IslandBest Islands to Visit in 2025
With summer just a month away, we’re all looking for exotic destinations to spend our away time with loved ones. Here are 12 of the best islands to visit in 2025:
Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), Australia: Known for its quokkas, these cute marsupials make the island a unique destination. The island offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway.
Taiwan: While not typically considered an island destination, Taiwan offers a diverse range of experiences, from coastal views and mountain hikes to cultural events and vibrant night markets. It’s a great choice for those looking for a mix of natural beauty and urban excitement.
Dominica: This Caribbean island is perfect for those seeking adventure. It features lush jungles, waterfalls, and the Kalinago Territory, where you can learn about the island’s indigenous culture. The island also offers opportunities for whale watching and exploring the Indian River by wooden boat.
Komodo Island, Indonesia: Home to the famous Komodo dragons, this island offers a unique wildlife experience. Visitors can take guided tours to see these prehistoric creatures, and the surrounding islands offer beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Palawan, Philippines: This archipelago is a paradise for both adventure seekers and beach lovers. Highlights include the clear waters of Kayangan Lake, the lagoons of Bacuit Bay, and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. The dry season (November to May) is the best time to visit.
Sardinia, Italy: Known for its subtropical climate and beautiful beaches, Sardinia is a popular Mediterranean destination. The Costa Smeralda offers 12 miles of powdery sand and turquoise water, while the hilltop capital, Cagliari, provides cultural attractions like museums and historic sites.
Mauritius: Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is known for its calm beaches and natural beauty. The island offers a mix of waterfalls, mountains, and geological wonders, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Whitsundays, Australia: This collection of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland is perfect for a laid-back vacation. The Whitsundays are known for their proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Whitehaven Beach and Passage Peak are must-visit spots.
Santorini, Greece: This Greek island is famous for its volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach and Kamari Beach, and its iconic white-washed villages with blue-domed churches. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunset views from the cliffside village of Oia.
La Digue, Seychelles: Known for its pristine beaches and granite boulders, La Digue is a hidden gem in the Seychelles. It offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico: Located just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a vibrant island that’s always bustling with visitors. It’s a great choice for those who want to experience Caribbean island life without feeling too isolated.
Ambergris Caye, Belize: This small island is a popular tourist destination known for its affordable housing and vibrant expat community. It offers a tropical atmosphere and easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef.
Catalina Island, USA: Known for its harbor town of Avalon, Catalina Island offers a variety of outdoor activities, including diving, kayaking, and hiking. The island is part of the Channel Islands, which are known for their unique landscapes and marine life.
Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam: Located on Cát Bà Island, Lan Ha Bay offers a stunning landscape of limestone karsts and clear waters. Visitors can kayak through hidden lagoons and explore floating fishing villages.
These islands offer a range of experiences, from relaxation and beach time to adventure and cultural exploration.
Sources:
Clarke, D. (2025, April 8). 25 Unique and Incredible Islands To Visit in 2025. Dan Flying Solo. Retrieved May 7, 2025, from https://www.danflyingsolo.com/unique-islands-to-visit/
Wood, N. (2025, April 22). World’s Best Islands to Visit for 2025. US News. Retrieved May 7, 2025, from https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-islands-in-the-world/