The 50 Best Islands In The World 2024

Where are the best islands in the world?

50. Bissagos Islands, Guinea

Bijagos, located 50 kilometres off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, is an archipelago of 88 islands and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse ecosystems and rare wildlife. This is where you come to encounter endangered species like the West African manatee and the saltwater hippopotamus, then sink back in a hammock on a pristine beach looking out to a cobalt set. It’s barefoot living at its best.

49. Saaremaa and Muhu Islands, Estonia

Nature-loving Estonians don’t need to go far for an island fix. Located southwest of Tallinn, these two serene islands – the largest and third largest in Estonia – boast national parks filled with migratory birds and wild orchids, sleepy seaside villages that have stood the test of time, and thatched country houses. For those who like the finer things in life, there’s a handful of delightful spa hotels here too.

48. Socotra, Yemen

Marooned between Somalia and Yemen, the Socotra archipelago is one of the most isolated islands on earth. The UNESCO World Heritage site has been nicknamed the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean” thanks to the high proportion of endemic flora and unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Adventure seekers can hike through rugged mountains and limestone plateaus, while those seeking a quieter life can sink their toes into sandy beaches fringed by turquoise waters.

47. Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

For those chasing crystal-clear waters, soft sand beaches and world-class waves, the Mentawai Islands could be just the ticket. Situated in West Sumatra, Mentawai encompasses at least 70 islands and islets, stretching over 150 km along the idyllic Western Indonesian Coast. It’s the ultimate tropical getaway, complete with unspoiled coral reefs, jungle-clad hills and an eye-popping amount of wildlife, including langurs, macaques and the long-armed Mentawai.

46. Bozcaada, Turkey

This secret Aegean paradise is beloved for its traditional tavernas, brilliant beaches and sprawling vineyards. Few international visitors get as far as this idyllic island, which means it’s blissfully quiet in the summertime too. You’d never guess that it was from these beaches that the Achaeans launched the Trojan Horse either. There are dozens of charming pensions to check into too.

45. Jamaica

Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and the birthplace of Reggae, Red Stripe beer and the world’s fastest sprinter Usain Bolt. It also inspired Ian Flemming’s James Bond, so this colourful island has a lot to say for itself. Most tourists head straight for the “big three resorts”, but beyond Montego Bay, Negril and Ocho Rios, there are cascading waterfalls, cobalt lagos and the country’s colourful capital, Kingston, to explore too.

44. Gotland, Sweden

You’ll need to head elsewhere for bathwater-warm waters and a tropical breeze but for medieval architecture, rugged coastline, and plates piled high with crayfish, there’s nowhere quite like Gotland. The largest island in Sweden, Gotland is renowned for its captivating scenery and charming cultural capital, Visby, a cobblestoned UNESCO World Heritage Site crammed full of ancient churches and winding cobblestone lanes. There are numerous galleries, studious and festivals dotted across the island too.

43. Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Fondly referred to as “the Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, Benguerra is a jewel within the Bazaruto Archipelago. This protected conservation area and national park boasts pristine sandy beaches, sparkling sapphire waters, and untouched coral reefs. As the ultimate remote tropical retreat, Benguerra Island offers miles of unspoiled coastline and unparalleled natural beauty. The recently opened Kisawa Sanctuary, an eco-resort nestled along the beachfront, provides guests with a prime vantage point for spotting the endangered dugong, often mistaken for mermaids by sailors of yore.

42. Key West, Florida, USA

With its candy-coloured houses and world-class diving, Key West is a go-to getaway for Floridian beach lovers, even if it is technically closer to Cuba than Miami. As well as palm-tree-lined sandy stretches like Smathers Beach and wildlife-rich national parks, there are rum distilleries, literary museums and top-notch restaurants to explore too.

41. Waiheke Island, New Zealand

This beautiful, bohemian island is famous for its good food, wine and art, but it’s heartstoppingly beautiful too. The second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, it’s just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, which makes it popular with city-dwellers too. The beaches are breathtaking too, boasting secret coves, calm waters and endless expanses of sugar-soft sand.

40. Isla Mujeres, Mexico

The secret might be out about the beautiful island, but that doesn’t make it any less special. Standing out in the Caribbean like a hallucination of a tropical paradise, just off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. There’s also an underwater museum (MUSA), a turtle sanctuary and dozens of lively local markets.

