a David Attenborough documentary.

Île Sainte-Marie, Madagascar — best for whale watching

Île Sainte-Marie is a lush Madagascan island with beaches lined by palm trees and pirate history. From July to September, humpback whales migrate through the warm waters, one of the best spots in Africa to see them. Whale watching is a must-see here; don’t miss out.

Visit fishing villages, snorkel in calm bays, or explore old pirate graves; these are top things to do on this island full of stories and nature. Perfect if you want something unusual and authentic.

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia — best for budget travel

Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands are ideal if you want tropical beauty without the high price tag. The water is crystal clear, the snorkeling is excellent, and the atmosphere is super relaxed.

Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil is great for budget stays and beach clubs, while Perhentian Besar offers a quieter, family vacation. Dive shops, jungle trails, and coral reefs keep you busy. It’s a backpacker’s dream with a lot of charm. No frills, just a trip to paradise in Malaysia.

Don’t leave without trying the local cuisine and drinks, grilled seafood, and coconut water.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam — best for Southeast Asian sunsets

Off Vietnam’s southwest coast, Phu Quoc is known for its beaches, seafood, and fiery sunsets. Visit night markets, admire colorful buildings, or tour pepper farms and fish sauce factories.

Long Beach is the most developed, while Bai Sao and Ganh Dau offer more serenity. The island has a growing number of resorts, but still feels relaxed. It’s a great alternative to Thailand’s famous vacation spots, such as Bali, if you’re after something quieter with breathtaking sunsets. For ultimate scenery, take the cable car and see views of one of Vietnam’s best places to visit.

Isla Contoy, Mexico — best for bird watching and day trips

A protected national park just north of Cancún, Mexico, Isla Contoy is a haven for bird watching and fantastic biodiversity. Only 200 visitors are allowed per day, keeping the island pristine.

It’s a day-trip destination where you can snorkel coral reefs and spot frigate birds, pelicans, and herons. No hotels, no crowds, just beautiful nature. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the usual tourist spots and reconnect with the wild. Bring your camera and a sense of wonder.

Maldives — best for all-inclusive resorts

If you’re chasing barefoot luxury, the Maldives is your dream come true. This Indian Ocean paradise comprises over 1,000 coral islands, each fringed with white sand and surrounded by turquoise waters. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the best beach destinations around the world.

You can stay in overwater villas, snorkel with manta rays, or relax with a cocktail at an infinity pool. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating a honeymoon or simply want to unplug from everything.

The coral reefs are teeming with marine life; add clear, warm water to that, and you have a top scuba diving spot. You’ll find peace, privacy, and postcard-worthy scenery around every corner.

FAQs about peaceful island escapes around the world

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tropical islands.

Where is the best tropical island to visit?

The “best” tropical island depends on your preferences. For luxury and overwater bungalows, the Maldives is ideal. If you’re after adventure and unique wildlife, the Galápagos Islands are unmatched. For cultural experiences and beaches, Bali and Zanzibar are excellent choices.

Where is the cheapest island to vacation on?

For budget-friendly options, consider the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia, the Gili Islands in Indonesia, or certain parts of the Philippines like Palawan. These destinations offer affordable accommodations, food, and activities without compromising natural beauty.

When is the best time to go to tropical islands for vacation?

The optimal time varies by region. Generally, the dry season is preferred:

• Caribbean: December to April
• Southeast Asia: November to February
• South Pacific: May to October
• Indian Ocean: May to October

Always check the specific climate patterns of your chosen coastal destination before booking.

Read more: Eight of the world’s most magical distant islands

Make it happen

From luxury escapes to off-the-grid adventures, these islands offer the perfect mix of sun, sea, and culture. Ready to start planning? Navigate to your preferred destination and reach out to our on-the-ground travel experts, who are ready and waiting to help you plan an exciting adventure that’s entirely unique to you.