Top 10 Tropical Islands for Your Next Vacation

From the planet’s most stunning sugarloaf beaches and vibrant seas to culture-rich paradises and wildlife sanctuaries, the islands near the equator offer a thrilling variety.

Get ready for a global adventure with these 10 must-visit tropical islands, featuring the Maldives, St. Bart’s, and the Galápagos.

1. Galápagos Islands

Ideal for: An exploratory journey through one of the top bucket list destinations.

Renowned for the insights of Charles Darwin, the stunning imagery from National Geographic, and captivating nature documentaries, the Galápagos Islands stand as a premier bucket list destination for many. Located over 500 nautical miles west of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean, these highly protected islands serve as a living museum of natural history, where flora and fauna have thrived for centuries free from human disruption.

The ultimate way to explore these wonders is through an expedition cruise lasting seven nights on vessels such as Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Mare (the pinnacle of luxury) or Metropolitan Touring’s Yacht La Pinta (offering a more midrange experience). Each island invites you to engage with nature through activities like hiking, snorkeling, and Zodiac excursions. Tip: Bring a high-quality camera and good lenses, as the photographic opportunities abound.

2. The Maldives

Ideal for: Romance, deserted island charm, and lavish overwater indulgence

Spanning vast stretches of Indian Ocean blue, Asia’s smallest nation is made up of 1,192 coral islets, most of which remain untouched. On 164 (and counting) of these ocean gems, developers have harnessed their natural allure to build some of the world’s most enchanting private island resorts—many featuring overwater accommodations and luxurious amenities.

One of the finest is Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, designed by Yuji Yamazaki in the Lhaviyani Atoll, offering 15 ryokan-inspired floating villas and an “Anything, Anytime, Anywhere” policy where everything is included in the nightly fee. Imagine: endless champagne, sandbar picnics, snorkeling with manta rays (alongside a marine biologist), floating breakfasts in your private pool, personal training sessions, and unlimited spa treatments.

3. Dominica

Ideal for: Thrilling activities, both on land and in the water

The Caribbean’s “Nature Island” is alive with rainforests, waterfalls, and emerald pools that evoke the beauty of Costa Rica and Hawai‘i—along with numerous accommodations. Trek through the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park to discover the world’s second-largest boiling lake (a flooded crater heated by molten magma) and refreshing, swimmable gorges.

Navigate portions of the 115-mile-long Waitukubuli National Trail in search of Dominica’s 170 vibrant bird species, including the unique sisserou parrot. Beneath the waves, the Champagne Reef bubbles with tiny effervescent bursts from active fumaroles (where hot volcanic gas escapes). You can also encounter a resident population of sperm whales (part of the 20 species of whales and dolphins found in Dominica’s waters), offering a rare chance to swim with these magnificent creatures.

4. Bali

Ideal for: Cultural immersion and wellness pursuits

The tranquility of Bali is most evident along its eastern shores and deep within its heart, both regions rich in culture, tradition, and the essence of Bali’s title as the “land of 1,000 temples.” Ubud’s banyan-lined forests and terraced rice fields host stylish resorts like Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, that prioritize wellness and cultural experiences. In the coastal towns of Manggis, Candisasa, and Tenganan, time seems to stand still as scenes of traditional village life unfold. To the south, discover more conventional resorts, a vibrant surfing scene, and the lively atmosphere favored by Bali’s party-goers.

5. St. Bart’s

Ideal for: Experiencing the European lifestyle in the Caribbean

Glamour and style blend seamlessly on this 8.1 square-mile Caribbean island, evoking the endless summer vibes of St. Tropez—but with a tropical flair. Here, luxury is not merely an option; it’s ingrained in the culture. Daily life revolves around people-watching, soaking up the sun, boutique shopping, enjoying high-priced cocktails, indulging in fine dining, sailing on lavish yachts, and socializing with fellow fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters.

The capital city of Gustavia boasts shops featuring Europe’s most prestigious brands and exquisite French-inspired restaurants, such as Bonito Saint Barth and Bagatelle St. Barths, lining its cobblestone streets. The island’s premier beaches are complemented by celebrity-frequented boutique resorts, often costing a thousand dollars or more per night. A standout choice is the 66-key Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth: In 2022, this property completed a comprehensive four-year renovation of its vibrant cottages and introduced new amenities on its exclusive private peninsula, including a sleek beachfront infinity pool.

