top tropical travel destinations

• Solo Travel

20 Best Tropical Vacations for 2024: Affordable & Stunning Getaways

• 27 minute read

• September 16, 2024

You know what, guys? I love traveling, and while I’m all about mountains, I’m definitely a beach person too! 🏖️ There’s something special about lounging on soft sand and swimming in clear blue water.

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape that mixes relaxation with adventure , you’re in the right place. Check out this list of the best tropical getaways, each offering stunning views and unique experiences. 🌴🌊🌞 So, what are you waiting for, buddy? Come with me to explore the best tropical vacation places in the world.

1. Bali, Indonesia: Enjoy vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and lush rice terraces.

About the Place: Bali, a tropical paradise, is where vibrant culture meets stunning beaches and lush rice terraces. The island is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, lively arts scene, and warm-hearted locals. From the bustling streets of Ubud to the serene shores of Seminyak, Bali offers a mix of adventure and relaxation that suits every traveler. 🌴

Place Address: Bali is about 30 km (18 miles) from Denpasar, the capital city, depending on where you’re staying.

How to Get There:

• By Air: Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), which is well-connected to major cities worldwide.
• By Taxi: From the airport, taxis are readily available and will take you directly to your destination in Bali.

Why to Visit: Bali is a haven for those seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement. Its beautiful beaches offer perfect spots for sunbathing or surfing, while the lush landscapes and temples provide a glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a luxury resort or dive into vibrant local traditions, Bali has something special for everyone. 🌺

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $50 to $150 per day, depending on your style of travel. This includes accommodation, food, and activities.

Activities and Attractions:

• Uluwatu Temple: Explore this cliffside temple and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Wander through these iconic rice paddies for breathtaking scenery.
• Seminyak Beach: Relax on this popular beach known for its lively atmosphere and excellent sunsets.
• Ubud Art Market: Shop for unique souvenirs and traditional Balinese crafts.
• Mount Batur: Hike up this volcano for an unforgettable sunrise view. 🌄

Things to Avoid:

• Overpaying for Souvenirs: Bargain at markets to avoid inflated prices.
• Ignoring Local Customs: Respect local traditions and dress modestly when visiting temples.
• Swimming During Red Flag Days: Always check beach safety flags to avoid dangerous currents.

2. Maldives: Relax in crystal-clear waters and luxurious overwater bungalows.

About the Place: The Maldives is the ultimate destination for those who want to unwind in paradise. Picture yourself in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by luxurious overwater bungalows. This tropical haven is famous for its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life. It’s the perfect spot for a serene getaway, where you can simply relax and let the beauty of nature wash over you. 🌊

Place Address: The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, and its resorts are scattered across various atolls. Most resorts are located between 20 to 60 km (12 to 37 miles) from Malé, the capital.

• By Air: Fly into Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé.
• By Seaplane: Transfer to many resorts is via a scenic seaplane ride from the airport.
• By Speedboat: Some resorts offer speedboat transfers from Malé.
• By Domestic Flight: For further resorts, you may need a domestic flight followed by a speedboat transfer.

Why to Visit: The Maldives offers a unique experience with its stunning overwater bungalows and breathtaking underwater scenes. It’s a dream destination for couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, while the serene environment is ideal for relaxation. 🏝️

Average Budget: Expect to spend between $300 to $800 per night, depending on the resort and the season. This includes accommodation, meals, and some activities.

• Snorkeling and Diving: Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Overwater Bungalow Stays: Enjoy luxurious accommodations right above the water.
• Sunset Cruises: Relax on a boat as you watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.
• Private Beach Dinners: Experience a romantic dinner on a secluded beach.
• Neglecting Coral Protection: Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs to protect marine life.
• Overindulging on Expensive Excursions: Plan and budget for activities to avoid overspending.
• Ignoring Resort Rules: Follow the guidelines of your resort to ensure a pleasant stay.

3. Hawaii, USA: Explore diverse landscapes, volcanic craters, and Hawaiian culture.

About the Place: Hawaii is a diverse paradise with something for everyone. From volcanic craters and lush rainforests to vibrant local culture, each island offers unique adventures. Whether you’re exploring the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island or soaking up the sun on Waikiki Beach, Hawaii combines natural beauty with rich traditions and activities. 🏄‍♂️

Place Address: Hawaii is a group of islands in the central Pacific Ocean. The main islands are about 2000 km (1250 miles) from the U.S. mainland.

• By Air: Fly into major airports on each island, such as Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, or Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui.
• By Inter-Island Flights: Use local carriers for flights between islands.
• By Rental Car: Rent a car to explore the islands at your own pace.
• By Public Bus: Use local bus services for convenient travel within each island.

Why to Visit: Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to stunning beaches, offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The islands are rich in culture, with traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine enriching your visit. Whether you’re hiking up a volcano or enjoying a luau, Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it an unforgettable destination. 🌺

Average Budget: Plan on spending around $150 to $400 per day, depending on your accommodations and activities.

• Volcano National Parks: Explore volcanic craters and lava flows on the Big Island.
• Waikiki Beach: Relax on this iconic beach in Honolulu.
• Haleakalā National Park: Witness stunning sunrise views from this dormant volcano.
• Road to Hana: Drive this scenic route on Maui for waterfalls and coastal views.
• Ignoring Safety Warnings: Follow local guidelines, especially near volcanoes and beaches.
• Overlooking Cultural Etiquette: Respect Hawaiian traditions and practices.
• Underestimating Travel Times: Allow extra time for travel between popular spots due to traffic or road conditions.

4. Seychelles: Soak up pristine beaches and unique granite boulders.

About the Place: The Seychelles is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique granite boulders that make its landscapes truly picturesque. This group of islands in the Indian Ocean offers a serene escape with lush tropical forests, rare wildlife, and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you’re lounging on white-sand shores or exploring hidden coves, Seychelles promises a stunning and relaxing getaway. 🌴

Place Address: The Seychelles is an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa. Most visitors arrive at Mahé Island, which is about 1,600 km (1,000 miles) from the coast of Kenya.

• By Air: Fly into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé Island.
• By Ferry: Use ferries to travel between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue Islands.
• By Domestic Flight: Book flights with local carriers for trips between the islands.

Why to Visit: Seychelles is perfect for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Its stunning beaches, like Anse Source d’Argent and Beau Vallon, offer ideal spots for sunbathing and swimming. The unique granite formations and lush forests provide excellent opportunities for exploration and photography. The relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes make Seychelles an ideal destination for honeymooners and nature lovers alike. 🌺

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $200 to $500 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and the season. This typically includes lodging and meals.

• Beach Hopping: Visit stunning beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio.
• Hiking: Explore trails in Morne Seychellois National Park.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Discover vibrant marine life in clear waters.
• Island Tours: Take boat trips to explore nearby islands and their unique features.
• Neglecting Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong sun, especially on the beaches.
• Ignoring Wildlife Guidelines: Respect local wildlife and natural habitats to preserve the environment.
• Overlooking Local Customs: Be aware of and respect local traditions and practices.

5. Phuket, Thailand: Unwind on beautiful beaches, dive into lively nightlife, and shop at markets.

About the Place: Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a vibrant hub of beauty and activity. Known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and bustling markets, Phuket offers a mix of relaxation and excitement. Whether you want to lounge by the beach, dive into the nightlife, or shop for unique souvenirs, Phuket has something for everyone. The island’s warm, sunny weather and friendly atmosphere make it a popular destination for tourists from around the globe. 🏖️

Place Address: Phuket is an island in southern Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea. The main city, Phuket Town, is about 30 minutes from Patong Beach, the island’s most famous beach area.

• By Air: Fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT), which is about a 30-minute drive from Patong Beach and other major areas.
• By Bus: Use local buses or shuttle services from the airport to various parts of the island.
• By Taxi: Taxis and ride-sharing services are available for direct transfers to your destination.

Why to Visit: Phuket is perfect for those seeking a balance of relaxation and adventure. Its beautiful beaches like Patong and Kata offer great spots for sunbathing and water sports. The island’s nightlife, centered around Patong Beach, features lively bars, clubs, and entertainment. Markets such as the Phuket Weekend Market provide an opportunity to sample local street food and shop for unique items. Phuket’s mix of activities ensures there’s something for every type of traveler. 🌟

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $50 to $150 per day, depending on your choice of accommodation, dining, and activities.

• Beach Time: Relax on popular beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon.
• Nightlife: Enjoy bars, clubs, and entertainment in Patong.
• Shopping: Browse local markets such as Phuket Weekend Market and Jungceylon Mall.
• Island Hopping: Take boat trips to nearby islands like Phi Phi and James Bond Island.
• Overindulging in Nightlife: Be mindful of your safety when exploring Phuket’s nightlife.
• Ignoring Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples and be respectful of local customs.
• Skipping Travel Insurance: Ensure you have insurance for unexpected incidents or medical needs.

6. Maui, Hawaii, USA: Take scenic drives, visit Haleakalā National Park, and go whale watching.

About the Place: Maui, often called the “Valley Isle,” is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to volcanic craters. This Hawaiian paradise offers diverse experiences, including scenic drives along the famous Road to Hana, exploring the stunning Haleakalā National Park, and witnessing majestic whales during the migration season. With its beautiful beaches, serene atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, Maui is a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. 🌴

Place Address: Maui is one of the Hawaiian Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean. The main airport, Kahului Airport (OGG), is about a 30-minute drive from popular areas like Lahaina and Kihei.

• By Air: Fly into Kahului Airport (OGG), which is the primary airport serving Maui. It’s a short drive from many key destinations on the island.
• By Car: Rent a car at the airport to explore Maui’s diverse attractions at your own pace.
• By Shuttle: Use airport shuttles or ride-sharing services for convenient transport to major resorts and towns.

Why to Visit: Maui is famous for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The island’s landscape is a playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Drive the scenic Road to Hana for breathtaking views, hike through Haleakalā National Park to see the massive volcanic crater, and go whale watching from December to May to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. Maui offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway. 🌺

Average Budget: Expect to spend about $100 to $250 per day, depending on your choice of accommodation, dining, and activities.

• Scenic Drives: Enjoy the stunning views along the Road to Hana.
• Haleakalā National Park: Explore the park’s volcanic landscapes and sunrise vistas.
• Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see humpback whales during the migration season.
• Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches like Wailea and Kaanapali.
• Ignoring Park Rules: Follow guidelines in national parks to protect the environment and ensure safety.
• Overlooking Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially on the Road to Hana.
• Neglecting Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated to avoid sunburns and dehydration.

7. Fiji: Meet friendly locals, snorkel in coral reefs, and enjoy stunning lagoons.

About the Place: Fiji, a stunning tropical paradise in the South Pacific, is famous for its crystal-clear lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and warm, welcoming locals. With over 300 islands to explore, Fiji offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re snorkeling among colorful fish in the coral reefs, lounging on pristine beaches, or discovering the unique Fijian culture, you’ll find plenty to love about this tropical gem. 🌺

Place Address: Fiji is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean. The main international gateway is Nadi International Airport (NAN), which is about a 20-minute drive from the town of Nadi and an hour from the popular Coral Coast area.

• By Air: Fly into Nadi International Airport (NAN), which serves as the main hub for international flights to Fiji. From there, you can take a local flight, boat, or drive to various islands and destinations.
• By Local Transport: Use domestic flights for island-hopping, or take ferries and boats to reach other islands. Taxis and car rentals are available for getting around on the main islands.
• By Boat: Enjoy scenic boat rides to various islands and resorts, offering both relaxation and adventure.

Why to Visit: Fiji is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and the warmth of its people. Dive into clear blue lagoons and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Experience Fijian culture through local festivals and traditional ceremonies. Whether you’re looking to relax on white sandy beaches or embark on adventurous water activities, Fiji promises an unforgettable tropical escape. 🌊

Average Budget: Plan to spend around $150 to $300 per day, depending on your choice of accommodation, activities, and dining.

• Snorkeling: Discover colorful marine life in the clear coral reefs.
• Beaches: Relax on beautiful white sandy beaches like those on the Mamanuca Islands.
• Lagoon Adventures: Explore stunning lagoons and enjoy water sports.
• Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional Fijian ceremonies and festivals.
• Ignoring Local Customs: Respect local traditions and practices.
• Overlooking Sun Protection: Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburns.
• Ignoring Safety Warnings: Follow safety guidelines for water activities to ensure a safe experience.

8. Santorini, Greece: Admire dramatic sunsets, explore whitewashed buildings, and relax on volcanic beaches.

About the Place: Santorini, a picturesque island in Greece’s Cyclades, is famous for its stunning sunsets, charming whitewashed buildings, and unique volcanic beaches. The island’s cliffside villages offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and dramatic landscapes formed by volcanic eruptions. Wander through narrow streets, enjoy local Greek cuisine, and take in some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see. 🌅

Place Address: Santorini is located in the Aegean Sea, about 200 kilometers southeast of mainland Greece. The main town, Fira, is approximately 10 kilometers from the island’s primary port, Athinios.

• By Air: Fly into Santorini (Thira) National Airport (JTR) from Athens or other major European cities. The airport is about 6 kilometers from Fira, the main town.
• By Ferry: Take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina ports) to Santorini’s Athinios Port. Ferries also connect Santorini with other Aegean islands.
• By Local Transport: Use taxis, local buses, or rental cars to explore the island from the airport or port.

Why to Visit: Santorini offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. The island’s striking landscapes, from its whitewashed houses perched on cliffs to its volcanic beaches, create an unforgettable backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Indulge in local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, and experience the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re watching a sunset from Oia or relaxing on a black sand beach, Santorini promises a memorable getaway. 🏖️

Average Budget: Expect to spend between $150 to $300 per day, including accommodation, meals, and activities.

• Sunset Viewing: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from Oia or Fira.
• Exploring Villages: Wander through the charming streets of Fira and Oia.
• Beach Time: Relax on unique volcanic beaches like Kamari and Perissa.
• Historical Sites: Visit ancient ruins and archaeological sites like Akrotiri.
• Crowds: Visit popular sites early in the day or during the off-peak season to avoid crowds.
• Overpriced Souvenirs: Shop around for better prices on souvenirs.
• Driving Challenges: Be cautious when driving, as roads can be narrow and steep.

9. Barbados: Immerse in rich culture, enjoy the coastline, and experience lively festivals.

About the Place: Barbados is a vibrant island in the Caribbean known for its rich culture, stunning coastline, and lively festivals. From the golden beaches and turquoise waters to the bustling markets and traditional music, this island offers a delightful blend of relaxation and excitement. Dive into the local culture by enjoying delicious Bajan cuisine, participating in colorful festivals, and exploring historical sites that showcase the island’s heritage. 🌴

Place Address: Barbados is located in the Caribbean, east of the Caribbean Sea. The capital city, Bridgetown, is about 10 kilometers from the island’s primary port, the Bridgetown Port.

• By Air: Fly into Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados. The airport is about 14 kilometers from Bridgetown.
• By Cruise Ship: Arrive at the Bridgetown Port if you’re on a cruise.
• By Local Transport: Use taxis, rental cars, or local buses to get around the island from the airport or port.

Why to Visit: Barbados is a paradise for those who love a mix of relaxation and culture. Its beautiful beaches are perfect for lounging and water sports, while the island’s festivals and cultural events provide an immersive experience in local traditions. From the lively Crop Over festival to the vibrant street markets and delicious local food, Barbados offers a rich and enjoyable escape for every traveler. 🎉

Average Budget: Plan to spend between $120 to $250 per day, including accommodation, food, and activities.

• Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches like Carlisle Bay and Bathsheba.
• Festivals: Experience local festivals like Crop Over and Oistins Fish Fry.
• Historic Sites: Visit landmarks such as St. Nicholas Abbey and the Barbados Museum.
• Local Markets: Explore bustling markets like the Bridgetown Market.
• Tourist Traps: Be wary of overpriced tourist spots; explore local recommendations instead.
• Sunburn: Protect your skin with sunscreen, as the sun can be intense.
• Rushing: Take your time to enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe and don’t rush through attractions.

10. Bahamas: Lounge on gorgeous beaches, swim in clear waters, and enjoy marine activities.

  About the Place: The Bahamas is a tropical paradise featuring pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exciting marine adventures. This stunning archipelago of 700 islands offers a mix of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re lounging on white sandy beaches, swimming in vibrant blue waters, or diving into thrilling water sports, the Bahamas promises a perfect tropical escape. 🌊

Place Address: The Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean, just east of Florida. Nassau, the capital, is on New Providence Island, and is approximately 15 kilometers from the nearest beaches and resorts.

• By Air: Fly into Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau, which is about 16 kilometers from the main resort areas.
• By Cruise Ship: Arrive at the Nassau Cruise Port or other island ports if you’re on a cruise.
• By Local Transport: Use taxis, rental cars, or ferries to travel between islands and explore local spots.

Why to Visit: The Bahamas is perfect for those seeking sun-soaked relaxation and marine adventures. Its gorgeous beaches and clear waters invite you to unwind and enjoy various water activities like snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins. The friendly local culture and vibrant marine life add to the island’s charm, making it an ideal destination for a carefree getaway. 🏝️

Average Budget: Expect to spend between $150 to $300 per day, covering accommodation, meals, and activities.

• Beaches: Relax on famous beaches like Cable Beach and Pink Sands Beach.
• Marine Activities: Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming with pigs in Exuma.
• Historical Sites: Explore Nassau’s historical landmarks, such as Fort Charlotte.
• Local Markets: Visit the Straw Market in Nassau for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
• Overpriced Tours: Look for reputable local tour operators to avoid overpaying.
• Ignoring Safety Guidelines: Follow safety instructions for marine activities and beach safety.
• Overcrowded Areas: Seek out quieter beaches to avoid the busiest tourist spots.

11. Saint Lucia: Explore the Pitons, lush rainforests, and luxury resorts.

About the Place: Saint Lucia is a Caribbean gem known for its stunning natural beauty and luxury. The island is famous for its iconic Pitons—twin volcanic peaks that create a breathtaking backdrop. Saint Lucia also offers lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and upscale resorts, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts. 🌴

Place Address: Saint Lucia is located in the Eastern Caribbean Sea. The main gateway is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), which is about 37 kilometers from the popular resort areas around Soufrière.

• By Air: Fly into Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) or George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Castries, with UVF being the primary international entry point.
• By Local Transport: Use taxis, rental cars, or pre-arranged transfers to get from the airport to your destination. Car rentals are a great option for exploring the island’s scenic routes.

Why to Visit: Saint Lucia is perfect for those who love both natural wonders and luxury. The Pitons offer spectacular hiking opportunities with views that are simply unforgettable. The island’s rainforests are perfect for eco-tourism enthusiasts, and its high-end resorts provide a lavish escape with top-notch amenities. Whether you want to hike, relax, or indulge in spa treatments, Saint Lucia has it all. 🌺

Average Budget: Expect to spend between $200 to $400 per day, covering accommodation, meals, and activities.

• The Pitons: Hike or take a scenic tour to these iconic peaks.
• Rainforest Adventures: Explore the lush rainforests with guided tours.
• Sulphur Springs: Visit the world’s only drive-in volcano and enjoy its natural hot springs.
• Luxury Resorts: Relax at top-notch resorts like Jade Mountain or Anse Chastanet.
• Overpriced Tours: Opt for reputable tour operators to avoid high costs.
• Ignoring Local Weather: Check weather conditions, especially if planning outdoor activities.
• Unsecured Beaches: Be cautious with personal belongings on popular beaches to avoid theft.

12. Mauritius: Discover diverse culture, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes.

About the Place: Mauritius is a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes. This island in the Indian Ocean is celebrated for its warm hospitality, vibrant multicultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring colorful markets, lounging on white-sand beaches, or discovering tropical forests, Mauritius provides an ideal setting for relaxation and adventure. 🌴

Place Address: Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean, southeast of Africa. The primary international entry point is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), situated approximately 48 kilometers from the capital, Port Louis.

• By Air: Fly into Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU).
• By Local Transport: Take a taxi or shuttle service from the airport to your hotel. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car to explore the island.

Why to Visit: Mauritius offers an exceptional mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. The island’s stunning beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Its diverse culture and cuisine reflect a rich blend of influences, making it a vibrant and intriguing place to explore. Additionally, the island’s lush landscapes and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. 🌺

Average Budget: Plan to spend around $150 to $300 per day, covering accommodation, dining, and activities.

• Beaches: Relax on popular beaches like Belle Mare and Flic en Flac.
• Black River Gorges National Park: Explore the island’s lush interior and enjoy hiking trails.
• Port Louis: Discover the capital city’s markets, cultural sites, and vibrant nightlife.
• Chamarel: Visit the Seven Colored Earths and enjoy the stunning views.
• Overpriced Souvenirs: Shop at local markets for better deals on souvenirs.
• Ignoring Safety Precautions: Follow safety guidelines for water activities and wildlife encounters.
• Underestimating the Sun: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor excursions.

13. Jamaica: Enjoy reggae music, beautiful beaches, and rich heritage.

About the Place: Jamaica is a lively island known for its vibrant reggae music, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. This Caribbean gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty and energetic culture. From the rhythmic beats of reggae to the breathtaking coastline and lush landscapes, Jamaica provides a fun and immersive experience for visitors. 🌴🎶

Place Address: Jamaica is located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba. The main entry point is Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston or Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay.

• By Air: Fly into Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) or Sangster International Airport (MBJ).
• By Local Transport: Use taxis or shuttle services from the airport to your destination. Renting a car is a good option for exploring the island at your own pace.

Why to Visit: Jamaica’s blend of rhythmic music, stunning beaches, and rich cultural traditions makes it a vibrant and exciting destination. The island’s reggae music scene, warm hospitality, and delicious cuisine offer a memorable cultural experience. Additionally, the beautiful beaches and natural attractions provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure. 🌞🎸

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $100 to $250 per day, including accommodation, food, and activities.

• Negril’s Seven Mile Beach: Relax on one of Jamaica’s most famous and picturesque beaches.
• Dunn’s River Falls: Climb the beautiful waterfall or enjoy the natural pools.
• Bob Marley Museum: Explore the life and legacy of reggae’s iconic musician.
• Blue Mountains: Hike and enjoy the scenic views in Jamaica’s mountainous region.
• High Tourist Areas: Avoid overpriced tourist traps; explore local spots for better experiences.
• Unsafe Areas: Stick to well-traveled areas and follow local advice for safety.
• Overindulgence: While enjoying the local food and drinks, be mindful of your limits to stay healthy and enjoy your trip fully.

