Island trips are exhilarating in the best way possible. You get the picturesque views, sunny atmosphere and a relaxing nature retreat all in one place. Also, they can be a bit pricey. Therefore, we’ve listed the best islands to visit in 2023 and these are worth your every penny!
So, start packing your sunnies and swimwear, because you’re about to know all the islands to visit this year!
Ischia, Italy
One of the most secluded, scenic islands in the Bay of Naples. If you’re departing from the port of Pozzuli, you can reach Ischia within an hour’s transfer by ferry or hydrofoil. This island is best known for its untouched rocky beaches like the islet in Castello Aragonese with a medieval castle on top. Then, the vibrant port town, Piazza Arctica Reggia is the spot to have a gelato while staring into the glistening ocean. Besides that, somewhere like Sant’Angelo Fishing Village is great for basking in the sun during the day. And head off thermal parks and wellness centres for a spa treatment! Here, you can watch the locals go on about their day up close. Unlike other polished touristy cities, there’s something more laid back and cool about Ischia. If you’re considering this as one the islands to visit, definitely go to the Capri or Amalfi Coast too.
Maldives
This one’s a globally-loved island destination known for its azure beaches, lush greenery and otherworldly landmarks. If you want to stay relaxed, this is where you come. The marine life is beyond stunning, the culture is full of life, the food is *chef’s kiss*. And there is an abundance of water sports such as snorkleing, jet skiing, diving, you name it. Make sure to stay at a resort with all-inclusive packages for the best deal. Stay in Sun Island to watch the sparkling beaches, visit Banana Reef for a wonderful diving experience. And if you want to explore the best of marine life, HP Reef is the place to visit and want a digital detox? Check out Mirihi Island. There’s a lot more!
Bali, Indonesia
Also known as the “Land of the Gods” as people here closely following Balinese Hinduism in their day-to-day life. The island has a blend of touristy and local spots you can switch back and forth loud and quiet days. The natural atmosphere at Bali is very authentic that you’d forget about the rest of the world. Expect active volcanoes, clear beaches, world-class water sports, buzzing nightlife, vast rice fields in Tabanan, and brilliantly blue waterfalls. Also, the architecture is fantastic so Ulun Danu Temple and Tanah Lot Temples are must-visit places. If you’re a hiking lover, there are spots all over, especially in Java islands. If you’re thinking of a quiet beach time, the pretty Gili or Nusa islands are around the corner of Bali. For couples, Seminiyak is a match with its beach clubs, stunning sunsets and luxurious spa locations. If you’re an advanced surfer, you’d love the waves at Uluwatu. Sanur is another fantastic spot for those you love beach activities.
Milos, Greece
Currently, Milos is one of the interesting and untouched islands to visit. If you have a sweet spot for nature, you’d not want to leave this idyllic place. The island is known to have loads of scenic landmarks due to the presence of a lot of minerals. Plus, Milos has a rich heritage, for instance, infamous Venus de Milo statue was found here. One of the most exciting things to do here to chill at the pristine beaches. To name a few like Tsigarado, Provatas and Lunar Sarakinko with turquoise waters and white rocks. Other than that, you can cruise around Kleftiko, watch the bear rock and take in the scenic beauty here. Or visit the fishing villages like Klima.
Fiji Islands
Underwater adventurer? This is one of the must-see islands to visit for you. It’s also referred to as the ‘soft coral capital of the world’. They say Fiji isn’t your regular tropical getaway destination. It’s not fully developed so it’s very easy to get fully immersed in nature. It’s another world free from electronics, traffic and even the bustling noises of crowded tourist destinations. In addition to that, you can get a more unique perspective on the Pacific Island lifestyle through excursions. There are day tours that tours that take you into Viti Levu’s Sabeto Valley with a traditional Fijian friendship ceremony. Other than that, sip kava (Fiji’s national drink from dried kava plant roots and rainwater) in Nalesutale (“Welcome Back”) Village and chill among the happiest people on planet. Besides that, check out the lush rainforest in Colo-I-Suva Forest Parks and the natural hot springs in Sabeto.