39. Hvar, Croatia

Croatia’s trendiest island is the country’s most popular for very good reason. From the pretty harbour brimming with yachts and the baroque architecture-filled Hvar Town to secluded beaches and acres of vineyards, there’s something for every budget and taste. Those who like a tipple should head to Jelsa, where wines are made from Bogdanuša, Pošip, and Plavac Mali.

38. La Gomera, Spain

Lesser known than the big three Canary Islands, La Gomera is a far cry from the beachside resorts and package holidays for which the region has become famous. This volcanic island is carpeted in ancient forests and encircled by wind-whipped beaches, making it ideal for adventurous travellers. But it’s really the food that takes centre stage here. The colourful capital San Sebastian is brimming with world-class restaurants serving up farm-fresh dishes and shellfish plucked straight from the sea. La Gomera was also named one of Europe’s most underrated islands.

37. Caye Caulker, Belize

With its laid-back Caribbean charm and pristine natural beauty, Caye Caulker is a quintessential paradise. This enchanting island, kissed by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, powder white sands and colourful wooden cottages. Barefoot strolls along sandy pathways inevitably lead to tiny beachside restaurants serving freshly caught seafood and refreshing tropical cocktails – heaven.

36. The Maldives

The Maldives has gained a reputation for its ritzy resorts, but there’s more to this archipelago of 1,192 islands than good hotels. Think crystal clear lagoons, white-sand beaches and spectacular snorkelling opportunities. It’s a top choice for honeymooners unsurprisingly, but with 80% of the country predicted to be inhabitable by 2050 due to global warming, we could all do with a trip here.

35. South Georgia (and the South Sandwich Islands), United States

Billed as the “Galapagos of the Southern Ocean”, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands is a remote land of glistening glaciers and wild fjords. This chain of sub-Antarctic Oceans is actually located more than 2,000 km from the continent of Antarctica, but you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise. Home to a staggering array of wildlife, including elephant and fur seals, Blue Whales and colonies of King Penguins, South Georgia is only home to around 30 people at any given time due to its inhospitable terrain, so to reach it you’ll need to book a spot on a polar-ready ship.

34. Jeju Island, South Korea

Home to Korea’s highest mountain, dormant volcanoes and lush countryside encircled by miles of soft white sand and cobalt seas, Jeju has long been a top destination for South Korean tourists. Now, with the spotlight on South Korea as a top destination for 2024, the rest of the world is taking notice. Beyond the beautiful beaches, visitors are treated to some of the region’s most dramatic landscapes – including Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the longest in the world – as well as traditional villages, scenic trails and fantastic food.

33. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean and home to five of Italy’s most beautiful villages: Atzara, Bosa, Carloforte, Castelsardo and Posado. The island is best known for its blockbuster beaches (the Costa Smeralda is brimming with billionaire jet-setters and mega yachts), but there are quieter, wilder patches to explore too. As well as golden sandy stretches, there are impressive castles, several archaeological sites and epic hikes through oak forests and along coastal paths.

32. San Juan Islands, United States

This beautiful, but underrated archipelago nestled in the Puget Sound between northwest Washington and Canada is a bucolic blend of charming B&Bs, sustainable farms and serene natural landscapes. Days are best spent kayaking, whale watching, beachcombing and savouring farm-to-table cuisine paired with local wines. It’s the perfect place to sink into a slower pace, far from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

31. Cuba

Shut off from the modern world for almost half a century, Cuba skipped the worst of the 1970s package holiday developments and went straight in for luxury and boutique offerings. Sun-seekers hotfoot to the north, but beyond the rum cocktails and white sand beach resorts there are enchanting colonial towns, Jurassic Park-like national parks and folklore-rich mountain villages to explore.

30. Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Costa Rica has become a bucket-list destination, and between its lush rainforests, protected parklands, epic cliff-diving and tropical beaches, it’s easy to see why. But for those seeking a little more seclusion, there’s Cocos Island. Situated 310 miles off the Pacific coast, this remote island is a true cast-away paradise. It’s said to have inspired Treasure Island and Jurassic Park thanks to its evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls and waters teeming with hammerheads and whitetip reef sharks.