6. Bora Bora

Ideal for: Overwater romance and spectacular diving adventures

The 118 islands of Tahiti are spread across five archipelagos in the Pacific Ocean, covering an area larger than the entire European continent. Among these stunning landscapes, none attracts more admiration than Bora Bora, a location synonymous with “paradise” and “heaven on earth,” boasting some of the globe’s most exquisite overwater bungalow resorts.

Here, take in the grandeur of the 2,835-foot Mount Otemanu looming in the distance and the vibrant marine life swimming below, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and puffers. Extend your stay to explore Moorea or Tahiti for an authentic taste of French Polynesian culture, or venture to the Tuamoto archipelago for some of the finest diving and snorkeling experiences on Earth.

7. Trinidad

Ideal for: Experiencing Carnival and rich cultural heritage

Trinidad’s cultural scene is arguably the most rewarding in the Caribbean. During the region’s largest Carnival, held annually between February and March, hundreds of thousands join the festivities, showcasing dazzling costumes, the rhythmic sounds of steel drums, and the delicious flavors of seafood creoles and doubles (fried bread filled with curried chickpeas and topped with chutneys), all while dancing through the streets.

In reality, the celebration in Trinidad’s capital, Port of Spain, is a continuous affair, fueled by a love for “liming” (hanging out), a vibrant street food culture, and an appreciation for lively calypso, soca, and steelpan music. For stunning beaches, head north of the capital for an hour to discover the beautiful stretches at Maracas Bay Beach and Blanchisseuse Beach.

8. Lāna‘i

Best for: Exotic landscapes without the need for a passport

Hawai‘i boasts a collection of tropical island paradises, each perfect for sending “Wish You Were Here” postcards and gracing coffee table books. Among them is Lāna‘i, the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii (population: 3,102), which feels incredibly remote within the United States. Relax at the island's only coastal retreat, Four Seasons Resort Lanai, and enjoy effortless access to Lāna‘i’s natural wonders, including scenic cliff-side hikes and renowned dive spots. Be sure to explore Cathedrals, a stunning series of lava tubes that resemble stained glass windows.

For a deeper adventure, rent a Jeep and navigate the rugged dirt roads across the wind-swept landscape, where you’ll uncover ancient petroglyphs and secluded beaches. Consider pairing your Lāna‘i experience with a trip to Kaua‘i, known as the “Garden Island,” celebrated for its jagged mountains, towering waterfalls, and dramatic canyons. (Think of the iconic settings from Jurassic Park and The Hunger Games.)

9. Sri Lanka

Best for: An island offering everything from exquisite cuisine to breathtaking temples and elusive leopards

This island nation fulfills all travel desires, featuring rich culture, diverse wildlife, historical sites, and affordable luxury. Along the southern coastline, you’ll find Yala National Park (home to elusive leopards and playful elephants), serene palm-lined beaches with luxurious resorts, and ancient forts steeped in history.

Venture towards the heart of the island to discover mountainous regions adorned with tea plantations and an abundance of Buddhist and Hindu temples. Wherever your journey takes you, come prepared to indulge in local flavors that will delight your palate. Culinary highlights from a recent southern Sri Lanka adventure included spicy crab curry with pulao and coconut sambal, ridge gourd curry, brinjal eggplant moju, and watalappam, a delectable coconut custard dessert. Furthermore, Sri Lanka's premier accommodations, such as Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort, offer incredible value compared to other beautiful island getaways, all while maintaining a luxurious experience.

10. Seychelles

Best for: Stunning boulder-strewn beaches and encounters with tortoises

With 155 islands nestled in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles holds the title of Africa’s smallest nation, featuring ancient, granitic coastlines that are remnants of the 75-million-year-old supercontinent Gondwana. The presence of Aldabra tortoises, among the oldest living species on Earth, adds to the prehistoric allure of this Land Before Time landscape.

This paradise is characterized by clusters of towering, ancient boulders juxtaposed with azure waters and expansive stretches of soft sands. While the Seychelles’ eastern inner islands are adorned with unspoiled, ancient beauty, the southern and western islands offer more familiar, low-lying sandy shores shaded by coconut palms. Two luxurious resorts, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles in Mahe and Four Seasons Resorts Seychelles at Desroches Island, provide a gateway to explore this diverse paradise in style—complete with opportunities to interact with tortoises on Desroches.