14. Aruba: Bask in year-round sunshine, relax on white-sand beaches, and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

  About the Place: Aruba is a sunny paradise where you can bask under the bright Caribbean sun almost every day of the year. This small island is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. With a friendly atmosphere and plenty of activities, Aruba is perfect for a relaxing yet entertaining vacation. ☀️🏖️

Place Address: Aruba is located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. The main entry point is Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad.

• By Air: Fly directly into Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA).
• By Local Transport: Take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to your hotel. Car rentals are also available for exploring the island at your own pace.

Why to Visit: Aruba’s consistently warm weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife make it an ideal destination for relaxation and fun. Whether you’re lounging on the soft sands, snorkeling in clear waters, or dancing the night away, Aruba offers a little something for everyone. Its welcoming vibe and beautiful landscapes ensure a memorable vacation. 🌴🍹

Average Budget: Plan on spending around $150 to $300 per day, including accommodation, food, and activities.

• Eagle Beach: Relax on one of the island’s most beautiful and least crowded beaches.
• Arikok National Park: Explore the island’s natural beauty, including caves, desert landscapes, and wildlife.
• Palm Beach: Enjoy water sports, beachside dining, and vibrant nightlife.
• Oranjestad: Wander through the colorful streets, visit local shops, and enjoy lively entertainment.
• Crowded Tourist Spots: Seek out quieter beaches and local spots to avoid heavy crowds.
• Unlicensed Taxis: Use only official taxis or rideshare services for safety and fair pricing.
• Overindulgence: While it’s tempting to indulge in all the local treats, keep moderation in mind to maintain your energy for exploring.

15. Costa Rica: Explore rich biodiversity, lush rainforests, and thrilling adventures.

About the Place: Costa Rica is a nature lover’s dream, bursting with incredible biodiversity and lush rainforests. This Central American gem offers a mix of breathtaking landscapes, from vibrant jungles to stunning coastlines. Adventure enthusiasts will find a paradise of activities like zip-lining and surfing, while those seeking tranquility can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of tropical forests and exotic wildlife. 🌿🌺

Place Address: Costa Rica is located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast. The capital city is San José, where you’ll find the main international airport, Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).

• By Air: Fly directly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.
• By Local Transport: From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach your destination. For exploring the country, consider renting a car or using domestic flights and public buses to navigate between regions.

Why to Visit: Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches, offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. You can hike through lush rainforests, soak in hot springs, or zip-line above the canopy. The country’s commitment to conservation and its welcoming culture make it a fantastic destination for eco-tourism and thrilling experiences. 🌍🌴

Average Budget: Expect to spend about $100 to $250 per day, covering accommodation, food, and activities.

• Monteverde Cloud Forest: Trek through this mystical forest and experience its unique wildlife and lush scenery.
• Arenal Volcano: Enjoy hiking, hot springs, and beautiful views of this iconic volcano.
• Manuel Antonio National Park: Relax on stunning beaches and explore diverse wildlife in this popular park.
• Tortuguero National Park: Discover the canals and watch sea turtles nesting on the beaches.
• Unlicensed Tour Operators: Stick with reputable companies to ensure safety and quality.
• Overlooking Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and respect the environment, especially in protected areas.
• Ignoring Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities to avoid unexpected rain or storms.

16. Canary Islands, Spain: Discover volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and unique flora.

About the Place: The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, known for their stunning volcanic landscapes and gorgeous beaches. Each island offers its own unique charm, from the dramatic black sand beaches of Tenerife to the lush greenery of La Palma. With year-round pleasant weather, it’s a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and relaxing getaways. 🌋🏖️

Place Address: The Canary Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean, with major islands including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. The main international airports are Tenerife South (TFS) and Gran Canaria (LPA).

• By Air: Fly into Tenerife South Airport (TFS) or Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) for access to the main islands. There are also airports on Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
• By Local Transport: From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car. For island hopping, consider taking a ferry between the islands or using local flights.

Why to Visit: The Canary Islands offer a diverse array of landscapes, from volcanic terrains and desert-like dunes to lush forests and pristine beaches. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike up volcanoes, relax on beautiful sandy shores, or explore unique flora. The islands’ mild climate and vibrant local culture make them an ideal spot for year-round travel. 🌴🌞

Average Budget: Plan to spend around $80 to $200 per day, depending on your choice of accommodation, dining, and activities.

• Teide National Park (Tenerife): Explore the surreal volcanic landscapes and take a cable car to the top of Mount Teide.
• Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote): Discover the striking volcanic scenery and enjoy a guided tour.
• Corralejo Natural Park (Fuerteventura): Relax on vast sand dunes and pristine beaches.
• Garajonay National Park (La Gomera): Hike through this lush, ancient forest and enjoy breathtaking views.
• Overlooking Local Regulations: Follow local rules, especially in protected natural areas.
• Ignoring Weather Variations: Be aware that weather can vary significantly between islands and regions.
• Missing Out on Local Cuisine: Don’t skip trying traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauce.

17. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Stay in overwater bungalows, swim in turquoise lagoons, and enjoy stunning scenery.

About the Place: Bora Bora is a breathtaking island in French Polynesia, famed for its luxurious overwater bungalows and crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. This tropical paradise offers stunning views of Mount Otemanu, lush greenery, and an idyllic environment for relaxation and romance. The island’s vibrant coral reefs and calm waters make it a perfect destination for snorkeling and water activities. 🌺🏝️

Place Address: Bora Bora is located in the South Pacific Ocean. The main airport is Bora Bora Airport (BOB), situated on the Motu Mute islet, just a short boat ride from the main island.

• By Air: Fly into Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti first. From there, catch a domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB).
• By Local Transport: Upon arrival at Bora Bora Airport, take a boat transfer to your resort or hotel. Most accommodations offer complimentary transfers from the airport.

Why to Visit: Bora Bora is a dream destination for those seeking luxury and natural beauty. The island’s overwater bungalows provide an unparalleled experience, offering direct access to the lagoon and stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Whether you’re snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs or simply lounging on the beach, Bora Bora promises a serene and unforgettable escape. 🌊✨

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $500 to $1,000 per night at a luxury resort, with additional costs for dining and activities.

• Overwater Bungalows: Stay in iconic bungalows that offer direct lagoon access and spectacular views.
• Lagoon Tours: Enjoy guided tours that showcase the island’s marine life and crystal-clear waters.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim with tropical fish and rays.
• Mount Otemanu: Take a helicopter tour or hike to admire this majestic volcanic peak.
• Ignoring Weather Conditions: Be mindful of the tropical weather and plan activities accordingly.
• Underestimating Costs: Bora Bora is known for its luxury, so budget accordingly for high-end accommodations and dining.
• Missing Out on Local Experiences: Don’t miss local Polynesian cultural activities and traditional dining options.

18. Turks and Caicos: Snorkel in coral reefs, swim in clear waters, and relax on beautiful beaches.

About the Place: Turks and Caicos is a Caribbean gem known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The islands offer a relaxed, tropical atmosphere with picturesque settings perfect for both adventure and relaxation. From Grace Bay’s powdery white sands to the colorful marine life in the coral reefs, this destination promises a blissful escape. 🌴🌊

Place Address: Turks and Caicos is located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas. The main island is Providenciales, where you’ll find the main airport, Providenciales International Airport (PLS).

• By Air: Fly into Providenciales International Airport (PLS) from major hubs like Miami, New York, or Toronto.
• By Local Transport: Taxis and shuttle services are available from the airport to various resorts and rental properties. Car rentals are also an option for exploring the islands.

Why to Visit: Turks and Caicos is the ideal destination for those seeking a tropical paradise with unparalleled natural beauty. The islands’ stunning beaches and clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and simply unwinding. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with exceptional diving spots and friendly locals, makes it a top choice for a serene and enjoyable getaway. 🏝️😎

Average Budget: Plan on spending approximately $300 to $600 per night at mid-range to luxury accommodations, with additional costs for dining and activities.

• Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim among tropical fish in clear, warm waters.
• Grace Bay: Relax on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches with powdery white sand.
• Island Hopping: Take day trips to nearby islands and enjoy secluded beaches and unique landscapes.
• Conch Farm: Visit the world’s only conch farm to learn about these fascinating marine creatures.
• Overlooking Sun Protection: The sun can be intense, so use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
• Ignoring Local Customs: Be mindful of local etiquette and respect the island’s environment.
• Overpacking: Bring light, casual clothing suitable for beach and outdoor activities.

19. Grenada: Visit spice plantations, enjoy gorgeous beaches, and join lively festivals.

  About the Place: Grenada, known as the “Spice Isle,” is famous for its lush spice plantations, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. The island’s warm hospitality and stunning natural beauty make it a delightful destination for relaxation and exploration. Wander through aromatic spice gardens, relax on beautiful beaches like Grand Anse, and immerse yourself in Grenada’s lively local festivals. 🌺🌴

Place Address: Grenada is located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, with the main island of Grenada hosting the international airport, Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND).

• By Air: Fly into Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) from major cities like Miami, New York, or London.
• By Local Transport: Taxis and shuttle services are available from the airport to various accommodations. Car rentals are also a popular option for exploring the island.

Why to Visit: Grenada offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The island’s spice plantations provide a sensory delight with their aromatic spices, while its stunning beaches offer the perfect setting for relaxation. Grenada’s lively festivals and friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the island’s charm. 🏖️🎉

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $200 to $400 per night at mid-range to luxury accommodations, with additional expenses for dining and activities.

• Spice Plantations: Tour local spice farms and learn about the production of nutmeg, cloves, and other spices.
• Grand Anse Beach: Relax on this beautiful, sandy beach known for its clear blue waters and calm waves.
• Waterfall Hikes: Explore the island’s lush interior with hikes to stunning waterfalls like Annandale Falls.
• Carnival: Experience Grenada’s vibrant cultural festival with colorful parades and lively music.
• Ignoring Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals.
• Overlooking Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts, as tropical storms can occur during the rainy season.
• Underestimating Sun Exposure: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun.

20. El Nido, Philippines: Marvel at limestone cliffs, swim in turquoise waters, and explore hidden lagoons.

  About the Place: El Nido, a paradise in the Philippines, is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and hidden lagoons. The stunning seascape and unique rock formations create an awe-inspiring backdrop for adventures. Explore secret coves, swim in serene waters, and marvel at the natural beauty that makes El Nido a must-visit destination. 🏝️🌊

Place Address: El Nido is located on Palawan Island, in the northwest of the Philippines. The nearest airport is El Nido Airport (ENI), about 10-20 minutes from the town center.

• By Air: Fly to El Nido Airport (ENI) from Manila or Cebu. Alternatively, you can fly to Puerto Princesa and take a 4–6-hour van ride to El Nido.
• By Local Transport: From the airport, you can use local tricycles or arranged transfers to get to your accommodation. Many resorts and tour operators also offer pickup services.

Why to Visit: El Nido is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The striking limestone formations and azure waters create a picturesque setting perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and kayaking. The area’s remote beauty and tranquil environment offer an unforgettable escape from everyday life. 🛶⛰️

Average Budget: Expect to spend around $100 to $250 per night for mid-range to upscale accommodations, with additional costs for tours and dining.

• Island Hopping: Explore beautiful islands like Miniloc and Shimizu, each with stunning beaches and snorkeling spots.
• Hidden Lagoons: Paddle through secluded lagoons surrounded by towering cliffs.
• Kayaking: Rent a kayak to explore the turquoise waters and hidden coves.
• Snorkeling: Discover vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.
• Ignoring Safety Instructions: Follow safety guidelines during tours and water activities.
• Leaving Trash Behind: Help keep the beaches and marine environments clean by disposing of waste properly.
• Overlooking Weather Changes: Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities, as storms can affect travel plans.

From the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives to the dramatic limestone cliffs of El Nido, these tropical destinations offer something for everyone seeking a perfect getaway.

Whether you want to relax on pristine beaches, dive into vibrant marine life, or explore stunning natural landscapes, these locations promise unforgettable experiences.

Each destination brings its own unique charm and activities, ensuring you can find the perfect tropical escape tailored to your interests. So, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in paradise!

How much did you like Our detailed  20 Best Tropical Vacations for 2024: Affordable & Stunning Getaways?   Review Also, please share these Blogs with your friends on social media.

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Home » Budget Travel » 25 Best Tropical Islands • Vacation Destinations for 2024!

25 Best Tropical Islands • Vacation Destinations for 2024!

Aquamarine waters, chalk-white beaches, nodding palm trees, and fragrant jungles – who doesn’t lust after the balmy beauty of tropical islands?

It feels like anything is possible in the tropics. With all kinds of adventure activities to keep you busy, you can easily spend days diving, sailing, trekking, and practising yoga. There’s nothing quite just like planting your tush on the sands of tropical beaches and breathing in those sunkissed vibes.

But of all the beautiful tropical places that grace the planet, how to choose which one to visit next?

Everyone deserves their fair share of vitamin sea, which is why we’ve scoured the globe to collate the  25 best tropical islands!  Whether you’re after adventure or simply want to practice your supine pose under the sun, one of these tropical island paradises are sure to float your boat. First up, it’s to the island of the gods…

Bali – The Tropical Island of the Gods

Seychelles – tropical paradise at a premium price, barbados – caribbean islands are a no-brainer, phuket – southern thailand is magnificent, the maldives – the ritziest destination in south asia, the perhentians – two tropical places to visit for the price of one, palawan – for some of the best diving in the philippines, fiji – a growing top island destination on people’s radars, the galapagos islands – exotic islands don’t come much more exotic, niue – technically it’s not a tropical island, koh rong – thai isle feels at a more chilled pace, raja ampat – for a tropical vacation off the beaten path, vanuatu – an overlooked gem of a tropical destination, koh lipe – like the maldives but cheaper, lombok and the gili islands – lots of islands, lots of vibes, bohol – tropical sights and adventure delights, mauritius – man, mauritius is just… the best, kauai (hawaii) – expensive, yes, but worth the cost, bermuda – tropical vacay gone mia, ilha grande – felicidade, san andrés – colombia meets the caribbean, saint vincent and the grenadines – yet more caribbean islands to visit, the whitsundays – in the tropics down under, the canary islands – it’s not all tropical beaches, bora bora – the pacific isles are woefully overlooked, in conclusion, it’s time to plan that tropical island vacation retreat.

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Bali is that rare jewel that hits the sweet spot with backpackers, honeymooners, and family holidaymakers alike! Neither the cheapest destination in Southeast Asia nor the priciest, you’ve got the full spectrum tourist accommodation in Bali from fancy beachfront resorts to cosy guesthouses, chilled-out dorms, and wicked party hostels.

In Bali, it’s easy to cram your days with activities and excursions. Steeped in spirituality, there are thousands of Hindu temples dotted around the island with just as many yoga retreats. Or you can find a spot in the sun and kick back with a tropical juice or cold beer – there’s no judgement on Bali.

Take your pick between partying until sunrise or waking up at the crack of dawn to practise your warrior pose on the beach. Choose to eat beside locals at warungs or order the floating breakfast buffet to your private pool. When you’re visiting Bali , it’s all good.

What to do in Bali

• Hire a scooter and explore the hundreds of temples, paddy fields, beaches, and jungles of Bali.
• Strengthen your body and soothe your mind with a cocktail of surf and yoga classes.
• Nurture your Instagram feed with delicious smoothie bowls. 
• Hop on the boat and travel to Nusa Penida , a small tropical island featuring a t-rex shaped cliff and manta ray snorkelling. 

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With the softest sand and the warmest ocean, the name alone makes is enough to relax your sense. This dreamy archipelago of 115 islands sits in the middle of the Indian Ocean, far off the East African coast.

You’ve got a lot of options for choosing where to stay in Seychelles . Choose a base on Mahé , Praslin , and La Digue , and spend your days cruising around the smaller, uninhabited islands. 

Given the location and just how utterly pristine Seychelles is, it’s a very expensive tropical destination for a vacation – especially during December and January. It’s definitely smarter to visit between May and September when temperatures are the most pleasant, and it rains less.

After all, you don’t want to spend all those dollars to just sit in the rain.

What to Do in Seychelles 

• Book a crazy swanky resort complemented suited only to the grandest tastes.
• Dine on a diet of fancy cocktails and the finest imported food (or go find some local grub).
• Sit at the end of your private pier and contemplate the effects of climate change on small island nations .

Barbados is an absolute banger Caribbean island! With zesty nightlife, awesome local communities, and a surprising number of botanical gardens and other more sedate activities, there really is something for everyone in Barbados. It is easily one of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean .

Young travellers relish the vibrant festivals that take place throughout the year ranging from musical throwdowns to the harvest season and even a fish festival.

At the same time, families will also have a hoot! Barbados is a very safe destination swimming in family-friendly resorts and villas. It’s a much-beloved island for a tropical vacation in the Caribbean for travellers with a younger brood.

On the eastern side of the island, you’ll find some rad surfing spots. Every beach on Barbados is open to the public, which means you can take your pick from the 80 tropical beaches the island has on offer. The food is delicious and you can always pick between the pricey restaurants and the cheaper hangouts favoured by locals. 

If you have the cash, you’ll have no shortage of activities to throw it at, but Barbados is also one of the more affordable islands in the Caribbean. There are so many amazing places to stay in Barbados – you’ll find mid-range hotels and hostels to suit a whole variety of budgets. If you want a truly authentic experience, you could consider staying in a vacation rental in Barbados which is usually someones home that they have rented out.

What to Do in Barbados 

• Swim alongside turtles in the warm, azure water. 
• Gorge on fish fry washed down with plenty of locally distilled Mount Gay.
• Visit Scotland. That’s right – the region known as Saint Andrews bears a striking resemblance to the architectural landscape of Scotland (just with much, much better weather). 

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Thailand’s largest island is the top tropical vacation for a wide mix of traveller styles and budgets. With its idyllic tropical beaches – pearl-white fringed with palms, glittering seas, and a myriad of peaceful temples – what’s not to like? Although, be sure to do your research when choosing where to stay in Phuket .

As a rule of thumb, central Phuket is popular with backpackers and party animals looking for some of Thailand’s best nightlife. Meanwhile, families or couples seeking a romantic escape may prefer the north or south areas. You’ll find no shortage of digs, ranging from budget hostel beds and homestays to whopping resorts and luxury retreats. 

As a general tip for the Thai islands – don’t write off the monsoon season (May-October). This means sharing Phuket with fewer tourists and netting cheaper accommodation while you’re at it. But don’t forget your rain jacket! It may not be the most tropical place in the world during this season…

What to Do in Phuket

• Embrace the full breadth of Thai culture. Experience an acrobatic massage, the vigour of a Muay Thai match, and find zen in a Buddhist temple all in the same day.   
• Eat, eat, and eat some more. Surf on local delicacies at the various night markets dotted around the island or enrol in a Thai cooking class. 
• Find out why you should never ride an elephant at the Phuket Elephant Jungle Sanctuary . At this ethical retreat, you can instead walk alongside the gentle giants. 

Luminous sapphire seas, blinding white sand, and flowing all-you-can-eat buffets are trademarks of the Maldives. Of the 1,200 islands that form this tropical paradise, around 100 are used for tourism. The most luxurious resorts straddle an atoll in its entirety, providing a more private (and luxurious) accommodation for visitors.  

A top tropical place to visit for affluent explorers, the Maldives is synonymous with honeymooners and loved-up couples with deep pockets. However, a number of the Maldivian resorts are set up to attract families too, with kids’ clubs, water slides, and other fun activities to keep the gremlins occupied. Make sure you check out the target market of any resort so you end up in the right place for your holiday. 

You’re more likely to find a Maldivian bargain between June and October – the monsoon season. ‘Bargain’ being relative: take that with a pinch of salt. They’d charge you for farting in the Maldives if they could. 

What to Do in the Maldives 

• Blow a year’s salary and rent a bungalow over the water to spend your days gazing at the abundant marine life swimming beneath your feet. 
• Discover all manner of world-class diving and snorkelling; the Maldives is a spectacular destination for a liveaboard trip . 
• Utilise the ferry system to escape the all-inclusive lifestyle and explore neighbouring islands with a more local vibe – the real Maldives.   

A short boat ride from the Malaysian coast sits two of the most beautiful tropical islands in Southeast Asia. People come to the Perhenthians for two reasons – to dive or snorkel in the crystal clear water, or to lounge on the beach and do a fat load of nada. Featuring some of Malaysia’s most beautiful tropical beaches , the Perhentians are perfect no matter your preferred travel vibe!

Head to Perhentian Besar for a peaceful escape in a world-class resort with all your creature comforts supplied. This island is popular with families and honeymooners and comprises mid-range to top-tier hotels. 

Those of you counting the pennies, follow the rest of the broke backpackers off the boat at the more rustic and (slightly) rowdier Perhentian Kecil . This is actually one of the most affordable places to get your open water diving certificate in the whole of Asia. The diving conditions are mint too, so it’s totally worth it!

What to Do in the Perhenthians 

• Accidentally-on-purpose miss your boat back to the mainland and extend your stay (indefinitely).
• Don’t even bother asking for Wi-Fi codes on Perhentian Kecil. It won’t work, and you’ve got better things to do. 
• Experience tropical camping on Perhentian Kecil.

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Many say that Palawan is the most beautiful tropical island you’ll find while travelling in the Philippines ; it’s hard not to see why: the beauty of this tropical island paradise slaps you right in the face! (Gently and lovingly.) 

Palawan boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Wiggle into your diving gear and explore Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park or hop aboard a canoe for the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park .

In keeping with the rest of the Philippines, Palawan is a brilliant tropical island for backpackers on a budget. With plenty of hostels and cheap food, you can stretch your money far here. Travellers flock to Palawan, so if you’re travelling solo, you’re guaranteed to make some new travel buddies . 

What to Do in Palawan

• Island-hop around the lagoons and islands of El Nido in the northern stretch of the island. 
• Tickle your tastebuds with Filipino cuisine. Bull’s testicle soup (mysteriously branded Soup Number 5) and boiled duck embryo (balut) are two such delicacies. In fact, the termite of the sea – tamilok – is a Palawan speciality. 

Another of those islands formerly seen as a honeymoon destination, Fiji’s appeal has soared over recent decades. It now attracts a mixed bag of solo backpackers and younger explorers as well as the usual tropical vacation crowd. This is in part because Fiji is not that expensive !

As the most developed Pacific Island, it’s also the most popular for family holidays. Made up of more than 300 islands, there is no shortage of awesome places to stay in Fiji . However, you will find most of the tourism across the western islands – particularly Viti Levu and Vanua Levu .

