The best islands in the world: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards
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The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.
Our annual Readers’ Choice Awards continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises and islands. This year, you travelled farther and deeper; seeking out remote properties; sailing on smaller, more intimate ships; and prioritising destinations you’ve been waiting years to visit. At least, that’s what a staggering number of you told us in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey.
Now, you can use the results to decide where you’re going next – these are the best islands in the world, as voted by our readers.
GettyTop 5 in Africa and The Indian Ocean
borchee/Getty5. Mnemba Island, Tanzania
Often overshadowed by neighbouring Zanzibar, Mnemba Island demands attention – and our readers heard its call this year. Aside from dazzling white-sand beaches and some of the best snorkelling in this region of the Indian Ocean, this tiny sliver of an island is also home to andBeyond Mnemba Island, often considered one of the best private island resorts in the world.
Pro tip: No jetties or docks lead to the island, so getting to the beach from your connecting boat will require wading in the water. Save your nice clothes and shoes for after you reach the resort.
Getting there: Fly to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), then take a 90-minute (bumpy) drive followed by a 15-minute boat ride to reach Mnemba.
Chris/Unsplash4. Seychelles
Our readers aren’t the only ones who consider this African nation one of the best islands in the world: Prince William and Kate Middleton and David and Victoria Beckham spent their honeymoons on the North Island of the Seychelles. Yet some stretches of sand are so deserted that parts of the movie Castaway were filmed here. The ultimate draw, however, is nature – the white beaches here are so beautiful that visiting them borders on a religious experience.
Pro tip: Seychelles is one of the best spots in the Indian Ocean for snorkelling. Head to La Digue and Félicité islands for the best variety of sea life.
Getting there: Air France, Air Seychelles, and Turkish Airlines have regular flights that connect to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), just south of the capital of Victoria.
8vFanI/Getty3. Mauritius
Instagram and Pinterest have created renewed interest in this island in the Indian Ocean, thanks to its “underwater waterfall” – a visually stunning runoff of sand and silt best viewed from above. Roughly 550 miles east of Madagascar, Mauritius may also be home to a lost continent hiding beneath the waves.
Pro tip: Don’t trust the scales on Mauritius: The island has a stronger gravitational field, causing things (and people) to weigh more.
Getting there: The island’s Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is your link for flights to other cities in Africa, as well as to major cities in Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Matteo Colombo/Getty2. Maldives
A chain of 26 atolls and more than 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Republic of Maldives is one of the most sought-after tropical destinations in the world. It’s dense with megawatt luxury villas and overwater bungalows, and the diving is unreal (though, sadly, some of the coral has been threatened by bleaching). Still, there’s a dive for all skill levels at Ari Atoll, where you can swim with rays and, deeper down, reef sharks.
Pro tip: Cheval Blanc Randheli, the number one resort in the Indian Ocean (per this year’s reader survey), has 45 luxe villas – some tucked among the coconut groves, some jutting out directly over the water.
Getting there: Fly into Malé’s international airport and transfer there to the appropriate resort or atoll.
Demerzel21/Getty1. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
The six islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina, Bangue, and Shell – are a protected conservation area and national park off the eastern coast of Africa. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” the islands have only seen the arrival of big-name resorts within the past decade, like the impeccable andBeyond Benguerra Island in 2015.
Pro tip: This is one of the few habitats of the endangered manatee-like dugong, which sailors sometimes mistook for mermaids.
Getting there: Fly to Vilanculos on the coast of Mozambique; from there, take a seaplane to your final destination.
Top 5 in Asia
Manish Tulaskar/Unsplash5. Langkawi, Malaysia
Located off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, the Langkawi archipelago has pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush mountains – plus that famous Sky Bridge you’ve seen pictures of. This collection of 99 islands is also a foodie wonderland (eating is the unofficial national sport here), with spicy peanut satay skewers and macheted coconuts sold everywhere, from high-end hotels to sidewalk stands.
Pro tip: The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi was voted the best resort in Asia by our readers this year – chalk it up to a world-class spa, multiple beachfront restaurants, and a location in a 10 million-year-old rainforest.
Getting there: Take a one-hour flight from the Malay capital of Kuala Lumpur.
Syed Ahmad/Unsplash4. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is not exactly a hidden gem, but it’s still a warm and lovely place to vacation, whether you want a busy immersion in city life or a quiet, family-friendly experience. Since it’s the biggest island in Thailand, you’re sure to find something to fit your desired itinerary. In general, though, we’d recommend skipping the overcrowded West Coast and heading to quiet corners like Cape Panwa, where you’ll find luxury accommodations and rum distilleries that feel a bit more removed from the oft-touristed track.
