Islands are some of the most exotic vacation spots for those who are seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of a busy corporate life. It is hard to believe that places of such exquisite beauty exist on our planet which are just a plane ride away from the bustling cities of the world.
Here we present to you our top 10 picks of the most beautiful islands in the world where you will find an abundance of natural beauty, peace, quiet and, thanks to the modern day wonders, a luxurious stay.
The Maldives
Few islands in the world can match the beauty of this small island country. Credited for being the planet’s lowest-lying island regarding altitude, Maldives is comprised of 26 natural atolls which rise no higher than 3 meters above the sea at their highest point. Not only is the Maldives famous for its crystal clear waters which surround the dazzling shores of white sand, but it is also a favorite tourist spot for snorkelers and divers who are attracted by the beautiful coral reefs below the surface of the sea.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Bora Bora islands is a destination which is sure to be on the bucket list of any traveler who wishes to experience paradise on earth. Technicolor turquoise waters of the lagoon, beautiful network of coral reefs, exotic marine animals in the bay and much more are just some of the attractive features of Bora Bora. If you want to soak in luxury, you can even book an over-the-water-bungalow at Bora Bora.
Palawan, Philippines
Towering limestone peaks, flourishing reefs, gleaming silver sand and a vast blanket of lush green vegetation make the Palawan islands unlike any other in the world. You will not only be able to enjoy all the facilities of a luxurious resort here but will also get a chance to explore quaint fishing villages, glimpse the unique island wildlife and even pay a visit to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which is World Heritage listed site.
Seychelles
Seychelles is one of the most famous island destinations for travelers from all over the world and with good reason. Made up of an archipelago of 115 islands, Seychelles is a preferred vacation spot for diving enthusiasts and fishing fanatics as well as those who want to spend an unused vacation amidst the sparkling palm-lined beaches and the unique shoreline with the giant boulders that flank it.
Santorini, Greece
Leave behind the tall glass buildings of the city as you travel to Santorini in Greece, a set of islands that surround the seal-filled caldera. Sparkling white painted villas and blue painted church tops that match the beautiful blue of the ocean is the perfect combination for taking the beauty of these islands a notch above anything else that you have ever seen.
The two islands which are most visited by tourists in Santorini, Greece are Fira and Oia which take the top spot because of the presence of luxury resorts as well as a marvelous view of the sea and the sunset.
Bali, Indonesia
The exotic island of Bali in Indonesia is a travelers’ paradise who is not just looking for luxury resorts and beaches but something much more spiritual. Hindu temples, fields of rice paddy and a vibrant island culture set Bali apart from other island destinations. Within Bali, you can find different locales such as Sanur which is ideal for families, Ubud which is for the more spiritual and Kuta where you will have everything that tourists love.
The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
If you are looking for something apart from luxury resorts while still enjoying the natural beauty that an island provides, the Dalmatian Islands in Croatia should top your list. Lying a little bit away from the coast of Croatia, the Dalmatian Islands are made up of boutique hotels and quaint villages which boast a rich culture and history. The Pakleni Islands are considered the most beautiful with their crystal clear waters. However, Korcula, Mljet, and Vis should also not be missed for their unique attractions.
Fiji
Fiji is everything that you ever imagined an island to be. With tropical beaches with its shining white sand, clear multi-hued water, and a plethora or corals, Fiji is one of the best places for diving, snorkeling, fishing or just enjoying the hospitality of the friendly Fijian people. Choose from among the 300 plus islands to find the one you like best.
Capri, Itali
Known for its glamorous lifestyle as much as its natural beauty, Capri is a must visit the island for anyone with a taste for the more beautiful things in life. Located about 20 kilometers off the Amalfi Coast in Italy, Capri is a lovely little island with spectacular infrastructure as well as mind-blowing views of the sea. Enjoy a day of boating and ballads in Capri’s main attraction – a glowing sea cave, followed by an evening of shopping on the Piazza and then soak in the sunset by taking a chairlift up to Monte Solaro from Anacapri.
Ko Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
A small archipelago of Islands near Krabi in Thailand, the Phi Phi Islands as they are more popularly known are comprised of lush limestone peaks, palm-lined shores of powdery white sand and the warm tropical waters. Only one of the islands is inhabited here while the rest have been developed for the enjoyment of tourists which you can access through day-long boat tours.