Fiji has something for everyone! There’s diving and snorkelling, sailing and surfing, hiking and whale watching, and, of course, there’s embracing the tropical island lifestyle by swaying in a hammock for days at a time. The temperature remains mostly constant throughout the year, with cyclones occurring between November and January.

What to Do in Fiji

• Take a break from the beach to slather yourself up in the therapeutic mud baths of Viti Levu. 
• Befriend the friendly locals at a Fijian village. Rather than taking a tour, you can do this independently… as long as you brush up on the customs. Don’t forget to cover up and take a sevusevu (gift) for the turanga ni koro (village chief).

Some 1,000 km from the South American continent, the 19 exotic islands that form the Galapagos are a melting pot of all forms if abundant fauna. With its undisturbed ecosystem and isolated location, wildlife is able to flourish in the Galapagos. Rather than lying still on the beach, a trip to the Galapagos Islands is all about early starts and days trawling the coast for nature sightings. 

While the Galapagos used to be exclusively for the wild-loving wealthy, there is more scope for a budget tropical vacation these days. If you have the cash to splash, sure – go ahead and book that liveaboard cruise.

If not, however, you’ll find dorms, guesthouses, and affordable local food. There are cheaper areas in the Galapagos Islands to stay, and then once you’ve got your feet on the ground, you can shop around for tours and excursions. 

What to Do in The Galapagos 

• Ponder what the world would look like if we left nature in peace beyond this cluster of beautiful tropical islands.
• Put down your camera and binge on the extraordinary wildlife you’ll encounter with your own two eyes. 

Not so much a tropical island, the minuscule island nation of Niue is technically a coral atoll. In fact, it’s one of the largest raised coral atolls on Earth (as well as being one of the most beautiful tropical places on Earth… obvs).

You’ve got rock pools in the north and rainforest in the southwest with secret tropical beaches connecting the two. Oh, and it’s so small you can hike across the length of the island in about five hours!

At present, Niue is only accessible from New Zealand, which does make it trickier to access. It’s most popular with vacationing Kiwis (though not the feathery and cute kind), travellers backpacking in New Zealand , and other South Pacific islanders. But it’s way more chill than its neighbouring South Pacific islands, making it one of the top tropical islands in the vicinity for some R&R. 

What to Do on Niue

• Swing by the Police Station to pick up your Niue driver’s licence – mandatory before you hire a car. Best souvenir ever, right?
• Experience the underwater world – diving off Niue comes with a visibility of up to 100 metres. 

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Koh Rong is Cambodia’s answer to Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands. Again, you get to take your pick between two islands to visit both easily accessible for those staying in the Sihanoukville area . 

Koh Rong is the more happening of the two with regular raves and parties at Police Beach . It’s not quite on par with Thailand full moon parties, but it’s getting pretty damn close at this point.

Conversely, however, for a quieter tropical escape, head to the sleepier Koh Rong Samloem and nap on untouched tropical beaches in humble bamboo huts. Alternatively, you can just take the 45-minute boat ride between the two islands whenever you’re feeling like a change of pace!

While Koh Rong works out at a lower cost overall, both islands are ideal for budget travellers. They’re mainly frequented by travellers on a circular lap backpacking around Cambodia , and long-term wanderers who still haven’t left.

What to Do in Koh Rong

• Fill your tummy on the catch of the day at the nightly beach barbecues while local kids dressed in British football shirts run riot. 
• Switch your phone off and embrace the castaway vibe of Koh Rong Samloem – Wi-Fi is in short supply.

The Raja Ampat archipelago bobs around in Indonesia’s distant West Papua province. It’s hardly one of the easiest tropical places to vacation due to its remoteness. That being said, if you want to get as off-grid as possible, then Raja Ampat is your dream destination!

Once you reach this faraway cluster of jungle coated islands, you can choose to immerse yourself in snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and much more. 

A number of protected areas have been established in Raja Ampat to maintain the marine environment. That means, on the one hand, unspoiled nature and thriving wildlife. On the other, it does result in Raja Ampat being a costlier choice for those backpacking around Indonesia’s 17,508 islands . 

What to Do in Raja Ampat

• See for yourself what a difference it makes when we protect the natural environment. 
• Get the full Robinson Crusoe experience with a cruise out to some of the deserted islands in the archipelago. 

Of all the tropical places to visit in the South Pacific, Vanuatu ticks a lot of the boxes for your island escape. Vanuatu has managed to steer clear of mass tourism, and accommodation options are more along the lines of independent boutique bungalows and hideaway retreats. 

This fiery island has an ample scattering of simmering volcanoes, including a number beneath the water. There’s some of the best wreck diving in the South Pacific off the islands, making Vanuatu a top tropical vacation for adventure junkies. 

What to Do in Vanuatu 

• Set yourself the challenge of seeing how many words you can pick up from the 100+ indigenous languages spoken throughout Vanuatu.
• Duck beneath the palm trees with a platter of brie and a bottle of red wine – a hangover from the time the nation was a French colony. 
• Sip on kava – a natural narcotic drink made from the root of the malok plant. 

If you like the sound of the Maldives but are less enthused by the prices, Thailand has the perfect alternative. Dubbed the Maldives of Thailand for its turquoise bays and alabaster-white sand, you could almost convince yourself you really were sitting in the middle of the Indian Ocean. With no jetty to speak off, arriving on Koh Lipe is an adventure in of itself! 

With its romantic beachfront resorts, Koh Lipe is one of Thailand’s best tropical islands for couples. But it also caters well for budget explorers on the Southeast Asia backpacker trail . There’s a scattering of hostels and budget bungalows that – while pricier than other Thai islands – won’t break your budget.

From Koh Lipe, you can even take the ferry onwards to Langkawi, one of Malaysia’s top tropical vacation spots. 

What to Do in Koh Lipe

• Set up camp in one of Koh Lipe’s awesome beach bars and chat the afternoon away with friendly locals. 
• Watch the sun come up at Sunrise Beach and dip back below the horizon at Sunset Beach. 

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Lombok suffered greatly in the wake of the 2018 earthquake, which destroyed homes and paused the island’s tourism. But now, the island is getting back on its feet, and tourists are a welcome sight. Plus, staying in Lombok is awesome; it’s even more laid-back than Bali and way less commercialised.

Besides Bali, Lombok is a springboard to the Gili Islands – three of the most tropical places in Southeast Asia. These are essentially broken down into:

• Air – For mediation, yoga, and wellness as well as stellar diving. 
• Trawangan – For hedonistic backpackers hungry for nightlife. 
• Meno – For a romantic tropical island paradise or family holiday. 

What to Do in Lombok and the Gili Islands 

• Support as many local businesses as you can and tip generously – it’ll help the locals regenerate their lost earnings.
• If you’re short on time, stick to staying on one Gili Island rather than hopping around all three. 

Selecting the most beautiful tropical islands in the Philippines is no simple feat, but the chocolate hills of Bohol make it an easy choice alongside Palawan. 

Bohol is the epicentre of outdoor nature fun in the Philippines. Once you’ve roamed the chocolate hills, you can take your pick from ziplining above the dense canopy, waterfall climbing, exploring caves, and cruising along jungle rivers.

Bohol is one of the most diverse islands in the Philippines. Every day is filled with different landscapes, animals, and adventures.

It’s the perfect area to stay in the Philippines for wanderers on a budget who want to see some otherworldly natural sights.

Nestled down the bottom of Bohol, you’ll find Panglao – an island that is home to some of the BEST diving in the Philippines. If you love being under the sea as much as above it, you’ll want to check this place out.

What to Do in Bohol 

• Let yourself get gooey-eyed over the googly-eyed Tarsiers.
• Take a day trip to neighbouring Panglao Island – accessible via a bridge. 
• Stay in some unique accommodation at an Airbnb in Bohol .

Pro Tip:  If you wanna go  diving in Panglao , be sure to hit up Alex — he’s a LEGEND and really knows his stuff… both under AND above water. Just reach out via WhatsApp and let him know I sent you: +44 7812 648968.

Don’t be fooled into thinking Mauritius is solely for honeymooners. Mauritius is still one of the best tropical vacation spots out there, even if you haven’t recently declared your undying love for your other half.

There’s not much of a backpacker scene on the island, but you can most definitely backpack Mauritius ! Despite the lack of a budget travel and hostel scene, there are some really dope accommodations on Airbnb fit for less financially buoyant travellers. 

Mauritius is a real playground for those who like their idyllic tropical destinations to come with a side of adventure. Hiking, watersports, skydiving, and regular ol’ scuba diving: it’s an island where all your scary dreams can come true. 

What to Do in Mauritius 

• Take a helicopter tour to see the ‘underwater waterfall’ off the coast of Morne. 
• Find a secluded spot in the less developed south end of the island for a wilder experience.
• Alternatively, head north for tropical beach feels at a slow fishing village tempo.

You can’t go wrong with visiting Hawaii no matter which of the state’s eight islands you choose as your destination. But – if you’re not sure where to start – check out Kauai. Kauai is perhaps the prettiest of the islands, with drop-dead gorgeous natural sights and the beaches to match

Besides that, Kauai is also the most backpacker-friendly Hawaiian island. It’s cheaper than the ultra swanky Maui and quieter than Big Island. Though there are still affordable villas in Kauai for those wanting a more traditional stay.

It’s also the wettest of the islands, seeing short bursts of rain more or less every day of the year. However, it’s for that very reason the ‘garden isle’ is so vividly green and gushing with waterfalls, such as the jaw-dropping Wall of Tears.

That being said, if you’d rather see a backdrop of spewing lava, stick with Big Island. It’s magma -nimous.

What to Do in Kauai  

• Scout out the famous shoot locations used in such films as the Pirates of the Caribbean, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Jurassic Park. 
• Explore the ‘other’ Grand Canyon – Waimea Canyon State Park.
• Leave the accommodation behind in exchange for a tent under the stars. There’s mad camping in Hawaii .

With its pink tropical beaches, swathes of British phone booths, and the biggest monopoly on shipwrecks in the world, Bermuda isn’t your standard tropical paradise.

Bermuda is pricey, but it’s a top island destination if you’re a big spender with money to burn. It’s so expensive that even cooking in your Airbnb kitchen won’t make the slightest difference – even groceries come with x-rated price tags. That being said, it’s a very beautiful tropical island, and easily one of the coolest places to say you’ve visited and there are tons of cool places to stay in Bermuda . 

Another popular option is to join a cruise that stops over at Bermuda. You can pack your beach gear , spend a day soaking up the Bermuda rays, and then be back somewhere cheaper by nightfall!

What to Do in Bermuda

• Swizzle a rum swizzle while watching the skies turn pink over the pink sands
• Take a glass-bottom boat and snorkelling combination tour out to the shipwrecks of the Bermuda Triangle.

Less of a holiday destination in its own right, the small tropical island of Ilha Grande is more a weekend getaway or day trip when staying in Rio de Janeiro . Only an hour’s boat ride away from the city, the island allures with its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and exciting forest trails.

As Ilha Grande has managed to avoid mass development, the island remains mostly unspoiled with an easy-going atmosphere. 

What to Do on Ilha Grande 

• Take a boat tour and visit the even tinier tropical islands around the main island. You’ll find even wilder beaches with marine rich waters crying out for a snorkelling session. 
• Have a wander around the abandoned maximum-security prison, Candido Mendes. You might bump into Julio de Almeida, a former inmate who decided to stay after the prison closed down.

Officially a part of Colombia, the seahorse-shaped Caribbean island of San Andrés brings together a sparkling mix of Latino, English, and Creole culture. 

San Andrés is on the whole populated with Colombians who take advantage of budget flights from the mainland. They also waived the tourist tax fee on arrival. While the exotic island doesn’t generally appear on Latin American travel itineraries, it’s pretty backpacker-friendly. 

What to Do in San Andrés

• Island hop to the Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park, a protected coral islet inhabited by iguanas and reggae tunes. 
• Hire a golf cart from your hotel or local rental company and tour the island in style. 

Comprising the main island and a chain of smaller islands, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines lingers in the south-east of the Caribbean Sea. The topography is unusual; besides your sky-blue seas and emerald green jungle, you’ll also find spiky cacti! 

With yacht-filled harbours and chic private islands, this is a top island destination for sailors and boat owners. Affordable self-catering apartments and guesthouses are available on the main island. The further out you travel, however, the costlier and more exclusive your accommodation will become. 

What to Do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Visit Wallilabou Bay, where Captain Jack Sparrow escaped execution at the hands of the British Navy.
• Summit the smouldering La Soufriere. Once at the crater, you can take a rope-guided walk down into the caldera of the volcano and get a closer look at the lava dome.

Some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands are located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Being Australia, the Whitsundays aren’t the cheapest tropical islands to explore, but they can be explored on a backpacker budget.

You’ve got some choices for where to stay in the Whitsundays . Use Airlie Beach as your base if you’re looking to form a crew to split costs with. And while you’re in the area, hitting up the Great Barrier Reef – the longest coral formation in the world – for a spot of diving is an unmissable experience.

What to Do in the Whitsundays

• Book a boat trip to explore the uninhabited islands. 
• Feast on some of Australia’s best seafood. 

Strictly speaking, the islands of Gran Canaria and its neighbours aren’t tropical destinations, but rather subtropical. But who likes rules, ey? Also – these islands have some of the most unique landscapes on the planet, encompassing mini deserts and volcanic black sand.

With guaranteed sun year-round, the Canary Islands are popular with Northern Europeans after some winter sunning. Gran Canaria is one of the most popular areas to stay , however, branching out just means you’re going to discover areas much less ventured by tourists!

You can also score some very budget-friendly package deals or camping spots. You just gotta break off the beaten path!

What to Do in the Canary Islands

• Clamber around the volcanoes of the exotic island Gran Canaria. 
• Visit the lesser-known El Hierro for unspoilt beaches and rural solitude. 

Exclusive, expensive, and dripping with luxury, Bora Bora is one of the tropical places to vacation if you’ve got the cash. It’s expensive to get there, it’s expensive to sleep there, it’s expensive to eat there.

However, it’s also painfully beautiful, and the moment you plant your weary feet into the soft white sand of French Polynesia, all those money-shaped worries will drift away. It may not be one of the cheapest places in the world to travel, but man, it’s one of the best looking.

What to Do in Bora Bora

• Lie back and soak up those desktop wallpaper views.
• Hike up to the summit of Mount Pahia for a close-up of neighbouring volcano Mount Otemanu.

And that concludes our thoughts on the 25 best tropical places to visit! We hope that at least one of these tropical islands has sparked your wanderlust urges. 

While tropical islands used to be reserved for the rich and famous, fortunately, that’s changed. While not always cheap, affordable accommodation is out there – even in places like the Caribbean and Indian Ocean.

A growing emphasis on eco-tourism and sustainable travel also means that it’s not all about booking a deluxe resort anymore. That’s always an option, of course, but many islands have shifted to low-impact or independent accommodations and tours. 

Before you know it, you’ll be sipping on fresh coconut water while the salty sea air ruffles your hair.

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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You got me super interested in Bali, yet everything else I read is it’s a dirty shithole, and beaches are filthy and strewn with garbage. Is this still the case?

Hell no! Several of our team live in Bali and they love it.

It is true that certain areas like Kuta can be very crowded and boisterous during high season and the beaches there can get a bit trashed but there are plenty of clean pristine beaches around too.

When I visited Bali last years I was a bit dubious of it myself but soon fell in love with the place and can’t wait to get back.

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40 Best Tropical Vacation Spots in the World

We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences, which is documented through our travel photography and writing only about places we have personally visited. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. This has no influence on our recommendations. For more information, please read about our approach to travel publishing. Learn more ›

Written by Kyle Kroeger

Ever thought about vacationing on a tropical island someday? Honestly, who hasn’t spent time daydreaming about tropical vacation destinations ? Exotic landscapes offer the perfect blend of active travel and pure relaxation, so anyone who likes to travel can enjoy some time on a tropical beach.

There are few things I love more than a day in the sun, and in my travels, I’ve splashed in the surf of many islands. To me, these are the best tropical vacations from around the world.

Whether you’re after coral reefs, tropical jungles, black sand beaches, white sand beaches, pink sand beaches, or luxury resorts, here we have listed some of the best tropical vacation spots in the world.

Best Tropical Vacation Spots in the World

If you’re looking for inspiration for a sun-kissed, our list includes some tropical island vacations you can take globally.

1. Trunk Bay, St. John, USVI

Believe it or not, Trunk Bay is the most photographed beach in the Caribbean Sea. It is found in the northwestern corner of the US Virgin Islands National Park . Red rocky bluffs and stunning tropical greenery frame this remote beach.

Coco de Mer is a luxurious upscale villa complex less than half a mile from Trunk Bay. It has free parking, wifi, a concierge, front desk and laundry services, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a spa tub.

See Related : Best Beach Vacation Spots in the World

2. Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia

Fraser Island is one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world. Australia is famous for its beautiful beaches, and Fraser Island is a haven for gorgeous beaches. This island is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the largest Sand Island in the world.

Kingfisher Bay is my favorite of all the breathtaking beaches on this stunning island. The Holiday House in Kingfisher Bay offers a unique rental experience. It has free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a garden with a BBQ area, room for four families, and incredible views.

I also love the Kingfisher Bay Resort , a reasonably priced and modern accommodation with all the mod cons, free wifi, a swimming pool, three restaurants, and beachfront access.

See Related: Places Similar to the Maldives to Visit

3. Lopes Mendes, IIha Grande, Brazil

Lopes Mendes Beach is one of the best tropical vacations, offering secluded beaches in Ilha Grande, Brazil. It covers 2 miles of deserted, unspoiled, and powder-white sand. Here are some of the world’s most crystalline and transparent waters. Along the coast, almond trees, squat palms, and wild sea shrubs dot the rocky coastline.

Considering that this secluded beach is a bit of a trek from the nearest accommodation (around a 50-minute hike), it is a blessing because you can walk through stunning tropical greenery. Lean into the experience by camping or booking a bedroom at Camping Da Cachoeira for the tropical destination vacation of a lifetime.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica & Things to Do

4. Blinky Beach, Lord Howe Island, Australia

Blinky Beach, located on the eastern side of Lord Howe Island , is a tropical paradise with pristine white-sand beaches. This incredibly isolated island is nearly halfway to New Zealand and is a great place to enjoy surfing and scuba diving.

With an extra dramatic touch, it’s at the end of Lord Howe Island Airport’s runway! The closest place to stay is also the nicest. Capella Lodge is a 5-star retreat just an 18-minute walk from Binky Beach. It has a pool, a Pacific-style bar, a restaurant, and a spa.

See Related : Most Beautiful Places in America to Vacation

5. Barnes Bay, Anguilla

Barnes Bay is one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world . There are 33 beaches in Anguilla, and this is one of the most amazing beaches on this small island. It seems to have the softest sand imaginable.

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla is one of the area’s best luxury resorts with villas, suites, three restaurants, and beachfront access. The Turtle’s Nest Beach Resort is a superb budget/mid-range option with a crisp, airy aesthetic and views to match.

See Related: Snorkeling Spots in Hawaii

6. Temae and Teavora, Moorea, French Polynesia

Teavoro has shallow waters sheltered by a coral reef. This is one of the world’s best spots for snorkeling and admiring the colorful wildlife that calls the reef home. Temae is famous for the surf break but is still secure enough for swimming.

If you plan on spending some time at these beaches, do yourself a favor and book a few nights at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa . You will have seen this place in TV commercials, as it’s one of the world’s most famous tropical island hotels.

See Related: Cheapest Shopping Destinations in the World

7. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

Horseshoe Bay is one of the most popular tropical destinations in Bermuda. The Bay has a hidden secret, Port Royal Cove, which is like having a bonus beach. This secluded cove is much calmer and great for younger kids.

Both beaches have super-soft pink sand beaches and dramatic rock formations. The nearest accommodation to this fantastic tropical beach is The Reefs Resort and Club . This swanky 4-star hotel offers villas and suites and has a dazzling infinity pool .

See Related: Celebrating the Holidays Across the World

8. Puka Beach (Yapak), Boracay, Philippines

Puka Beach on Boracay Island, in the Philippines, is one of the best tropical beaches in the world. It’s an over 3-mile-long white beach lined with tall palm trees. Boracay Island is just one of the best tropical islands to visit and one of the most favorable tourist attractions in the Philippines.

At the stunning Puka Shell Beach, you can enjoy swimming, sailing, and cooking the fish you catch on a beach BBQ. Several accommodation options are near Puka Beach, and Alta Vista de Boracay is the closest.

This stunning 4-star hotel frequently has rooms for less than $30 per night. The Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay is also pretty close. This mid-range option has a superb gym, outdoor pool, and spa. For luxury travelers, check out Shangri-La Boracay , a swanky 5-star resort retreat with optional butler service for a fee.

See Related : Cheapest Places to Fly Around the World

9. Long Beach, Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Long Beach is situated in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand . The surroundings of this beach are extremely beautiful . You can relax with a book here, charter a boat and go fishing, or enjoy incredible snorkeling.

The most appealing aspect of Long Beach is the vast range of superb accommodations available for mere pennies. Long Beach Chalet and Nakara Long Beach Resort are prime examples. Even if you’re looking to push the boat out (heh), the luxurious Layana Resort and Spa is still a bargain.

See Related : Best Hikes Around the World

10. Maitra Beach, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Maitra Beach is the most popular of Tahiti’s beaches. This beach in the South Pacific is a mile-long stretch of silky white powder sand slopes. It is one of the best public access beaches in the Bora Bora.

There are multiple excellent rental properties and guest houses near Matira Beach. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, hop on a quick ferry and book an overwater bungalow at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa (pictured above).

These overwater bungalows blend traditional Polynesian house-building techniques with modern luxury and lordly service in arguably Earth’s most beautiful tropical islands.

See Related: Affordable Overwater Bungalows to Explore

11. Waipio Valley Beach, Big Island, HI

Waipi’o Valley ‘s Black Sand Beach is one of the best volcanic beaches in the US. Situated on Hawaii’s Big Island, this beautiful tropical island beach is tucked away at the end of the Waipiʻo River.

It is only reachable via a narrow winding road, making it feel all the more remarkable when you get there. Find nearby accommodation at the Waipiʻo Lodge , less than 20 minutes away.

