The following blog post will list the top 20 best tropical island in the world in 2024.
When I think of a tropical island, the feeling that comes to mind is sun, sand, and surf, as well as an ice-cold beverage in hand. (preferably with a miniature umbrella and lots of fruity goodness within).
There are thousands of tropical islands in the world, majorly clustered around the Caribbean, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Indian Ocean.
This blog aims to highlight the top twenty tropical islands in 2024.
In addition, the post will highlight the important considerations that each tropical island must meet to be categorized as a top 20 island in the world.
These factors are what make them the must-visit sites for every traveler’s bucket list.
Important factors used to make the top 20 best tropical islands in the world list.
1. Natural beauty
This is perhaps the most important factor on this list.
The best tropical islands have amazing sights, from white sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs, deep blue beaches with crystal clear water, mangroves and rainforests, and jaw-dropping landscapes and views.
2. Warm, sunny climate
Secondly, the best tropical islands have virtually all-year-round warm, tropical climes.
In addition, they boast virtually 12 hours of sunshine per day every day; ideal conditions for sunbathing, hiking, snorkeling, picnics at the beach, swimming, and sightseeing.
3. Historical attractions
In addition to beauty and warm weather, historical attractions, including long-abandoned castles/villages/towns, historical trade route sites, important cities, museums, war memorials, archeological sites, and the like, separate the good from the very best tropical islands.
Bonus marks are given if these sites are UNESCO Heritage Sites or internationally recognized, preserved, and appreciated.
4. Availability of accommodations for different budgets
Fourthly, the best tropical islands are not exclusive sites for the rich and famous. They offer access to normal travelers on a budget.
Thus, in a nutshell, this article will highlight the tropical islands that can be accessed by middle-class tourists as well as their wealthier counterparts.
5. Amazing food
Furthermore, the tropical islands that are peerless on terms of culinary delights are definitely ranked highly on this list.
These amazing foods include fresh and safe seafood, tropical fruits and veggies, well-established local delicacies and street food.
6. Ease of access
Equally important, an amazing tropical island should ideally be only a plane journey away from temperate or colder climes.
Many tropical islands have great food, sites, and climates, but if accessing them is harder than one or two flights, they don’t make the cut.
This is because simplicity for the not-too-experienced tourist is very important.
7. Eco-tourism infrastructure
Moreover, Sustainable tourism has become an important facet of tourists’ plans.
The best tropical islands are those that support eco-tourism, sustainable practices in establishing accommodations and tourist activities, as well as incorporating the local population when making resorts, hotels, rooms, and infrastructure that majorly serve tourists.
8. Security and safety
Finally, the best tropical islands must offer world-class security and safety for their visitors.
While no place in the world is completely safe from terror, burglars, and decadent behavior by a small segment of people.
The best tropical islands in the world have incorporated world-class police services, community policing, robust visa requirements, and tourist background checks.
They are also hosted in politically secure, relatively wealthy, and stable countries.
The twenty best tropical islands in the world in 2024
1. Maldives
The Maldives is one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world. It boasts some of the most incredible marine life in the world.
A perfect destination for the adventurous tourist who wants amazing glass floor boat rides to admire turtles, rare fishes, and other stunning marine life.
It is world-renowned for snorkeling, diving, crystal clear blue waters, and its specialty, overwater bungalows.
2. Fiji
For the visitor looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Fiji is a perfect choice.
There are several islands to sample, with the best for tourists being Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu, and Gau.
Fiji is the best at remote islands, with remarkable green scenery, beautiful, friendly, and English-speaking locals, and perfect snorkeling and diving spots.
In addition, it is very accessible from Australia or Indonesia.
3. Maui, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii is the crown jewel of Hawaii, perhaps America’s most beautiful tropical island.
It is very accessible from the mainland, very affordable, and hosts a stunning array of tourist attractions.
It has volcanic landscapes, lush green cover including rainforests, and beautiful golden beaches. In addition, Maui has amazing historical sites including the Lahania Historical District, Iao Valley State Monumental, and Haleakala National Park.
Maui is recovering from the devastating wildfires that afflicted it in 2023, thus, visiting this beautiful paradise will assist the local economy and population get back on track.
4. Zanzibar
Zanzibar is one of the most pristine tropical islands on the eastern coast of Africa.
Located next to the Indian Ocean, and a mere thirty-minute boat ride from the mainland of Tanzania, it is also one of the most accessible islands on this list.
Zanzibar boasts Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site world famous for stunning Arabic architecture, maze-like streets, and busy markets selling everything from Deraa, shawarma, samosas, maji ya mnazi, and ukwaju.
Places to visit include Jozani Chwaka Bay NATIONAL Park, Nungwi Beach, and Kizimkazi.
5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is the most romantic tropical island in the world. Located in French Polynesia, it has amazing turquoise lagoons, and a plethora of luxury resorts, and is an amazing site for honeymoons or romantic getaways.
Indeed, Couples Retreat (2009) was shot on Bora Bora as well as the neighboring island of Moorea.Â
6. Santorini, Greece
When people imagine a luxury island in Greece, Santorini is the image that comes to mind.
