The Best Islands in the World: 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards
The 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards survey is now open for voting! Head here to cast your ballot for your all-time favorite hotels, cruises, resorts, islands, and more.
Now in its 35th year, our annual Readers’ Choice Awards continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises and islands. Plus: Odes to the properties that keep you coming back, meditations on beloved cities, and more. The numbers prove what we already knew: Enthusiasm for travel has never been higher, as demonstrated by the nearly quarter of a million of you who filled out this year’s survey.
In the spirit of revisiting old haunts and discovering exciting new places, you made perennial Lowcountry favorite Hilton Head Island your top American pick and relative unknown Fernando de Noronha, in Brazil, your No. 1 in Central and South America. Here are the best islands in the world, as voted by Traveler readers.
View the Readers’ Choice Award winners for top islands in the U.S. here.
GettyTop 5 in Africa & The Indian Ocean
Nikada/Getty5. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tanzania’s most famous tropical island is known for its spices, luminescent waters, and swaying palms. The destination has received more buzz than ever in recent years, thanks to a rich history and culture paired with a new swath of chic, barefoot resorts. Just check out Zuri Zanzibar Hotel & Resort, an Afro-modernist village-style hotel that’s brought serious design flair and social awareness to the Indian Ocean island.
Pro tip: If you need a break from the beach, check out Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Swahili architecture and buildings inspired by India’s palaces.
Getting there: There are daily nonstop flights from Tanzania’s capital, Dar es Salaam, as well as flights from smaller runways within the national parks.
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 Victoria and David 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 the nature—the white beaches here are so beautiful that visiting them borders on a religious experience.
Pro tip: Locals believe the true site of the Garden of Eden can be found at Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that produces coco de mer nuts weighing up to 33 pounds.
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.
Demerzel21/Getty2. 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.
Matteo Colombo/Getty1. 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: Soneva Fushi, the number one resort in the Indian Ocean (per this year’s reader survey), has 59 luxe villas—some with private pools, all with private butlers.
Getting there: Fly into Malé’s international airport and transfer there to the appropriate resort or atoll.
Top 5 in Asia
Syed Ahmad/Unsplash5. 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 center, but it still receives far fewer tourists than the western beach areas. Here you can sample colorful spices at markets, visit aging Taoist temples, and snap photos of the colorful 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.
Manish Tulaskar/Unsplash4. 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 definitely 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 Four Seasons Resort Langkawi is a great introduction to the island, with traditional Malay-style accommodations and activities like limestone cliff climbing and spa services under trees occupied by local macaque monkeys.
Getting there: Take a one-hour flight from the Malay capital of Kuala Lumpur.
Chelsea Chehade/Unsplash3. 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/Getty2. 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. For a primer on everything Insta-famous and off-the-beaten-track, check out our list of the best things to do in Bali.
Pro tip: Find the best of Bali’s nature in the central region of Tabanan, where you can find waterfalls, butterfly parks, and UNESCO-protected rice fields.
Getting there: Many airlines fly directly from the United States to Bali, including Singapore Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines.
Vuk8691/Getty1. 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.
Top 5 in Australia & 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 colorful markets to satisfy every type of traveler. 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, located just a couple miles west of Papeete.
VV-pics/Getty4. 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 favorite 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 all the way 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.
Laya Clode/Unsplash3. Tasmania, Australia
Australia’s sole island state boasts a rich cultural history and fascinating landscapes. Tasmania is often considered wild and all-natural, which is fair: The massive island is made up of six national parks, sweeping mountains and countryside, and a lack of cities. But the state has also shed its sleepy reputation in the past few years, thanks to an outcrop of game-changing culinary adventures, edgy museums, and hotel openings. We can’t wait to see what Tasmania does next.
Pro tip: The MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is Australia’s largest private museum, and among the world’s most provocative—think sensory-altering spaces by James Turrell and a wall of porcelain cast female genitals.
Getting there: Melbourne is the closest mainland city to Tasmania, offering the most frequent and shortest flights (about one hour) to the island.