See Related : Best All-Inclusive Resorts Without a Passport

12. Praia Mole, Florianopolis, Brazil

Praia Mole is attractive to surfers and paragliders, making it one of the coolest beaches in Brazil. It’s also an exceedingly friendly LGBTQ hotspot with multiple bars dotted along its almost one-mile stretch.

This is only approximately 1.5 miles east of Florianopolis’s town center. This charming little town has excellent restaurants, cafes, clubs, and hotels. Many smaller hotels are cheap (less than $50 a night) and extremely close to the beach, but take a 10-minute drive west to spend a night at the luxury Hotel Boutique Quinta das Videiras for less than $200 a night!

See Related : Most Beautiful Cities in the World

13. Blue Beach (La Chiva), Vieques, Puerto Rico

Blue Beach has a thin, long stretch of perfect sand and crystal clear water in many blue shades, making this one of the top Caribbean beaches on our list. We love Puerto Rico and highly recommend an extended tropical island vacation so you can explore and appreciate the fascinating place.

If you’re looking for a super place to stay near Blue Beach, know that most of Puerto Rico’s hotels and rentals are in the urbanized western half of the island. I’d recommend the ultra-cool El Blok Hotel in Vieques. This beachfront hotel has a striking urban industrial aesthetic and an awesome rooftop bar.

14. Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ipanema is one of the favorite beaches in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This festive mile-long stretch of sea and sand welcomes all and is framed by stunning mountains and the city of Rio. You’re spoiled for choice when finding accommodation at this incredibly touristy beach.

There are numerous beach houses to rent, countless hotels in various shapes and sizes, and several top-notch resorts. You can’t go wrong with the Sol Ipanema Hotel , a classic beachside joint with a pool, gym, great food, and less than a minute’s walk from the beach.

15. Sunset Beach, Oahu, HI

Sunset Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Hawaii . In winter, it has tall waves, ideal for surfing. In summer, the water becomes as calm as a lake, making it an excellent place for snorkeling.

There are a few rental properties near the beach, but if you head further north, you can check out the incredibly hospitable Turtle Bay Resort for a luxurious vacation.

See Related: Things to Do in Oahu

16. Honopu Beach, Kauai, HI

Honopu Beach is one of the best secluded tropical beaches in the world. This remote cove with incredible rock formations (including the large natural Honopu Arch ) is hard to reach but worth the journey. If you’re looking for tropical vacation ideas in the United States, it doesn’t get much better than this utopia of greenery, beaches, and classic Hawaiian landscapes.

You can reach this beach on foot by trekking through the stunning Ku‘Ia Natural Area Reserve or the equally stunning Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park . Each route is a solid hike, but every step is worth it for this secret beach.

17. Anse Lazio, Praslin, Seychelles

Anse Lazio is situated on the northwest tip of Praslin Island, consistently named one of the best tropical islands year in and year out. It is one of the most popular, beautiful white-sand beaches in Seychelles.

This Indian Ocean beach is long and broad, with soft sand and crystal-clear blue water. The calming surroundings are full of verdant greenery, mainly consisting of the famous and leafy takamaka tree.

There’s also Sweet Coco, a pretty nifty bar at the edge of the beach, right next to the beachside Anse Lazio Lodge, where you can spend the night. If you’re looking for luxury, the uber-fancy Hotel Raffles Seychelles is just an 8-minute drive, with incredible views of the azure ocean and lush tropical jungle.

18. Pansy Island, Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Pansy Island is a group of six islands that have remained mainly under the tourism radar. Well, I’m here to blow the secret wide open!

Pansy Island is named after the ubiquitous pansy shells frequently found on the shore. You can find this tiny swatch of heaven just off the southeast coast of Bazaruto, the largest island in its archipelago.

This is the most fantastic place to visit for an active tropical vacation or to kick back and relax. You can go horseback riding along the beaches or go whale watching . Catch your lunch and dinner and grill them over a beach BBQ, or spend time snacking on superb seafood at one of the archipelago’s restaurants.

There’s nowhere to stay on Pansy Island, but you can find lodging south of you at and Beyond Benguerra Island on Ihla de Benguerra. Head north to Bazaruto Island, and you can enjoy the luxuries of the 5-star Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort .

19. Honokalani Beach, Wai’anapanapa State Park, Maui, HI

Honokalani Beach is one of the best beaches in Maui for stunning scenery and is frequently referred to as just “Black Sand Beach.” We’re unsure how Hawaii’s other black sand beaches feel about that. It has lapis lazuli waters, jet black volcanic shore, and thick jungle foliage, casting contrasts everywhere! This is a top photographic spot for Instagrammers .

Instagrammers also love the magnificent Hana Estate , where you can stay close to the beach. This vast property is an exclusive resort with a spa, billiards, and a private waterfall.

20. El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

El Nido is a terrific tropical town in Palawan, Philippines . The town’s namesake beach has soft white sand, and the surrounding bay contains tree-covered rocks and bluffs. El Nido is fast becoming a tourist hotspot, and the beachside town has many bars, clubs, restaurants, and food trucks to scour.

There are also many lodging options – all of them crazy cheap. The colorful and comfortable MaryGold Beachfront Inn is on El Nido Beach and serves excellent food. If you’ve got cash to burn, a 5-minute ferry or car ride from El Nido will get you to the positively regal Lihim Resorts.

21. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is the second-largest natural bay on the continent, which means you’ve got bundles of beaches to play around with. It’s a beautiful place for sunbathing, snorkeling, windsurfing, or exploring the rocky outcrops.

I could write for days about the hotels in Puerto Vallarta. There is a type of accommodation for every taste, requirement, or budget. My top pick is the Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort , an all-inclusive resort with a full spa, pool, Italian restaurant, and a great rooftop bar where you can enjoy some of the best views of Puerto Vallarta.

See Related: Places to Visit in Thailand

22. Phuket, Thailand

Get your childish guffaws about the name out of the way. We’ve got beach business to address! Phuket is the most popular island destination in Thailand. If you love to go scuba diving, this is the most amazing place to spend your vacation .

One of the best things to do is charter a boat and go fishing or explore the smaller islands around Phuket. Narrowing this incredible island down to one beach is impossible – hence its popularity.

Finding a place to stay is going to be complicated—not because of a lack of accommodation but because of the abundance of competitively priced options.

Right in the middle of the pack is Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong, an IHG Hotel . This modern 5-star hotel is within easy walking distance of several stunning beaches in Phuket.

See Related : Most Romantic Cities in the World

23. San Diego, California, US

This beautiful West Coast Californian city is famous for its delightful beaches and bays. These superb beaches are popular for water sports and the ideal location to build a lovely bronze.

When you’re not bumming around the beach, explore San Diego . This effortlessly cool cultural hub is home to several world-class museums, incredible fine dining, street food, and easy access to some of California’s top tourist attractions.

The accommodation isn’t to be sniffed at either. The Hilton San Diego Bayfront is an exquisite beachside hotel serving fine cuisine. There aren’t many budget rentals on the bayfront, but there are numerous great rentals in Downtown San Diego that are just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the sea.

See Related: Warm Places to Visit in US During Winter

24. Tulum, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Tulum’s sugar-white beaches are wonderful for a chill environment. It is near the Caribbean Sea. A few of us have been to Tulum and concluded that it is one of the best beaches in Mexico .

Not only are the beaches outstanding, but there are a ton of superb eateries and top beach resorts along the coast. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is a magnificent all-inclusive, family-friendly resort with excellent beach access. The Beach Tulum Hotel has incredible decor, serving mouthwatering traditional Mexican fare. It has a few pools and even a private section of Tulum Beach.

Honeymooners who want to forget the world should stay at the chic and unique Azulik Resort , which will have you spending the night under the stars in electricity-free villas. Just an FYI: Azulik Resort is an adults-only, “clothing-optional” resort).

25. Aruba, Caribbean

Aruba is one of many stunning Caribbean islands and a popular destination for its gorgeous white sand beaches. The extremely touristy Palm Beach is a trendy beach vacation destination . This resort area is loved for its soft white sand and shallow turquoise waters. It’s a great place to enjoy water sports like snorkeling and safe sailing.

The Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino may be the plushest Holiday Inn on the planet and has just about the best beach access of any resort or hotel in the Palm Beach area.

26. Barbados, Caribbean

If you’re going to see your girlfriend in the sunny Caribbean Sea, you’re probably going to Barbados . And if you’re not, you should go to Barbados anyway! This lovely little Caribbean nation is a colonial history buff’s and foodie’s dream destination.

It’s also a hot spot for terrific beaches. Each cost brings a different feel, but the West Coast is the most popular destination for those searching for tropical places to relax.

I’ve got a soft spot for Batts Rock Beach. It’s part of Batts Rock Park, a lush green area with places to picnic – and the chance to spot green monkeys. A little way up the road, you can stay at Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels . This beautiful property has private beach access and exquisite decor and furnishings. Alternatively, you can scout the many lovely vacation rentals within the vicinity.

See Related : Best Bungee Jumping Locations

27. Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States

Virginia Beach is one of our favorite US beaches. It’s a popular area for families seeking fun or those who love staying active. There’s plenty of opportunity for surfing and sailing. Fishing from the beach’s namesake pier is prevalent here, as is cycling the sands, running or jogging, volleyball, and even waterskiing.

There are also numerous top tourist attractions and plenty of places to stay clustered along the beach. Admittedly, these hotels are much of a muchness, but they’re all entirely pleasant places to stay with beachfront access, so who’s complaining?

Hyatt House Virginia Beach/Oceanfront is in the middle of the pack in terms of pricing, but it is easily one of the most visually striking (and easy to find!) hotels on the beach.

See Related: Islands in the United States

28. Crete, Greece

Crete is the biggest island in Greece, and it has a rich history that goes back millennia. It is the most fantastic place to visit on vacation in the Mediterranean. If you like white sand and water sports, you’re lucky—Cretians love the sea and will help you find your flippers.

Everything about Crete, from the natural scenery to the quaint houses and restaurants, is so romantic—little wonder, then, why Crete is so popular with honeymooners.

Most of the island’s hotels and resorts are on the northern coast, such as the princely (not to mention superbly welcoming and kid-friendly) Grecotel Creta Palace on Baja Beach.

But you can also find incredible, more secluded beaches and lodgings on the southern coast. Check out the comfortable Hotel Minos Agiagalini in the cute southern historic beach town of Agia Galini. You’ll enjoy insane views of the town’s historic port, the rolling countryside, and the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

29. Lamu Island, Coast Province, Kenya

Lamu Island is in Kenya, just off the north coast. This island has primo-pristine beaches; the industry here is tourism, baby! The white dunes, clear waters, and regularly perfect weather make this place even more relaxing.

Most touristy accommodations, such as The Red Pepper House luxury resort , are on the commercialized and more heavily populated East Coast. However, Kizingo , a unique hotel on the island’s west coast, offers a blend of traditional lodging and luxury trappings.

30. Vina del Mar, Valparaiso Region, Chile

Vina del Mar is home to some of Chile’s best beachside resorts and hotels. This historic tropical beach city also has fantastic tourist attractions like the Neo-French Gothic Wulff Castle, which is an incredible bonus. There are also excellent opportunities to enjoy the best Chilean cuisine, from fine dining to top street food.

31. Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia

Byron Bay is situated where the Coral Sea meets the Tasman Sea. This is a spotlessly clean and unpolluted beach town in New South Wales, Australia. It’s beautiful because of its greenery, sprouting over its rolling bluffs.

The soft white sand of the town’s five beaches is ideal for sunbathing and playing beach games, and the surf is fantastic for bodyboarding and surfing. To break up beach days, why not play a few rounds of golf at the Byron Bay Golf Course, snap some picks at the lighthouse, or go shopping there?

Accommodation in Byron Bay is also pretty generous. Although the options mainly consist of (admittedly outstanding) rental properties, There’s the modern, mid-range Lord Byron Resort and the plush Elements of Byron Beachfront Resort if you’re after something special. You can rent rooms, suites, and villas at this magical property.

Alternatively, if you want to be on the beach and enjoy the ever-perfect weather under canvas or the stars, you can pitch camp at Reflections Holiday Parks at Clarkes Beach.

32. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia

Ah, come on, you knew it was coming. One of the seven wonders of the natural world, the one-and-only Great Barrier Reef is one of the most famous tropical places to vacation: fine sand beaches and the world’s largest coral reefs on Queensland’s coastline. The crystalline clear water makes the reefs easy to spot.

Sadly, due to pollution, fishing, and increased boat and diving activity (partly due to increased tourism), some of the coral has been damaged, losing its vibrancy and much of its natural inhabitants.

That said, the beaches around this area of Queensland are perfect for water sports like snorkeling, windsurfing, and scuba diving . The list of top accommodations isn’t short, either.

33. Manzanillo, Pacific Coast, Mexico

Manzanillo is a beautiful harbor town on the Mexican Pacific Coast. This relatively unknown resort town is popular with serious water sports enthusiasts. Scuba divers will be in heaven as the harbor is close to several coral reefs and shipwrecks.

Deep-sea fishing is also pretty popular here, with contests devoted to hauling in giant marlin! While in town, check out the nearby Laguna de las Garzas nature preserve to take in some tranquility and as many local restaurants as your belt buckle allows – the seafood here is fantastic.

34. Camps Bay, Western Cape, South Africa

The windswept Camps Bay is situated in Western Cape, South Africa. This visually stunning town sits along a stretch of 2 beaches ideal for hiking, taking pictures, sunbathing, horseback riding, and enjoying a good place for a picnic.

Glen Beach has beautiful rocky crags to explore. The waves that wash this beach are a little strong for young kids and weak swimmers, but surfers and swimmers who love a challenge will love to play in the strong Atlantic waves.

Camps Bay Beach is a trendy tourist beach with options for numerous interests. The beach is lined with bars, cafes, and stalls, and the town of Camps Bay is impressive for dining out or shopping.

Accommodation is generous, too, with countless vacation rentals and hotels for any budget. I immensely love Primi Sandcastle , the hot tub with seaside views, and the excellent staff.

35. Malindi, Coast Province, Kenya

The fishing town of Malindi in Kenya is another lesser-known treasure that makes for a serene tropical vacation. Silver Sands Beach is located south of Malindi town.

Water sports like snorkeling, fishing, surfing, and diving are popular here. The town is a charming coastal city ideal for kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying the excellent Malindi Marine National Park .

Silver Rock Hotel may be the best budget place to stay, with incredible views, a pool, and gorgeous rooms. Then again, if you want to feel like a big shot without paying like one, book a suite at the Billionaire Resort and Retreat.

36. Palma de Mallorca, Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

Palma de Mallorca is the central cultural and economic hub of the Spanish island of Majorca. This is a major tourist town geared toward Europe’s young adulthood.

The concentration of pubs, bars, and clubs (all packed with British students) is staggering! There are also tons of great restaurants and excellent excursions all over town. The golden sands of Palma are very popular for sunbathing, and the shallow, gentle waters are popular with swimmers.

Again, accommodation in this sunny seaside locale is no issue, except maybe in peak season. The last place I stayed in Palma was the marvelous Hotel Basilica – a crisp boutique hotel with a rooftop view and a stunning shot of three of Palma de Mallorca’s incredible churches.

See Related : Best Pink Lakes In the World

37. Corfu, Ionian Islands, Greece

Corfu is a fantastic island in Greece. Many villages have charming whitewashed houses, Venetian fortresses, and Byzantine churches to entertain history enthusiasts. The island’s party scene is also off the chain, one of Greece’s most popular clubbing destinations.

 The beaches here range from rocky to sandy, catering to all tastes. There are plenty of seaside activities to enjoy here, including (but not limited to) swimming, diving, windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, fishing, and racing around on banana boats.

See Related: Islands in Germany to Visit

38. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is one of the unique tropical island destinations in the world and offers more than just that. Bali is known (and loved at ViaTravelers) for its near-perfect weather and incredible food, but it’s also a surfing paradise.

The island has incredible white and black sand beaches and lush rainforests to hike. If an active tropical vacation isn’t your style, consider Bali the ideal place to rejuvenate.

Bali’s southwest coast is jam-packed with resort spas and yoga retreats, like the Serenity Eco Guesthouse and Yoga . This magical retreat looks like it was designed by a Disney Imagineer and is the perfect place to stretch those muscles and find your zen. 

See Related: Tourist Destinations in the World

39. Jamaica, Caribbean

I’d argue that Jamaica is the best tropical island in the Caribbean. I. Love. Jamaica. This heavenly place is blessed with miles of beautiful coastline. It’s a paradise for beach lovers, with every seaside activity you can think of at your disposal.

Kingston is also one of the most unique and underrated tropical cities on the planet, where you can sample traditional local fare at its finest and learn about Jamaica’s fascinating history.

Check out the Bob Marley Museum , based in the Reggae legend’s old 19th Century House. If you’re into art, the Jamaica National Gallery is the country’s premier showcase of Jamaican artistic talent.

The Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel is one of the best in town. It offers immaculate suites, two award-winning restaurants, a pool, a gym, and a nightclub.

See Related: All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Jamaica

40. Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Cozumel (or San Miguel Cozumel) is an island off the south coast of Cancun, Mexico. It is beautiful and covered with lush greenery. Many water sports are available here, like snorkeling and surfing. The white sand and crystalline water of this tropical island are amazingly photogenic.

OYO Mi Hotel is a stylish budget hotel in a vintage building with crisp modern decor. Located in a convenient part of Centro, it delivers urban seaside vibes.

Suppose you’re looking for a different option, one that is peaceful and away from the city. In that case, the gorgeous traditional Ventanas Al Marn hotel on the opposite side of the island has practically all the fabulous Playa Chen Rio to you.

Summary of Our Favorite Tropical Vacation Ideas

Where are cheap tropical vacations.

Cheap tropical vacations can be found in several destinations around the world. Places like Bali in Indonesia, Phuket in Thailand, and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic are known for their affordability, offering stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich local culture. These destinations are popular due to their cost-effectiveness and their variety of experiences.

What is the most popular tropical vacation destination?

Hawaii, USA, is often considered the most popular tropical vacation destination. With its pristine beaches, lively coral reefs, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture, Hawaii offers diverse experiences. Maui and Oahu are among the most visited islands in this Pacific archipelago.

What is the safest tropical country to visit?

Costa Rica is often cited as the safest tropical country to visit. Known for its political stability, friendly locals, and well-developed tourism infrastructure, Costa Rica offers lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches. It’s renowned for its commitment to peace and democracy, making it a secure and inviting destination.

What are the most exotic vacation spots?

The most exotic vacation spots are scattered around the globe, each with unique characteristics and attractions. For example, Bora Bora in French Polynesia is famed for its stunning turquoise waters and luxurious overwater bungalows.

The Maldives is another exotic destination known for its incredible marine biodiversity, white sandy beaches, and high-end resorts. Seychelles, with its unique granite rock formations, lush tropical vegetation, and diverse wildlife, is another exotic paradise that appeals to travelers seeking a unique and luxurious vacation experience.

Related Resources

• Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World
• Most Beautiful Cities in the World
• Best Walking Cities for Vacation

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10 Best Tropical Islands for a Vacation

Perfect the art of doing nothing or engage in active pursuits on these islands..

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The Galápagos Islands is one of the most well known tropical destinations in the world, in part thanks to its wildlife.

Photo by Bailey Berg

From Earth’s finest assemblies of sugarloaf sands and jewel-toned seas to culture-rich wonderlands and wildlife havens, the islands along the equator are as diverse as they are exciting.

Buckle up for a journey around the globe with these 10 tropical islands to visit, which include the Maldives , St. Bart’s, and the Galápagos .

1. Galápagos Islands

Best for: A voyage of discovery through one of the ultimate bucket list destinations.

Made famous by the teachings of Charles Darwin, the photographs of National Geographic , and the cinematography of numerous nature documentaries, the Galápagos Islands reign as a top bucket list destination for many. More than 500 nautical miles west of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean, the highly protected islands are a living museum of natural history, where plants and animals have evolved for centuries without human interference.

The best way to experience these marvels is by expedition cruise on an itinerary of seven nights on ships like Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Mare (at the highest of high end) or Metropolitan Touring’s Yacht La Pinta (at a more midrange price point). Each island promises immersion in nature through activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and Zodiac adventures. Tip: Invest in a great camera and solid lenses before coming because the photo opportunities are many.

Despite being Asia’s smallest country, the Maldives is home to more than 1,100 coralline islets.

Photo by Lifestyle Travel Photo/Shutterstock

2. The Maldives

Best for: Romance, castaway vibes and overwater excess

Cast across endless square miles of Indian Ocean blues, Asia’s smallest country comprises a collection of 1,192 coralline islets, the majority of which remain uninhabited. On 164 (and counting) of these mid-oceanic specks, developers have capitalized on their natural beauty to create some of Earth’s most swoon-worthy private island resorts—many with overwater accommodation and amenities.

Among the best is Kudadoo Maldives Private Island , a Yuji Yamazaki–designed property in the Lhaviyani Atoll with 15 ryokan-inspired floating residences and an “Anything, Anytime, Anywhere” policy in which everything is bundled into the nightly rate. Think: endless champagne, sand bar picnics, snorkeling with the mantas (alongside a marine biologist), floating breakfasts in your private pool, personal training sessions, and unlimited spa treatments.

Nature excursions are aplenty within the approximately 17,000-acre Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Photo by evenfh/Shutterstock

3. Dominica

Best for: Active pursuits, both on land and under the water

The Caribbean’s “Nature Island” brims with a rain forest, waterfalls, and emerald pools that recall Costa Rica and Hawai‘i —and plenty of hotels to boot. Hike the footpaths of UNESCO-recognized Morne Trois Pitons National Park to reach Earth’s second largest boiling lake (a flooded crater warmed by molten magma below) and ice-cold, swimmable gorges.

Plot a path through segments of the 115-mile long Waitukubuli National Trail in search of Dominica’s 170 colorful bird species, including the endemic sisserou parrot. Expect treasures aplenty under the sea as the Champagne Reef explodes with tiny bubbles from active fumaroles (where hot volcanic gas is released). A naturally occurring resident population of sperm whales (one of 20 species of whales and dolphins in Dominica’s waters) presents a unique opportunity to swim among these leviathans.

Bali’s quieter landscapes, like its terraced rice fields, can be found once travelers get off of the coast.