Santorini is easily accessible from virtually anywhere in Europe yet boasts tropical weather comparable to any other tropical island in Africa, Oceania, or the Caribbean.
It has iconic white buildings, stunning sunsets, and white coasts.
Also Read, Paros Greece: Travel Guide 2024
7. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a must-visit tropical island for tourists in search of rich culture, amazing street food, and historical attractions.
In addition, the island has amazing white sandy beaches, scenery of rice terraces, and snorkeling sites.
8. Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef Islands of Australia hosts the biggest coral reefs in the world, a key defense for marine life and a stable future for all marine and land life on the planet.
It is perhaps the eminent site for diving, snorkeling, and marine life in the world.
A site for world-class eco-tourist places and efforts by local marine biologists and the population of the world. It is very accessible from the Australian mainland.
9. Mauritius
Mauritius is a stunning tropical island, offering stunning beaches and scenic landscapes.
It is a hidden paradise in Africa that is a perfect site for a romantic getaway at not-too-crazy prices.
Nowhere in the world have Indian, European, and African cultures blended better to make amazing culinary delights, architecture, and cultural sites.
10. St. Lucia
Located in the eastern part of the Caribbean, St Lucia is one of the lesser heralded tropical islands in this neighborhood.
It is easily accessible from the North American mainland and is famous for the Pitons, lush green rainforest, and wide array of luxury resorts to choose from for the discerning visitor.
11. Barbados
Barbados, the mother island of Rihanna, is one of the most beautiful and accessible tropical islands on the planet.
It is easily accessible from North America, offers security and safety, and a wide range of cultural activities for historically minded tourists.
These include historical colonial architecture and bustling nightlife.
12. The Cook Islands
Located north of New Zealand, the Cook Islands are a pristine destination for tourists who want to get away from it all.
It boasts colorful marine life, coral reefs and snorkeling and diving opportunities. It is also one of the best locations for sunbathing.Â
13. Aruba
Aruba is easily located off the Venezuelan coastline.
It is part of the Netherlands kingdom, and is a beautiful site for beautiful beaches, natural sites including Arikok Natural Park, delicious culinary choices, and wonderful local crafts in the shopping centers.
Aruba also has an amazing nightlife for energic people to sample.
14. Ibiza
Ibiza is perhaps best known for its vibrant nightlife and house parties.
Located barely 150 kilometers from Valencia, Spain, it is one of the most accessible tropical islands on this list.
It also boasts amazing historical sites, with Ibiza Town being A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also Read, Digital Nomad Visa Spain: Everything You Need To Know
15. The Bahamas
The Bahamas are eye candy for the visitor in search of stunning, pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, and diving opportunities.
Located in the Caribbean, it is also very welcoming and friendly to tourists.
16. Seychelles
The Seychelles are the most luxurious tropical islands in the African continent.
Located on the eastern board, they are probably the most luxurious and dream destination for honeymooners and romantically minded tourists.
Seychelles is also a world leader in sustainable tourism, with the Morne Seychellois National Park a must-visit for all.
17. Palau
Palau is a country found southeast of the Philippines.
It is one of Asia’s best-kept secrets. It consists of over 340 islands and boasts coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and to-die-for scenery.
Some of the best diving, snorkeling, and glass boat sites in the world.
It is one of the few places in the world that feels untouched by human hands.
18. Grenada
Grenada is on the southern side of the Caribbean.
It is part of the West Indies, and very accessible from the United States and Europe.
It is known as the Spice Isle, due to its world-leading production of nutmeg cinnamon, and other spices.
For the culinary-inclined tourist, it is the best tropical island on this list. Festivals such as Spicemas and the Grenada Chocolate Festival are acclaimed all over the world.
19. Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui is world-famous for stunning beaches, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant nightlife.
It offers world-class facilities for scuba diving, kayaking, jet skis, snorkeling, and boat rides. It is one of the most luxurious tropical islands in the world and this list.
20. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Last but by no means least, are the Galapagos islands of Ecuador. They boast some of the most unique wilderness in the world.
Enjoy giant tortoises and iguanas, and boobies with blue feet. It is one of the best islands for scenic and nowhere else to be found wildlife.
Here is a list of the top ten tropical islands in the world, with links to their national websites where more information can be found:
- Maldives – the most luxurious tropical island
- Koh Samui – best for scuba diving and water sports
- Ibiza – best for music and nightlife activities
- The Bahamas – the most accessible from the Americas
- Zanzibar – best spot for African and Arabian cuisine
- Fiji – the most beautiful rainforests in the world
- Santorini, Greece – the most accessible and beautiful island in Europe
- Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia – the world leader in eco-tourism
- Bali, Indonesia – the best tropical island for East Asian culture
- Grenada – the best tropical island for culinary delights
Conclusion
In a nutshell, this blog analyzed the twenty best tropical islands in the world.
Important factors that were considered when making this list include accessibility, eco-tourism facilities, natural beauty, historical attractions, culinary delights, and other cultural factors.Â
Each of these tropical islands is world-renowned for one thing or another. The discerning tourist should choose from this list as a dream destination.
Also Read:
- 20 Best Places to Live in Europe: Travel + Leisure
- The World Nomads Travel Insurance: Complete Review 2024
