12 Island Vacation Destinations We Love From Bali to Barbados.

Phi Phi Islands in Thailand

Island holidays are loved by many for a reason: they're the perfect way to relax on soft beaches under gently swaying palm trees. But there's so much more to see and do on our favourite islands (don't worry, they're still very relaxing), from epic solo expeditions to family-friendly wellness resorts.

We've rounded up the best spots on islands around the world to get you started on your next beach getaway.

Bali: 

   Long-tailed macaques in the sacred monkey forest in Bali.

When to go: May to September, dry season

Who should enjoy it:  Solo travelers looking for a fun experience and couples looking for adventure

What to do: To beat the crowds, start your day early at Ubud Monkey Forest . Watch the animals play among the ancient temple buildings—just keep an eye on your belongings to keep them out of the monkeys’ clutches. Those looking to rejuvenate can enjoy a full-body massage at a traditional Balinese spa, like Ubud Traditional Spa , which has over 1,500 five-star reviews. For breathtaking views, hike up Mount Batur to watch the sunrise. Most visitors start the hike around 4 a.m., and the trail can get crowded, so be patient. Beach lovers will enjoy the seclusion of Pantai Green Bowl . It involves descending steep stairs, but the soft sand and ideal surfing conditions are worth the effort.

Mauritius:

      Snorkeling in Mauritius

When to go: September through December, when the trade winds blow and conditions for scuba diving and snorkeling are ideal.

Who should love it:  Honeymooners looking for underrated getaways and snorkelers.

What to do:  Mauritius is famous for its crystal-clear waters (which can be fully appreciated while snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park ) and pristine beaches like Le Morne (where you can stop for a sunset cocktail at Zest Bar & Lounge ). But the island has other attractions, too. Take a leisurely stroll through the Black River Gorges National Park , where signage will help you find the perfect trail, or hike the vibrant sand dunes of Chamarel's Seven Colored Earths . And in town, be sure to visit the bustling Central Market for a guided tour of roti and gato pima (deep-fried pea balls).

Hilton Head, South Carolina:

       Sunset on Hilton Head Island.

When to go: April to May and September to October, when temperatures hover around 25ºC, the ocean water is warm, but there are not too many people.

Who should love it: Golf enthusiasts and families looking for a beach holiday in a beautiful natural setting

Things to do: An hour from Savannah , Georgia, and two hours from Charleston , South Carolina, Hilton Head has a little bit of everything. When it comes to beaches, spend the day at Coligny Beach , known for its soft sands and lively atmosphere that’s great for families, or head to Driessen Beach for a stunning sunset. Beyond the beach, golfers should stop in for a round or two at Harbor Town Golf Links , home of the PGA’s RBC Heritage Tournament. And anyone visiting the area can rent a bike (available at the hotel, at their vacation rental, or from Hilton Head Outfitters ) and ride the scenic 3-mile bike path through the Sea Pines Forest State Park .

Lanzarote, Spain:

Dinner at El Risco restaurant in Lanzarote

When to go: March to June, when temperatures are mild and skies are clear.

Who should enjoy it: Intrepid solo travelers, soloists and food lovers.

What to do: While most travelers head to Tenerife or Gran Canaria on a trip to Spain’s volcanic Canary Islands, we love Lanzarote for its laid-back vibe and incredible scenery. Case in point: Timanfaya National Park , whose volcanic terrain will make you feel like you’ve landed on Mars. (Tip: Book a tour on site. The bus stops at every scenic spot, so you won’t have to fight for a parking spot.) Then spend the day at Papagayo Beach , famous for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Just be aware that the road to the beach is a bit bumpy. And don’t forget to indulge in the local cuisine. Restaurante El Risco , La Casa de la Playa and Centro Sociocultural La Tegala : all of these establishments offer Canarian specialities such as ropa vieja (a stewed meat soup) and bienmesabe (a thick almond dessert) with ocean views.

Oahu, Hawaii:

        Waikiki Beach on Oahu.

When to go: April to June or September to early December for lower rates and fewer crowds.

Who should love it: Travelers with a good appetite looking for the best restaurants, and families who just want to relax and unwind.

What to do: Start your weekend at the Rainbow Drive-In with a loco moco before hiking up Oahu’s dormant Diamond Head volcano . The hike up to the volcano takes about an hour, depending on how often you stop for photos. Spend the afternoon after the hike at world-famous Waikiki Beach , where you can swim, sunbathe, or surf. Then stop by Wailoa Shave Ice for the ultimate dessert (choose your choice, but we recommend the condensed milk and mochi for toppings). On the way back to your hotel in Honolulu , take the Pali Highway and stop at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout for views of the entire coastline. Be aware of the area’s strong winds.

Maldives:

         Snorkeling in the Maldives.

When to go: January to March, when the weather is best, even though prices may be higher.

Who should love it: Couples looking for a romantic getaway and solo travelers who want the entire island to themselves.