Pro tip: Phuket Town may be the island’s administrative centre, but it still receives far fewer tourists than the western beach areas. Here you can sample colourful spices at markets, visit ageing Taoist temples, and snap photos of the colourful street murals.
Getting there: There are more than a dozen daily flights from Bangkok to Phuket, with most trips clocking in at an hour and 20 minutes.
Vuk8691/Getty3. Boracay, Philippines
At less than four square miles, this compact Philippine island transformed from under-the-radar to overtouristed in the span of a few rocky decades – it was even temporarily shut down in 2018 to allow for much-needed redevelopment and rehabilitation. But with its sugary sands, magical sunsets, and see-your-feet-clear water, we suspect Boracay’s popularity isn’t going to wane anytime soon.
Pro tip: On Boracay’s eastern shores, steady winds make for some of the best kiteboarding and windsurfing conditions in the region.
Getting there: Take an hour-long flight from Cebu or Manila.
Chelsea Chehade/Unsplash2. Koh Samui, Thailand
Thailand’s second-largest island is famous for its palm-lined beaches, buzzing nightlife scene, and luxurious hotels. AVANI+ Samui Resort was voted one of the best resorts in Thailand by our readers, though the hillside villas at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves at The Library are also worth checking out. In terms of beaches, be sure to visit the five-mile Chaweng Beach, lined with coconut trees and surrounded by a natural reef. Just note that the northern end of the beach is party central.
Pro tip: If you are looking for parties, check out Green Mango, one of Koh Samui’s oldest and most famous clubs.
Getting there: You can fly directly from Bangkok to Koh Samui. A more budget-friendly option may be to fly to Surat Thani and then catch a ferry to Koh Samui – it will add a couple of hours to your travel time, but the views are pretty spectacular.
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Travelstoxphoto/Getty1. Bali, Indonesia
Nowhere on the planet offers the same combination of surfing, spirituality, and sun-kissed pleasure as Bali. The island has sadly become synonymous with the concept of overtourism, but there are still enclaves of hidden cultural treasures and undiscovered gems if you know where to look.
Pro tip: The shoulder months of April - May and September - October is the best time to visit Bali. Not only can you enjoy lower airfares and hotel rates during the low season, but you’ll also have the rare ability to see the island without its usual crowds.
Getting there: Many airlines fly directly from the United States to Bali, including Singapore Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines.
Top 5 in Australia and the South Pacific
Fabe Collage/Unsplash5. Tahiti, French Polynesia
Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia, offering enough sheltered lagoons, staggering mountains, epic surf breaks, and colourful markets to satisfy every type of traveller. The world’s first overwater bungalows were built here in the 1950s, and the tradition stays strong at properties like InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa and Tahiti La Ora Beach Resort.
Pro tip: For a fun day trip away from the coast, hike up to the Faarumai Waterfalls from the northern village of Tiarei.
Getting there: Fly into Tahiti International Airport, just a few miles west of Papeete.
Guillaume Marques/Unsplash4. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
While many islands claim to have the perfect snorkelling conditions, the Whitsunday Islands edge out the competition with one major claim to fame: the Great Barrier Reef. This collection of 74 islands is a popular jumping-off point for exploring the world’s most famous reef, though its abundance of gorgeous beaches – namely Whitehaven Beach – makes a great case for staying closer to dry land for a while.
Pro tip: Making literal waves since it opened in late 2019, Reefsuites – Australia’s first underwater hotel – is the perfect spot to get a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.
Getting there: The easiest way to reach the Whitsunday Islands is by air. From Australia’s main cities (Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne), either hop on a flight to Hamilton Island or Whitsunday Coast Airport on the mainland.
VV-pics/Getty3. Moorea, French Polynesia
Framed by jagged mountains and lush jungle valleys, Moorea’s beaches are on the smaller side and often attached to single resorts; sitting on one of them, you might imagine you have the entire island to yourself. Temae is one of our favourite slices of coastline, with all the coral reefs and soft white sand you expect from a South Pacific beach.
Pro tip: Take a taxi to the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea and walk the long stretch of beach to and from the airport.
Getting there: Air Tahiti offers several 15-minute flights every day from Tahiti International Airport to Moorea. There are also passenger ferries that operate up to eight times per day between downtown Papeete and Moorea.
Courtesy IHG2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Famous for its turquoise waters and verdant mountains, Bora Bora is pretty close to heaven on earth. The island also has some of the best resorts in the South Pacific: Our readers are fans of InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, Conrad Bora Bora Nui, and Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora.
