65 Best Tropical Beach Destinations (Ranked)

Updated: November 11, 2021 | Bucketlist

We surveyed over 500,000+ on Instagram, asking them one question…

What’re the best tropical beach destinations?

After spending a ton of time filtering responses, we narrowed it down to 65 destinations.

From the Caribbean to the South Pacific, here are the best tropical spots.

Let’s start with…

65. Oahu, Hawaii

A beautiful option for your Hawaii trip is Oahu. Oahu is a very popular destination as it’s home to Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu. Nightlife, gourmet cuisine, authentic culture, and of course, a beautiful tropical environment. Oahu is a great island if you want a little bit of everything. Most visitors start their journey to Hawaii in Honolulu, so why not spend a little extra time exploring all that Oahu has to offer?

Popular things to do in Oahu

Check out Diamond Head, a dormant volcano and beautiful landmark
Waikiki Beach is Hawaii’s most famous beach, and it is located in Oahu!
To see turtles and other wildlife, visit Hanauma Bay

64. The Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island is Hawaii’s largest island and a great place to plan your first trip to Hawaii. Known for its two active volcanoes, The Big Island also has beautiful places to get away and relax. Whether you’re looking for (active) volcanoes, lush forests, or sandy beaches, The Big Island has what you want. Nature-lovers should consider this island for their Hawaii destination, as it is home to unique natural beauties in the state.

Popular things to do in Big Island

Visit Kilauea Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world
Hike Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano with Hawaii’s highest peak
Check out Akaka Falls State Park

63. Utila, Honduras

Known for its coral reefs and diving is Utila, another one of the Bay Islands located north of Honduras’ coast. Utila is the smallest of the Bay Islands, following both Roatan and Guanaja, but is still teeming with reasons to visit. Whether you go to check out the amazing (and affordable!) marine life by diving or just relax on the beach, you’ll surely book a trip back as soon as you can.

Popular things to do in Utila

Go diving or snorkeling in one of the many dive sites in the coral reefs
Check out the iguanas at The Iguana Research and Breeding Station
Enjoy Utila town’s vibrant nightlife

62. Christmas Island, Australia

South of Indonesia is an Australian territory island, Christmas Island. This beautiful island is filled with wetlands, waterfalls, and wildlife, on top of its stunning beaches. Its location in the Indian Ocean surrounded by reefs makes it the perfect place for adventure lovers who want to snorkel. Perhaps you could take a day to hike and see the wildlife, a day to snorkel in the reefs, and a day to visit the waterfalls! Whatever you want to do, you can do it on Christmas Island.

Popular things to do in Christmas

Visit Christmas Island National Park
Go snorkeling and swimming in the coral reefs
Check out the popular Dolly Beach

61. Cocos Islands, Australia

Cocos Islands, also known as Keeling Islands, are an island group of 27 islands in the Indian Ocean. This remote territory of Australia is well-known for its white-sand beaches, lagoons, and palm trees. Even more, it is a great place to explore a unique culture — that of the Cocos Malay people who inhabit the island.

Popular things to do in Cocos

Pulu Keeling National Park is a must-see for its bird colonies and shipwreck
Check out Direction Island and its famous, serene, and beautiful white-sand beach
Swim and tour one of the many unique lagoons

60. Madagascar, East Africa

Madagascar is a large island off the eastern coast of Africa – in fact, it is the fourth-largest island country in the world. With its size, there is pretty much everything that you could ever want in an island. Whether you’re looking for a secluded getaway, a vacation filled with hikes and adventure, or a mixture of the two, you can find it here.

Popular things to do in Madagascar

Avenue of the Baobabs is a famous stretch where you can see tons of the Baobab tree
Go hiking in Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park and see the unique rock formations
Take a trip through the rainforest in Ranomafana National Park

59. Guanaja, Honduras

The sister island of the popular Roatan island is Guanaja, an incredible island in Honduras. Guanaja is located off the northern coast of the mainland and is a part of the Bay Islands. Its untouched and well-preserved natural beauty, along with its unique town feel gives you plenty of reason to visit the island. Guanaja is known to be a Caribbean Venice, as it is home to colorful buildings packed together, surrounded by canals. Whether you go to see that, relax on the beaches, go on a hike, or snorkel, you’re sure to enjoy your time there.