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 has some of the best resorts in the South Pacific as well: 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, colorful 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: Rum is a pillar of Fijian culture. Experience the creation of the drink first-hand (plus get some free samples) with private tours of Rum Co. of Fiji’s distillery.
Getting there: Fly into Nadi International Airport on the main island of Viti Levu.
Top 5 in Central & South America
Eachat/Getty5. 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. Celebrity Cruise’s Xpedition only ferries 100 passengers and holds nightly lectures by naturalists from Galápagos National Park.
Getting there: Most travelers fly to Quito or Guayaquil (which is closer to the islands) before picking up their tour. You can also extend a trip and stay on Santa Cruz or Isabela within the Galápagos, with more lodging options on Isabela.
Arturo Peña Romano Medina/Getty4. 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 snorkeling 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.
Jolie-G/Getty3. Roatán, Honduras
The most developed of the Bay Islands, Roatán is mainly known as a diver’s paradise. Almost all of its 31-mile coastline is lined with biodiverse coral reefs, home to colorful fish, dolphins, and West Indian manatees.
Pro tip: The best new way to visit Roatán is on one of Virgin Voyages’ Caribbean cruises, which counts the Honduran island among its many port stops.
Getting there: Depending on your location, you may be able to find a direct flight to the Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport (RTB) on Roatán. Other options are to take a local flight from one of several Honduran airports or take the Galaxy Wave Ferry from the coastal city of La Ceiba.
Guillermo Bresciano/Unsplash2. 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 neighbors. 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.
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
Marcobarone/Getty10. The Azores, Portugal
The Azores were virtually unheard of a decade ago, but it looks like 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.
Marcus Lofvenberg/Unsplash9. 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 takes place 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 the town of Stari Grad. The entire journey takes about 90 minutes.
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: If you need a break from the sun, pay a visit to the spectacular Museum of Prehistoric Thira, filled with extraordinary frescoes and figurines dating back to the Bronze Age.
Getting there: Fly to Thira International Airport from Athens or several other western European cities, or take a ferry to the Athinios Port.
Federica Giusti/Unsplash7. 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 center, hawking chickpea fritters, cuts of beef, and mounds of divine Sicilian pistachios.
Getting there: There are four international airports on 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.
Peter Groenendijk/Getty6. Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom
Crystal-clear waters, perfect sand, and a sub-tropical climate might not come immediately to mind when thinking of England’s beaches. But the Isles of Scilly have surprisingly gorgeous beaches—especially on St. Martin’s, one of the five inhabited islands (out of 140)—as well as vineyards, tranquil harbors, and plenty of bike paths and outdoor activities.
Pro tip: On St. Mary’s (the largest island and site of the airport), rent a kayak from the Scilly Sailing Centre and explore the peaceful waters of Porthmellon Bay. You might even see a bobbing seal pass by.
Getting there: Getting here is as easy as a Skybus flight from Exeter, Newquay, or Land’s End. If you can get yourself to Penzance, you can also catch the Scillonian III ferry to St. Mary’s or take a 15-minute ride to St. Mary’s or Tresco with Penzance Helicopters.
Jeremy Villasis/Getty5. 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 traveler. Head to Little Venice in Mykonos Town, an uncrowded neighborhood full of tavernas. While in the area, stop by Kounelas, close to the harbor, 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.
Samuel Sulaiman/Unsplash4. 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 U.K. cities. You can get to Jersey via Condor Ferries from Poole or Portsmouth.
Roman Kraft/Unsplash3. Sardinia, Italy
When most people think of Sardinia, they imagine sun-kissed coasts and dazzling beaches. But this Italian island encourages travelers to look inland with hilltop ruins, craggy mountains, and vineyards thick with fruit. If you’re lucky, you may even get to 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.
Op23/Unsplash2. 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/Unsplash1. 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. The main town has plenty of nightclubs, sure, 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 filling up on 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.