Photo by Monika Vlageryte/Shutterstock

Best for: Cultural connection and wellness endeavors

Bali’s serenity is most palpable along its eastern coast and deep within its interior, two areas steeped in culture, tradition, and testament to Bali’s moniker “land of 1,000 temples.” The banyan-fringed forests and terraced rice fields of Ubud are sprinkled with high-design resorts like Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , focused on wellness and cultural connection while easterly coastal towns of Manggis, Candisasa, and Tenganan have a lost-in-time appeal with scenes of traditional daily village life unfolding in real time. In the south, find more typical resort fare, a surfing scene, and Bali’s party-hard tourists.

Named after Sweden’s King Gustav III, Gustavia features shops, restaurants, and plenty of cobblestone streets.

Photo by Christian Graugart/Shutterstock

5. St. Bart’s

Best for: The European good life in the Caribbean

Glamour and fashion converge on this 8.1 square-mile Caribbean island, channeling endless summer in St. Tropez —with a tropical twist. Luxury isn’t just an option here; it’s a way of life. The daily rhythm revolves around people-watching, sun worshiping, boutique shopping, sipping pricey cocktails, savoring exquisite cuisine, sailing on tricked-out yachts, and mingling with other fashionistas and trendsetters.

The capital harbor city of Gustavia features shops from Europe’s most upscale brands and sensational French-tinged restaurants, including Bonito Saint Barth and Bagatelle St. Barths, along its cobblestone streets. Meanwhile, the island’s top beaches are fronted by celeb-frequented, boutique resorts that often fetch a thousand or more per night. A top pick is the 66-key Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth : In 2022, the property finalized a four-year, head-to-toe renovation of its colorful cottages and added new amenities to its exclusive private peninsula, including a sleek, beachfront infinity-edge swimming pool.

Mount Otemanu is the highest point of Bora Bora.

Photo by Maridav/Shutterstock

6. Bora Bora

Best for: Overwater romance and epic diving

The 118 Islands of Tahiti rise over five archipelagos in the Pacific Ocean, encompassing an expanse surpassing that of the European continent. Among these landscapes none garners more attention than Bora Bora , a destination synonymous with terms like “paradise” and “heaven on earth” and home to some of the world’s most spectacular overwater bungalow resorts.

Here, admire the majesty of the 2,835-foot-tall Mount Otemanu in the distance and the Technicolor marine life in the ocean below (swimming among the parrotfish, butterflyfish, and puffers as you see fit). Tag on extra days to visit Moorea or Tahiti proper for a true taste of French Polynesian culture, or head to the Tuamoto archipelago for some of the best diving and snorkeling on the planet.

The colorful Port of Spain is located on the northwestern side of Trinidad.

Photo by Kenrick Baksh/Shutterstock

7. Trinidad

Best for: Carnival and culture

Trindad’s cultural endeavors may be the Caribbean’s most rewarding. During the region’s biggest Carnival—which happens between February and March annually—hundreds of thousands celebrate in the dazzle of custom-made costumes, the soulful sounds of steel drums, the taste of seafood creoles and doubles (fried bread stuffed with curried chickpeas and topped with chutneys), and the dance fever that fills the streets.

But the truth is, the party never truly ends in Trindad’s capital, Port of Spain, thanks to a love for “liming” (hanging out), a highly social street food culture, and a penchant for catchy calypso, soca, and steelpan music. For scenic beaches, drive north of the capital for an hour and find beautiful swathes at Maracas Bay Beach and Blanchisseuse Beach.

Don’t miss the natural landscapes of Lānaʻi, which include Polihua Beach and the Garden of the Gods.

Photo by Frederick Millett/Shutterstock

Best for: Exotic scenery without needing a passport

Hawai‘i is home to a series of tropical island dreamscapes, each worthy of “Wish You Were Here” missives and coffee table pictorials. Among them is Lāna‘i, Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island (population: 3,102), which feels about as far-flung as it gets within the United States. Rest comfortably at the island’s sole coastal resort, Four Seasons Resort Lanai , and revel in easy access to Lāna‘i’s natural beauty, including cliff-side hiking trails and famed dive sites. (Don’t miss Cathedrals, a collection of lava tubes that recall the appearance of stained glass.)

Go deeper by renting a Jeep and venturing on dirt roads across windswept rocky terrain, discovering petroglyphs and desolate beaches along the way. Consider pairing Lāna‘i with a trip to Kaua‘i , aka the “Garden Island,” famed for its ridged mountains, skyscraping waterfalls, and rugged canyons. (Think: the backdrops from Jurassic Park and The Hunger Games. )

Yala National Park is the second -argest national park in Sri Lanka.

Photo by krivinis/Shutterstock

9. Sri Lanka

Best for: An island that’s got it all, from incredible food to stunning temples and leopards

This island nation ticks all the travel boxes, including culture, wildlife, historical pursuits, and affordable luxury. Along the southern coast alone, discover Yala National Park (home to secretive leopards and swimming elephants), quiet palm-fringed beaches with world-class resorts, and centuries-old forts.

Toward the island’s center, explore mountainous terrain cloaked in tea plantations and a surfeit of Buddhist and Hindu temples. Whever you go, arrive hungry for local and regional cuisine that will ambush the senses. Food highlights from a recent trip to southern Sri Lanka included spicy crab curry with pulao and coconut sambal, ridge gourd curry, brinjal eggplant moju, and watalappam , a sweet coconut custard pudding. What’s more, Sri Lanka’s top properties, like Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort, run a fraction of the price of other stunning island destinations, without sacrificing the luxury experience.

North of Madagascar, Seychelles is an archipelago of more than 100 islands.

Photo by Zoltan.Benyei/Shutterstock

10. Seychelles

Best for: Striking boulder-strewn beaches and time with the tortoises

One hundred and fifty-five islands strong in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is Africa’s smallest nation and home to prehistoric, granitic beachfront landscapes—these are remnants of 75-million-year-old supercontinent Gondwana. (Populations of Aldabra tortoises, one of the oldest living species on the planet, also speak to this Land Before Time setting.)

Assemblies of towering, primordial boulders mixed with lazuline waters and wide stretches of downy sands are features of this paradise. While unrestrained display of ancient splendor defines the Seychelles’ easterly, inner islands, southern and western islands boast more familiar, low-lying sandy fare, cloaked in coconut forests. A duo of resorts in separate archipelagos, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles in Mahe and Four Seasons Resorts Seychelles at Desroches Island , facilitates exploration of the country’s dichotomous world—in fabulous style (with the bonus of communing with tortoises on Desroches).

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I’ve been fortunate to travel widely across the Caribbean over the last 30 years. I’m also a descendant of Caribbean people, so many folks assume I’ve visited every island. Not likely—the Caribbean consists of 28 islands encompassing just over one million square miles. So while I’ve visited most, there are still a handful I’ve yet to encounter. But that’s a good thing. Many know the Caribbean of picture-perfect views —all lush green hillsides, soft beaches, sunny skies, sun loungers, and poolside cocktails. But that’s really just the white-sandy surface of this region, where each island has something distinct to offer. On Dominica , hiking is unmatched, notably its Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, where you can traverse across the rim of an active volcano. The best island hopping is in the British Virgin Islands , while Barbados is the action island, where the historic Garrison horse racing takes place year-round.

If you’re looking to soak up some winter sun by a pool lounger and nothing more, then any island in the Caribbean will do—the hotels in St Barth's are amongst some of the best in the world. But if you’re willing to dig a little deeper and venture beyond the resort gates, these are the best islands in the Caribbean.

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

When little travelers are involved, the ease of a resort jam-packed with activities can take the strain off parents and let everyone enjoy the trip. For this reason, Barbados is the ideal Caribbean island for families, and there’s everything from larger, more affordable resorts to smaller boutique offerings. For intergenerational holidays and trips with slightly older children, consider hiring out a villa— Oliver’s Travels allows customers to filter results by ‘great for kids.’

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best island for: action

Barbados might just be one of the best all-rounder islands in the Caribbean. Some of the top hotels in the region are found here, as are some of the best beaches, all accessible to the public—there are no private beaches in Barbados. Poolside beverages are spiked with rum, distilled on the island and best learnt about at St. Nicholas Abbey, a plantation house, museum, and rum distillery. Those looking for more diverse action can find it at the heritage railway, the racing car circuit, and the Garrison Savannah, a popular horse race that takes place throughout the year. And then there are the surrounding reefs, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel with seahorses, and spy whales in winter months.

Where to stay: Sandy Lane Hotel is one of the most glamorous hotels on the island complete with a British or American country club vibe—there are three golf courses on the hotel grounds. For something more low-key, Little Good Harbour ’s rooms feel more like private cottages and its fuss-free restaurant, The Fish Post, is beloved as one of the best in Barbados. For more ideas, consult our list of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island .

Best island for: romance

The Caribbean is synonymous with honeymoons but it's St Lucia that tops them all when it comes to serving up romance. You can thank the island’s mountainous landscape for that—it’s all about a room with a view of the 2,000-foot high Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s calling card.

There’s adventure to be found too, like exhilarating zip lines high above the island’s rainforest canopy or mud baths in Sulphur Springs, a geothermically active basin of hot springs and fumaroles within the the dormant Qualibou volcano in Soufrière.

Where to stay: Coconut Bay is the biggest crowd pleaser on the island—all inclusive and catering to couples, families, and even wedding parties. For something more private, Ladera is an eco-lodge where rustic suites have private plunge pools. See our edit of the best resorts in St Lucia for more.

Best island for: beaches

In a region characterized by beautiful beaches , Anguilla has the best in the region. Partly for their mesmerizing ribbon of blue water but also because their powdery white sands invariably host only a handful of other beach-goers. There are 33 beaches in total, and while each one I’ve encountered has been memorable, the standouts to see include Cove Bay, Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Shoal Bay.

Anguilla is also a worthy choice for its culinary scene. Refreshingly there are no chain restaurants on the island. Instead, restaurants and eateries tend to be small family-run businesses. If you visit just one, make it Tasty’s, which serves up a stellar coconut-crusted fish and marinated conch salad by Anguillan chef Dale Carty.

Where to stay: The Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is the newest shiny address on the island, with seven restaurants and bars and a fleet of private jets transporting guests to and from the property. Find more editor-vetted Anguilla hotels here .

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) territory has few chain restaurants and no large hotels or mass tourism attractions. Instead, you’ll encounter turquoise waters, lush green hillsides, and distinctive cuisine and culture across the four main islands: Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.

Hopping from island to island—whether via public ferry or private catamaran—is the characteristic way to explore the BVI. On my last visit I sailed to Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, home to casual beachfront eateries serving dangerously delicious rum cocktails and locally caught fish. Another fantastic spot is Willy T’s Floating Bar and Restaurant near Norman Island. Moored offshore, the cargo ship has been converted into an ultra-relaxed eatery.

Where to stay: Located on a broad, secluded calm-water bay on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay has 80 villas and suites each staffed with a personal butler. The Reef House is one of three restaurants and features farm-to-fork dining with fresh provisions sourced locally.

Best island for: diving

The calm waters surrounding Dominica make it one of the best diving spots in the world. The rainbow-colored seascape is best viewed at Champagne Reef, named for its bubbling waters generated by volcanic thermal springs rising from on the ocean floor. The reef also comprises plummeting cliffs, towering volcanic formations and the remains of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck.

Another highlight is L'Abym, a dive site located on the island’s southern tip and suited to all skill levels due to Soufriere Bay’s gentle current. Underwater wonders are visible from 20 feet below the surface right down to a 1,500-foot maximum depth. An underwater wall extending its entire length gives the site its name.

Where to stay: Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is the smartest place to stay on the island. All of the classic hallmarks are here—a full service spa, four swimming pools—but it’s the lush grounds, which incorporate Cabrits National Park, that make this spot memorable.

Best island for: natural beauty

Grenada’s 133 archipelagic square miles are laced with waterfalls, hot springs and tropical rainforests across three main islands: Grenada, Petit Martinique, and Carriacou. Ringed by 45 white- and nine black-sand beaches, the hilly isles are dotted with acres of fruit and spice trees.

One-ninth of Grenada’s land mass is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, best seen on a guided hike of Grand Etang Forest Reserve. Sister Island Carriacou is a worthy day trip too, especially for the top-shelf diving and snorkeling.

Where to stay: Few places capture Grenada's understated magic like the Silversands Grenada resort , found at the sleepy end of the two-mile Grand Anse Beach. The biggest draw here is the 330-foot infinity pool, said to be the longest in the Caribbean, which stretches from the hotel’s entrance all the way to the sea.

Puerto Rico

Best island for: history and culture

There’s a distinct energy to Puerto Rico , one that draws upon a fascinating blend of Hispanic, African, American, and Caribbean culture and history. To see it start in colonial San Juan , the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Head to the old town where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Spanish buildings housing trendy bars, boutique shopping and all-night entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Africans arrived in Puerto Rico via forced migration in the colonial era. Their contributions to the island’s culture, art, music and cuisine live on today in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population. You can witness it via the artwork on display at Samuel Lind Studio, or at the Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena which puts on traditional music and dance workshops.

Where to stay: Caribe Hilton is within walking distance of historic Old San Juan and the Condado entertainment district. Designed in tropical modernist style by legendary Puerto Rican firm Toro Ferrer, the grounds incorporate 17 acres of tropical landscaping as well as nine restaurants and an oceanfront pool complex. See our edit of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for more.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Best island for: visiting two islands in one trip

Lush natural beauty and historic attractions are the hallmarks of this twin-island nation. Most travelers visit both islands, as smaller Nevis is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from larger St. Kitts. Sightseeing on St. Kitts is best done via the scenic train—the only working railway in the Caribbean—which circumnavigates the island on routes that once transported plantation sugar cane. Another highlight is the Brimstone Hill fortress, built of hand-chiseled stones by enslaved Kittitians and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand among the fort’s ramparts and cannon while taking in panoramic views of neighboring Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, and St. Barths .

Tiny Nevis’ resplendent landscape is overlooked by 3,232-foot high Nevis Peak, located at its center and visible from virtually every point on the island. Mountainside hiking and ATV tours uncover haunting ruins of colonial-era plantations and sugar mills.

Where to stay: Hide away in one of the traditional West Indian–inspired cottages at Belle Mont Farm . As the name suggests, dining here is farm-to-table, serving up freshly foraged organic fruit and vegetables plus seafood plucked straight out of the ocean.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Top 33 Best Tropical Vacations In The World

When you think of a tropical vacation, you think of powdery, soft, white sand, stark turquoise blue waters, and the sun shining as bright as can be.

These are the most important aspects of a tropical vacation. However, while all of the best tropical vacations have perfect sand, warm waters, and sunshine, each destination has its own character that makes it special.

Whether it ’ s the diverse landscape, the food, the culture, or the people, the best tropical vacations are more than just the sea, sand, and sun.

The tropical vacations on this list are some of the top destinations in the world for various reasons. Whether it ’ s because of perfect waves for surfing, a nearby rainforest to explore, tons of excursions and activities offered, or it just has the very best beaches in the world, each tropical destination has made this list for a reason.

Best Tropical Vacations To Relax And Enjoy

Keep reading to learn more about 30 of the best tropical vacations in the world. If you ’ re ready to get out of the cold and under the sun, it ’ s time to pick your dream destination.

There are so many wonderful choices around the world. Depending on how far you want to travel or how much you ’ re willing to spend, the options seem endless.

This list includes only one destination from an island or country so that you have as many choices as possible.

There are so many islands and tropical countries out there, probably more than you even realized. It ’ s time to expand your breadth of tropical knowledge and discover the world out there.

1. Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia

Fraser Islands has some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Australia. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Sand Island in the world.

Kingfisher Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, but they ’ re all gorgeous.

You have never seen clear water until you have been to wathumba creek beach on Fraser island .

There are several nice resorts and hotels on the island that will make your stay here easy and memorable.

2. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

This area of Bermuda is very popular, but it ’ s also home to Port Royal Cove, which is a much quieter section of this bay.

The cove is secluded and calm, making it an excellent place for families to stay if you want to be able to swim with young children.

The beaches are known for their pink-colored sand and rock formations that give a dramatic backdrop.

Nearby hotels make great accommodations if you want to stay at this particular tropical beach.

3. Cancun, Mexico 

Located on the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Cancun is in the Riveria Maya and is a great place for your tropical vacation.

It ’ s home to major resort destinations, and it ’ s rather affordable due to its proximity to the US. You ’ ll find tons of all-inclusive resorts, but there are many other great places to stay if you ’ re on a budget.

Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins are some of the few activities you can enjoy in this region of Mexico.

Other nearby cities that would also make great tropical vacation destinations include Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and the Island of Cozumel.

So pack your bags for Cancun and let’s go!

4. Maui, Hawaii

There are eight major islands that make up Hawaii, along with hundreds of smaller islands. All of the major islands would make for great tropical vacations, but Maui is the most tropical island with the best snorkeling. 

You can have relaxing beach days or spend your time adventuring, hiking, exploring waterfalls, and snorkeling.

There are resorts, nightlife, and everything you could want in a tropical vacation.

While all the Hawaiian islands would be great, Maui is an especially good time.

5. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is home to 30 miles of powdery, white coastline against the turquoise Caribbean Sea. There are many resorts in this city, so you have more than enough options when choosing a place to stay.

This is a great place to enjoy water sports, snorkel, scuba dive, or relax on the beach. In addition, there are numerous all-inclusive resorts that allow you to be carefree for an entire vacation.

All-inclusive resorts can be great if you just want to have no cares whatsoever in the world. You don’t have to worry about where to eat or how you are going to pay for the drinks because everything is included. 

There are plenty of great all-inclusive resorts with swim-up pools .

6. Key West, Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are the southernmost point in the United States. They are a group of islands off the southern tip of Florida.

Key West is the southernmost island, and it is the most tropical. The Keys are some of the top beach getaways in the US, and Key West has many world-class resorts.

You ’ ll find beautiful beaches, luxury spas, pools, bars, and a tropical atmosphere wrapped up into the perfect tropical vacation without needing your passport .

7. Quepos, Costa Rica

On Coast Rica ’ s Central Pacific Coast, Quepos is a great tropical town. It ’ s home to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the country’s most visited and beautiful parks, with rainforests, beaches, and many animals.

Right outside the park is a beautiful beach with rock formations on either side, creating a calming place to swim and relax.

This is a small town, but there are nearby hotels and many restaurants and bars on the beach strip. This area of Costa Rica is a tropical paradise with many places to stay.

The ocean is a stark turquoise blue against the white sand. You may even see monkeys going about their business if you’re lucky. Also, there is plenty to do in Quepos , besides just sitting on the beach.

8. Harbor Island, Bahamas

The Bahamas is made up of more than 700 islands and cays with 16 major islands, all of which are home to resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars. It ’ s also a great place for snorkeling, fishing, relaxing on the beach, and exploring the various islands.

Harbor Island is a relaxing place to come to in the Bahamas, while still enjoying great restaurants without the big resorts.

Here there are offshore coral reefs where you can see tons of colorful sea life and they also have a famous pink sand beach.

The best part is the main source to get around this island is a golf cart, making it all the more fun. It is the perfect tropical escape any time of year. 

9. Bora Bora, Tahiti

Bora Bora is the most famous island that makes up the Islands of Tahiti, and it ’ s also part of French Polynesia, which is an overseas collectivity of France with more than 100 islands.

Bora Bora is one of those places everyone dreams of going to in life, and once you visit, you ’ ll be dreaming about its beauty forever.

It ’ s a popular luxury resort destination with high-end bungalows perched over the water. At the center of the island is Mt. Otemanu, a dormant volcano.

The entire island is surrounded by a ring of coral reefs which is known as an atoll. It’s one of the world’s best places for snorkeling and scuba diving.

This is one of the most luxurious, romantic, and beautiful places you could visit in the world. Save up! Because this location normally isn ’ t cheap to visit.

10. Viti Levu, Fiji

There are 333 islands that make up the Archipelago of Fiji. However, Viti Levu island is a great choice.

This island is home to the international airport, so it ’ s the easiest place to access in Fiji. Viti Levu has the most attractions if you want to be kept busy. It’s also super easy to visit any of the other islands by hopping in a boat if you want to explore more.

You ’ ll find beautiful beaches on this island and some of the world’s best resorts where you can take in all the fantastic views. You can also learn a lot about the history of Fiji while in Viti Levu as well.

11. San Blas Islands, Panama

San Blas islands are something out of a moving and just scream tropical oasis. They are made up of 365 islands and kays, but only 49 of them are actually inhabited. It is the perfect remote tropical vacation. 

The islands are a little more rustic, but if sleeping in an open tree house and eating fresh lobster every day sounds appealing, you might want to put them on your list. 

It is the perfect rustic remote location, even better if you can do them on a boat. There are plenty of adventures to be had in the San Blas Islands .

12. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Bob Marley put Jamaica on the map. It ’ s the home of reggae and tropical beaches. Jamaica has such a rich culture worth experiencing.

Montego Bay is an all-inclusive resort dream, with many to choose from, built on the best beaches Jamaica has to offer.

Take a day trip into Kingston to try local food, see Bob Marly’s house and learn about the country’s fascinating history.

Jamaica has so much spirit and authenticity to it. You can ’ t help but feel its warmth.

13. Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia consists of over 17,000 islands, yes, you read that right. Bali must be special if it has been handpicked over that many islands.

Bali is like no other place in the world. It ’ s known for its beautiful landscape, but also its culture. You ’ ll get to try amazing food and meet interesting people, all while enjoying wonderful accommodations on the island.

It’s one of the best travel destinations in the world and is highly praised by everyone who has visited.

There is something for every budget in Bali, which is a huge plus, so don ’ t think it ’ s only a place for the rich and wealthy.

Go live out your  Eat, Pray, Love  fantasy in Bali, you won ’ t be disappointed.

14. Caye Caulker, Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America. Mainland Belize is great for jungle adventures, while the islands off the coast are great for sea and sand adventures.

Caye Caulker is a small remote island, that is popular with tourists. You won’t find cars here only golf carts.

largest Belize island and the most popular. It is the perfect place to slow down and unwind.

Right along the beaches, there are small hotels to stay at.

This is also a great place for snorkeling because the barrier reef is less than a mile away. This laid-back island makes for a wonderful tropical vacation.

15. Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has been nicknamed the teardrop of India, though Sri Lanka is its own country. It ’ s a place everyone should visit if they get a chance. It has rich biodiversity, above and beyond beaches, and lots of history and culture.

Think India, but cleaner.

It may be small, but it offers a lot to see and do.

Mirissa is a lovely destination in Sri Lanka. It has a long stretch of beach and opportunities for surfing. It is also very popular with tourists and hosts some great bars and restaurants along the beach.

The best part about Mirissa is, everything is built along the beach, so leave your flip-flops at the hotel and walk the beach to everywhere you need to go.