What to do: When it comes to the Maldives , honestly, you’ll spend 99% of your time in your hotel, relaxing and unwinding, or taking day trips to private islands or snorkeling spots. However, if possible, set aside some time towards the end of your trip to explore the other highlights of the Maldives, especially in Male, where you can visit the iconic 17th-century Great Friday Mosque , or experience the locals’ daily life (and sample the freshest seafood) at the Fish Market.

Crete, Greece:

      Ruins of the Palace of Knossos in Crete, Greece.

When to go: May to October with minimal rainfall

Who should enjoy it: Families looking for both relaxation and adventure, as well as history buffs in search of uncrowded ruins

What to do: For history buffs, exploring the island’s ancient sites will be the highlight of your trip. Start at the Palace of Knossos , located just outside the island’s capital, Heraklion . This archaeological site features stunning frescoes dating back 4,000 years. Don’t miss out on a hike through the Samaria Gorge (it’s about 18 km long, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water) or a sunset at Falasarna Beach to fully appreciate Crete’s natural beauty .

Split, Croatia:

    Hula Hula Beach Bar in Split, Croatia.

When to go: May to June or September to October for comfortable weather and fewer tourists.

Who should love it: Friends who love underrated party spots, and families looking for a beach holiday that's not in Greece or Italy

What to do: If you’re visiting with a large group, start by taking a walking tour of Split’s charming streets to get a feel for the city. Then hop on a ferry to Hvar Island , famous for its stunning beaches like Dubovica or Lučišća and its vibrant nightlife at places like Hula Hula Beach Bar and Carpe Diem Beach Club . Families should try the Pakleni Islands, a short boat ride away from the bustling crowds of Hvar. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a small private boat and spend the day snorkeling and swimming with the family. Whoever you’re with, be sure to visit the magical Blue Cave on Biševo Island for a mesmerising view of the shimmering waters.

Mallorca, Spain:

     Bay at Cala Deia beach in Mallorca, Spain.

When to go:  July to September – sun, sand and festivals

Who should enjoy it:  Solo travelers looking to relax and recharge, and families who love nature and history

What to do:  Start in Palma to discover ancient Roman and Moorish masterpieces like the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and the Cathedral of Santa Maria . From there, drive along the coast or through the picturesque countryside to reach Mallorca’s best attractions , from Pollensa with its art galleries to the superb olive oil of Can Moragues . When it’s time to relax, head to popular beaches like Cala Deia and Playa de Formentor , both of which feature the island’s iconic rocky coves and crystal-clear turquoise waters. In July, visitors can witness the colourful Festes de la Beata de Valldemossa street processions, and in September, take part in wine tastings and grape pressing competitions at Vermar de Binissalem, which celebrates the end of the harvest.

Barbados:

     A surfer on Sandy Lane Beach in Barbados.

When to visit: December to February, dry season.

Who should love it:  Friends who love the vibrant nightlife and festival scene, and solo travellers on the hunt for great food.

What to do: Your Barbados experience can vary depending on which coast you choose to stay on. The island’s west coast, also known as the Platinum Coast, offers calm, safe waters and stunning beaches like Paynes Bay and Sandy Lane . Meanwhile, the east coast offers big waves at surf spots like Bathsheba and a more laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. Barbados is renowned as the Caribbean’s gastronomic capital, with signature dishes like flying fish and kou-kou, or the decadent macaroni pie. The Friday fish fry at Oistins in Christ Church is a must-try for visitors and locals alike.

Phuket, Thailand:

     Big Buddha in Phuket, Thailand.

When to go: November to February, when it's hot but not as hot as March to June.

Who should enjoy it: Groups looking to island hop and solo travelers looking for beach nightlife.

What to do: Phuket is a stunning island in its own right, with beautiful beaches like Patong and laid-back Kata Noi , amazing street food at the Weekend Market , and the imposing Big Buddha . But it’s also a great base for island hopping off Thailand’s southeast coast. Take a day trip to Koh Phi Phi , where you’ll find gorgeous beaches and snorkeling at the famous Maya Bay , or head to Koh Lanta for a relaxing beach getaway. Koh Samui is also a romantic getaway for couples, where you can completely unwind at a spa like SALA or Tamarind Springs.

Saint Lucia:

     Anse Chastanet Resort in Soufriere, St LuciaImage

When to go: The dry season from December to May is ideal for beach holidays and island hopping.

Who should love it: Newlyweds looking for a luxury honeymoon with a private beach, and adventure seekers looking for a jungle trek.

What to do: Nature is the main attraction in St. Lucia . Hikers will love Pigeon Island National Park, with panoramic ocean views from Fort Rodney, and the Tet Paul Nature Trail offers plenty of great shots. On the west coast, Soufriere is a must-see . Must-sees include Sulphur Springs Park , where you can treat yourself to a mud bath spa day; the stunning Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens (with a wheelchair-accessible trail); and the private black sand beach at Anse Mamin for those in need of some privacy. Bonus: In the spring, St. Lucia becomes a music lover’s dream, with the Jazz and Arts Festival, which features some of the world’s best jazz, R&B, and calypso musicians and attracts local artisans and food vendors.