Popular things to do in Guanaja

Take a boat tour through the canals and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Snorkel, swim, and dive in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Hike through its national marine parks and forest reserves

58. Pemba Island, Tanzania

Part of Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago is Pemba Island, an island that will teach you the art of switching off. Though the island has around 500,000 inhabitants, there are rarely more than a few dozen tourists visiting. If you are looking for an authentic remote trip, this is the island for you. On Pemba Island, you can expect to be overwhelmed by untouched natural beauty and welcomed by friendly locals.

Popular things to do in Pemba

Swim or fish in Chake Chake Harbour
Visit the mangroves, swamps, and forests
Visit one of the many clove plantations

57. Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Corn Islands are two islands located off the eastern coast of Nicaragua, in the Caribbean Sea. While you may have never heard of them, Corn Islands are a popular destination for surfers and backpackers who were already in Nicaragua and were directed toward the Corn Islands by a local or fellow traveler. They are the définition of “off-the-beaten-path,” and offer visitors an authentic, stunning experience.

Popular things to do in Corn Islands

Surf and snorkel – enjoy the chill surfing vibes and amazing marine life
Take diving lessons for a very affordable price
Relax with the friendly locals at a beach bar, on a boat, or wherever else

56. Coiba Island, Panama

Located off the Pacific Coast of Panama is Coiba Island, a small island in the Gulf of Chiriqui. Coiba Island is a marine preserve as well as a lush, beachy island, known for its unique marine life and jungle animals. If you want to snorkel, dive, and hike your way to diverse wildlife, this is the place for you. Even if you don’t, consider giving it a visit for its turquoise waters and relaxed beaches.

Popular things to do in Coiba

Snorkel or dive your way to diverse marine life, including both whales and hammerhead sharks
Take a hike through the rainforest
Relax at one of the many beaches on the coast

55. Tortuga Island, Costa Rica

Accessible by boat from mainland Costa Rica is Tortuga Island, an island with amazing beaches and lush forests that make the extra step worth the visit. Well-known for its forests and snorkeling, you can expect to see incredible wildlife on this island, including dolphins, octopuses, monkeys, and more. Additionally, Tortuga Island makes a great day trip if you don’t have too much extra time while in Costa Rica.

Popular things to do in Tortuga

Go snorkeling or scuba diving
Take a boat tour around the island
Try out a hike or walking trail in the forests

54. Vieques, Puerto Rico

Vieques, Puerto Rico is a small island off Puerto Rico’s coast. Located in the Caribbean, Vieques is known for its culture, wild horses, and bioluminescent microorganisms, on top of its stunning beaches. As it is a less well-known Caribbean destination, there’s a good chance that you’ll find peace and quiet while in Vieques. Then, when you’re ready for some excitement, you can head on over to the mainland.

Popular things to do in Vieques

Visit Bioluminescent Bay
Tour Fuerte de Vieques, a 19th-century fort and museum
Visit Vieques National Wildlife Refuge to see the wild horses

53. St Kitts & Nevis, Caribbean

Another great option in the Caribbean is St Kitts and Nevis, two islands that make up a country. These islands are located in between the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean, giving them a beautiful and unique environment. Both of the islands are filled with culture and activities, as well as lots of spots to enjoy the sun and sand. St Kitts is more lively while Nevis has more of a Caribbean island vibe, so you can pick your destination accordingly.

Popular things to do in St Kitts & Nevis

Hike Mount Liamuiga Volcano
Check out one of the many sugar plantation ruins
Visit Frigate Bay, an island cove with beautiful beaches and fun bars

52. Grenada, Caribbean

Grenada is a country and island group in the Caribbean, located to the northeast of Venezuela. Its largest island, Grenada, is the main tourist island, though you can and should visit the others. It’s known for its beaches, nutmeg plantations, 18th-century remains, and tropical vibes. It’s also known for its amazing resorts and nightlife. Win-win for your calm, cultural, and fun getaway.

