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Islands often promise travelers an escape to paradise. Yes, the pristine beaches and clear waters make for an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation — but these destinations below can also host a range of exciting activities, from surfing and snorkeling to attending regional festivals and sampling local cuisine.

How Voting Works

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Islands were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Natural attractions/beaches
• Activities/sights
• Restaurants/food
• People/friendliness
• Value

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

The Full List

1 . Maldives

EVGENIYA VLASOVA/TRAVEL + LEISURE

In the Indian Ocean, along the equator, sits a string of 1,192 islands (of which only 200 are currently inhabited): The Maldives. Its name alone conjures visuals of luxurious overwater bungalows and emerald waters. One T+L reader wrote that “the location is just as beautiful as every picture you have seen.” Another raved that the “marine life there is beyond expectation.” (The Maldives is home to roughly three percent of the planet’s reefs and its biodiversity makes it a top snorkeling and diving destination.) The resounding sentiment was summed up by one enthusiastic reader’s three words: “Paradise on Earth.”

Reader Score: 95.63

2. Phú Quốc, Vietnam

@ DIDIER MARTI/GETTY IMAGES

Phú Quốc, off the western coast of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand, is an emerging tourism destination — and that's its greatest strength. While several beaches in Southeast Asia are developed, Phú Quốc maintains an understated tranquility. But that doesn’t mean you can’t stay in luxe accommodations: the island’s most indulgent hotel is Regent Phu Quoc, which has a rooftop infinity pool and suites with private pools.

Reader Score: 94.41

3. Bali, Indonesia

DANIEL GOROSTIETA/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Called the “Island of the Gods,” Bali’s rich heritage can be experienced through its traditional ceremonies, old temples, and intricate dance performances. T+L readers echoed praises for the Balinese people and the value for money, with one reader summing it up well: “Great beach, great food, good hospitality.”

Reader Score: 93.26

4. Milos, Greece

AMANDA BLACKARD/TRAVEL + LEISURE

The Greek island of Milos is home to dramatic rock formations like Sarakiniko Beach, which boasts a moon-like landscape thanks to its volcanic pumice formations. There’s plenty of adventure for thrillseekers, like exploring submarine caves and sea tunnels, but this Cycladic Isle is also rich in history, with ancient ruins like the Catacombs of Milos and the Ancient Theater of Milos.

Reader Score: 93.08

5. Dominica

GYDYT0JAS/GETTY IMAGES

Dominica entices travelers with unspoiled natural beauty and eco-adventures. The island is nicknamed “Nature Island” for its dense rain forests, volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and black-sand beaches. The underwater world also attracts scuba divers and snorkelers, with healthy, vividly-colorful coral reefs, marine life, and volcanic formations.

Reader Score: 92.47

6. Crete, Greece

GAUTIER HOUBA/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Go to Greece's largest island if you want stunning beaches like Balos Lagoon, which boasts out-of-this-world blue waters, or Elafonisi Beach, an iconic pink-sand beach. Or, visit ancient Minoan ruins like the Palace of Knossos or walk through Chania’s Old Town to see Turkish and Venetian architecture. Outdoor lovers can hike the Samaria Gorge, which takes travelers through Crete's White Mountains. According to one T+L reader, the people of Crete were “so friendly and helpful to travelers.”

Reader Score: 92.38

7. Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

CHRISTOPHER LARSON/TRAVEL + LEISURE

For an adventure in the Med, look no further than Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands. Hvar’s old town, often called the “Queen of the Dalmatian Islands,” has quaint squares, centuries-old edifices, and a medieval fortress that overlooks the Adriatic Sea. A vibrant nightlife adds to the unforgettable experience.

Reader Score: 91.53

8. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

NODRAMALLAMA/GETTY IMAGES

Readers love this South American destination for the chance to see an unparalleled diversity of wildlife in their natural habitat, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. Exploring the volcanic archipelago allows travelers to learn about the evolutionary adaptations that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection — paired with fun day trips like snorkeling or observing rare birds. One T+L reader described these islands as “an archipelago that makes science fun.” Another said, “These islands are beautiful and a ‘must’ for all lovers of nature.”

Reader Score: 91.26

9. Koh Samui, Thailand

LKUNL/GETTY IMAGES

Koh Samui is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes, offering the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Travelers can indulge in luxury beachfront resorts, savor delicious Thai cuisine, and experience the island's vibrant nightlife. With opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring nearby islands, Koh Samui also offers adventure in the tropical paradise. One T+L reader applauded the island’s “beautiful beach and nightlife” while another raved about the island’s “excellent value.”

Reader Score: 91.03

10. Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia

NICKY DOWLING/GETTY IMAGES

Arguably Australia’s most famous landmark, this reef — last year’s No. 1 island in the world — is the world's largest coral reef system. It stretches 1,400 miles off Australia’s northeastern coast, home to a stunning array of marine life (tropical fish, sharks, dolphins, and more) that creates a world-class snorkeling and diving destination.

Reader Score: 90.99

(Citation: https://www.travelandleisure.com/wba-2024-islands-world-8658530)