16. Malé Atoll, Maldives

Speaking of Sri Lanka, the Maldives is a country located southwest of Sri Lanka and India.

Malé Atoll is the most famous island and home to the largest city that makes up the Maldives.

It ’ s known for its year-round, consistent temperature. There are several high-end luxury resorts on this island, including some overwater bungalows, which are a great way to be right on the water and wake up and fall asleep to the serene sound of the ocean.

17. Boracay, Philippines 

The Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands. Boracay Island has one of the best tropical beaches in the world, Puka Beach. The beach is lined with palm trees, and the sand is serene.

There are some budget-friendly hotels and resorts on the island and some luxurious accommodations.

For an ideal tropical vacation, consider Boracay Island. This island is the top tourist attraction of the Philippines, and it even limits the number of visitors, making it even more special to visit.

18. Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

The Phi Phi Islands consist of two islands, Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh, but Koh Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island, and this is where all the accommodations are.

The islands are off the Andaman Coast of Thailand, which is the west coast. These islands got their fame from being the setting of the Leonardo DiCaprio movie,  The Beach .

If you visit Koh Phi Phi Don, you must also travel to Koh Phi Phi Leh where Maya Bay is. This is specifically where  The Beach  was filmed, and it ’ s an unspeakably charming place.

It was closed off to tourists from 2018 to 2022 to plant coral reefs and revitalize the area. It has been reopened so it’s the absolute best time to visit because it ’ s as clean and healthy as it has been in years.

19. Vieques, Puerto Rica

Vieques is a wonderful tropical island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rica. It ’ s most well-known for the boat tours in Mosquito Bay, which is the bioluminescent bay where microorganisms create a blue-green glow in the water.

It ’ s one of the most unique sites in the world where you will feel like you glow in the dark when you swim at night. During the day, you ’ ll find wild horses roaming the country; it ’ s truly an unruly, undeveloped, wonderful island.

What ’ s special about Vieques is that you won ’ t find any mega-resorts. Instead, you ’ ll find boutique hotels and guest houses. If this type of experience is much more up your alley, you ’ ll love it here.

20. Mahé, Seychelles

Seychelles consists of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa. It ’ s known for its beaches, coral reefs, rare animals, and nature preserves.

Mahé is the largest island in Seychelles and home to the country’s capital, Victoria. Praslin Island is another great island in Seychelles. No matter what island you choose to visit, your journey in Seychelles will begin in Mahé.

Mahé may be the largest of the Seychelles islands, but it’s only 59 square miles and 17 miles long and 5 miles wide. Victoria is the smallest capital city in the world.

21. Bazaruto, Mozambique

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a group of 6 islands off the southern coast of Mozambique, and all are part of Bazaruto National Park. Bazaruto is the largest of the islands.

In this Archipelago are coral reefs, sand dunes, rare animals, wetlands, forests, and grasslands, creating a very diverse and beautiful landscape.

These islands aren ’ t as touristy as some other places on this list, so if that ’ s what you ’ re looking for, you ’ ll enjoy it here. There is so much to do on this island; it ’ s the perfect tropical vacation.

22. Palm Beach, Aruba

Aruba is a small country in the Caribbean and a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It ’ s technically a part of the continent of South America.

It ’ s a popular tourist destination, especially Palm Beach. The resort area has lovely white sand and turquoise waters and is excellent for snorkeling and partaking in other water sports.

Another huge perk about Aruba is it ’ s outside of the hurricane belt, so it ’ s a great place to visit year-round, including visiting in October . There are great all-inclusive packages and you never have to worry about the weather, it’s about as carefree as it gets.  

23. Bridgetown, Barbados

Barbados is an awesome Caribbean island, especially if you love history. You ’ ll find a 17th-century synagogue and 17th-century plantation houses.

It is one of the smaller islands in the Caribbean, but though it ’ s small, it ’ s mighty. There are tons of activities offered and an amazing landscape to explore, including botanical gardens, caves, and more.

Barbados can be broken up into four regions, including the upscale west coast, rugged north coast, modern south coast, and rustic east coast.

The south and west coast are the best areas to stay on the island. Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados, and just south, you ’ ll find many of the resorts. This is located in southwest Barbados.

24. Chania, Crete, Greece

Greece is made up of the mainland and lots of islands. Crete is the biggest island in Greece and is full of rich history. Greece, in general, is a very historic place, so if you love history, you will love exploring this country.

Crete is a very romantic place and popular for honeymooners and couples. The town of Chania is a great resort town to stay at where you ’ ll find a lot of accommodations and many things to do.

This is located on the north coast of the island. The South Coast is your best bet if you ’ d like a more secluded experience. Enjoy the insane landscape and the Mediterranean while on this special island.

25. Lamu Town, Lamu Island, Kenya

Just off the north coast of Kenya, Lamu Island is a very tourism-heavy part of the country. It ’ s known for its amazing year-round weather and, of course, its perfect beaches and clear waters.

The east coast of the island is a more commercialized and touristy area. This is where you ’ ll find most of the resorts. Lamu Town is the best place to stay if you want to be within the hustle and bustle of the island.

Lamu Island is very close to mainland Kenya and also very close to Manda Island.

26. Maundays Bay, Anguilla

If you are looking for secluded beautiful beaches, not too far from home you might want to think about visiting Anguilla in the Caribbean. It is a beautiful remote island owned by the United Kingdom. So if you are wanting some close tropical vacation spots, this is a great option.

The beaches are white powdery sand and the water a crystal clear turquoise blue, they are pretty spectacular. It is pretty easy to get to by flying into Saint Maarten and taking a ferry over there.

The perfect tropical escape.

27. Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

The Balearic islands are an archipelago off Spain in the Mediterranean. Mallorca is the largest of the islands and is most known for the Serra de Tramontana mountains and, of course, its beautiful beaches and scenic coastline.

Palma is the capital city on Mallorca island, with a Gothic Cathedral designed by the famous Antoni Gaudi, who is known for designing most of Barcelona.

This is the main cultural and economic hub of the island. Many young Europeans vacation on this island, so it ’ s a cool place to go if you want to feel young and hip.

You ’ ll find lots of young European students in the pubs, bars, and clubs on the island. There is so much to do here, you ’ ll love it.

It’s not so tropical, but a great place to visit in the summer months.

28. Rarotonga, Cook islands

The Cook Islands are a nation in the South Pacific with 15 islands covering a vast area. Rarotonga is the largest of the islands, with rugged mountains and the nation’s capital, Avarua.

You ’ ll fall in love with this island because there are no buildings taller than a coconut tree and no stoplights; it ’ s a super authentic place.

Not many people from North America visit these islands so you have the chance to be one of the earlier travelers here and discover it for yourselves.

If you ’ re looking for true island life, this is it. It has an untouched charm and beauty just waiting for you.

29. Saint Lucia

Located on the Eastern side of the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is an island nation known for the Pitons mountains, volcanic beaches, and reef-diving sites.

It also has many luxury resorts that make for the perfect place to stay. On the island’s interior, you ’ ll find rainforests, waterfalls, and a diverse landscape.

The Pitons mountains create a dramatic backdrop against the coastline, allowing you to enjoy the white beaches, turquoise waters, and green mountaintops which all together create quite the picturesque scene.

If you ’ re looking for a beach vacation with some of the most stunning scenery, this is your place. The mountains will loom in sight from every direction, and it ’ s beyond gorgeous. It is also one of the safest Caribbean islands, which is always a plus.

30. Ajaccio, Corsica, France

Corsica is an island off the coast of France. It ’ s a mountainous island with a dense forest in the middle. There are coastal towns scattered around the island that has a distinct Italian culture even though the island is part of France.

Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica and is a port city on the western coast. It ’ s famous for being the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte, and his home is now a museum displaying heirlooms of his history.

It has many great restaurants along the water and wonderful beaches with lots of sea glass. The water is so clear when swimming that you ’ ll spot colorful little fish below your feet.

Ajaccio is a great place to vacation because you can enjoy modern restaurants, unspoiled nature, and picturesque beaches all in one vacation.

31. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

The Perhentian Islands are made up of several islands, including the two large main islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhetian Kecil. These islands are known for their coral reefs, so they ’ re great for snorkeling and scuba diving, where you ’ ll find lots of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other unique sea life.

Perhetian Kecil is the smaller of the two islands but it ’ s the more popular island to stay on.

Besides the main activities of snorkeling and scuba diving, this is also a great place to relax or go on an adventure through the jungle.

32. Grand Baie, Mauritius

Located in the Indian Ocean is the small country of Mauritius, a beautiful tropical paradise. It is a colorful little beach town that is perfect for any tropical vacation. It has nightlife, great beaches, amazing snorkeling, and is perfect to visit year-round.

However, the best part about it is Mauritius is still off the beaten path, so you won’t find loads of tourists here.

33. Go on a Cruise

The last thing to mention is cruises. If you ’ re looking to go to a tropical destination but don ’ t have anywhere specific in mind, or everything on this list sounds good, why not go on a cruise?

Everything will be planned for you and you will get to see multiple locations. This way you don ’ t have to pick only one tropical location for your vacation and instead can enjoy several.

There are also a lot of perks to cruises, including all-inclusive food, drinks, and accommodation. The trip will also be planned for you, so you don ’ t have to do much but show up! So sit back, relax, and enjoy the tropical destinations headed your way.

Conclusions On The Best Tropical Vacations

There are so many beautiful tropical destinations all over the world. If you ’ re in need of a vacation, hopefully, you found a place on this list that you haven ’ t been to yet and feel excited about.

There is a wonderful world out there to explore. It ’ s time to start packing and make your dream vacation a reality. What ’ s stopping you? Things come and go, but good memories are forever.

Go spend a week on an exotic beach and enjoy one of these best tropical vacations. It will surely be one of the most memorable weeks of your life.

Everyone needs some relaxation in their life throughout the year. A vacation with no responsibilities, chores and no work is necessary for rejuvenating yourself and reenergizing your mind, body, and soul.

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Top 50 Tropical Travel Destinations Worldwide

• Updated: Sept. 13, 2024, 3:51 a.m.
• 30 min read

Here is our selection of top tropical travel destinations worldwide, in no particular order, which includes countries, cities, towns, districts, islands, and certain protected areas. These are followed by the travel bloggers we have enjoyed who have written about their experiences and their own opinions of each destination.

The Whitsundays (Australia)

Iquitos & pacaya samiria national reserve (peru).

The Delfin II

The Delfin II Luxury Amazon Cruise begins near Iquitos from the small town of Nauta. You will be transported in our comfortable coach from Iquitos air...

• Luxury Cruise, Pacaya Samiria

From $ 3,500

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all excursions, alcoholic beverages, juices, house wines, luxury transfers from & to iquitos airport

Kisoro (Uganda)

Nkuringo Gorilla Camp

Currently, TourTheTropics.com cannot help you book this experience.

Vietnam & Halong Bay

Port douglas & the daintree rainforest (australia).

The Silky Oaks Lodge

Parque tayrona & santa marta (colombia), rio de janeiro (brazil), puerto maldonado & the amazon rainforest (peru).

The Tambopata Research Center

Positioned in the middle of the wildlife-rich Tambopata National Reserve, near one of the largest macaw clay licks in the Amazon Rainforest, you will ...

• Deep Rainforest Lodge, Access to Tambopata's Macaw Claylicks

From $ 1,728

Includes: all meals, accommodation, selection of guided tours, transfers from and to puerto maldonado airport.

Darwin & Kakadu (Australia)

Guatemala & lake atitlan, galapagos islands (ecuador).

The Ocean Spray Cruise

Aboard the Ocean Spray Cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands. The 16-passenger luxury catamaran of...

• Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours

From $ 4,190

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to galapagos airport.

Easter Island (Ecuador)

Cuiabá and the brazilian pantanal.

SouthWild Jaguar

South africa & kruger national park, jock safari lodge, sao paulo & the atlantic rainforest, kenya’s maasai mara & lake victoria, little governors camp, thailand & chiang mai, central india & saptura tiger reserve, komodo island & flores, thailand & phuket, the philippines, yogyakarta & central java, cartagena (colombia), baliem valley, papua, indonesia, the florida keys and miami beach (usa), raja ampat, indonesia, virgin islands, hawaii island, kerala (india), jaipur (india).

We recommend a government travel warning website to check updated safety information for your destination of choice, such as SmartTraveller , Uk Foreign Travel Advice , or the US International Travel Alerts and Warnings site .

Ash Card is a frequent visitor to the Tropics and has a passion for helping visitors get the best experiences from tropical locations. Ash is a contributor and tour advisor at TourTheTropics.com. Feel free to contact Ash for tour help in the tropics. When not helping tourists with tours and info, Ash can be found traveling, on wildlife tours or salsa dancing. Ash has completed a BSc in Biology, a Master’s degree in Zoology, and has undertaken a research scholarship at a world-class university on animal behavior. He has published scientific research in the Australian Journal of Zoology and the Journal of Behavioral Ecology. His goal is to help a global society live in balance with the natural world.

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Popular tags:.

• Amazon Rainforest
• South America
• National Park
• Protected Area
• Puerto Maldonado
• Pacaya Samiria
• South Africa

The 20 Best Tropical Islands in the World

I’m a beach guy. When I think of paradise, my mind drifts to white sand beaches, azure blue water, and palm trees in tropical locales. When most people think of paradise, chances are they’re also thinking of tropical islands in far-flung corners of the world. Lounging with a good book , drinking from coconuts, soaking up the rays.

Tropical islands are that peaceful escape where the days drift by, the problems of the world melt away, and time slows down.

They are a sanctuary.

I spent a month living on an island in Thailand and it remains one of the best months of my entire life.

Having grown up in Boston and spent many years living in New York City , one of the main purposes of my travels is to avoid winter. I seek the sun.

I’ve been to many of the best tropical islands in the world (and there are sooooo many). After over fifteen years of travel and countless hours staring out into the ocean, I’ve done the “hard” research of visiting lots of islands to find the best islands in the world!

In this post, I’ll give you my favorite and best islands to visit in your travels!

Here’s a quick overview of the islands in case you’re looking for something specific (and don’t want to read the whole article):

With a quick overview out of the way, here’s my list of the best tropical islands in the world — no matter your budget, travel style, or interests! Just click on the island below to jump to that section!

Table of Contents

1. The Seychelles

2. the maldives, 4. bali and the gili islands, 7. big island hawaii, 8. the cook islands, 10. the perhentian islands, 11. bermuda, 12. barbados, 13. isla de providencia (old providence), 14. the san blas islands, 15. the canary islands, 17. the whitsunday islands, 18. the galápagos islands, 19. saint lucia, 20. the azores.

This group of 115 islands offers everything a beach lover could ask for. It’s an amazing place to visit for its diverse marine life and it has several nature preserves and marine parks, two of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sadly, these islands are pretty expensive — though it is possible to visit on a budget if you plan ahead. The best time to visit is during the cool season from May to September when it rains less.

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES:

• Glass Boat Snorkeling Tour
• Reef Safari at St Anne Marine National Park
• 5 Beach Adventure Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE SEYCHELLES : Jeanny’s Apartments – A beachfront three-star hotel on Grand’Anse Praslin with free breakfast, free parking, and lovely staff.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to the Seychelles!  

These little coral islands are surrounded by excellent diving, snorkeling, and idyllic white-sand beaches, and are filled with friendly locals. Private resorts litter the islands, and a vacation here is also very pricey, as the Maldives is one of the most sought-after luxury destinations in the world.

Luckily, you can at least get here cheaply, as Thai Air Asia offers cheap flights to and from Thailand (you can find round-trip flights for around $300 USD!).

The best time to go to the Maldives is from November to May when the weather is cool and dry. June through October sees wetter and hotter weather due to the monsoon season.

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES

• Go Diving or Snorkeling
• Explore Malé
• Go Parasailing

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE MALDIVES : Endheri Sunset Dhangethi (Dhangethi) – A budget-friendly hotel near the beach that includes free bikes for use and basic amenities like flatscreen TVs and AC.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to the Maldives!  

Located in southern Thailand , this semi-off-the-map island is one of my favorites and the month I spent here remains one of my fondest memories .

Here on Ko Lipe , the super-friendly locals bring in the daily catch for amazing seafood, as the island’s waters are teeming with life. Accommodation is still basic, though more and more places now offer electricity 24/7. I expect development will slowly erode this paradise, however, so visit soon!

Close to this island is a little island that provides excellent snorkeling opportunities. You may even spot a few reef sharks. Bathtub-warm water and fine sand beaches kept me here for over three weeks. It will do the same for you. Visit between November and March for the best weather and the fewest people. May through October sees a harsh monsoon season that shuts the island down. The best way to get there is by boat from Pak Bara .

• Full Day Multi-Island Snorkeling Trip
• Visit Nearby Ko Adang
• Explore Tarutao National Marine Park

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN KO LIPE : The Chic Lipe – A boutique hostel with a restaurant on-site that’s just a short walk to Walking Street and Sunrise Beach.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Ko Lipe!  

But Indonesia has more than just Bali. The nearby Gili Islands are another incredible island getaway. Both destinations make for a more active tropical vacation and the weather remains pretty constant all year round (though April to October sees slightly drier weather). Both Bali and the Gili Islands are close enough that you should be able to visit them both on your trip to really get the most out of this idyllic corner of the world.

• Sunrise Mount Batur Hike
• Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour
• Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BALI AND THE GILI ISLANDS : Tribal Bali (Canggu) – A fun coworking space and hostel with an on-site bar, infinity pool, pool table, and super chill vibe.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Bali!  

It’s a popular destination with young people and honeymooners, with something for everyone on offer — diving, sailing, snorkeling, whale watching, peaceful luxury, and much more! Most young people and budget travelers head to the Yasawa Islands , known for their inexpensive accommodation, cheap transportation, and late-night parties. The temperature remains mostly constant throughout the year, with cyclones occurring between November and January.

• Tivua Island Sailing and Snorkeling Trip
• Mamanuca Islands All-Inclusive Sailing Cruise
• Viti Levu: Mud Pool, Temple, and Sleeping Giant Garden

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN FIJI : The Beachouse (Coral Coast) – A family owned resort located in a sheltered sandy lagoon, with private bungalows as well as dorm rooms available. Includes free breakfast and free kayak rentals.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Fiji!  

One of the biggest honeymoon destinations in the world, Tahiti offers pure paradise and a lot of romance. Its very name has long been synonymous with tropical paradise. Here you can relax in the sun, scuba dive, enjoy fine seafood, and take a morning dip right from your bungalow.

The island is expensive and caters to a more affluent tourist crowd, though there are still ways to visit on something of a budget. Try to visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands to get an insight into Polynesia culture. Le Marché Papeete (the public market) is the place to try local cuisine and pick up souvenirs. The weather is tropical all year round and very humid, though May to October sees cooler temperatures.

• Bora Bora: Shark and Snorkeling Safari
• Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
• 4X4 and Jet Ski Adventure Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN TAHITI : Manomano Lodge – A cozy beachfront lodge with free Wi-Fi, a shared outdoor lounge and garden, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Tahiti!  

Then there are all the waterfalls on the island, great snorkeling and diving, and the lush wilderness of the Waipi’o Valley, once home to Hawaiian kings. Big Island has it all. I mean it’s Hawaii — how could you go wrong?!

The wet season is from October to March, though the weather is cooler during these months. However, despite being located near each other, weather conditions on each island can vary greatly, so you never know what to expect!

• Afternoon Snorkeling Sail to Captain Cook’s Monument
• Eco-Friendly Twilight Manta Ray Adventure
• Mauna Kea Summit: Sunset Stargazing Adventure

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN HAWAII : My Hawaii Hostel – This hostel is close to everything you’ll need and offers free parking, free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, and has a chill indoor/outdoor common area to lounge in.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Hawaii!  

With few amenities, this is the best place to find your inner castaway and escape modern life. Rarotonga is the largest and most visited island, however, I suggest you visit a few other islands if you make it out this way. Once you leave the main island, you’ll have miles of beaches and their crystal clear waters (perfect for snorkeling, diving, swimming, and sea kayaking) virtually to yourself!

The islands see similar weather to the rest of the area, with temperatures hot and humid all year round.

• Watch a traditional dance show
• Explore Aitutaki Island
• Hike Around Rarotonga

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE COOK ISLANDS : Ranginuis Retreat – Located on the scenic Ootu Beach, this hotel includes free airport transports, free kayak rentals, and an outdoor swimming pool.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to the Cook Islands!  

As the largest and most populated of the Netherlands Antilles, Curaçao has the most going on and the most “social life.” It’s the hippest island in the chain and the most visited by younger travelers, so hit the beaches, lay in the sun, and party the night away. This may not be Gilligan’s Island, but what it lacks in privacy, it makes up for in romance and fun.

The weather is pretty stable here year-round. It’s always hot and usually sunny. If it rains, it’s between November and January. And don’t worry about hurricanes – it’s below the hurricane belt!

• Kayaking Tour
• Beach Boat Cruise
• Speedboat Adventure Snorkeling

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN CURAÇAO : First Hostel Curaçao – Located in a former ice cream factory in Willemstad, this hostel boasts an outdoor pool, dive shop, relaxing terrace, and air-conditioning.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Curaçao!  

There’s not much to do here, and visitors typically lay on the beach all day, resting from last night’s drinking. It’s the perfect place to put up a hammock; the Malay word Perhentian roughly translates to “stopping point” — an appropriate name considering most travelers who visit here end up staying longer than anticipated. The islands are also great for divers and snorkelers, as the reefs and crystalline waters are home to a wide variety of coral, sea turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.

A strong monsoon season limits when to go (visit between March and October). During the other times, it’s best to head to Thailand, where the weather is nicer.

• Go Jungle Trekking
• See Turtles at Turtle Beach

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE PERHENTIAN ISLANDS : Senja Bay Resort – Just one minute from the beach, this budget resort offers both fan-cooled and air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to the Perhentian Islands!  

While you will need a respectable budget, if you give Bermuda a chance you’ll find an island home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of North America and the Caribbean (my favorites are Church Bay, Elbow Beach, and Chaplin Bay). The locals are incredibly friendly and you can find some world-class food here too. There’s tons to keep you busy, with caves to explore, lots of hiking, and world-class snorkeling and diving (Bermuda is known as the shipwreck capital of the world; there are over 300 shipwrecks here).

• Visit the Crystal and Fantasy Caves
• Climb the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
• Explore the Royal Naval Dockyard

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BERMUDA : Blue Horizons Guest House – A cozy three-star guesthouse with a homey vibe and helpful staff that’s close to the beach.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Bermuda!  