Popular things to do in Grenada

Visit Grenada’s main beach, Grand Anse Beach
Tour the Nutmeg plantation at the Belmont Estate
Check out Grand Etang Lake

51. Niue Island, South Pacific

Niue Island is one of the smallest and most remote nations in the world. Located about 1500 miles northeast of New Zealand, it’s a tropical gem that most people don’t even know exist. To give you more context, it’s located in the center of Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. Temperatures range from 70°F – 85°F year-round. If you’re searching for a remote tropical destination that’s filled with adventure, check out Niue.

Popular things to do in Niue

Swim at Avaiki Cave
Walk the Togo Chasm
Snorkel at the Limu Pools

50. Ouvéa, New Caledonia

Ouvéa is a small island located in the South Pacific, northeast of Australia. It’s an Overseas French Territory, known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and untouched landscapes. If you haven’t heard of Ouvéa, you should definitely add it to your bucket list.

Popular things to do in Ouvéa

Sail to ‘Pleiades du Nord’ for incredible snorkeling
Visit their shark nursery on the northern end of the island
Swim in the blue hole of Hanawa (often where sea turtles are spotted)

49. Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Aitutaki is one of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific Ocean. It’s located north of Rarotonga (the most visited island in the Cook Islands). With only about 1800 people living here, it’s a tiny island most common among honeymooners. They even have a beautiful overwater bungalow resort, called Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort. (worth checking out).

In the lagoon and surrounding reef, there’s a vast amount of marine wildlife, making it a perfect island for snorkeling.

It’s made up of three main parts…

The main island
A crystal clear lagoon
And a barrier reef

Popular things to do in Aitutaki

Hike Mount Maungapu for a beautiful view of Aitutaki
Paddleboard through the turquoise lagoon
Take a boating cruise and go snorkeling

48. Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Briefly mentioned above, we have the most popular and largest of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga. Surrounding the island is a 20-mile round-the-island road, making transportation simple. Visit their tropical beaches, go scuba diving or climb one of their volcanic mountains.

Popular things to do in Rarotonga

Embark on the Cross Island Hike
Go on a glass-bottom lagoon cruise
Take a day trip to Aitutaki, snorkeling the lagoon

47. Ambergris Caye, Belize

Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island, located northeast of the mainland. With average temperatures ranging from 70°F – 80°F, it’s a perfect tropical getaway that’s fairly close to the USA. It has beautiful beaches and an environment that’s not overpopularized.

It’s well known for being near Belize’s barrier reef, which is the second-largest barrier reef in the world. If you’re looking for a low-key island vacation that has a bunch of beautiful snorkeling/diving spots, Ambergris Caye is a great option.

Popular things to do in Ambergris Caye

Go snorkeling/diving at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Visit the (not-so-secret) Secret Beach
Shop at the famous Belizean Arts gallery in San Pedro

46. Magnetic Island, Australia

Magnetic Island is located about 5 miles off the northeastern coast of Australia in Queensland. Its accessibility to mainland Australia makes it the perfect destination for a short beach trip.

You can take a 20-35 minute ferry from Townsville. From hostels to luxury resorts, this is a must-visit if you find yourself in Northeastern Australia.

Popular things to do in Magnetic Island

Discover World War II forts at the National Park
Take a horseback ride on the beach
Watch the beautiful sunset at West Point

45. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

The Perhentian Islands are a group of islands located off the coast of Kuala Besut, Malaysia. Though they aren’t as popular as the main tourist destinations in Malaysia, they have a good mixture of activities and relaxation. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. You can snorkel, sunbathe, or hike the many trails found on the islands.