29. Cape Verde

This tropical paradise located off the coast of West Africa boasts stunning beaches, vibrant music, and a fascinating fusion of Portuguese, African and Creole. It’s also home to the UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha, the oldest European settlement in the tropics. While it might be tempting to bed down at one of the archipelago’s dreamy resorts and stay there all day, there’s plenty to explore beyond beaches, from simmering volcanoes to UNESCO World Heritage towns. The islands are also committed to developing tourism infrastructure sustainably by working with nature and the local communities, rather than exploiting it. The country aims to use 100% renewable energy by 2025.

28. Haida Gwaii, Canada

Teetering just below Alaska and 90 nautical miles off British Columbia’s North Coast lies the 155-mile-long archipelago once known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, now named Haida Gwaii. Carpeted in moss and ancient cedar trees, the island is a place of rare wildlife and rich culture and has been touted as a model for how Indigenous stewardship of land and waters could help our planet as it spirals out of control. Head here for winter and spring for the best surf, while in summer it’s all about hiking, water sports and fishing. There’s also a whole string of local festivals to enjoy, including the Edge of the World Music Festival – a three-day extravaganza showcasing a lineup of local and off-island talent.

27. Samso, Denmark

Stretching across an area of 114 square kilometres, Samso is Denmark in miniature. Think glacial gorges, tiny bays lapped by sparkling waves and a tapestry of rolling green hills, dotted with quaint villages steeped in history. It’s renowned as the world’s first carbon-neutral island and this year it’s even easier to reach this slice of paradise guilt-free with the launch of two new electric ferries operating between Samso and the Als peninsula.

26. Munroe Island, India

Say Kerala and most people think “beach”, but Monroe Island offers so much more than top-quality sunbathing. Tucked away in the labyrinth of Kerala’s serene waterways, lush coconut palms sway gently in the breeze and emerald rice fields shimmer in the golden hues of the sun. There’s a vibrant village life here and residents are renowned for their warm hospitality, making it easy for visitors to immerse themselves in local life, from participating in traditional canoe rides to gobbling up traditional South Indian dishes.

25. Yoron Island, Japan

This hidden paradise couldn’t feel further from bustling Honshu. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs and a blend of traditional Okinawan and Kagoshima culture, the remote island belongs to the Amami Gunto National Park in the East China Sea. It also boasts some fantastically offbeat attractions, like a Greek village, a phantom beach and a fictional railway station. Days here are best spent exploring the surrounding waters and swimming alongside clownfish, though time it right and you might just get roped into joining the annual marathon, which involves two loops of the entire island.

24. Salt Spring Island, Canada

This groovy Gulf island sees more sunshine than most of British Columbia thanks to its unique microclimate. Floating in the shimmering Pacific Ocean between the mainland and Vancouver Island, Salt Spring was once home to a sizeable community of hippies and today it encapsulates chilled-out BC. The island is encircled by white sandy stretches and punctuated with pretty painted wooden houses, with terraced vineyards, organic farms and brilliant boutiques squeezed between.

23. Bora Bora

A true jewel in the Pacific, Bora Bora conjures up images of overwater bungalows, crystal-clear lagoons and soaring rainforest-covered peaks. After days spent swimming alongside tropical fish and lazing on some of the best beaches in the world, a sky full of skies awaits at night. It’s the ultimate getaway for honeymooners and those happy to splurge on paradise.

22. Barbados

Of all the Caribbean islands, Barbados is probably one of the best-known and best-loved among sunseekers thanks to its year-round sunshine, palm-fringed white beaches and luxurious hotels. It might not have soaring peaks and tropical rainforests, but its wild interior is well worth exploring for its exotic wildlife (which counts monkeys and eight species of bats as residents) alone. It’s also the Caribbean capital of cricket, with as many as 160 cricket clubs dotted around the island.

21. Yasawas, Fiji

This string of 20 breathtakingly beautiful islands is blessed with soaring peaks, sun-drenched sandy beaches and technicolour coral reefs. Sparsely populated, it’s a haven for nature lovers, as well as film directors who hotfoot here for breathtakingly beautiful backdrops. Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts revel in the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, from playful sea turtles to kaleidoscopic schools of fish, while hikers are treated to a lush, verdant interior stuffed full of exotic flora and fauna. Sunsets are best served with a freshly made cocktail overlooking the sparkling waters.