Pro tip: Matira Beach is not only the most famous stretch of sand on Bora Bora, but it’s also one of the only public-access beaches on the island. Come early to stake out a spot.
Getting there: After flying into Tahiti International Airport, hop on a 45-minute flight to Bora Bora Airport.
Timothy Ah Koy/Unsplash1. Fiji
This archipelago of more than 300 islands is a true tropical paradise, with perfect beaches, colourful marine life, and resorts fit for royalty. As is usually the case with volcanic islands, including tiny Waya Island, Fiji’s landscapes are as dramatic as they come. With rugged coastlines and mountains covered with greenery, you might even be tempted to look away from the ocean every once in a while.
Pro tip: The best time to enjoy Fiji’s good weather and beaches is May through September, after cyclone season.
Getting there: Fly into Nadi International Airport on the main island of Viti Levu.
Top 5 in Central & South America
Arturo Peña Romano Medina/Getty5. Ambergris Caye, Belize
Belize is home to over 450 individual islands, known as cayes. Ambergris Caye is the most-visited destination in the country, known for its quintessential Caribbean island vibe, with humming golf carts – the main method of transportation – and great snorkelling and diving.
Pro tip: Check out above-water activities, too, like the nighttime crocodile-watching tour offered by the American Crocodile Education Sanctuary.
Getting there: Ambergris Caye is about a 15-minute flight from mainland Belize. Catch an hourly flight from Philip Goldson International Airport with either Maya Island Air or Tropic Air.
Eachat/Getty4. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Do we really have to explain the allure of the Galápagos? Many lucky readers have had the chance to visit this of-another-time stretch of Ecuador, with its blue-footed boobies and dinosaur-like giant tortoises lumbering through the tall grass – and they clearly liked what they saw.
Pro tip: A cruise is definitely the preferred way to explore the islands. Lindblad’s newest Galapagos Islands cruise ship, the National Geographic Islander II, feels like a boutique hotel at sea – but it’s still the best option for adventure seekers.
Getting there: Most travellers fly to Quito or Guayaquil (which is closer to the islands) before picking up their tour. You can also extend a trip and stay in Santa Cruz or Isabela within the Galápagos, with more lodging options in Isabela.
Guillermo Bresciano/Unsplash3. San Andrés & Providencia, Colombia
The islands of San Andrés and Providencia may be part of Colombia, but thanks to their location 500 miles northwest of the mainland, locals have more in common with their Caribbean neighbours. It takes some effort to get to Providencia, but you’ll be rewarded with unspoiled beaches and local cuisine featuring the island’s fresh seafood and native bounty of mango and guava.
Pro tip: Venture to El Pico Natural Regional Park, where the trail provides a 360-degree view of the Caribbean.
Getting there: It takes two hours or less to fly to San Andrés from Bogota or Panama City. If Providencia is your final destination, regional carrier Satena offers flights to the island from San Andrés a couple of times a day.
Courtesy Islas Secas2. Islas Secas, Panama
An archipelago owned by conservationist Louis Bacon, Islas Secas combines rugged natural beauty and pure resort luxury perfectly. The retreat only allows a maximum of 24 guests at once across four individually designed Casita sites and three Tented Casitas. The island is entirely powered by renewable solar energy and has no TV, but you'll be too busy fishing and kayaking to notice.
Pro tip: Set aside an afternoon to have the staff motor you over to Isla Pargo, one of the other islands in the archipelago, where they’ll leave you with a pair of lounge chairs, a picnic lunch, and paddleboards.
Getting there: Take a direct one-hour flight from Panama City to the Secas Archipelago aboard the resort’s Twin Otter private plane transfer service (operated by Air Panama); the plane seats up to 15 passengers per trip, and the carbon emissions are off-set once on the island.
Ze Paulo Gasparotto/Unsplash1. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Brazil is famous for its beaches, but that fame often leads to crowded and noisy stretches of sand (especially near Rio). To leave that chaos behind, head 220 miles from Brazil’s northeastern coast to the stunning archipelago of Fernando de Noronha. The UNESCO-protected main island is like a collection of Mother Earth’s greatest hits, letting lucky visitors snorkel in the clear waters, trek the exotic trails, and watch the moon rise over the ocean.
Pro tip: The Brazilian government strictly limits tourist numbers to 460 visitors at any time – so while you won’t have to worry about crowds, you will have to book well in advance. You can sign up to visit (and pay the daily tourism fee) on the official website.
Getting here: The archipelago is only accessible by air from Recife, via Blue Airlines or Goal Airlines.
