The World's Best Islands in 2026
Thailand's Koh Samui is currently the best island to visit, followed by the Maldives.
From sun-drenched coastlines and dense tropical forests to extraordinary wildlife and fascinating cultural traditions, the world’s finest islands continue to attract travelers in search of memorable adventures and relaxing escapes.
According to Travel + Leisure, the best islands for 2026 span a remarkable range of destinations across Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Pacific, the Caribbean, and Africa. Each island offers a distinctive combination of scenery, culture, activities, and atmosphere.
At the top of the ranking is Koh Samui, Thailand’s renowned island in the Gulf of Thailand. With its coconut-lined beaches, upscale resorts, energetic nightlife, and peaceful Buddhist temples, Koh Samui provides an appealing combination of relaxation and excitement. It remains especially popular with honeymooners, families, and independent travelers.
The Maldives continues to rank among the world’s most desirable tropical getaways. Famous for its turquoise lagoons, luxurious overwater villas, and vibrant coral reefs, the island nation offers spectacular marine environments alongside high-end accommodations that draw visitors from all corners of the globe.
For a completely different experience, the Galápagos Islands of South America are celebrated for their exceptional wildlife and biodiversity. These volcanic islands allow travelers to encounter remarkable species such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, many of which are found nowhere else.
Bali, Indonesia, remains a perennial favorite, combining beautiful beaches, emerald rice terraces, flourishing arts and crafts, and centuries-old spiritual traditions. From visiting historic temples to riding some of the island’s famous waves, Bali offers an impressive variety of experiences.
Thailand’s Phuket also features among the world’s leading islands, offering scenic beaches, bustling markets, sophisticated resorts, boat excursions, and the distinctive flavors of Thai cuisine.
In the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles captivates visitors with powdery white beaches, enormous granite formations, and protected natural areas. Fiji, meanwhile, offers crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, friendly local culture, and hundreds of picturesque islands.
Sri Lanka is particularly appealing for travelers seeking variety, with tropical beaches, historic temples, lush tea-growing regions, and wildlife-rich national parks all accessible within one trip. In the Caribbean, Dominica attracts adventurous visitors with volcanic scenery, dramatic waterfalls, rainforest trails, and excellent diving.
Completing the selection is Zanzibar, Tanzania’s captivating island destination. Its sandy beaches, clear blue waters, fragrant spice plantations, and historic Stone Town combine natural beauty with a rich cultural legacy.
Together, these ten destinations showcase some of the most remarkable island experiences available in 2026, bringing together breathtaking scenery, distinctive traditions, diverse activities, and unforgettable journeys that continue to fuel travelers’ desire to explore the world.