12 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Islands conjure up visions of paradise: a respite from the daily grind and a pristine spot of sand where you may unwind under rustling palms while gazing out at a calm blue sea.
However, not all islands are made equal. Some people's beauty is characterized more by the water that surrounds them, which can enchant connoisseurs with its crystalline clarity and vibrant coral kingdoms.

Other islands have lush jungles and silky peaks, while others attract visitors with their cultural treasures. These islands are far from the workaday bustle but close to creature comforts, whether you're looking for magnificent beaches, stunning landscape, or fascinating cultures.

Find your personal Shangri-la in this list of the world's most beautiful islands, which includes everything from the Seychelles to Santorini and the Caribbean to Capri.

1. Maldives

The Maldives have some of the most beautiful islands in the world, but it is the sea that truly makes these islands shine. These beautiful white coastlines, which barely peep above the Indian Ocean, are lapped by luminous turquoise waters with pristine clarity.

The Maldives archipelago, which consists of 26 natural atolls, is the world's lowest country, reaching little more than three meters above sea level at its highest point, a measurement that is shrinking every year.

Coral reefs thrive beneath the captivating seas, attracting divers and snorkelers from all over the world. Surfers from all over the world come here to ride the uncrowded waves.

Back on land, luxury resorts are ideal starting locations for excursions centered on the water, the archipelago's greatest asset, but also its single greatest threat as the planet's climate changes.

2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

This gorgeous volcanic island, shaped like a huge hat, appears in innumerable South Pacific imaginations. The stunning lagoon in technicolor turquoise is the focal point and outstanding asset of this tropical paradise. In the pristine waters, fish, turtles, sharks, and rays swim, while tiny islets known as motus dot the lagoon.

Of course, the island is unmistakably French, with delectable cuisine to match. The nearby reefs offer superb diving and snorkeling opportunities, and trekking trails wind through palm-studded woodlands.

Hide yourself in a beautiful over-the-water bungalow if you can afford it, and revel in your good fortune while you fall asleep to the soft slop of the sea.

3. Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is the Philippines' version of heaven. With beautiful limestone peaks rising from a jewel-like water so clear that you can practically see the expressions on the fish from above the surface, this island province reaches southwest to Borneo.

Many of these jungle-clad islands have slivers of brilliant white sand beaches flanked by rustling palms, while coral reefs teem with an astounding diversity of tropical fish, making for some of the best diving in the world.

The islands' distinctive biodiversity, beautiful lakes, and picturesque fishing villages are among the other attractions. Coron is home to opulent resorts, and El Nido, one of the chain's most enticing islands, oozes natural beauty. You can island hop your way through the magnificent Bacuit archipelago from here.

The World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an outstanding limestone cave system with a lengthy underground river, is one of Palawan's top attractions.

4. Seychelles

The Seychelles are worth visiting because they are pristine and picture-perfect. This 115-island coral and granite archipelago east of Kenya is brimming with attractions, from UNESCO-listed jungles and vibrant coral reefs to palm-lined, white beaches fronted by massive boulders.

Almost half of the land area of these equatorial islands is protected, and many of them are located within fish-rich marine sanctuaries with outstanding diving and snorkeling opportunities.

The Seychelles also have some of the world's best fishing areas, making it a popular fishing vacation. When you combine spicy Créole cuisine with the luxury resorts of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, it's simple to see why the Seychelles are so appealing.

5. Santorini, Greece

Santorini, which is encircled by a sea-filled caldera, is known for its stunning beauty. Villas in bleached white cascade down volcanic cliffs. Bright sprays of bougainvillea add to the eye-popping palette of color, which includes blue-domed cathedrals rising against the glittering water.

The towns of Firá and Oia, perched atop the black lava cliffs, are the island's most attractive — and expensive — getaways, with Oia ranking among the most photographed locales in the world.

Santorini's other attractions include the Akrotri Archaeological Site, Ancient Thira, Perissa's black sand beach, and, of course, the breathtaking sunsets. Sailing into this magnificent caldera, surrounded by towering sea cliffs, leaves an indelible first impression.

6. The Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are for you if you've ever fantasized of becoming a castaway in the South Pacific. The archipelago's 15 islands are among the most picturesque in the South Pacific, strung between French Polynesia and Samoa yet with close ties to New Zealand.

Enticing blue lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and volcanic summits are among the islands' top attractions. The inhabitants are also among of the friendliest in the South Pacific.