Top 10 in Europe
Marcus Lofvenberg/Unsplash10. Hvar, Croatia
With warm summers and mild winters, the island of Hvar is the sunniest spot in Croatia – there are over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually. It may be known for its beaches and turquoise water, but there’s another side to this resort island. From the town of Hvar on the island’s southern shore, make the slow, uphill climb to Tvrđava Fortica, a 13th-century fortress with the best views around.
Pro tip: To see Hvar’s spectacular fields of lavender in full bloom, visit in early summer. The harvest occurs in late July, but you can buy all sorts of scented souvenirs in the local markets year-round.
Getting there: The Split Airport is just a 2.5-hour flight from London. From there, take a cab 20 minutes to the ferry station and board a catamaran or ferry to Stari Grad. The entire journey takes about 90 minutes.
Roc Canals/Getty9. Minorca, Spain
Not quite as well-known as Mallorca or Ibiza, Menorca (or Minorca) is a great place to get some peace and quiet, without going too far off the grid. This Balearic beauty comes alive with whitewashed windmills, wildlife-filled pastures, and beaches backed by limestone cliffs – plus incredible hotels and restaurants that ensure you’re never too far from creature comforts.
Pro tip: Visit Moll de Sa Punta, a new tapas bar inside Club Náutico de Villacarlos, for delicious bites paired with harbour views.
Getting there: Menorca is easily accessible from mainland Spain, either by flight or by ferry from Barcelona and Valencia.
Philip Jahn/Unsplash8. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a postcard-perfect island, from the sunsets from Oia town to the beaches of black, red, and white sand. But it’s the whitewashed villas cascading down the sides of the island caldera that inspire millions of Instagrams. Although you won’t have much space to yourself, the ease of access and plethora of dining and entertainment on the island mean boredom is never an option.
Pro tip: The cherry tomatoes of Santorini are renowned for their sweet intensity. Discover more about this native crop at the Tomato Industrial Museum, then go try the tomato fritters at To Psaraki.
Getting there: Fly to Thira International Airport from Athens or several other western European cities, or take a ferry to the Athinios Port.
Marcobarone/Getty7. The Azores, Portugal
The Azores were virtually unheard of a decade ago, but the secret is out. Roughly 900 miles off the coast of Lisbon, this Portuguese archipelago can inspire wanderlust with a single photo. The verdant valleys, steep oceanside cliffs, and scattering of waterfalls make this cluster of nine volcanic islands a paradise well worth exploring.
Pro tip: The Azores are famous for their endemic blue hydrangeas – catch them in peak bloom on São Miguel Island from July to August.
Getting there: Catch a direct flight from mainland Portugal to João Paulo II Airport (PDL) on São Miguel.
Samuel Sulaiman/Unsplash6. Jersey & Guernsey, United Kingdom
Jersey and Guernsey are both part of the Channel Islands, located in the elbow of France’s Cotentin Peninsula (just below the English Channel). The islands are about 25 miles apart but offer many of the same perks, including golden beaches, walkable small towns, and an interesting melting pot of cultures and languages.
Pro tip: Use Jersey and Guernsey as a jumping-off point to exploring the smaller Channel Islands. Tiny Herm is definitely worth visiting, with only 62 year-round residents, one hotel, and zero cars.
Getting there: Guernsey is easily reached by boat (via Condor Ferries or Channel Islands Direct) or by air at Guernsey Airport, with flights departing from London, Edinburgh, and other UK cities. You can get to Jersey via Condor Ferries from Poole or Portsmouth.
Federica Giusti/Unsplash5. Sicily, Italy
The largest island in the Mediterranean has a culture all of its own. Rules by everyone from the Greeks to the Normans, Sicily boasts an entirely distinct food scene, pristine beaches with translucent waters, and cities packed with grand cathedrals and phenomenal markets. For a perfect beach day, visit the stratified white cliffs at Scala dei Turchi or the secluded paradise of Cala Tonnarella.
Pro tip: While most guidebooks will direct you to La Vucciria (a famous street market in Palermo), dodge the crowds and head to Ballarò instead. This fish and farmers’ market winds through alleys just north of the city centre, hawking chickpea fritters, cuts of beef, and mounds of divine Sicilian pistachios.
Getting there: There are four international airports in Sicily, serviced regularly by major airlines from mainland Italy and Europe. You can also take a 20-minute ferry ride on BluJet from Villa San Giovanni.
Op23/Unsplash4. Crete, Greece
The largest Greek isle, Crete is also one of the most distinctive, with its own unmistakable culture, landscape, cuisine, and mythological history. If you make it beyond the beach, make sure to visit the Minoan Palace in Knossos.