20. Koh Rong, Cambodia

This tiny island offers the perfect antidote to days of temple touring around Siem Riep. The island’s late-night raves might make it a popular spot for those seeking a more hedonistic holiday, but it’s impossible not to relax with all those swaying palms and casuarina trees, soft white sands and bathwater-warm waters within touching distance. At night, the warm waters glow and sparkle with bio-luminescent plankton.

19. Bali, Indonesia

Nowhere does surf, sea and spirituality quite like Bali. Known as the “Land of the Gods”, Bali is the archetypal tropical paradise, complete with pristine beaches, verdant rice terraces and some seriously sumptuous hotels. Whether you’re up for surfing in Uluwatu, diving in Tulamben, or hoping to catch traditional dances, music and crafts at the Bali Arts Festival, there’s a corner of Bali for everyone.

18. Hydra, Greece

Handsome Hydra offers everything you could want from a whitewashed Cycladic island – spine-tingling views of blue-domes churches, sugar-cube houses and sparkling sea – all without cars. Just a short ride from Athens, this entirely pedestrian island is brimming with hidden coves and talc-soft beaches, as well as cafes, art galleries and boutiques.

17. Prince Edward Island, Canada

This postcard-perfect island just off the eastern coast of Canada has long drawn tourists thanks to its farm-to-table dining, funky vintage stores and artisanal studios and shops. It’s also the fictional home of Anne of Green Gablesa and this year will see the launch of The Charlottetown Festival to celebrate L.M. Montgomery’s 150^th birthday. For those less literary, the island boasts a network of incredible trails, including a 435-mile trail that gently winds across farmlands, forests, beaches and charming small towns.

16. Ibiza

This beautiful Balearic island has been pulling in crowds since the 1960s and it’s since become the ultimate party island, with big beats and DJs spinning till dawn. But beyond the nightlife, there’s a charming old town, unbelievably turquoise beaches, and quiet sandy stretches to explore. This year, to mark the 25^th anniversary as a World Heritage Site, the island will host a sprawling medieval festival, complete with artisan stalls, traditional performances and costumes galore.

15. Dominica

Nicknamed “Nature Isle”, Dominica is often overlooked by visitors to the Caribbean on the hunt for powder white sands and turquoise waters. But as well as brilliant beaches, the island is home to the Carribean’s longest hiking trail – the Waitukubuli National Trail – and the Caribbean’s only sea-kayaking trail, which opened in 2022. It’s the perfect way to explore the island’s pristine coastline, dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.

14. Taiwan

It’s a bumper year for Taiwan in 2024, thanks to the 400th birthday of the country’s oldest city, Tainan. This personality-packed island offers exceptional food, adventure and culture in spades. As well as steely skyscrapers and bustling night markets, the island is home to hot springs, some of the world’s most unique beaches and an extensive network of cycle paths.

13. Kangaroo Island, Australia

From kangaroos and koalas to sea lions and penguins, Kangaroo Island is a true sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. Between its rugged beaches, dense forests and rolling hills, there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied – all just a short ferry ride from the mainland. Beyond awe-inspiring scenery, the island is also well-known for its local produce and no trip would be complete without a handful of just-caught oysters washed down with a zesty sauvignon blanc. Even better, the beloved Southern Ocean Lodge has recently re-opened after extensive renovations.

12. Madagascar

It’s impossible not to be wowed by Madagascar’s staggering biodiversity, which encompasses weird and wacky animals (including the world’s smallest frog), acres of thick-trunked baobab trees and endless pristine beaches. The island boasts a burgeoning art scene too and recently the former post office has been transformed into the island’s first contemporary art venue. If that’s not reason enough to visit, the World Heritage Committee recently made the Adrefana Dry Forests a natural World Heritage area.

11. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Indonesia is hardly short on islands (there are 18,110 in total), but when it comes to postcard perfect, the Raja Ampat archipelago is hard to beat. Located in the Coral Triangle, the world’s most biodiverse marine habitat, this island offers some of the best diving experiences in the world. Back on dry land, there are equally exciting landscapes to explore, from dense jungles to stunning white sand beaches to rugged islets. No wonder it’s been described as “the last paradise on earth”.