Like in Bermuda, you’ll find amazing beaches and caving here. You’ll also find some world-class surfing. The food here is amazing, and you’ll be able to enjoy expensive, delicious meals alongside cheap local food.

While there is plenty of luxury to be found here, you can also visit on a moderate budget making this one of the more affordable islands in the Caribbean .

• Bridgetown Walking Tour
• Rum Distillery Tour
• 5-Hour Island Highlights Tour

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BARBADOS : Monteray Family Hotel – Located a quick 2 minute walk from the white-sand Dover Beach, this two-star property includes fully equipped kitchenettes, private terraces, and air-conditioning. There’s a pool on site too.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to the Caribbean!  

Unlike its luxurious Caribbean neighbors, here you’ll only find more budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. Everything needs to come by ship or airplane, so it’s not super cheap. However, since no non-natives can own property there is no influx of overdevelopment, keeping the island simple but beautiful. For a more rustic, non-touristy getaway, this might be the island for you!

• Hike El Pico
• Go Diving & Snorkeling
• Relax on Playa Manzanillo

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN ISLA DE PROVIDENCIA : Berton Place – With a homey ambience and local owners who go above and beyond, this three-star guesthouse includes free Wi-Fi, free parking, and is just 10 minutes from the beach.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Colombia!  

These mostly uninhabited islands are under the control of the Guna indigenous people and are quite rustic, making for a great off-the-grid island getaway. The lodging here is made up of simple huts, hammocks, and tents, and there are tons of beautiful spots for good sailing, diving, and snorkeling.

You can also book sailing expeditions here if you’re looking to get off the islands and out onto the water for a few days. Most sailing charters cost around $180-200 USD per person, per day.

• 4-Day Island Hopping Adventure
• Go Snorkeling

BEST PLACE TO STAY THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS : Discovery Gunayar – This laidback lodge is is right on the beach and offers rustic but comfortable accommodations with free breakfast.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Panama!  

Tenerife is the largest of the islands and has a bit of everything, including one of the largest Carnival festivals in the world each February and two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the city of La Laguna and Teide National Park, home to Mount Teide (the largest mountain in Spain and the third-largest volcano in the world).

For beaches, head to Fuerteventura to soak up some rays. And for some hiking, make your way to Gran Canaria with its incredible and diverse landscapes. But no matter which island in the Canaries you choose, you’ll get to enjoy one of the best tropical islands in the world.

• Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise
• Half-Day Luxury Catamaran Cruise
• Stargazing at Teide National Park

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS : Lagarto house – This chill hostel in Tenerife has an outdoor pool, bikes you can use to get to the beach, a BBQ area, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Spain!  

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, head out for a hike, enjoy some water sports, or learn about history (there’s a huge ancient temple gate, a medieval castle, and the mountain Zeus was supposedly raised on, just to name a few sites), Naxos will be able to keep you entertained as you enjoy your little slice of Greek heaven away from the tourist mob.

• Naxos Castle Walking Tour
• Full–Day Historical Bus Tour
• Rhina Cave Catamaran Cruise

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN NAXOS : Soula Naxos – Located in Saint George Beach just 20 meters from the ocean and 2 minutes from the center of town, this budget-friendly hotel includes free Wi-Fi and lovely views from the rooftop terrace.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Naxos!  

The vast majority of these islands are designated national parks, so naturally there are some amazing coral reefs for snorkeling and diving and pristine beaches (my favorite is Whitehaven Beach). Upon arrival, you’ll instantly see why this is one of the best tropical islands in the world — and why over half a million people visit a year.

One of the most popular ways to see the islands is via a multi-day sailing tour (which is what I did when I visited). It was an amazing experience — especially diving! Expect to pay between 399-499 AUD per person for a three-day/two-night sailing trip .

• Whitehaven Full-Day Eco-Cruise
• Ocean Rafting Tour
• Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Trip

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS : Whitsunday Apartments – Just 2 minutes from Catseye Beach, these private apartments offer free Wi-Fi, ocean views from each room’s private balcony, and free airport transfers. There’s a beautiful outdoor pool as well.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to the Whitsunday Islands!  

Formed from active volcanoes, they’re most famous for being the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution. The opportunities to see incredible wildlife here are practically unrivaled, with marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, sea lions, orcas, manta rays, the Giant Galapagos tortoise, and many more incredible species.

Unfortunately, this is a very fragile ecosystem and it’s being drastically affected by the changing climate. Visit here while you can and be especially mindful of your impact on the environment. Book a multi-day visit to make the most of your time.

• Go Kayaking
• Snorkel with Wildlife

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS : Hostal Romy – This two-star hotel close to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Beach offers air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and kitchenettes in rooms.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to Ecuador!  

First known as “Louanalao” by the indigenous Arawak in 200 CE, St. Lucia is filled with beautiful birds, orchards full of tropical fruit trees, world-class diving, incredible wildlife, and crystalline blue waters. Whether you’re looking for a lazy escape or an active holiday, St. Lucia will be able to keep you entertained!

• 5-Hour Snorkeling Adventure
• Full-Day Catamaran Tour
• Gros Piton Hiking Tour and Sulphur Spring Bath

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN SAINT LUCIA : Green Fig Resort & Spa – This hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a complimentary continental breakfast, free private parking, a garden, and a terrace. Rooms have basic amenities like coffee makers and free toiletries, and some rooms have a balcony.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to St. Lucia!  

Each of the islands offers a little something different. Rent a car and explore the winding roads of the main island, São Miguel, taking in secluded beaches and picturesque waterfalls, enjoy the wine in Pico, and go hiking on São Jorge. Best of all, it’s close to both Europe and North America and makes for a great stopover point if you’re traveling between the two.

• Whale & Dolphin Watching
• Kayaking Vila Franca do Campo Islet
• Caldeiroes Canyoning on Sao Miguel

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE AZORES : Out of the Blue – This boutique hostel has a gorgeous interior as it’s set in a renovated traditional orange farmer’s manor. There’s also a pool, fast Wi-Fi, and a beautiful garden with hammocks for unrivaled relaxing.

To start planning your trip, check out my budget travel guide to to Portugal!

This is by no means a comprehensive list of all the best tropical islands in the world. There are countless other islands worthy of attention and it would take multiple lifetimes to visit them all (though I’d be happy to try!).

That being said, I think these are some of the best tropical islands in the world. Each one of these is a veritable paradise in its own right. You’ll be hard-pressed to find more beautiful surroundings than some of these islands.

But don’t take my word for it. Book a trip and experience a slice of paradise for yourself!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are mine alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

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12 best destinations for a cheap tropical vacation

Feb 12, 2024 • 10 min read

For the best affordable tropical destinations, plan where and when you want to visit and you can reap huge savings © Stocksy

Sun-soaked beaches and colorful coral reefs – even the cheapest tropical vacations seem to have it all. Here's where to go.

It doesn't matter what kind of getaway you can dream up – from catching waves and trying out water sports to hiking through the rainforest to crystal-clear waterfalls – cheap tropical vacation spots can offer it all and more.

Between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, 36% of the earth's landmass has a tropical climate, providing a multitude of enticing destinations as diverse as Australia and Bali, Thailand and Colombia , and many parts of Africa . For the best affordable tropical destinations, plan where and when you want to visit and you can reap huge savings – and not just on last-minute deals. 

From white-sand shorelines in Southeast Asia to scuba diving in Central America , here are 12 cheap tropical destinations that get you access to paradise (without ever hurting your pocket).

1. Palawan, the Philippines

With 7641 islands in total, the Philippines is among the most affordable places for a tropical escape. Palawan , in the nation's southwest, has 1780 islands in its archipelago alone. The region teems with thundering waterfalls, huge caves, phenomenal snorkeling at WWII wrecks and coral reefs, and offers swimming with whale sharks in turquoise waters as well as some of the cheapest scuba diving anywhere in the world. Idyllic El Nido is the jumping-off point for island hopping aboard a bangka (motorized outrigger) to translucent lagoons and hidden beaches framed by karst limestone cliffs.

The pure waters provide a natural bounty of prawns, crab and other crustaceans and fish; look out for danggit lamayo (dried rabbitfish marinated in vinegar, crushed garlic and peppercorn). Staying in a bahay kubo (thatched bamboo shack with woven rattan walls), homestay, hostel or budget hotel are all low-cost options; you can also get good deals on resorts outside peak season (March to May), though some activities close during the June to October wet season.

2. Goa, India

Think budget travel and India will often come to mind, and Goa is a tropical potpourri of Indian and Portuguese cultures. India 's smallest state's least crowded, most pristine beaches, such as Palolem and secluded Butterfly Beach , are in the south, with glowing topaz-hued sunsets over the Arabian Sea. Water activities include kayaking, parasailing and dolphin-spotting trips.

In the dense jungle, wildlife sanctuaries such as Cotigao are home to civets, gaurs, pangolins, leopards, monkeys and giant Indian squirrels, and plantations grow cashews and spices like turmeric, pepper, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon. Colorful markets sell these and other local specialties such as the cashew-based feni spirit, as well as dishes such as seafood thalis (with rice, fish curries, fried fish, pickles and flatbread) and garlicky, vinegary pork vindaloo, along with cheap clothes and handicrafts.

Guesthouses, hostels, beachside bungalows and resorts offer affordable rates. Much of Goa's beachside accommodation closes completely between May to September during the monsoon; March to April and October to November are prime times to avoid peak-season prices and crowds.

3. Bahías de Huatulco, Mexico

Forget Cabo San Lucas or Playa del Carmen City in Mexico. In southeastern Oaxaca on Mexico 's Pacific coast, Bahías de Huatulco is a unique and affordable eco escape. Its nine bays are home to 36 beaches. Santa Cruz’ emerald-green waters are just south of commercial hub La Crucecita, where you can arrange sailing and scuba excursions, and rent equipment including Jet Skis and kayaks. La Bocana is renowned for surfing and pre-Hispanic mud baths. Maguey has gorgeous white sand and snorkeling amid coral, rays and turtles. It's part of the Parque Nacional Huatulco, with awesome hiking, biking and horse riding, and abundant wildlife including black iguanas, armadillos and dwarf porcupines. Up in the mountains, you can visit waterfalls and coffee plantations.

Minimize costs by dining on super-fresh seafood and local specialties like tlayudas (corn tortillas topped with black beans, pork fat and cheese) from rustic comedores (food stalls or basic dining rooms). For accommodations, stay in rooms in private homes, simple hotels, or low-rise resorts and villas outside peak-season holidays (Christmas, New Year and around Easter) in the November to April dry season. Prices drop lowest in the wet season (May to October), though some places close in September and October.

4. Far North Queensland, Australia

World Heritage rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland , Australia. Bordered by sugarcane fields, its gateway city, Cairns , may not have a beach (compensated for by a sand-fringed artificial swimming lagoon on the reclaimed foreshore) but it's the launching pad for reef trips, such as coral cay Green Island , and hinterland excursions including nearby village Kuranda , with artsy, hippie markets beneath the rainforest canopy.

Cairns makes a great budget-friendly base in Australia with a lively hostel scene, family-friendly motels and resorts, and bargain drinking and dining options, including tropical-fruit-filled market Rusty's and high-spirited happy hours at Cairns’ bars and pubs. For a beachside stay, try Trinity Beach and Clifton Beach, both just north of the city. April to May and September to October, either side of the peak dry season, are ideal times for an affordable tropical holiday.

5. Lombok, Indonesia

Ringed by pearl-white, coral-pink and black volcanic sand beaches, Lombok is a fantastic place for an active tropical vacation. In the south , reefs, inlets and bays such as Pantai Mawi provide world-class surf breaks. Climbing through the jungle to sacred Gunung Rinjani ,  Indonesia 's second-highest volcano, is a multiday adventure. Easier treks include spectacular waterfalls such as Air Terjun Sindang Gila . Offshore, between Lombok and its famous neighbor, Bali, the Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan (‘Gili T’), a backpacker favorite for its moonlight parties; traditional Gili Meno; and laid-back Gili Air – are blissfully free from motorized transport.

On Lombok and the Gilis, you can eat cheaply and deliciously at warungs (small, simple eateries) sizzling up skewered-meat satays and grilling fish over coconut-shell charcoal. Beach huts, hostels and bungalows all offer affordable accommodations. The wet season, from October to April, is the cheapest time to go (especially if you skip the busy Christmas holidays).

6. Barbados, the Caribbean 

When it comes to the best tropical vacations on a budget, Barbados is one of the most affordable all-rounder destinations in the Caribbean . All of its sugar-sand beaches are public, even in the west along its flashy Platinum Coast. Strolling distance from its architectural treasure of a capital, Bridgetown, you can snorkel with seahorses, turtles and rays from Brownes Beach , or paddle out on an SUP or kayak.

Surfing is epic off Bathsheba on the wild Atlantic-facing east coast; Freights Bay, in the south, has gentler waves. The south and east are typically the most economical places to base up. Save money by picking up fresh produce at markets and seeking out cheap bites like cutters (filled salt-bread sandwiches) from roadside stalls and rum shops.

Reggae bands play free gigs all over the island. Next to the fish market, diving into mountains of grilled fish and sides accompanied by ice-cold beers and DJ tunes at Oistins Fish Fry is an unmissable island experience. Barbados’ location outside the hurricane belt gives you a bigger window to visit (mid-April to June and November to mid-December hit the sweet spot for great weather outside the peak Christmas-to-Easter period).

7. Vanua Levu, Fiji

Wind down to “island time” in the South Pacific on Vanua Levu . Fiji 's second-largest island is an unspoiled slice of tropical paradise with white-sand beaches, coconut palms and fragrant frangipanis. Underwater, dive sites such as Rainbow Reef and Namena Marine Reserve have kaleidoscopic coral reefs with marine creatures including hawksbill and green sea turtles. Vanua Levu's rugged interior shelters waterfalls, swimming holes and highland villages.

You can feast cheaply on dishes like kokoda (raw fish marinated in coconut cream, tomato and lime, accompanied by rice) and banana-leaf-wrapped fish, meat and vegetables cooked in a lovo (underground oven), and experience Fijian hospitality in a traditional bure (thatched hut), local guesthouse, hotel or budget resort. Prices are lowest during the warm November-to-April wet season.

8. Ko Wai and Bang Saphan Yai, Thailand

For decades, Thailand dealt in a special kind of island paradise: remote, little-visited beaches with basic waterfront bamboo bungalows on fluffy, white sands – and little else. (Alex Garland's The Beach wasn't far from the truth.) Then, in 2004, a tsunami hit the Andaman Sea and swept away swathes of Thailand's southwestern coasts. Hotels replaced bungalows. Travelers poured in.

Still, even with new all-inclusive resorts on some islands, Thailand is one of the cheapest tropical places to travel. To find that Thailand of old, head for Ko Wai, a tiny fleck of white in the Ko Chang Archipelago with dirt-cheap beach huts, budget guesthouses and pure turquoise waters. Alternatively, Bang Saphan Yai on the upper gulf mainland has a halo of golden beaches, traditional bamboo huts and sublime sunsets. The quietest months to visit are April to June. So if you fancy an early summer vacation, you can get cheap accommodations and coral reefs all to yourself.

9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Cheaper than its Caribbean neighbors, the Dominican Republic has everything you could want from the best tropical places: gleaming beaches, arching palm trees, countless waterfalls, bays, coves and budget boat rental – plus mangrove lagoons, windswept dunes and plenty of hiking. It's home to Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean.

One of the ways to economize in the Dominican Republic is to stay in one of the money-saving, waterfront-facing all-inclusive resorts on the island. Punta Cana on the eastern tip has these mega-resorts by the bucketload and they also have access to the country's best beaches. But don't let their budget beers make you miss the capital Santo Domingo : the capitaleños know how to get down and the city has plenty of cheap places to eat, drink and party.

10. Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Zanzibar

Africa punches well above the rest when it comes to tropical vacations but few knock your sunglasses off quite like Zanzibar Island (officially Unguja). Cinematic coral reefs surround Tanzania 's Indian Ocean crown jewel as colorful nudibranchs, leaf fish and flutters of seahorses swim temptingly off the shoreline.

The beaches are some of the world's best, with sand as soft as quilts, swaying coconut palms, beaming sunshine and very little else. Swimmable Kendwa, the widest beach on the island, is the main draw, but for crowd-free coastlines and sublime shades of turquoise, seek out Pongwe on the east coast or sweltering Jambiani to the southeast – two of the most laid back tropical places to visit in Africa.

11. Southern Mozambique, Mozambique

Ribbons of pink-blushed sand weave around the forested edges of southern Mozambique , one of the least expensive tropical vacations in this part of Africa. People have dug this tropical paradise for centuries – from the early spice traders and pirates to backpackers and now high-end tourists who chill on resort sun loungers along the Bazaruto Archipelago .

Between Tofo and Barra, Mozambique has some of the most startling stretches of pillowy-soft sand in the whole of Africa. With snorkeling safaris around coral reefs, cheap fishing charters, and affordable day boat rentals that glide through the iridescent Indian Ocean, this is a country that slows the heart rate and helps the worries of life subside – which is all you want from a cheap tropical holiday.

12. Providencia Island and Playa Blanca, Colombia

Ecuador used to be among the best cheap tropical vacations but as unrest puts the country out of the equation, those looking for a budget South America getaway should head for Colombia instead. Closer to Nicaragua than mainland Colombia, Providencia Island isn't easy to get to (you'll need to get on a tiny 20-seater plane or take a three-hour catamaran journey to get to this remote Caribbean island; both cost around US$100). But it is one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world.

Its remoteness means that its golden curls of sand are mostly footprint-free. The palms here lean over like yoga enthusiasts. The turquoise-blue waters are gin-clear. Most people are here to snorkel or dive the coral reefs or, well, sunbathe. Being a duty-free island makes Providencia even cheaper still – especially at the beach bars.

If you want paradise to be a little more accessible, mainland Colombia has options too. Try Playa Blanca, close to Cartagena , which offers beach huts, bars and hammocks for kipping overnight along its sugary, white beach.

This article was first published Feb 28, 2023 and updated Feb 12, 2024.

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Protect Your Trip »

44 cheap tropical vacations that feel expensive.

These tropical vacation spots boast affordable accommodations, incredible scenery and more.

(Getty Images) |

Stretch your dollars further on your next trip.

While it's easy to see the word "tropical" and think "expensive," there are plenty of must-visit vacation destinations with stunning palm-fringed beaches and warm weather year-round that won't break the bank. From the Caribbean and Mexico to Asia and South America, these tropical vacation spots offer an affordable and fun place to relax for those willing to go off the beaten track. Many beach vacations on this list compiled by U.S. News also offer a range of lodging options, including cozy bed-and-breakfasts, luxurious hotels and even all-inclusive resorts.

Ready for a tropical vacation you can afford? Dive into some of the best and most affordable tropical vacations to add to your travel list this year.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Los Cabos, which encompasses the resort city of Cabo San Lucas on Mexico's Baja peninsula, benefits budget travelers with its selection of all-inclusive resorts and prevalence of vacation packages. It's often a breeze to secure an all-in-one travel package that will combine your airfare and hotel stay for less than the cost of buying both separately. Plus, with the plethora of beautiful (and free) beaches available to visit, you won't have to spend much money on activities.

Read: The Top Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

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Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica is known for gorgeous beaches made of powdery white sand, the stunning Blue Mountains and its vibrant culture. Montego Bay is especially popular among families for the area's laid-back charm, relaxed beaches and calm waters, which are perfect for small children. Instead of buying cheap flights to Jamaica and accommodations separately, look for vacation packages that combine the two and typically offer discounted rates.

Read: The Trick to Finding Cheap Flights

Phuket, Thailand

Travelers seeking striking landscapes, affordable lodging and flavorful cuisine should look no further than tropical and intriguing Phuket. This cultural hot spot in Thailand is known for its easygoing beach atmosphere, cheap hotels and affordable things to do thanks to the favorable exchange rate ($1 equals about 35 Thai baht). While here, take a boat tour to soak in the scenery, relax in a Thai-style spa and visit the famous Big Buddha.

Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos features some affordable hotels (with rates that often run less than $100 per night), beautiful beaches and a nonstop party scene. Travelers flock to top Greece beaches like Navagio and Gerakas to drink and lounge the day away in the sun. This Greek island also offers ample opportunities to connect with wildlife: Travelers can see nesting sea turtles and enjoy snorkeling at the National Marine Park of Zakynthos.

Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Travelers are attracted to this tropical paradise for its snorkeling and scuba diving, cultural flair, and close proximity to everything from beaches to the famous town of Ubud. The capital of the Indonesian province of Bali is also known for its affordability. Not only can you find four-star and even five-star hotels for less than $85 per night in Denpasar, but your dollar will stretch far here ($1 is equal to nearly 16,000 Indonesian rupiah).

Read: Solo Travel for Women: The Best Destinations and Tips

Regarded as one of the most affordable destinations in the Caribbean , Curaçao offers picturesque beaches and vibrantly colored architecture. Culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts head to Curaçao for its scenic landscapes, unique Dutch influence, and ample snorkeling and scuba spots. If you skip the resort and opt for a smaller hotel that's set slightly away from the water, you'll likely find rates for less than $100 per night.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

This Dominican Republic destination boasts beaches with soft white sands, crystal-clear waters and a range of all-inclusive resorts at varying price points. These resorts allow guests to combine food and drink, as well as on-site and some off-site activities, for one budget-friendly price – all in an idyllic setting along the Caribbean Sea. What's more, all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana typically offer numerous pools, swim-up bars, and ample eateries and activities. You'll have your pick of adults-only and family-friendly options, many of which start at less than $200 per night with double occupancy.

Read: The Top Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts

Pedasí, Panama

Pedasí is a traditional and budget-friendly small town tucked into the southeast corner of the Azuero Peninsula of Panama that you may want to add to your travel bucket list. Known as a cheap destination for retirees, Pedasí lures travelers with its calming beach landscapes and delectable seafood. Its hotel rates are also stellar; you can easily find hotels and resorts in this area for less than $100 per night.

With direct flights from many major cities across North America, affordable hotels and resorts, and activities that range from scuba diving to horseback riding to cave exploration, Belize has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world. You can book many Belize accommodations for $75 to $150 per night, then fill your days with cheap food and outdoor fun (remember: $1 is equivalent to about 2 Belize dollars). Enjoying a locally brewed Belikin beer in Belize, for example, will set you back $2 to $3 in a local bar, and entrees can easily cost $10 or less.