Pro tip: Balos Beach is one of the most photographed spots in Crete, but skip the bumpy drives and three-hour hikes. The spot is most easily accessed by ferries from Kissamos port.
Getting there: Most flights to Crete connect in Athens, but visitors can also take the year-round ferry from Piraeus or the seasonal, summer ferry from Santorini.
Ferran Feixas/Unsplash3. Ibiza, Spain
Forget all the stereotypes you’ve heard about this clubbing mecca: If you know where to look, Ibiza (part of Spain’s Balearic Islands) can be a sometimes-peaceful, always-beautiful island escape. Sure, the main town has plenty of nightclubs but also a charming Old Town with UNESCO-protected battlements and quiet cobbled lanes. Choose a sidewalk restaurant for some excellent people-watching, then retreat back to one of the island’s many chic hotels.
Pro tip: You can’t visit Ibiza without eating delicious seafood. Try the grilled fish with shrimp at Es Torrent, or the impossibly fresh Mediterranean plates at La Paloma.
Getting there: You can catch a flight to Ibiza Airport (IBZ) from most major Spanish cities, or take a scenic five-hour ferry ride from Valencia.
Jeremy Villasis/Getty2. Mykonos, Greece
Said to have been where Hercules killed the giants, Mykonos is steeped in mythological history. A popular cruise ship stop, the island hasn’t quite outgrown its raucous party reputation – which would impress even Dionysus – but it’s on the path to attracting a more sophisticated and upscale type of traveller. Head to Little Venice in Mykonos Town, an uncrowded neighbourhood full of tavernas. While in the area, stop by Kounelas, close to the harbour, to eat what locals say is the best fish.
Pro tip: Avoid July and August to miss the major crowds and get a better sense of local life.
Getting there: Daily flights from Athens take about 35 minutes. Ferry trips, the less expensive option, last between three and five hours on high-speed or slow ferries.
Roman Kraft/Unsplash1. Sardinia, Italy
When most people think of Sardinia, they imagine sun-kissed coasts and dazzling beaches. But this Italian island encourages travellers to look inland with hilltop ruins, craggy mountains, and vineyards thick with fruit. If you’re lucky, you may even drive past some roaming Giara horses, a perfectly petite species native to Sardinia.
Pro tip: The pocket-sized town of Irgoli is yet one more reason to leave the beach, with excellent hiking opportunities and a must-visit Antiquarium Museum.
Getting there: Flying is the easiest way to reach Sardinia, and there are three airports on the island. You can find many direct flights from Rome and many other major European cities, usually on KLM and Lufthansa.
GettyTop 5 in North America
YinYang/Getty5. Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is an immensely popular cruising port, but it’s worth disembarking and exploring the island if you can. (Or, you know, just book a flight here on your own.) While there are densely packed pockets of souvenir shops and restaurants near the docks, you can venture a bit further to find ancient cenotes, golden beaches, and Mayan steam lodges.
Pro tip: Many beaches and swimming holes on Cozumel have banned visitors from using certain sunscreens, so be sure to buy some reef-safe SPF before you visit.
Getting here: You can find nonstop flights to Cozumel International Airport from various US cities, including Houston, Miami, and Washington DC. Alternatively, get to Cancun and hop on a quick 20-minute flight to Cozumel.
iStock/Getty4. Vancouver Island, Canada
Vancouver Island is consistently voted one of our readers’ top islands in Canada, and now it’s also a favourite in the world – namely because there’s just so much to do. Pick from salmon fishing, wine tasting, sailing, strolling along beaches and nature trails, or even learning about glassblowing.
Pro tip: Check into the cedar-plank Wickaninnish Inn, which sits at the gateway to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. After a walk on one of the most beautiful beaches in Canada, enjoy a hot soak in an oversized tub with aromatherapy bath salts.
Getting there: Fly to Vancouver and then hop onto one of BC Ferries’ four routes from the mainland to the island. If setting off from Victoria, it’s a stunning drive (albeit gruelling, clocking in over five hours) across the island to Tofino.
Csondy/Getty3. Isla Mujeres, Mexico
While often thought of as a side trip from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a destination in its own right. The main beach of Playa Norte is made of crushed coral, has warm shallow waters, and is much quieter than the beaches across the bay.
Pro tip: Scuba enthusiasts take note: The island is home to the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.
Getting there: Take the ferry from Puerto Juárez in Cancún – it’s about a 20-minute ride to Isla Mujeres.
Shayes17/Getty2. Cape Breton, Canada
Comprising the northeastern portion of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton is a rocky, rugged island begging to be hiked. On the northern tip, you’ll find the Cabot Trail, a 185-mile loop considered one of the most scenic drives in Canada.