Popular things to do in Perhentian

Hike through the lush tropical jungle
Look for turtles at Turtle Sanctuary Beach
Relax at Long beach located on Perhentian Kecil

44. Exuma, The Bahamas

A district of The Bahamas, Exuma is a group of over 365 islands, also known as cays. Great Exuma and Little Exuma, are two of the main destinations. They’re known for shallow, turquoise sandbars and world-famous swimming pigs. Whichever cays you choose, you’ll be on a beautiful island enjoying the Bahamian sun.

Popular things to do in Exuma

Visit the swimming pigs at Pig Beach
Grab a drink at Chat ‘N’ Chill Beach Bar
Explore Coco Plum Beach during low tide

43. Culebra, Puerto Rico

Culebra is a small island located off the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico. It’s known for its crystal clear beaches and variety of marine life. A must-visit is Flamenco Beach, a long stretch of white sand with turquoise waters on one side and tree-covered hills on the other. You can take a cheap ferry from Fajardo to access Culebra.

Popular things to do in Culebra

Visit Culebra’s Museum of History
Snorkel at the incredibly tropical Flamenco Beach
Escape the crowds and take a boat tour with Culebra VIP & East

42. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, located off its eastern coast. Known for its beaches, nightlife and warm climate, Ko Samui is one of the best tropical destinations for families, friends, and couples. Whether you’re searching for a budget vacation or luxury getaway, you can find it all in Ko Samui.

Popular things to do in Ko Samui

Hang out at Chaweng Beach
Go on a four-wheeling safari jungle tour
Explore Mu Koh Angthong National Marine Park

41. Anna Maria Island, Florida

Anna Maria Island is a fun mix of both city and beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. If you’re the type of beach vacationer who wants to shop, eat, and go to the beach, this is the perfect place for you. Anna Maria Island gives off a small town beach vibe that’s perfect for your next family vacation.

Popular things to do in Anna Maria

Swim and relax at Manatee Beach Park
Explore the island on bikes
Take a walk at Bean Point

40. Moorea, French Polynesia

Moorea is apart of French Polynesia, located between the island of Tahiti and Huahine. It’s a short 15-minute plane ride from Tahiti. Snorkeling is a popular activity and you can often spot stingrays, sharks and sea turtles. While known for its breathtaking beaches, Moorea also has beautiful volcanic mountains that you can hike. And if you’re searching for authentic overwater bungalows, this is one of the best places to find them.

Popular things to do in Moorea

Help the Coral Gardeners restore Moorea’s coral reefs
Go on a boat snorkeling tour
Take an ATV tour

39. Palau, Oceania

Located in the Pacific Ocean is an archipelago of 500+ islands, known as Palau. There are a variety of landscapes on the islands, ranging from stunning beaches to palm tree-lined forests. They’re known for incredible diving, especially at its world-famous Jelly Fish Lake.

Popular things to do in Palau

Swim at the Jelly Fish Lake
Explore the tropical Long Beach
Take a diving tour around the Rock Islands

38. San Blas Islands, Panama

The San Blas Islands are a group of over 370 islands located off the coast of Panama. If you’re into island hopping, this is the perfect destination for you. You can hop in between the San Blas islands, or start in Panama and sail to Colombia. And of course, there are a bunch of beautiful beaches, and activities to do along the way.

Popular things to do in San Blas

Go on an island-hopping snorkeling tour
Take a tour through the Indigenous Guna VIllage

37. Miyakojima, Okinawa

Miyako Island, Japan (Miyakojima) is located in-between Okinawa Island and the Yaeyama Islands. It has some of the most beautiful tropical beaches in the world. A great place for snorkeling and diving. It’s a popular tourist destination due to the mixture of urban city and island life vibes.

Popular things to do in Miyakojima

Visit the mysterious Toriike Pond
Check out the longest free bridge, Irabu Ohashi
Climb the Higashi Hennazaki Lighthouse for a beautiful view

36. Roatan, Honduras

A small island located off the northeastern coast of Honduras, in between the islands Útila and Guanaja. Roatan is one of the most tranquil tropical destinations that won’t break the bank. Known for its serenity, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and wildlife, it’s a great place to unwind.