With its various resorts, verdant peaks, and endless beaches, Rarotonga is the principal tourist destination. Aitutaki is one of the most gorgeous South Pacific islands. Hibiscus-draped towns cling to the slopes, and the lagoon's 21 motus, or little islets, are all within kayaking distance of the resorts.

Immerse yourself in Robinson Crusoe dreams by staying in an over-the-water house or a primitive beach shack on a distant offshore island.

7. Bali, Indonesia

Bali's enticing culture is a sensory overload. The smell of incense wafts from Hindu temples, rice paddies shine electric green, and the food jolts the taste receptors. The island's magnificent beaches are popular for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing, and tourists will find plenty of other activities on this exotic isle, including temple hopping and sightseeing in the verdant countryside, as well as spa treatments, shopping, and hiking.

Take in the spiritual side of Bali in Ubud, see Seminyak and family-friendly Sanur, feel the pulsing pulse of touristy Kuta, or visit the nearby volcanic island of Lombok.

Looking for a stylish place to stay? Choose from lovely beach resorts, and if you're bringing the kids, there are plenty of affordable family accommodations.

One thing is certain: the beautiful essence of Bali will wash over you like a warm tropical wave.

8. The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

The Dalmatian Islands, located in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia, are an appealing mix of calm charm and rich history. These lovely isles, which are flanked by sparkling oceans and some of Croatia's best beaches, are dotted with charming villages, boutique hotels, and restaurants.

Brac lies at the top of the list, with its famous Zlatni Rat beach strip (Golden Horn). With its Gothic churches, car-free old town, and lovely fishing harbor, Hvar is also a sight to behold. You may fly from here to the stunning Pakleni Islands, which are noted for their crystal-clear water and hidden bays.

9. Fiji

Fiji is one of Australia's favorite tropical getaways, and it checks all of the fantasy island boxes. There are plenty of white-sand beaches, crystal turquoise oceans, and numerous coral reefs to be found here. Visitors are greeted with warm smiles by the Fijian people.

In Fiji, diving, snorkeling, fishing, and, in some locations, surfing are all popular activities, but lying under a palm tree and dipping into the silky smooth seas can be just as enjoyable. With over 300 islands to choose from, from opulent celebrity hideaways to family-friendly resorts to the magnificent Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, it's easy to locate the perfect island for your vacation.

Because Fijians adore small children, this is an ideal vacation spot for families.

10. Kaua'i

For good reason, Kaua'i is known as "the Garden Isle": rainforests cover much of the interior, waterfalls cascade down lava cliffs, and the heady scent of tropical blossoms hangs thick in the steamy air.

The island's attractiveness isn't limited to its lush vegetation; its breathtaking coastline will take your breath away. This spectacular island was carved by lava, which rose from the ocean floor to build velvety ridges and vertiginous cliffs surrounded by beautiful beaches.

Turtles and tropical fish swim along coral reefs beneath its cobalt-blue oceans, exciting divers and snorkelers from all over the world. Compared to its more well-known sister islands, Maui and Oahu, Kaua'i has a more laid-back attitude and moves at a slower pace.

The beautiful Na Pali Coast, 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon, and cloud-capped vistas from the cliffs above Hanalei Bay are among Kauai's main attractions.

11. St. Lucia

St. Lucia has a dark, gloomy beauty to it. Unlike other Caribbean islands, its main features are not necessarily its beaches, though they are popular with visitors thanks to their golden sands and beautiful palms. Rather, the island's topography is soaked in drama. The towering Pitons, twin volcanic peaks that rise more than 700 meters above sea level and provide a beautiful background to the stunning countryside, preside over the lush landscapes.

St. Lucia's views include swaying coconut palm forests, waterfalls, picturesque fishing villages, coral reefs, nature trails, and healing hot springs, to name a few. Highlights include Marigot Bay and the Anse Chastanet Marine Park. The French influence on the island adds to its exotic attractiveness.

12. Capri, Italy

Glamorous Capri, a small island 20 kilometers off the Amalfi Coast, lives up to its reputation. From the teal-hued Tyrrhenian Sea, sea stacks and soaring rocks rise, framed by sprays of brilliant flowers.

The blue grotto, a shimmering sea cave where locals drive guests in on miniature boats and sing opera to showcase the acoustics, is one of its most popular tourist attractions.

When you arrive at Marina Grande's harbor, take the funicular up to Capri's main town, which looks like something out of a movie. The square is bustling with well-dressed natives and tourists carrying shopping bags stuffed with designer garments and perfumes from the island.

While you're here, make a point of visiting Anacapri, the island's highest settlement, and taking the chair lift up to Monte Solaro for amazing views of the island and sea.