Pro tip: At peak autumn foliage, which generally hits around October, entire ridges blaze bright red, and the sloping, winding roads offer constantly shifting views from multiple angles. Multiple whale species come to hang out along Cape Breton’s northern coast at the beginning of summer and stick around through the end of fall.
Getting there: Fly into Sydney via Toronto or Halifax, or drive the Trans-Canada Highway 104 straight to Cape Breton Island.
Nathan Cima/Unsplash1. Isla Holbox, Mexico
At only about 35 miles from the hectic party zone of Cancún, Holbox is about as sleepy a spot as one can find in Mexico nowadays – just a nature preserve, a stretch of beach, and a single small town (also called Holbox) that feels completely out of time.
Pro tip: Rosa Mexicano – no relation to the American chain – is a rollicking restaurant that serves coconut shrimp and octopus with black-bean relish. Viva Zapata Grill is a must for mezcal cocktails and live music.
Getting there: Drive two hours from Cancún to the port of Chiquilá, park your car, then take the 15-minute ferry ride to the town of Holbox; boats go every half hour during the day.
Top 20 in the Caribbean and the Atlantic
Kris Mikael Krister/Unsplash20. Bonaire
Only 50 miles from South America, Bonaire is the farthest east of the ABC Islands. And while the island has a dry, rather foreboding desert landscape, its true beauty can be found just below the surrounding waters. The coral reef around Bonaire is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly coloured coral and wildlife ranging from nurse sharks and seahorses to friendly green turtles.
Pro tip: One of Bonaire’s most striking features is Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary, located on the island’s southern salt flats and home to over ten thousand flamingos. While the sanctuary itself is off-limits to travellers, you can catch views from nearby (and appropriately named) Pink Beach.
Getting there: Delta flies nonstop from Atlanta to the Flamingo International Airport (BON) in Kralendijk; connections are also available through Aruba.
SkyHighStudios/Getty19. The Bahamas
More than 700 islands and thousands of uninhabited cays make up this sprawling island nation barely 60 miles east of Florida. Although technically in the Atlantic, the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Bahamas are on par with islands farther south.
Pro tip: You’re probably already planning to visit the pink-sand beach on Harbour Island, but you can elevate your experience by horseback riding along the shore during sunset.
Getting there: Fly into Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) in Nassau – or one of the other 19 international airports in the Bahamas.
Hugh Whyte/Unsplash18. Grenada
There’s no such thing as a bad view on the island of Grenada. No matter where you stand, it is invariably green, moody, and pulsing with plant life. Even the capital city of St. George’s has a picture-perfect skyline, with brightly coloured houses and churches reminiscent of an Italian coastal town.
Pro tip: Bonaire is something of a mecca for chocolate lovers, with perfect environmental conditions for growing cocoa trees. At Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel, guests can partake in estate tours, chocolate tastings, and chocolate-forward takes on Caribbean cuisine.
Getting there: American Airlines, JetBlue, and British Airways all have flights that go directly to Grenada. There are also ferry rides from surrounding islands, as well as quick flights on LIAT from Antigua and Barbuda.
Cultura RM Exclusive/Russ Rohde/Getty17. Curaçao
You might be tempted to group the Dutch “ABC Islands” together, but each of the islands – the three westernmost of the Leeward Antilles – has something a little different to offer. Curaçao is like a little slice of Europe in the Caribbean, with rows of colourful Dutch and Portuguese-inspired buildings in the UNESCO-protected area of Downtown Willemstad, plus a steady stream of new hotels and restaurants.
Pro tip: Sample local liquor while learning about the island’s fascinating history at Landhuis Chobolobo, a bright yellow 19th-century mansion.
Getting there: Curaçao International Airport (CUR) in Willemstad is served most frequently by American Airlines and KLM.
Courtesy Belle Mont Farm16. St. Kitts
St. Kitts is known for its sugarcane fields and well-preserved Brimstone Hill fortresses, but the island also houses some of our favourite luxury hotels. For sophisticated lodgings with a view, book a stay at Belle Mont Farm on Kittitian Hill, situated on the northwestern slopes of Mount Liamuiga. Some of the resort’s biggest draws are the private plunge pools and outdoor clawfoot tubs overlooking the sea.
Pro tip: St. Kitts is best explored on an open-air train along the south coast, especially if it’s your first time on the island.
Getting there: You can fly directly to Robert L. Bradshaw Airport (SKB) from many cities in the US and Canada.