Popular things to do in Roatan

Relax at West Bay Beach
Take an ATV or ziplining tour
Tour the Manwakie Eco Nature Park

35. Anguilla, Caribbean

From Justin Bieber to Lebron James, Anguilla is a Caribbean destination that the celebs often visit. And it’s no surprise why. With beautiful tropical beaches to delicious restaurants, Anguilla is a tropical island worthy of your bucket list. Check out our must sea beaches in Anguilla (written by a local).

Popular things to do in Anguilla

Visit Meads Bay (West end of the island)
Tacos & margaritas at Olas Taco Bar
Snorkel Little Bay marine park

34. Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands

Saipan is the largest and most well known of the Northern Mariana Islands. A part of the United States commonwealth, it’s located northeast of Guam in the Western Pacific. Though it’s the largest of the NMI, it still will only take you about an hour to travel the entire island via car. It’s known for its gorgeous beaches, mountains, golfing and scuba diving. It’s one of the best tropical destinations for adventurers.

Popular things to do in Saipan

Scubadive a World War II shipwreck
Visit the historical suicide cliff
Snorkel the grotto cave

33. Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Between Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef lie the Whitsunday Islands, a group of 74 tropical islands in Australia. Complete with stunning beaches, rainforests, and many other activities. Most of the islands are national parks, however, there are a couple of nearby island resorts that are conveniently located.

Popular things to do in Whitsunday

Explore at Whitehaven Beach
Stay at an underwater reef suite
Hike the trails at Hill Inlet

32. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Is the resort life what you’re looking for? Then Montego Bay, Jamaica is a perfect option for you. Filled with tropical beaches, golf courses, water sport activities, and even an amusement park, Montego Bay is great for every type of traveler. Whether you’re searching for an all-inclusive or boutique resort, they’ve got you covered.

Popular things to do in Montego Bay

Go rafting down the Martha Brae river
Golf at the world-famous Cinnamon Hill Golf Club
Horseback ride at the Half Moon Equestrian Centre

31. Turks and Caicos Islands, Caribbean

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory located in the Caribbean. They consist of 40 low-lying islands surrounded by coral reefs, turquoise waters, and uninhabited cays. There are seven main islands, the most popular being Providenciales. Check out our Turks & Caicos travel guide before planning your next vacation.

Popular things to do in Turks & Caicos

Snorkel at Smith’s Reef
Relax at the beautiful Grace Bay Beach
Go on an excursion with Big Blue Collective

30. Varadero, Cuba

Varadero is a beach town in northern Cuba, spanning the 12-mile Hicacos Peninsula. Along the 12-mile stretch are several resorts and spas. If you want an affordable tropical beach vacation in Cuba, this is the spot for you.

Popular things to do in Varadero

Explore Josone Park
Swim at Saturno Cave
Visit the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve

29. Cayman Islands, Caribbean

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory, made up of three large islands…

Grand Cayman
Cayman Brac
Little Cayman

Located in the Caribbean, they’re a popular destination known for fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The most popular island is Grand Cayman, whereas Cayman Brac has more for the adventurers. Little Cayman is the smallest and quietest of the three.

Popular things to do in Cayman

Walk along Seven Mile Beach
Go for a hike on the Mastic Trail
Go bird watching at Booby Pond Nature Reserve

28. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

The Raja Ampat Islands are located in West Papua, Indonesia. They’re made up of hundreds of islands, covered in tropical jungles and lined with mesmerizing beaches. Raja Ampat is home to over 540 different types of coral, making it a popular spot for snorkelers and divers. To get to these remote islands, you’ll either have to take a flight to Waisai or a ferry from Sorong.

Popular things to do in Raja Ampat

Go diving at Cape Kri
Take a speedboat to Pulau Wayag
Hike to the top of Pianemo Island

27. Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Famous for its tranquil tropical feeling, Isla Mujeres is an island located in southern Mexico off the coast of Cancun. Though it’s close to Cancun, it has a much more laid back vibe. While you can indulge in the beaches, water sports, and other activities, you shouldn’t miss out on visiting the ancient Mayan ruins.

