Discover the Best Islands to Visit

Photo by Kelli Golis from Pexels

• Bora Bora (French Polynesia)
• Capri (Italy)
• Palawan (Philippines)
• Seychelles (Indian Ocean)
• Zanzibar (Indian Ocean)
• Santorini (Greece, Europe)
• Madagascar
• Fiji (Australia)
• Socotra (Yemen)
• Azores (Portugal, Europe)

 

Tropical the island breeze

All of nature wild and free

This is where I long to be

La isla bonita…

 

Oh, yes!

Rich cultures, golden beaches, virgin wilderness, and turquoise waters are just a couple of hypnotizing characteristics that popular island destinations have to offer. All the spots listed below are top islands to visit because each has something extra that keeps attracting globetrotters and fascinates them, being the epitome of paradise. Meet top impressive coastline picks from Enjoy The Wood that promises breathtaking vibrant cultures and landscapes to plan your next perfect getaway.

Bora Bora (French Polynesia)

The “Pearl of the Pacific” is located in the very heart of the South Pacific. The volcanic island is famous for its allure of tranquility while being the other name for romance and luxury. Bora Bora is nestled amongst a vibrant coral reef with a crystal-clear lagoon both creating a surreal feeling of paradise on earth. The best times to visit French Polynesia gem are November and April. From December to March, the low season, you’re going to enjoy the majestic marine life too; however, the weather is wet and mosquitos are wild. Top-class cuisine mixed with rich and unique Polynesian culture are the best ingredients possible to create memories that last forever.

Capri (Italy)

Photo by Tibor Szabo from Pexels

100% relaxing environment, must-see sights, and fabled dolce vita with Italian taste – Capri welcomes you, ladies and gentlemen! This glamorous Mediterranean beauty is famous for its one-of-a-kind coastal views, world-known Blue Grotto, and boutiques with designer brands. Don’t miss an opportunity to enjoy the location during the boat tour, visit the Gardens of Augustus, and feel the taste of local culture through its architecture, cuisine, and markets. Oh, and don’t forget to put a ride on the funicular to Capri Town on your to-do list.

Palawan (Philippines)

Looking for a nature lover's dream on earth? The Philippines with Palawan is the answer! Usually called the “Last Frontier,” this marvelous archipelago is one of the best islands to visit, with a bag of gems to attract visitors from all over the planet. It’s the turquoise waters, exotic wildlife, limestone cliffs, coral reefs, and (of course!) UNESCO World Heritage Sites that in tandem offer unique unmatched opportunities for explorers, divers, fans of snorkeling, and everyone on the lookout for a serene pastime. Whether you’re waiting for your kisses from the sun on Nacpan Beach or seeing how beautiful life is in Bacuit Bay, this place will 100% win your heart.

Seychelles (Indian Ocean)

Everyone seeking the best island getaways for the next holiday should consider the stunning coastal landscape that surrounds the good old Seychelles. Located in the Indian Ocean, the kingdom of powdery-fine white sand is home to some of the most exotic wildlife and ALL kinds of landscapes and scenery. And above all, some islands have crowds of tourists while others are the go-to places for those in need of deserted spots with quiet and peaceful ambiance. Nature lovers will be wowed by the number of rare bird species, lush jungles, and incredible diving spots. When you’re finally done with snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear water, it’s time to take some Instagram-worthy photos at Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio. These beaches are on the hit parade of the most photographed coasts on the planet.

Zanzibar (Indian Ocean)

If you think that the best islands to visit in the world should necessarily be expensive, look at Zanzibar! This surprisingly pocket-friendly tropical paradise is among those islands to travel to when in need of cheap options. Located in the Indian Ocean (22 miles off the coast of Tanzania), the home of the world legend Freddie Mercury is a perfect spot for fans of the beauty and calm of the beaches. You’ll have some of the best snorkeling excursions, unforgettable visits to the UNESCO-honored Stone Town, and feel (and see for yourself!) how Arabic, African, European, and Indian cultures collide offering your unique cuisine, markets, and architecture.

Santorini (Greece, Europe)

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You saw this land of gods on our regional maps. Infused with history, art, ancient mythology, philosophy, and archeology, Greece is the cradle of incredible Mediterranean food, heaven-like nature, and picture-perfect islands. Iconic Santorini is one of those wonders. Overlooking the Aegean Sea, the island is famous for its incredible sunsets and all the mesmerizing beaches, including Kamari Beach, Vlychada Beach, Red Beach, Monolithos Beach, Perissa Beach, Perivolos Beach, White Beach, Caldera Beach, and many other pearls that are still hooking travelers just like epochs before. Explore the narrow streets with white-washed buildings, relax in cozy cafés listening to the locals’ beautiful language, and try Artemis and Aphrodite-approved authentic Greek cuisine.

Madagascar

Cool islands to visit for white-paper beaches, rich biodiversity, and ring-tailed lemurs? Everybody dance now! The gem in the heart if Indian Ocean, Madagascar, is one of a couple of truly off-the-beaten-track island destinations. Home to stunning natural beauty, this exotic place welcomes those who cherish wildlife, luxury hotels, and boutique accommodations that come in tandem with bureaucracy, unpaved roads, and temperamental Wi-Fi. Over 100 species of lemurs together with chameleons, rare birds, and frogs will become excellent companions for visitors, who are tired of concrete jungles. Don’t miss a unique chance to visit Ile St-Marie, where one of the world’s only pirate graveyards is located. Try surprisingly yummy local cuisine mixed with influences of French colonial tastes. Wander in the streets of charismatic Antananarivo to experience a unique fusion of traditional culture and chic colonial ambiance.

Fiji (Australia)

A perfect mix of more than 300 islands – Fiji – offers the best adventures for everyone tired of a 9-to-5 job. Whether you want to dive into the warm Fijian culture, say hello to manta rays, relax under the sun, or admire the ongoing marvels of natural selection in this Instagrammable spot – each island with its own charm and allure has something for you. The Mamanuca and Yasawa are the top popular islands to visit in the area.

Socotra (Yemen)

One of our personal picks – Socotra Island – is one of the best islands to travel to when in need of a dose of pristine beaches, unique nature, and a sense of tranquility. Known as ‘the alien island,’ it hooks globe-trotters with landscapes that seem to come from other planets and endemic flora species. Whether you're stargazing on the white sand beaches or enjoying up-close encounters with the reps of widespread fauna – Socotra has everything for those who are on the lookout for an off-the-beaten-track adventure.

Azores (Portugal, Europe)

We put this archipelago into our hit parade of the best islands to visit at the request of our Enjoy Travel authors who are coincidentally travel geeks. Nested in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores radiates tranquility, the beauty of unspoiled nature, and a strong sense of outdoor adventures. From the breathtaking volcanic peaks and diverse ecosystems to the dramatic cliffs of Flores, whale watching, glorious sunsets, and attractive cities overlooking the marina – you’ll have a never-ending range of experiences on your to-do list.

Ready to go? Now is an excellent time to visit. The world is just a plane ticket away!