Courtesy Secret Bay15. Dominica
Dominica has all the draws of a classic Caribbean escape – especially when it comes to outdoor adventures – but with a slightly more undiscovered slant. The island is defined by its untamed jungles, volcanic beaches, and hiking trails dotted with waterfalls and hot springs. It’s also an excellent place for snorkelling and scuba diving, with places like Champagne Reef drawing divers with its bubbly, sealife-rich waters.
Pro tip: Dominica has seen an uptick in chic hotels in recent years, but we still have a soft spot for Secret Bay – a long favourite among couples for its intimate seclusion and luxurious villas.
Getting there: American Airlines just launched a daily direct flight to Dominica from Miami, which is the easiest way to reach the island. Otherwise, you’ll have to find a connecting flight from nearby islands like Puerto Rico or Antigua.
Steve Giralt/Gallery Stock14. United States Virgin Islands
No matter what kind of vacation you’re craving, you'll find it on one of the US Virgin Islands. St. John gets accolades for its natural beauty – particularly Trunk Bay in the Virgin Islands National Park. If you’re an Alexander Hamilton fan, head to St. Croix, where the US founding father spent much of his youth. Or, if you’re heading to St. Thomas, make sure to book a room at the incredible Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas.
Pro tip: One of the best snorkelling spots in the region is the Virgin Islands Coral Reef Monument, located off the coast of St. John.
Getting there: Fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas; from there, you can take a ferry to St. Thomas or St. Croix.
Ed-Ni-Photo/Getty13. Antigua
Antigua mixes tropical beauty with British history – just look at the candy-coloured colonial buildings and much-touted 365 beaches to choose from. The island is also a must-visit for sailing fans. During the first two weeks of April, hundreds of yachts from around the world converge for the Classic Yacht Regatta and Sailing Week. On race days, people gather atop Shirley Heights to get the best views of the boat-filled English Harbour.
Pro tip: Shirley Heights should be on your itinerary even if you visit on non-yachting holidays. Looking out over the harbour’s curved coastline is a truly unforgettable experience.
Getting there: Fly to V. C. Bird International Airport (ANU) just north of the capital, St. John’s.
Federico Cabello/Getty12. Aruba
The second largest of the Dutch ABC islands, Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s best islands for beaches – and you’re guaranteed to find a great hotel on nearly every stretch of sand. For a more intimate beach experience, head to the privately-owned Renaissance Island, complete with shallow coves, overwater bungalows, and (best of all) a population of bright pink flamingos.
Pro tip: The Arikok National Park, comprising 18 per cent of the island, is a hidden treasure – a cacti-filled landscape well worth exploring.
Getting there: You’ll find tons of nonstop or one-stop flights to Queen Beatrix International Airport from cities across the US.
Joel Blit/Getty11. British Virgin Islands
Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands epitomize Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests – not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 per cent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.
Pro tip: Head to Virgin Gorda for one of the prettiest (and most popular) attractions in the BVI: the Baths, a seaside area where huge granite boulders form scenic saltwater pools and grottos.
Getting there: Either fly to Beef Island Airport (EIS) on Tortola, or fly to Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas and take the ferry to Tortola.
Jeffrey Richards/Getty10. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman – have some of the best beaches in the entire Caribbean. Most people head to resorts on Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, but it’s well worth exploring the others: Cayman Brac for underwater adventures and Little Cayman for a splendidly relaxed way of life.
Pro tip: Make sure to pay a special visit to Stingray City off of Grand Cayman to snorkel with the rays in shockingly clear water.
Getting there: Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) on Grand Cayman is the country’s main point of entry. Cayman Airways Express can get you to the other two islands in just under an hour.
Simon Dannhauer/Getty9. Barbados
Barbados has something for everyone: pink sand beaches, exotic wildlife (think monkeys, sea turtles, and eight species of bats), and sunsets just begging to be enjoyed with a fresh cocktail. Head straight to Bathsheba Beach on the east coast, where you’ll find big, surf-friendly waves and shallow pools carved by the coral reef right off the shore.
Pro tip: No trip to Barbados is complete without stopping at Champers Restaurant, a seafood spot on Rockley Beach with panoramic ocean views.
Getting there: Fly into Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA).
Courtesy GoldenEye8. Jamaica
Jamaica may be your entry into the Caribbean on spring break or an exclusive trip to GoldenEye, the former estate of Ian Fleming – and one of our favourite resorts in the world. You can also come just to eat...and eat...and eat. Make sure to try all the local flavours during your visit, from jerk chicken to cassava cakes and smoked marlin.
Pro tip: Head to the western town of Negril for some of the country's best diving and swimming spots (Seven Mile Beach is a particular favourite).