10. Tasmania, Australia

Touted as the ultimate “far-cation destination”, Tasmania offers a tantalising blend of untamed natural beauty and a celebrated culinary and beverage scene. Whether you’re indulging in the Great Eastern Wine Week Festival in September or gearing up for the epic Wikalina Walk, this picturesque island has something to captivate every type of traveller.

9. Greenland

Greenland might not immediately spring to mind when it comes to spectacular islands, but this year it should. Nuuk became the world’s first capital city to be certified by EarthCheck as a sustainable tourist destination and in 2024 two new international airports are set to open here. Plus, as the sun reaches peak activity in the next few years, visitors can enjoy a surge in aurora sightings, making for the perfect northern light escape.

8. Saba, Dutch Caribbean

This pint-sized tropical island might be small, but it’s making a big impact when it comes to sustainability. To offset the cost of flying to the island from neighbouring St Maarten, Saba has implemented a range of innovative initiatives, including a solar park producing 40% of the island’s power, an impressive recycling system and a ban on single-use plastics. A marine park now encircles the island and the island is home to the first marine lab in the Windward Islands of the Dutch Caribbean.

7. The Galapagos, Ecuador

This year will mark 189 years since Charles Darwin first arrived at this other-worldly archipelago, and since then, the islands have continued to captivate and inspire travellers from across the world. On land, visitors can get up close to 100-year-old giant tortoises, penguins and blue-footed boobies, while underwater there are adventures to be had with marine iguanas, sea lions and over 550 species of fish.

6. Tahiti, French Polynesia

It’s usually relatively quiet on this dreamy island, but this year all eyes will be on the tiny town of Teahupo’o on Tahiti’s southwest coast as the surfing venue for the 2024 Paris Olympics. With its endless white-pink sandy beaches, vibrant coral atolls and hibiscus flower-filled towns, you’d be a fool not to hop here if you have the opportunity.

5. Malta

This sun-kissed Mediterranean island has long been a favourite with holidaymakers thanks to its endless days of sunshine, historic towns and captivating scenery, but in the past year, it’s inspired filmmakers too. Valletta, the lively capital, has provided the backdrop to the sequel to the 2000 blockbuster Gladiator, as well as other films like Napoleon. Little wonder why; the UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with beautiful architecture, scenic terraces and shimmering waterfront views. It was declared the European Capital of Culture in 2018 too.

4. Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui might be Thailand’s second-largest island, but there are plenty of quiet corners for those looking for Robinson Crusoe-style seclusion. With its lush rainforests, protected parkland and pristine tropical beaches, this is the ultimate island getaway – and the producers of the hit HBO series White Lotus agree. The series, which is set at an upmarket US brand, will hit screens at the beginning of 2025, so now is the time to book before prices soar.

3. Mauritius

Mauritius offers the perfect marriage of culture, cuisine and countryside. Squeezed between a coral coastline and verdant green mountains, this island might be small but there’s plenty to keep visitors happy, from brilliant beaches to botanical gardens. Bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales and humpbacks all play in the sparkling waters to complete the picture. Average temperatures rarely dip below 21 degrees and in the past year, a whole string of dreamy resorts have either opened or been refurbished, including the InterContinental Resort Mauritius and LUX Belle Mare.

2. Maui, Hawaii

The second largest of the volcanic Hawaiin islands, Maui suffered horrendous wildfires in 2023 that claimed lives, destroyed homes and uprooted thousands. Visitors were asked to stay away but now, as the island begins to rebuild itself, officials are asking people to return responsibly. Lahaina is still closed to the public, but the island is still home to some of the world’s most spectacular beaches, breathtaking scenery and epic outdoor adventures, from spectacular rainbow reefs to hikes along the island’s wilder east side.

1. Grenada

Beloved for its sprawling national parks, sleepy beach towns and colourful historic towns, a trip to Grenada is always a good idea – but 2024 is set to be an extra special year, as the country turns 50. There’s going to be quite a party leading up to and beyond the big day, with exciting events including street festivals, concerts and plenty of opportunities to celebrate ‘the Spice Isle’.