Islands conjure up visions of paradise: a respite from the daily grind and a beautiful piece of beach where you may unwind beneath rustling palms while gazing out at a calm blue sea.
However, not all islands are made equal. Some people's beauty is characterized more by the water that surrounds them, which may wow connoisseurs with its crystalline purity and vibrant coral kingdoms.
Other islands have lush rainforests and silky peaks, while others captivate visitors with their cultural treasures. These islands are distant from the workaday noise yet near to creature comforts, whether you're looking for exquisite beaches, breathtaking terrain, or unique cultures.
Find your personal Shangri-la in this list of the world's most beautiful islands, which includes everything from Seychelles to Santorini and the Caribbean to Capri.
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1. The Maldives
The Maldives has some of the most beautiful islands in the world, but it is the water that really makes these islands sparkle. These stunning white beaches, which barely peek above the Indian Ocean, are lapped by luminous blue seas with perfect purity.
The Maldives archipelago, which consists of 26 natural atolls, is the world's lowest country, reaching little more than three meters above sea level at its highest point, a measurement that is shrinking every year.
Coral reefs thrive under the fascinating seas, attracting divers and snorkelers from all over the globe. Surfers from all over the world come here to surf the uncrowded waves.
Back on land, luxury resorts are ideal starting places for activities centered on the water, the archipelago's greatest asset, but also its single biggest danger as the planet's climate changes.
2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
This beautiful volcanic island, shaped like a gigantic hat, appears in many South Pacific dreams. The stunning lagoon in technicolor turquoise is the main point and greatest feature of this tropical paradise. In the pristine waters, fish, turtles, sharks, and rays swim, while small islands known as Motus dot the lagoon.
Of course, the island is distinctively French, with delectable food to match. The neighboring reefs provide great diving and snorkeling opportunities, while trekking paths wind through palm-studded woods.
Hideaway in a luxury over-the-water cottage if you can afford it, and revel in your good fortune while falling asleep to the soothing splash of the sea.
3. Palawan, Philippines
Palawan is the Philippines' version of heaven. With beautiful limestone peaks rising from jewel-like water so pure that you can practically see the emotions on the fish from above the surface, this island province extends southwest to Borneo.
Many of these jungle-clad islands have slivers of dazzling white sand beaches surrounded by rustling palms, while coral reefs teeming with an amazing variety of tropical fish, making for some of the finest diving in the world.
The islands' distinctive fauna, beautiful lakes, and charming fishing towns are among the other attractions. Coron is home to opulent resorts, while El Nido, one of the chain's most attractive islands, oozes natural beauty. You can island-hop your way through the beautiful Bacuit archipelago from here. The World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an amazing limestone cave system with a lengthy subterranean river, is one of Palawan's top attractions.
4. Seychelles
Seychelles are worth visiting because they are pristine and picture-perfect. This 115-island coral and granite archipelago east of Kenya is brimming with attractions, from UNESCO-listed rainforests and flourishing coral reefs to palm-lined, white beaches backed by massive rocks.
Almost half of the land area of these tropical islands is protected, and several of them are located inside fish-rich marine sanctuaries with great diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Seychelles also has some of the world's best fishing areas, making it a popular fishing vacation. When you add in some spicy Créole cuisine, as well as the luxurious resorts of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, it's easy to see why Seychelles are so appealing.
5. The Greek island of Santorini
Santorini, which is encircled by a sea-filled caldera, is known for its stunning beauty. Villas in a bleached white cascade down volcanic cliffs. Bright sprays of bougainvillea contribute to the eye-popping pallet of color, which includes blue-domed cathedrals rising against the glittering water.
The villages of Firá and Oia, perched atop the black lava cliffs, are the island's most beautiful — and expensive — attractions, with Oia ranking among the most photographed places in the world.
Santorini's other attractions include the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Ancient Thira, Perissa's black sand beach, and, of course, the breathtaking sunsets. Sailing into this breathtaking caldera flanked by towering sea cliffs leaves an indelible impact.
6. The Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are for you if you've ever fantasized about becoming a castaway in the South Pacific. The archipelago's 15 islands are among the most picturesque in the South Pacific, strung between French Polynesia and Samoa yet with close connections to New Zealand.
Enticing turquoise lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and volcanic summits are among the islands' main attractions. The people are also among the nicest in the South Pacific.
With its numerous resorts, verdant peaks, and endless beaches, Rarotonga is the major tourist destination. Aitutaki is one of the most gorgeous South Pacific islands. Hibiscus-draped towns cling to the slopes, and the lagoon's 21 months, or tiny islands, are all within kayaking distance of the resorts. Immerse yourself in Robinson Crusoe dreams by staying in an over-the-water cottage or a primitive beach hut on a lonely offshore island.
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