Popular things to do in Isla Mujeres

Visit the Ancient Mayan ruins
Relax at Playa Norte (North Beach)
Dive at the MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art)

26. St Lucia, Caribbean

St Lucia is both a country and an island in the Caribbean, located north of Venezuela. It’s well known for its dramatic mountains (the Pitons), as well as its nightlife, volcanic beaches, and rainforests. The north end is most popular for tourists to stay, whereas the south end is closest to the airport.

Popular things to do in St Lucia

Hike the Tet Paul Nature Trail
Take a mud bath at the Sulphur Springs
Hit the nightlife scene at the Rodney Bay strip

25. El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Located on Palawan Island, El Nido is a municipality in the western Philippines. Visitors go to enjoy the pristine white sand beaches, as well as the various dive sites and lagoons. Its jagged cliffs contrasting against the turquoise sea, make for a picturesque view. Easily one of the best tropical destinations in the Philippines.

Popular things to do in El Nido

Hike to the Taraw Peak
Visit the secret lagoon beach
Stay in an overwater bungalow at El Nido Resorts

24. Seychelles, East Africa

Situated in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands off the coast of East Africa. They islands fall under two main groups…

The Inner Islands (43)
The Outer Islands (72)

From their rare marine wildlife to the smooth granite rocks, Seychelles is a tropical destination worth visiting. Their official tourism website even put together some great custom itineraries for different types of travelers.

Popular things to do in Seychelles

Visit the Tempio Hindu
Hike the Morne Blanc Trail
Take a guided tour to Anse Marron

23. Reunion Island, East Africa

Reunion Island is located off the southeastern coast of Africa, just east of Madagascar. The island has diverse natural scenery, including volcanoes, rainforests, coral reefs, and beaches. It’s most famous attraction being Piton de la Fournaise, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world (peaking at 8,635 ft).

Popular things to do in Reunion

Hike the trails of Piton de la Fournaise
Go on a Segway all-terrain tour
Visit the Kelonia turtle center

22. Guadeloupe, Caribbean

Guadeloupe is a French overseas territory in the Caribbean, located between Dominica and Antigua. You may have heard of its unique shape, which resembles a butterfly. Guadeloupe is popular for its beaches, sugarcane fields, and volcanoes. With an average temperature ranging from 75°F to 85°F, it’s one of the best Caribbean destinations.

Popular things to do in Guadeloupe

Walk along the Trace des Ruisseaux
Go on a whale-watching excursion
Hike the La Soufriere volcano

21. Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three Gili Islands in Indonesia, located off the coast of Lombok. It’s often referred to as the party island, filled with bars, restaurants, and guesthouses. It makes for a lively vacation destination, though you can always find some time to relax on the beach.

Popular things to do in Gili Trawangan

Go on a scuba diving excursion
Take a snorkeling tour around the 3 Gili Islands
Watch the beautiful sunset at Hotel Ombak Sunset

20. Curaçao, Caribbean

Located north of Venezuela, Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean island located in between Aruba and Bonaire. It’s a great island if you’re interested in colonial architecture, as the capital Willemstad is known for that. The island itself is also known for its beaches, huge coral reef, and diverse marine life.

Popular things to do in Curaçao

Snorkeling at Blue Bay Beach
Visit the capital of Curaçao, Willemstad
Go on a scooter, underwater Aquafari tour

19. Bermuda

Tired of white sand beaches? Then Bermuda’s pink sand beaches are the place for you. Bermuda is an Overseas British Territory located southeast of the United States in the Atlantic Ocean. Along with the pink sand beaches, Bermuda is known for its distinct history and culture.

Popular things to do in Bermuda

Explore the Crystal Caves
Take a dip at Blue Hole Park
Relax and snorkel at Horseshoe Bay

18. Zanzibar, East Africa

Zanzibar, also known as Unguja, is an island located off the eastern coast of Africa. It’s a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania and home to a mixture of Islamic/African culture. You can either take a plane or ferry to get to Zanzibar. A ferry being a smoother ride unless you get seasick.

