10 Most Beautiful Tropical Islands To Visit In The World

White sand beaches, blue water and palm tress, doesn't this sound like the perfect destination for an amazing break. When most people think of paradise, chances are they’re thinking of tropical islands is far-flung corners of the world. Lounging with a good book, drinking from coconuts, soaking up the rays. Does it get any better than that?

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

# The Seychelles

Located off the east coast of Africa, these islands are pure paradise. If anywhere in the world would convince me to give it all up and live in a beach hut, Seychelles would be it. Perfect beaches, perfect water, tons of islands to choose from, and all the seclusion you could want. Seychelles are my dream and should be yours, too.

This group of 115 islands offers everything a beach lover could ask for. 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.

# The Maldives

Located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a chain of 1,000 islands (200 are inhabited, and only 5 have any substantial population). The country is actually just a series of coral atolls that are barely above sea level. During the 2004 Tsunami, many of these islands were completely washed away. The government has built flood barriers to help lessen the impact of any future tsunamis though it’s going to be one of the first nations to feel the pressure of climate change.

These little coral islands are surrounded by excellent diving, snorkeling, and white sand beaches, and are filled with friendly locals. Private resorts litter the islands, and a vacation here is also very pricey. Luckily, Bangkok Airways offers cheap flights to and from Thailand.

# Ko Lipe

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 most fond memories.

Here on Ko Lipe, the super-friendly locals bring in the daily catch for amazing seafood, as the island’s water is teeming with life. Accommodation is still basic, and most places turn off the electricity around midnight.

# Bali and the Gili Islands

This tourist mecca is voted one of the best islands in the world year after year. There’s enough room on Bali for everyone, the surfing is great, the food amazing, it’s dirt cheap, the parties are great, the locals are some of the friendliest in the world, there’s a volcano to climb, and there are temples to see. Clearly, Bali has it all.

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.

# Fiji

Though this country has some 322 islands, less than a third are inhabited. Most of the action happens in the western islands, but no matter where you go, this is heaven. Any time the name Fiji is heard, visions of beaches and tropical ocean dance in people’s head. There’s a good reason for that — because this place is one of the most incredible destinations in the world, and with so many islands to offer, you’re bound to find one you like.

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 head to the Yasawa Island group. The temperature remains mostly constant throughout the year, with cyclones occurring between November and January.

# Tahiti

You know those pictures you always see of tropical bungalows in the water? That’s Tahiti. The name has long been synonymous with tropical paradise. One of the biggest honeymoon destinations in the world, Tahiti offers pure paradise and a lot of romance. 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. The weather is tropical all year round and very humid, though May to October sees cooler temperatures.

# Big Island Hawaii

Hawaii’s biggest island has everything you could ever want to do and more. But what separates it from the other islands is Volcano National Park. Explore volcanoes, climb through old lava tubes, and watch as new lava oozes into the ocean. Then there are all the waterfalls on the island, too. 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!

# The Cook Islands

Another South Pacific island group (see a pattern here?), the Cook Islands are pretty far off the map and are considerably less-visited than some of their neighbors.

These tiny islands are named after James Cook, the intrepid explorer who discovered them. With few amenities, this is the best place to find your inner castaway and escape modern life. The islands see similar weather to the rest of the area, with temperatures hot and humid all year round.

# Curacao

Located in the Caribbean Sea, this Dutch-owned island is perfect. Voted one of the best in the Caribbean, Curacao is like being in tropical Holland. The town is built in the Dutch style, but the surrounding areas are all tropical.

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!

# The Perhentian Islands

Located on the eastern coast of Malaysia, the Perhentians consist of two islands. Both are covered in palm trees and are home to wide beaches and crystal blue water.

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. 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.