Getting there: Kingston (KIN), Montego Bay (MBJ), and Ocho Rios (OCJ) are the island’s three major points of entry from the US.
David Madison/Getty7. Puerto Rico
Just a couple hours from the East Coast, Puerto Rico offers classic Caribbean charm with a big perk for Americans: no passport required. Don’t leave without sampling the island’s most iconic dish – tender but crispy-skinned lechón. Here are the best spots to find it across Puerto Rico.
Pro tip: Get out of town. Many travellers make San Juan their home base, but there are surf towns, museums, and natural wonders just a day trip away.
Getting there: More than a million cruise ship passengers pass through the port of San Juan every year, making it the second-largest cruise port in the Western Hemisphere. If Puerto Rico is your sole destination, most major US cities offer direct flights to the San Juan Airport.
Peter Phipp/Getty6. Nevis
It may be smaller than St. Kitts, but Nevis holds its own. The birthplace of Alexander Hamilton is almost perfectly round, with gentle slopes rising to the peak of its dormant volcano, and the island is known for its historic inns and top-drawer resorts. Set up camp at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis for easy access to Pinney’s Beach, a favourite for families with kids and travellers seeking a calm respite.
Pro tip: If you prefer your hotels to be more historic than modern, you can’t do much better than the 60-acre Montpelier Plantation & Beach on the slopes of Mount Nevis.
Getting there: Fly into Robert L. Bradshaw Airport (SKB) on St. Kitts, then hop a quick flight or ferry to Nevis.
Mikolajn/Getty5. Turks and Caicos
Far and away one of the best places for a quick escape, Turks and Caicos checks almost every box, from private island spa retreats to miles of empty white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. The island of Providenciales in particular has some of the world’s loveliest beaches, namely 12-mile Grace Bay on the north shore.
Pro tip: Bight Reef (aka Coral Gardens) is an always-popular snorkelling spot, but we head for Smith’s Reef in Turtle Cove for the chance to spot turtles, rays, and barracudas.
Getting there: Providenciales International Airport (PLS) will be your first stop, offering connections on to other islands in the Lucayan Archipelago.
Paul Baggaley/Getty4. St. Lucia
This deeply green and mountainous island is a favorite for those looking for adventure and romance. Climb the Pitons (the island’s twin volcanic spires), scuba and snorkel, or hole yourself up in hotel rooms with some of the most stunning views in the Caribbean.
Pro tip: St. Lucia has a surprisingly great Indian food scene. Head to Windjammer Landing’s new beachside restaurant, Masala at Embers, for the best chicken tandoori and cheesy naan of your life.
Getting there: The country’s main airport is Hewanorra International (UVF), at the very southernmost tip of the island. Inter-island propeller-driven flights use the George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU) at the northern tip.
Angelita Niedziejko/Getty3. Anguilla
Need to unwind or reconnect with yourself? Readers recommend Anguilla, where the island’s untouched beauty is only surpassed by that of the world-class resorts. Located 150 miles east of Puerto Rico, the island is relatively accessible to North American travellers looking to escape more tourist spots.
Pro tip: Plan to spend at least one day at Shoal Bay, with white sand and clear water that makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
Getting there: From the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on St. Maarten, there are four 10-minute daily flights to the tiny Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) on Anguilla. A half-hour ferry also runs from Marigot in St. Martin throughout the day.
Getty2. St. Barts
While any mention of St. Barts tends to conjure up images of Rolexes and caviar, the tony territory has enough natural beauty and scenic views to give any five-star hotel a run for its money. One of the best ways to explore the island is to start your day with a morning walk around the capital, Gustavia, a tidy collection of old, red-roofed buildings clad in volcanic stone. Soak in the views before stopping into one of the town’s great restaurants or fish markets.
Pro tip: Companies like WIMCO Villas can set you up with a splendid villa on par with any luxe hotel room.
Getting there: Hop on a tiny plane from St. Maarten or San Juan, and get ready for a thrilling runway approach at St. Barts’ Gustaf III Airport (SBH).
Kino/Unsplash1. Bermuda
Bermuda is among the most accessible of the North American islands from the East Coast, making it ideal for a long weekend getaway. Fill up your days exploring the island’s spectacular caves and reefs, strolling through charming villages, and hopping between excellent museums and restaurants. Most of your time should be spent at the beach, however, and Bermuda has them in spades – pink and otherwise.
Pro tip: Real Bermudians don’t go in the water before Bermuda Day (May 24) or after Labor Day, so plan your trip accordingly.
Getting there: Fly into L. F. Wade International Airport (BDA); it’s only a 90-minute flight from New York.