Galapagos Islands, Equador
Here, you can swim with sea lions, stroll with giant tortoises, and admire the beauty of the flora and fauna. If you’re thinking of Galapagos Islands to visit during summer, you can have it all with a combination of wildlife and a stunning landscapes landscape unlike anywhere else. Get up close to marine turtles at Tortuga Bay. At San Cristobal Island, it’s easy to sight sea lions while finding enough spaces to swim and surf. And you can also go birdwatching with around 45 rare bird species such as Galapagos Penguins and Darwin’s finches. The human population is just around 25,000 so it’s makes the whole experience calming and otherworldly.
Phuket, Thailand
The sun is almost always shining and it’s vibrant as yellow. Phuket amazes with lots of attractions, activities and tours, from breathtaking beaches and natural wonders to elaborate architecture and culture. The Patong Beach is calm and refreshing in the day and get lively as ever as the sun sets. From Rach Islands to Phi Phi islands to Coral island, there are countless beautiful islands around Phuket. There, you can go on boat trips, try water sports, check out the markets closeby and most importantly, lazy bask in the sun.
Dominica
This hilly island is Located in the Eastern Caribbean sea and is loved for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, lakes, gorges and hot springs. In fact, the world’s second largest hot spring—boiling lake is here. Did you know some part of the classic Jurrassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean were shot here? Definitely visit the Morne Trois Pitons National Park include the Valley of Desolation, the Boiling Lake, Titou Gorge, Emerald Pool and Middleham Falls. Besides falling in love with the nature here, you can go whale watching, swim in remote pools. Or go hiking on the longest trail across the island. Also, visit the Rosalie Beach, if you’re intrigued by black sand beaches.
Borocay, Philippines
It is one the ideal islands to visit during summer because you’d find pristine white sand beaches, breathtaking views, fun water activities in every corner. In addition to that, you’d also find a nightlife for dreamy beach parties. Explore the white beach, watch flying foxes at Puka beach and try cool water activities like banana boat rides, fly fish, jet skiis and paddleboarding. Take it one step further with island hopping. You can check out the Magic Island with diving platforms, Crocodile Island (with no crocs, just the island has that shape). Plus, Crystal Cove Island with unique limestone coves and your beach experience gets better with seashells and pigeons.
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
You want to visit the number one island in North America according to Condé Nast Traveler? Enjoy some of the scenic destinations such as 5 hour-long Cabot Trail. Taking this coastal roadway is one great way to admire the beauty of Cape Breton. Also, make sre to stop along the way for lobsters. Besides that, head to the mountainous ski facilities like Ski Cape Smokey for a great panaromic view. Then, the Inverness Beach is one of the warmest ocean waters ever! And it’s fully lifeguarded. Also, this island is a haven for anyone who cycles as there are so many great trails across the landscapes.
Palawan, Philippines
Can’t chose between greenery and ocean? Head to Palawan. There are waterfalls, limestone rocks, lush jungles, cliffs and clear oceans. You can chill by the beach and drink coconut water or have a adventurous time snorkeling or diving. Also, this is where you find the cleanest and clearest lake in the world, known as Kayangan Lake. It’s hilly background and the cobalt green waters make it a highly picture-worthy destination.
Paros, Greece
Just 2 hours from Santorini and 3 hours from Athens, this traditional island is a laid-back European summer destinations. So what makes this one of the top islands to visit: the soothing beach life, chic nighlife and eye-catching white-washed towns. Some say this is a good micx Mykonos (trendy party island) and Naxos (authentic inland villages). Once you’re done relaxing here, you can catch a ferry to go to Antiparos, a remote island located to the west. If you want to stroll around the colourful island, check out villages such as Parikia and Naoussa.
Azores, Portugal
For those who appreciate nature and outdoor activity, this is one of simple and stunning islands to visit in 2023. There are volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastlines, long waterfalls such as the Aveiro Cascade (120m). Besides that, go whale watching or stop by the ever-green Lago De Santiago lake for a commanding view. And did you know that the scuba diving here is top-tier as per global standards? Shipwrecks, dramatic underwater topography and more than 3,000 marine species make Azores the best place on the planet to scuba divr. Some of the best divings spots are located Princess Alice Bank in between Pico and Faial, you can find hammerhead, blue sharks and mobula rays around here.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
This is for the tropical beach lovers, here you’d find the best combination of white powder beaches, turquoise waters, palm tree forests, mountains, and waterfalls. And this Vietnamese island is based near the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand and apart from the mind-blowing nature, and paradise beaches, it is popular for happening markets and rare food delicacies. Wander the sandy Sao beach, explore the island in a motorbike and enter a whole new dimension at Suoi Tranh Waterfalls.