Read: The Top Belize All-Inclusive Resorts

Corfu, Greece

Travelers who love Greek island culture but want to skip the pricey islands like Mykonos and Santorini should book a trip to Corfu . This tropical paradise is brimming with beautiful architecture, amazing beaches and even a donkey rescue. The Greek island also features some highly rated hotels for $100 or less per night.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

Known as the "Turtle Capital of the World," Indonesia's Gili Islands are a tropical paradise. You won't encounter any motor vehicles on the roads (expect plenty of bikes, horse-drawn carts and pedestrians), so you get to escape the hustle and bustle of regular life. Book a cheap hotel near the beach – you can find rates for well under $50 per night – and plan a week of fun swimming in turquoise waters and diving to see the islands' abundant marine life.

Krabi, Thailand

The Krabi province is perfect for travelers seeking beautiful beaches on a budget – and it's one of the best places to visit in Asia for good reason. Here you'll find powdery white sand shorelines, inexpensive street food, a tropical rainforest, world-class scuba diving and top-notch hotels ranging from around $20 to $100 per night. While you're here, don't miss out on the opportunity to book a boat tour; some of the most spectacular scenery can be found in the islands off Krabi's coast.

Read: The Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Crete, Greece

Crete offers the same old-world charm and affordability as Athens – but with warmer weather. As the largest island in Greece, Crete boasts mountains, gorges and beautiful beaches, including Elafonisi with its pink-colored sands as well as Vai, which is home to an impressive palm tree grove at more than 5,000 palms. Depending on when you visit and if you can travel at off-peak times, you may be able to score a stay at a highly rated hotel for $150 or less per night. There are even a range of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Crete, which bundle your food and drinks in with your lodging for one nightly rate.

Menorca, Spain

Menorca – also spelled Minorca – is an oceanfront paradise with a prime setting along the Mediterranean Sea. You'll typically find lower prices on food and lodging (as well as fewer tourists) compared to other nearby Spanish islands. Simply put, Menorca is ideal for frugal travelers who want to avoid the party scene of Ibiza and the tourists of Mallorca so they can worship the sun in peace.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is an island paradise that's perfect for travelers who want to bond with nature in a tropical setting. This region of Vietnam features the lush Phu Quoc National Park, plenty of wildlife both above and below the islands' waters, and too many stunning beaches to count. What's more, you can easily find top-notch hotels offering rates for well under $100 per night.

Sarandë, Albania

Sarandë (or Saranda) is a resort area on the Albanian Riviera known for its crescent-shaped bay, pretty beaches and local archaeological remains. Hotels are cheap: You can easily find highly rated properties here for less than $100 per night. The exchange rate is also favorable for visitors from the U.S., with $1 working out to around 100 Albanian lek. And if you're the kind of traveler who likes to get in some partying alongside your sightseeing, you'll be delighted to know this coastal town has a thriving nightlife scene.

Koh Lipe, Thailand

With its far-flung location in the Andaman Sea, the stunning island of Koh Lipe is most famous for its beautiful beaches . However, this tropical paradise is also ideal for tourists seeking a cheap way to soak up the sun and indulge in tasty Thai food on a budget. For example, you can find room rates at waterfront properties in this tropical destination for less than $100 per night.

This destination is renowned for its rugged, emerald-green scenery and stunning landscapes. Costa Rica boasts an incredible array of verdant national parks and beaches that are perfect for surfing as well as soaking up the sun. If you're looking to go easy on your wallet, you can book a hotel in beachfront Tamarindo within the Guanacaste province for $150 or less per night. Or, consider an all-inclusive resort in Costa Rica to save money on meals and activities.

Marmaris, Turkey

A coastal town popular with locals on holiday, Marmaris in Turkey (about 200 miles west of Antalya) features several scenic beaches and a national park. Many hotel rates here go for less than $100 per night, including at waterfront lodging options. Use that money you're saving on accommodations to book yourself a boat tour, which comes cheap considering $1 equals almost 30 Turkish lira.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

While the state of Alabama may not come to mind when you think of tropical destinations, Gulf Shores is home to sprawling beaches with warm waters and amazing sunsets. What's more, the area offers numerous affordable hotels and condo rentals for less than $150 per night. You can also save on airfare by keeping your vacation domestic, meaning you'll have extra cash to splurge on activities. Fun and affordable things to check out here include the Waterville USA water park, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and dolphin watching tours, to name a few.

Read: The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Cancún, Mexico

Cancún amazes tourists with its turquoise waters, white sand beaches and nonstop party scene. Flight deals are easy to come by if you're flexible with your travel dates and willing to travel in the offseason; all-inclusive resorts catering to families and young people offer affordable accommodation rates as well. Plus, getting around on the city's buses, which are abundant, will cost you less than a dollar. With all that money saved, you'll have room in your budget to splurge on higher-cost activities in Cancún , such as day trips to nearby Chichén Itzá or Isla Mujeres, the latter of which offers opportunities for zip lining, kayaking and snorkeling.

Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi, Malaysia, is an archipelago made up of 99 picturesque islands. Traveling this far may be pricey, but the region will welcome you with inexpensive hotels (highly rated properties go for less than $50 per night), gorgeous beaches, and cheap street food and seafood. Plus, duty-free shops are abundant, with discounts of up to 75% on popular brand-name goods. You can find deals on everything from luggage and kitchenware to jewelry, cosmetics and clothing.

Kefalonia, Greece

The largest of Greece's Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is home to dazzling blue waters, rugged cliffs and a scenic mountain backdrop. While there are pricey luxury resorts on the island, travelers can come to this affordable vacation spot to enjoy time in coastal hotels for less than $100 per night – as well as bask in the sun, hike nearby trails and swim at beaches like the breathtaking Myrtos, surrounded by striking cliffs. Kefalonia is also home to the famous Melissani cave and underground lake, which is known for its unique beauty and history as a place of worship.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

If your goal is sunning on the beach and your resort's grounds, the community of Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic is an excellent choice. This area is full of affordable all-inclusive resorts (with food, drink and activities included in your room rate) that cater to all types of travelers, from couples and families with kids to solo travelers and friend groups . It's even possible to find all-inclusive properties here with nightly rates below $200 with double occupancy.

Patras, Greece

Patras has its own stretch of beach, but this town offers plenty of history and culture as well. Hotels are affordable (a variety of options charge less than $100 per night), and you can relax the day away near the water or roam the Old City, which is filled with ancient ruins. Can't-miss museums in Patras include the Archaeological Museum of Patras and the Museum of History and Ethnology. Travelers will find several other shorelines worth visiting nearby as well, including Rio and Rodini beaches.

Milos, Greece

The small volcanic island of Milos is home to some spectacular scenery thanks to its turquoise waters and beaches backed by striking craggy cliffs. Visitors can also explore archaeological ruins, making this island a great option for those interested in Greek history and culture. Enjoy the mouthwatering Greek fare on this island and inexpensive accommodations, which often run $100 or less per night.

The "B" of the ABC islands is often overlooked compared to its neighbors (Aruba and Curaçao). Lucky for vacationers, the island's underrated status translates to lower travel rates. In Bonaire, you can score highly rated accommodations for less than $200 per night – sometimes even less than $100. Scuba diving is the standout activity to enjoy in Bonaire , thanks to its easy-to-access reefs, so you can also look at affordable diving resorts. If you don't want to get wet, however, exploring Washington Slagbaai National Park is a worthwhile excursion, too.

This Mediterranean gem is frequently passed up for its popular neighbors – the Italian and Greek islands – but it's a prime destination for an affordable European vacation . Come to Malta and you'll be rewarded with fewer crowds and cheaper rates on everything from food to public transportation. Malta is filled with budget-friendly accommodations (typically less than $80 per night), and you may be able to rent a car to explore the incredible scenery for less than $20 per day.

Ischia, Italy

Ischia is a lesser-known Italian island that is often eclipsed by its more well-known neighbor Capri. In addition to boasting spectacular beaches, stunning mountainous landscapes and charming villages, Ischia is more affordable compared to other Italian beach destinations . Take the ferry from Naples , which costs less than $90 per ticket on average (depending on the season), and enjoy a resort stay by the ocean for $100 per night or less.

Bahia, Brazil

If you want to explore Brazilian beaches beyond Rio's famed shoreline, take a trip to the state of Bahia. Brazilians vacation here, and you typically won't encounter the same crowds in Bahia's hidden gems as in top tourist spots. Start your journey in the cultural hub of Salvador de Bahia – where you can find rental cars for less than $20 per day – then drive down the Bahia coastline, which stretches more than 600 miles. Along the way, you can snag accommodations for less than $75 per night.

Isla de Providencia, Colombia

Lush landscapes reminiscent of mainland Colombia's beauty are in no shortage on Isla de Providencia, which sits off the coast of Nicaragua. This island in the Caribbean is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, rolling green hills and the lack of mass tourism (considering its awe-inspiring scenery). Here, you don't need to rent a car – a golf cart or scooter will suffice – and accommodations tend to cost less than $75 per night.

Djerba, Tunisia

This small island, just a stone's throw from the southern coast of Tunisia in North Africa, features turquoise waters, camel rides on the beach and beautiful white-washed architecture similar to that seen on the Greek island of Santorini. You can find hotels for less than $100 a night – and unlike with Santorini, you can simply drive here from the mainland, saving money in flight or ferry fees.

Catalina Island, California

Forget having to pay for plane tickets; you can easily take the ferry from Southern California to Catalina Island for about $85 round trip. Once you arrive, you can rent a car for less than $30 per day, which will give you the opportunity to explore the island beyond Avalon – Catalina's most populous city. If you decide to forgo the car, you'll be happy to know that Avalon and its beaches, which are dotted with palm trees and feature clear blue waters, are very walkable.

Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Once you get past the long journey to get to these two remote Caribbean islands off the coast of Nicaragua, you'll be rewarded with a tropical paradise that feels all your own. Because the Corn Islands are not a widely known vacation spot, you'll enjoy a sense of peace not found in other popular island destinations. Plus, with accommodations costing less than $100 per night, you might never want to leave.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

White sandy shores, striking turquoise waters, ample wildlife and a restaurant you can swim to from the beach are just a few reasons why travelers should make the trek to Zanzibar, one of the top destinations in Africa . Located off the coast of Tanzania, the island's scenery looks like the type of landscape you'd see on the cover of a travel book. What's more, accommodations, including some properties on the beach, feature rates for less than $100 per night.

Ubatuba, Brazil

Situated between Brazil's most populous cities, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo , Ubatuba is a South American paradise. Ubatuba is an evergreen playground thanks to its location right next to the lush Serra do Mar mountains. East of the mountains you'll find more than 100 beaches lining the coast. Plus, hotel prices are a steal, with many offering rates for less than $75 per night.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

This tiny grouping of island destinations is located in the Bay of Bengal, off the western coast of Myanmar and Thailand. Visiting will make you feel worlds away from your everyday life. Part of India, these islands feature breathtaking beaches, national parks, wildlife, scuba diving and plenty of other adventure activities. Hotels here are usually less than $50 per night. Plus, the U.S. dollar converts to more than 80 Indian rupees.

Costa del Sol, Spain

Southern Spain's Costa del Sol is truly a winner for those seeking an amazing European vacation along the Mediterranean Sea. If you aren't attached to staying in a particular destination in the region, you can find nightly hotel rates for less than $100 in many of the nearby towns and cities. Plus, with rental car deals available for less than $15 per day, it'll be a breeze to explore this slice of the Spanish coastline. While here, visit the shorelines and beautiful old towns of Marbella and Benalmádena, and be sure to make a detour inland to see the Sierra de las Nieves National Park in the heart of Malaga.

Cebu, Philippines

This island located in the incredibly scenic Central Visayas region of the Philippines is ideal for the adventurous traveler. Though the island is filled with numerous tropical beaches, Cebu stands out for its bevy of waterfalls and mountainous landscape. There's a range of incredible falls located within the forests, not to mention plenty of hiking trails that promise sweeping vistas of the island. Plus, you can easily score hotels by the beach for less than $50 per night.

Puerto Rico

At first glance, Puerto Rico may not seem like the most affordable tropical destination to visit. After all, hotels in San Juan often go for hundreds of dollars per night. However, airfare can be affordable if you're flexible with your travel dates, and there are plenty of places to stay off the beaten path for a steal. If you're willing to skip the luxury digs, humble accommodations around the island – including condos, inns and guest houses – can run less than $100 per night. Plus, strolling around Old San Juan and admiring a beautiful sunset is free of charge.

What makes this Caribbean island (an overseas region of France) affordable is that many of its attractions are free to visit, including its bevy of beautiful beaches – Plage des Salines and Grande Anse d'Arlet are two traveler favorites. Visitors can also explore other top-notch Martinique attractions , including La Savane Park and the Anse Cafard Slave Memorial, at no cost. As for accommodations, you can find cheap hotels (think: rooms at less than $200 per night) the farther away you are from the capital, Fort-de-France.

Rosario Islands, Colombia

These islands off the northern coast of Colombia offer the perfect combination of natural beauty, abundant marine life and outdoor recreation. This archipelago promises delectable seafood, beautiful sunsets and great conditions for scuba diving. You can snag budget-friendly accommodations if you stay at smaller hotels on the Rosario Islands , which are prevalent. Paying less than $100 per night on a hotel room will save you money that you can then spend on fun activities, including kayaking through mangroves.

Koh Rong, Cambodia

With accommodations often costing less than $75 per night, this dreamy island in the Gulf of Thailand is an excellent choice for a cheap tropical vacation. Take advantage of Koh Rong's abundance of free outdoor activities, from hiking to lounging on the beach to snorkeling among bioluminescent plankton. What's more, with a favorable exchange rate ($1 is equivalent to around 4,100 Cambodian riels), you can feel confident that you are getting the most bang for your buck.

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Featuring white sand beaches, limestone cliffs and blue-green waters, this unspoiled paradise on the northern tip of the island Palawan in the Philippines deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Unwind on one of El Nido's scenic shorelines – Las Cabanas and Nacpan Beach are two traveler favorites – or spend the afternoon exploring one of the region's enchanting lagoons. Visitors will find top-notch accommodations for less than $75 per night, leaving ample cash to spend on kayaking and snorkeling tours.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an experienced travel writer and U.S. News & World Report contributor who has visited more than 50 countries, including nearly every destination in the Caribbean. She is an expert on cruises and all-inclusive resorts, and she loves getting a good deal on resort stays for her family of four.

Alissa Grisler is an associate editor of Travel at U.S. News & World Report who has worked in depth on expanding the annual Best Vacations rankings. She likes to plan budget-friendly getaways and is always hunting for a good travel deal.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S.
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• Solo Travel

The 12 Best Tropical Destinations for Solo Travelers

For solo travel, I tend to gravitate toward structured trips , like exploring a few cities in Scandinavia, road tripping through Northern California, or seeing the Taj Mahal. It might be my Type A tendencies, but my solo travel usually includes a packed itinerary with goals like fitting in bucket list attractions or making it to a new continent . What I don't associate with solo travel is a tropical vacation . Palm-lined beach towns and scuba dive lessons aren't necessarily top of mind for the traveler going it alone. Driving the coast of Maui, sailing in French Polynesia, or bronzing on the Riviera Maya are activities usually tailored to couples and families.

After talking to 12 solo travelers who specifically sought out tropical destinations, one thing is apparent to me: The island life is definitely not reserved for bachelorette parties, couples, college groups, and families anymore. Tropical destinations offer perfect itineraries (and prices ) for when you need to escape from the hustle of real life—you just have to know where to go. And choosing a tropical destination doesn't mean you won't find must-see landmarks; get you a destination that can do both.

As with all solo travel, you might need to give yourself a push to actually make your trip happen. Whether you're going through a big life change and need time to process, you're traveling for work and looking to extend your trip, or you're just in desperate need of a change of pace, sometimes lounging on a beach by yourself is exactly what the doctor ordered. Here are 12 of the best tropical destinations to explore on your own:

"Australia, specifically the Great Barrier Reef , was a bucket list destination for me. I spent a week exploring the reef and it was mind boggling. You could definitely see the damage the reef has suffered, but the wildlife was indescribably beautiful. I also spent time in Cairns, an area that's perfect for a solo traveler. You have easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and the Tablelands. I felt safe throughout my travels in Australia. The people were simply amazing—I even lost my cell phone in a cab and was able to get it back, thanks to the cabbie. I would recommend Australia for any traveler, but especially solos." — Charmayne Evans

"I went to Bermuda last September for my first solo vacay. I really enjoyed it because it's super close to the east coast, they speak English and take American currency, and the island is so small, it's super easy to navigate on your own via motorbike or public transit. I mostly took the bus everywhere. I ended up Airbnb-ing it and rented a room in a woman's home. The island is totally manageable on your own. I found all the locals to be super helpful with directions and recommendations. I also loved Bermuda because if you wanted, you could do all the action packed stuff (swim with dolphins, etc.) or just sit on the beach all day, which was more my speed. Also, if you're willing to venture around the island a bit, and you take the time to learn from the locals, there's a ton of more secluded and quiet beaches that are not mobbed with tourists." — Colleen Hughes

The Galapagos, Ecuador

"The Galapagos are ideal for solo travelers, whether you crave isolation or company. A cruise is the best way to see the islands , and smaller ships, like Haugan Cruises, have communal dining so you'll always have someone to chat with at dinner. With a land-based stay on Isabela or Santa Cruz, you can book a day cruise or walk to see flamingos, giant tortoises, and sea lions. If you want a swimming partner, sea lions and penguins are happy to oblige." — Johanna Reed

"In February I went to the southern islands of Ko Tao, Ko Phangan, and Ko Samui before starting a new job. The weather was absolutely perfect , and if you're looking to learn to scuba, this is the place to do it. As a solo traveler, it's so easy to meet people on snorkeling day trips or while island hopping or hiking the waterfalls. Nightlife on the Thai islands is also easy to find and a good place to meet people. If you're in the area for a half moon or full moon party in Ko Phangan, definitely check it out!" — Maxine Renn

"Living in Asia provides me with some great solo-travel destinations—one of my favorites being Laos. The backpacker culture makes it easy to keep to your own itinerary and still meet others to visit attractions or split a tuk-tuk with. Laos had everything you could want from a visit to SE Asia: jungle treks, swimming in blue lagoons, and endless natural beauty. It doesn't have the same manufactured tourism feel as some other countries nearby, but still offers structure and support, which can be nice when you are going it on your own. The best part is the street food—don't miss the markets and fresh sausage in Luang Prabang." — Rita Callahan

Turks and Caicos

"It was my first international solo trip ever, and it was amazing. I was going through a breakup and wanted to get my confidence back. I had never traveled internationally by myself before and thought if I could travel in a different country by myself, then I can do anything by myself. I put a lot of research into safe destinations before settling on Turks and Caicos . I wanted a relaxed location where English was spoken. I was already nervous and thought that if I didn't have to worry about communication, it would ease my nerves a bit. I liked that the island was small enough to bike from my hotel on the water to the small town nearby, and everyone was so kind. The best part was getting to just do what I wanted, when I wanted, and not have to worry about anyone else's opinion. It was definitely a good spot for a solo traveler—especially a female solo traveler. I felt safe the whole time, even when I was biking around exploring the town. I'm kind of spoiled, because now I'd rather travel by myself than with other people." — Tracy Huynh

"I spent this April in a small surf town on the west coast of Sri Lanka. It was an unplugged vacation—I didn't even bring my laptop. My goal was to surf twice a day, everyday. With safe (and cheap) transportation options like the train or a taxi, Sri Lanka is well-suited for one. I'd recommend booking a private room in a hostel or a surf camp package, so you can meet other vacationers. There are tons of backpackers making their way around the island, so it's easy to link up with other people. Sri Lanka attracts health-minded tourists, and there are tons of outdoor activities available everywhere. During the busy season, most hostels will have a yogi-in-residence leading classes. I'd recommend taking a break from the Lanka beach life and checking out the tea plantations around Ella. The mountainous train ride offers the views you've probably seen on your Instagram feed. As a solo female traveler, safety is always a concern, but the ease of getting around the island coupled with the hospitality of locals made me feel secure." — Alexandra Talty

"I actually was invited to dog-sit for my aunt, so that was the catalyst for this trip—hello not paying for accommodations! It was my first solo trip, and I was in Miami long enough to get to know the area, as well as embrace the independence and solitude of traveling solo. Miami is a fantastic locale for solo travel: the people I met were all super welcoming, the food is phenomenal, and you have the options to explore the city, do outdoorsy activities, or live that beach bum life." —Natalie Large

"After I turned 25, I decided to take a break from the nine-to-five and adventure throughout Europe and Asia. Every country I've visited so far has been amazing, but Indonesia definitely owns the top spot on my favorites list. While the country's natural beauty is out of this world, the people are what made my experience there as a solo traveler so amazing. My favorite memory has to be losing my iPhone on the top of a volcano in East Java and having the phone back in my hands a few months later after a local found it and wanted to return it to its rightful owner. Even more than Bali, I'd recommend Lombok, which is the island right next to Bali." —Arren Quezada

"I can't think of a better place to travel solo than Costa Rica . From the gorgeous coast line, to the rich rainforest, to the majestic cloud forest, there is so much to see, do, and explore. Costa Ricans are famous for their laid back pura vida (pure life) attitude, and their spirit is as relaxed and welcoming as you could imagine." — Kayla McCormack

"I had a fantastic time in Crete and can't recommend it enough! Filled with small mountain towns and gorgeous beaches on every side, there was so much to explore. The island was beautiful, the food delicious and uniquely Greek, and the people were so friendly. Everyone I met spoke an impressive amount of English. I felt incredibly safe the entire time I was there, even when walking around the old quarter of Chania — the city I stayed in — at 1 o'clock in the morning." — Hillary Handy

"I was working with an NGO in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, for the summer and went for a five-day vacation to Siem Reap to see the temples of Angkor Wat. It was definitely a more adventurous place to go alone, especially as a young woman, but it was actually pretty easy because Siem Reap accommodates so many tourists. My hotel, which was so cheap, had a tuk tuk driver pick me up when my bus got in. They were tremendously helpful and available, and arranged for my tuk tuk drivers to and from the temples — even when I went at sunrise — and from the kayaking trip I went on. The combination of having very knowledgeable guides and drivers, plus the ability to wander the temples and town by myself and still feel comfortable was the best part. It was equally independent and supportive." — Eleanor Brakewood

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