Last update: February 7th, 2026

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If you’re an island person, you already know the problem: too many “best islands” lists are either obvious, overdone, or weirdly impractical. This guide is for choosing by vibe: turquoise-water days, big-sky sunsets, a little adventure when you want it, and switch-off calm when you don’t. We’ve picked five destinations that reliably deliver different flavors of island life—Palawan for lagoon-hopping, Santorini for the cinematic romance, Lombok for a wilder alternative to Bali, Maui for road-trip freedom with beach payoff, and Bora Bora for the full dream-sequence version of the tropics.

1. Palawan, Philippines

Go here for: Lagoon-Hopping in El Nido and Hidden Beaches That Feel Unreal  

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Palawan is the paradise for island-hoppers, palm lovers and beach addicts. During the dry season, from October to May, Palawan has everything that you might want from a tropical island: turquoise water, exceptional sunset views, beach bars, hidden beaches and lagoons, and unique waterfalls. Whether you are with your lover, friends or family you will have the holiday of your dreams in this incredible destination.

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We recommend to start exploring the island from the town of El Nido, located in the North of the island, from which you can have island-hopping tours - we recommend Tour A and Tour C. In El Nido you should stay at El Nido Cove Resort, where - we are sure! - you will be able to see one of the most beautiful sunsets of your life and have breakfast with an incredible sea view. A second stop in the island could be Puerto Princesa, where you could see the Subterranean River - an UNESCO protected site and the longest subterranean river in the world.

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2. Santorini, Greece

Go here for: Caldera Sunsets, Oia Views, and a Greek Island Escape Done Right  

If you are dreaming of a Greek summer holiday, the island to choose is definitely Santorini. In the summer months this island will be crowded of tourists from all over the world: do not let the crowds stop you, as you will be able to find your own intimate place staying at Epitome Oia Canaves or at Aloia Villas. This island will offer you a typical Greek experience, with traditional cuisine, atmosphere and colors along with a unique sunset view on the caldera. The town to be in is Oia, which is as well the best spot for sunset lovers.

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Santorini is mostly advised for lovers as the romantic and charming vibes will make you fall in love all over again!

Go to our full Santorini guide

3. Lombok, Indonesia

Go here for: The Underrated, More Untouched Alternative to Bali for Beaches + Adventure  

Indonesia has been popular for island lovers from decades, since when Bali became worldwide known as the destination to go to in Southeast Asia. However, as much as Bali is over-crowded especially during the summer months, his neighbor Lombok is still undiscovered and deserted.

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Lombok is extremely underrated but incredibly full of adventures, beaches and things to explore. Easily reachable by plane, Lombok is way less touristy than Bali and yet offering even more breathtaking panoramas. For surfers, beach lovers and adventurers, Lombok is  for you!

Go to our Bali guide

4. Maui, USA

Go here for: Road-Trip Island Energy, Iconic Beaches, and Big Nature Moments  

Are you planning a trip to the US but yet you are an island lover? Maui is the perfect destination for you, located in the archipelagos of the Hawaii. Especially for a family holiday or with friends, Maui is a car-friendly island to explore on your own.

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Maui, known also as “The Valley Isle,” is the second largest Hawaiian island. The island is beloved for its world-famous beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, views of migrating humpback whales (during winter months), farm-to-table cuisine and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakala.

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5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Go here for: The Ultimate Honeymoon Island: Turquoise Lagoons and Luxury Resorts  

Bora Bora is definitely heaven of earth, best destination for lovers and honeymooners and one of the most famous islands on the planet. As the most known island of French Polynesia, it will make you dream with its incredible turquoise water, luxurious resorts, white beaches and palm trees.

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Whether you decide to spend all your stay in Bora Bora or also stay in one of the islands around such as Tahiti, Mo’orea or Tetiaroa you will find incredible resorts equipped with boat adventures, spa treatments, romantic dinners on the sand and tasty cuisine. Our hotel recommendations are: the world-wide famous Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora, The Brando in Tahiti and Conrad Bora Bora Nui in Vaitape.

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