Moorea, French Polynesia
A hidden gem with exotic coastal landscapes. You’d love the cobalt beaches such as Tiahura beach and Temae Beach. The marine life here is pretty extraordinary too. And you will witness it all as you swim with sharks and stingrays. Besides that, stay at unique overwater resorts and go on a boat ride across the crystal clear lagoons.
Cebu, Philippines
It’s filled with historical sites, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife but it’s also one of the rejuvenating islands to visit and relax. Within the forests of interior Cebu, you’d come across rare waterfalls like Kawasan Falls and indigenous birds. A lot of people flock to Cebu to dive and swim with whale sharks and to seek out many other adventures.
Ibiza, Spain
This doesn’t need much of an introduction. It’s Europe’s popular party destination. You can go all out with its laid-back hippy atmosphere filled with markers and bars. Then, chill by the beach on a Bali bed and watch the sun go down. The culture here is so lively and authentic, it’s where world’s most amazing nighlife scene takes place. Besides that, the biodiversity reserves, museums, the Ibiza Castle and cave of Can Marçà are wonderful places for those with curiosity.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
You should go here if you are into pleasing coral reefs, caves and remote beaches. There are no crowded touristy locations so you can enjoy your island time in peace. One of the main attractions is the Baleine Falls. It’s connected to a big pond and is about 60 feet high. If you can, fit in a boat ride to see the dolphins depending on the weather and schedules.
Madeira, Portugal
Here you can hike up the rainforest trails, have the time of your life near the waterfalls and explore the mountains covered with trees. And the oceans? They are the glistening deep blue beauty that brings all of these together. The type of landscapes you see here are vast and diverse. If this is one of the islands you want to visit, add hiking levada into your travel plans. Aside from that, the UNESCO site, Laurissilva is an ancient forest that looks like an mystical location in the movies. The biodiversity here is wild as you’d come across unique bird species such as Laurel Pigeon.
Maui, Hawaii
Travellers also call it the “The Valley Isle,” and it’s the second biggest Hawaiian island. People love it here for the world-class beaches, the beauty of the sacred ʻĪao Valley, sightings of migrating humpback whales, and the farm-to-table cuisine culture. To add to that, undescribable sunrise and sunset from Haleakalā cannot be missed.
Anguilla
The island of Anguilla is one of the finest places to spend your travelling days in the Caribbean. You will get the best of white sand beaches, unique local food experience and culture and the atmosphere is soul-awakening.
Crete, Greece
Aside from the contemperorty architecture at Santorini and lively beach clubs at MyKonos, there’s so much more to Crete. Especially, if you’re looking at a secluded staycation.Crete is a conveniently accessible and striking islands to visit in Greek Islands. Therefore, enter eye-catching sunsets, fine wine, traditional Greek transport experience, quiet beaches, and relaxing hiking spots.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Did you know that cars aren’t allowed here? This is because they disturb the horses that live there. Mackinac Island is popular for its horse and carriage rides, bikes, fudge, caramel corn, and saltwater taffy. Fort Mackinac, the Grand Hotel, and the town’s main street are few places to frequent and they are surrounded by serene greenery. This is where you come to disconnect from the rest of the world and relax in total peace. You can cycle, hike, learn about the history of this place. An absolute dream.
Island of Hawaii
This is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian cluster. Also known as the ‘Big Island’ as it’s twice as big as the Hawaiian islands. And it’s quite diverse with snowy heights of Maunakea, the lush valleys of the Hilo and Hāmākua Coasts to the jet-black sands of Punaluʻu Beach. This is one of the best islands to reconnect with yourself while feeling grounded by the beauty of nature. The island covers different climate zones such as tropical climate, dry climate, temperature climate and polar climate. So this way, you can swim, hike, snorkel, go stargazing and even watch red-hot lava from active volcanoes all in one land.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Here, you’d find an award-winning, stunning 10-mile beach to enjoy the sun. You could have a mini beach picnic along the shores or go bike riding to take in the lovely atmosphere. Aside from that, you can go surfing, kayaking, shelling, fishing, and do wildlife viewing. And there’s a chance, you may come across dolphins playing among waves.
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