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 U.S. cities, including Houston, Miami, and Washington, D.C. Alternatively, get yourself to Cancun and hop on a quick 20-minute flight down 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 favorite 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 grueling, clocking in over five hours) across the island to Tofino.
Shayes17/Getty3. Cape Breton, Canada
Comprising the northeastern portion of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton is a rocky, rugged island that’s 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 fall foliage, which generally hits around October, entire ridges blaze bright red, and the sloping, winding roads offer constantly shifting views from multiple angles. Multiple species of whale 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.
Csondy/Getty2. 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.
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 & the Atlantic
Cultura RM Exclusive/Russ Rohde/Getty20. 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 colorful 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.
LemonTune/Getty19. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is one of the most action-packed and geographically diverse countries in the Caribbean, whether you’re looking for all-inclusive resorts, white-sand beaches, or excellent restaurants and botanical gardens in Santo Domingo. The island nation is also famous for its culinary scene: Be sure to sample the national dish of La Bandera, which uses white rice, red beans, and braised meat (usually chicken or beef) to represent the tri-color Dominican Republic flag.
Pro tip: Playa Grande Beach Club will make a believer out of even the harshest Dominican Republic critic. The haute boho retreat only has nine bungalows stretched over a 2,000-acre plot of land, with direct access to a wide beach ideal for surfing.
Getting there: You can easily find flights to the Dominican Republic from a variety of North American and European cities, especially ones flying to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.
Kris Mikael Krister/Unsplash18. 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 entire coral reef around Bonaire is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly colored 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 travelers, 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.
Hugh Whyte/Unsplash17. 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 colored houses and churches reminiscent of an Italian coastal town.
Pro tip: Head directly to the Red Lane Spa for a near-endless list of massage options, body scrubs, and seaweed treatments.
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.
Jeffrey Richards/Getty16. 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.
Federico Cabello/Getty15. 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 percent 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 U.S.
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 U.S. 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 U.S. 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 snorkeling 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.
SkyHighStudios/Getty13. 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.
Courtesy Belle Mont Farm12. St. Kitts
St. Kitts is known for its sugarcane fields and well-preserved Brimstone Hill fortresses, but the island also houses some of our favorite 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 U.S. and Canada.
David Madison/Getty11. 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 travelers 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 U.S. cities offer direct flights to the San Juan Airport.
Joel Blit/Getty10. 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 percent 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.
Ed-Ni-Photo/Getty9. Antigua
Antigua mixes tropical beauty with British history—just look at the candy-colored 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: Even if you visit on non-yachting holidays, Shirley Heights should be on your itinerary: Looking out over the harbor’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.
Peter Phipp/Getty8. 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 favorite for both families with kids and travelers 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.
Courtesy GoldenEye7. Jamaica
Jamaica may be your entry into the Caribbean, be it on spring break or an exclusive trip to GoldenEye, the former estate of Ian Fleming—and one of our favorite resorts in the world. You can also come just to eat...and eat...and eat. Make sure to try all the local flavors 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 best diving and swimming spots in the country (Seven Mile Beach is a particular favorite).
Getting there: Kingston (KIN), Montego Bay (MBJ), and Ocho Rios (OCJ) are the island’s three major points of entry from the U.S.
Paul Baggaley/Getty6. 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 simply hole yourself up in hotel rooms with some of the most stunning views in the Caribbean.
Pro tip: Those with ample stamina would be well advised to join a strenuous, guided, six-hour climb up Petit Piton for spectacular views of Sugar Beach, 2,461 feet below.
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.
Simon Dannhauer/Getty5. 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: For a top-notch view of the island, head to Cherry Tree Hill, which looks out over the island’s east coast (with Bathsheba in the distance) from 850 feet up.
Getting there: Fly into Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA).
Kino/Unsplash4. 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.
Mikolajn/Getty3. 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 snorkeling 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.
Angelita Niedziejko/Getty2. 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 travelers looking to escape more touristed 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 flights per day 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.
Getty1. 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).