Popular things to do in Zanzibar

Visit Nakupenda Beach
Go on a snorkeling excursion
Explore the culture of Stone Town

17. Formentera, Spain

The smallest of the Balearic Islands, Formentera is an island that belongs to Spain. More commonly known for the parties is its neighbor, Ibiza. If you’re looking for beautiful Spanish waters and beaches, but a quieter vacation, Formentera is a great spot for you.

Popular things to do in Formentera

Relax at Ses Illetes Beach
Visit Barbaria Lighthouse
Explore the island on a bike

16. Viti Levu, Fiji

Located to the northeast of Australia is Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island. It’s well known for its mountainous landscape that’s surrounded by beautiful beaches. Viti Levu is a great starting point to visit Fiji, as it’s home to the capital and Fiji’s main airport.

Popular things to do in Viti Levu

Take a visit to Cloud 9 Fiji
Go on a snorkeling tour to Beqa Lagoon
Explore Castaway Island where Castaway was filmed

15. Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is an island in the Philippines, located in the center of the country. In Boracay, you’ll find a mixture of beaches, water sports, coral reefs, shipwrecks, and more… Pretty much everything you could ask for in a tropical destination.

Popular things to do in Boracay

Check out Willy’s Rock
Go cliff jumping at Ariel’s Point
Experience the interactive Motag Living Museum

14. Key West, Florida

What is an island, a city, and Florida’s most southernmost point? You guessed it, Key West! It’s a great tropical destination, especially if you don’t want to travel outside of the USA. The crystal clear water and coral reefs, make Key West a great destination for snorkeling.

Popular things to do in Key West

Visit Ernest Hemingway’s Home
Take a ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park
Go rum tasting at Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery

13. Mauritius, East Africa

Mauritius (also known as the Republic of Mauritius), is an Indian Ocean island located off the southeastern coast of Africa (about 500 miles East of Madagascar). Whether you’re looking for tropical beaches that are lined with reefs, or a place to go hiking, you should definitely check out Mauritius.

Popular things to do in Mauritius

Go on a Blue Safari Submarine tour
Go hiking at Black River Gorges National Park
Visit the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

12. Aruba, Caribbean

18 miles north of Venezuela, you’ll find Aruba, a Dutch constituent country located in the Caribbean. Aruba is a popular tropical destination, as it’s known to be one of the safest Caribbean countries. It has beautiful beaches, a stunning national park, and a variety of other activities. Aruba is easily one of the best tropical islands to vacation, especially since the weather is consistent year-round.

Popular things to do in Aruba

Relax at Eagle Beach
Explore Arikok National Park
Watch flamingos on Renaissance Island

11. Barbados, Caribbean

Barbados is an independent British Commonwealth nation located off the northeastern coast of Venezuela in the Caribbean. The capital is home to colonial-style architecture and is a popular cruise-ship port. Around the island, you can visit beautiful beaches, caves, gardens, and get a taste for old British culture.

Popular things to do in Barbados

Take a dip at Carlisle Bay
Go on a catamaran snorkeling tour
Go on a tour through Harrison’s Cave

10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is located at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Many spring breakers rush to Punta Cana in March, so if you’re looking for a party atmosphere, that’s the time to go. Otherwise, you’ll find serenity in its clear waters and large beaches year-round.

Popular things to do in Punta Cana

Go on a monkey tour
Relax and swim at Bavaro Beach
Swim at the crystal clear waters of Hoyo Azul

9. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is a Mexican town on the edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, bordering the Caribbean coast. While it definitely has beautiful tropical beaches, Tulum is famous for its well-preserved Mayan ruins, mangroves, and cenotes (AKA natural sinkholes that you can swim in).

Popular things to do in Tulum

Relax at Paradise Beach
Explore the Tulum Mayan Ruins
Swim at Cenotes Dos Ojos or Cenotes Sac Actun

8. Sardinia, Italy

Often flocked to by the celebs, Sardinia is an Italian island in the Meditteranean Sea. Its location makes it easily accessible from Italy, France, Spain, and northern Africa. The jagged mountains contrasting against the tropical sea, make for scenery as you’ve never seen before.

