The Most Beautiful Islands in the World

When you think of “islands” a particular image generally comes to mind, one of the palm trees swaying in the breeze, the sun shining brightly, its rays sparkling on the water’s surface and illuminating the golden sheen of the fine sand.

While those traits may define the classic image of an island, the reality is much more varied, from bountiful seas to thriving jungles to grand peaks, there are various sights that can enchant and capture your imagination.  

From around the world, let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful islands you can find in the vast waters of the world.

Maldives 

Although home to some of the most stunning islands in the world, the sea is where the true brilliance of the lands lies. The crystal clear waters are teeming with aquatic life and with beautiful white sand beaches as their neighbours.  

Underneath the waters’ surface lie flourishing coral reefs, a mesmerizing sight for all who witness them and one you should definitely see for yourself. There’s also fun to be had on the water’s surface with surfing being a particularly popular pastime. 

On land, you can find numerous luxurious resorts ready to cater to your every need. Great food, great fun and great beauty, all that and more awaits you on the incredible islands of the Maldives.

Santorini in Greece

Santorini exists around a sea-filled caldera with its cliffs topped by bleached white villas giving a beautiful romantic atmosphere to the whole island. Adding a splash of colour to the brilliant white palette of villas are the numerous growths of bougainvillaea and the blue roofs of churches.

Of the many places atop Santorini’s lava cliffs, the ones that stand out the most in their beauty are Firá and Oia, with the latter being one of the most photographed locales in the world. Other popular destinations, in Santorini, are the Akrotíri Archaeological Site, the black sand beach of Perissa, Ancient Thira and the dazzling orange sunsets. Your arrival to Santorini, sailing through the seas cliffs into the caldera, is sure to be an incredible experience.

The Cook Islands

Lying between French Polynesia and Samoa but also boasting strong ties to New Zealand, the 15 islands that compromise The Cook Islands are some of the most beautiful you’ll find in the South Pacific. The palm adorned beaches, enchanting lagoons, and awe-inspiring volcanic peaks along with some wonderfully gracious hosts will make your visit to this tropical paradise a supremely delightful one for sure.

If you’re unsure where to go once there, head to Rarotonga, the main tourist hub of the islands. There you can find fancy resorts, plentiful beaches, and verdant peaks. On the hills lie villages bursting with hibiscus flowers and down in the lagoon are small islets within kayaking distance of the resorts

Seychelles 

This stunning archipelago lies to the east of Kenya and is a relatively unspoiled region. Consisting of 115 coral and granite islands. Seychelles is stuffed with attractions from flourishing coral reefs to sandy beaches and to UNESCO-listed jungles. Considering that almost half of the total land area is protected, you can experience a truly unsullied view of nature’s beauty.

The waters of Seychelles are unmatched in the richness of their bounty. Live the lives of these underwater denizens through a fun diving or snorkelling trip, or clash against them in a bout of fishing. Top off nature’s activities with the contemporary luxuries offered by the resorts of Praslin, Mahé and La Digue, all while enjoying the deliciousness of créole cuisine. With so much to see, do and eat, it’s easy to see why Seychelles is so adored.