Popular things to do in Sardinia

Snorkel at Cala Goloritze
Relax and swim at La Pelosa Beach
Explore the cave at Capo Caccia Vertical Cliffs

7. Maragogi, Brazil

Often referred to as the Caribbean of Brazil, Maragogi is a beach town located on the eastern coast. This is a great place for snorkeling because of it’s protected coral reefs. Its tropical shallow lagoons will take your breath away. If you find yourself thinking about traveling to Brazil, you should definitely consider Maragogi.

Popular things to do in Maragoi

Relax at Xareu Beach
Take an excursion to the Gales Marine Reserve

6. Cancun, Mexico

Our tropical destinations list wouldn’t be complete without Cancun, Mexico. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, just north of Tulum. From it’s thriving nightlife scene to its all-inclusive family resorts, Cancun has options for every type of traveler. Similar to Punta Cana, it’s one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for spring breakers.

Popular things to do in Cancun

Swim at the Cenote Ik kil
Relax and swim at Playa Delfines
Visit the Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

5. Maui, Hawaii

Last on our Hawaiian island list is Maui, Hawaii, another great island if you’re looking for nature and serenity. Maui is known to be much calmer than Oahu, but just as beautiful as all of the other islands. Well-known for its active and dormant volcanoes, 30-miles of beaches, and pools and waterfalls visiting Maui will make you feel like you’ve entered a dream.

Popular things to do in Maui

Visit Haleakala National park to hike, see pools and waterfalls, and climb a volcano
Sunbathe at the beaches, such as the beautiful Kapalua Beach and Kaanapali Beach
Check out all that the Hana Highway Region has to offer

4. Tahiti, French Polynesia

The largest island in French Polynesia is Tahiti, located between Australia and South America. Tahiti is shaped like the number eight and divided into two islands…

Tahiti Nui (Western Side)
Tahiti Iti (Eastern Side)

It’s famous for its black sand beaches, waterfalls, crystal clear lagoons, and volcanoes. When most people think of the holy grail of tropical destinations, Tahiti usually comes to mind.

Popular things to do in Tahiti

Check out James Norman’s Hall House
Learn about pearls at the Robert WAN Pearl Museum
Visit Fautaua Waterfall (One of the largest in the world)

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a French Polynesian island, located between Australia and South America. It’s surrounded by an incredible turquoise lagoon and coral reef, making it a popular destination for tropical lovers. It’s one of the most visited places amongst honeymooners because of it’s out of this world scenery and serenity.

Popular things to do in Bora Bora

Go on a lagoon snorkel tour
Sightseeing at Mount Otemanu
Swim with sharks and rays at the Lagoonarium

2. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is known for its volcanic mountains, rice fields, beaches, and of course, parties. It’s home to various religious sites and famous for its yoga/meditation retreats. It’s a great destination for those who like to do more than just relax on the beach. Oh, and not to mention it’s one of the cheapest tropical destinations in the world.

Popular things to do in Bali

Soak up the views at Sekumpul Waterfalls
Go to Penida Island and explore Diamond Beach
Visit the Instagram-worthy Tegalalang Rice Terrace

1. The Maldives

Number one on this list is the Maldives, a small island nation located in the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is known for its white-sand beaches, warm waters, and friendly locals. If you’re thinking about traveling here, check out our Maldives travel guide which goes over the best time to visit, transportation tips and more. Oh and not to mention their incredible underwater restaurant.

Besides it being mentioned by hundreds of our followers, it was the number one most searched destination on Google in the USA. If you’re looking for one of the most tropical places on earth, look no further.

Popular things to do in Maldives

Search for bioluminescent plankton
Stay in a gorgeous overwater bungalow
Sleep under the stars in a beach bubble tent

And there you have it, the best tropical destinations in the world. Hopefully, you got some new ideas for your upcoming trips! Safe travels.