Best Tropical Island Vacations

Tropical islands are the ultimate escape, offering sunshine, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life. Having explored island destinations near and far, I’ve found that tropical getaways offer the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.

I’ve enjoyed peaceful beaches lined with palm trees, vibrant reefs filled with marine life, and cultural experiences that bring each island’s unique spirit to life. From romantic retreats to family-friendly adventures and outdoor exploration, tropical islands have something for every kind of traveler. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.

1. Soaking up serenity on Fitzroy Island, Australia

Fitzroy Island quickly became one of my favorite tropical island getaways, and I honestly think it’s one of the most underrated gems near Cairns, Australia. Just a 45-minute ferry ride from the mainland, it felt like stepping into a dream of turquoise waters, lush rainforest, and vibrant coral reefs.

I found the island to be the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. One moment I was snorkeling along the Great Barrier Reef, spotting colorful fish and sea turtles, and the next I was hiking through rainforest trails that opened up to spectacular lookout points.

What I loved most was how accessible yet hidden it felt. It’s close to Cairns, but once I arrived, it felt like my own private paradise. I thought this unusual balance made it one of the coolest spots in Queensland for a weekend escape.

I stayed at the island resort and loved the easygoing vibe. It wasn’t over-the-top luxury, but it was comfortable, affordable, and perfect for either a romantic getaway or a family trip. I especially enjoyed waking up to the sound of waves and walking right onto the beach.

Snorkeling at Nudey Beach (despite the cheeky name, it’s family-friendly) was one of my absolute best travel moments. It’s been voted Australia’s most beautiful beach, and I could see why—the sand was so white and the water so clear, it honestly felt magical.

Fitzroy Island is the kind of place that made me feel joyful, relaxed, and alive all at once. For me, it’s the best tropical island vacation I’ve had in Australia, and I’d go back in a heartbeat.

2. Island-Hop Through Paradise in the Bahamas

We discovered that the Bahamas is one of the most spectacular tropical getaways, and I honestly couldn’t believe how magical it felt to be surrounded by turquoise waters and endless white-sand beaches.

I loved how each island had its own character, while we enjoyed exploring both the lively and the hidden, underrated gems. Some places felt vibrant and exciting, and others felt like private, romantic escapes just for us.

We thought the snorkeling was the absolute best we’ve ever done. I was thrilled to spot sea turtles gliding by, while we both laughed at schools of colorful fish darting around the coral reefs.

I felt joyful every morning waking up to ocean views, while we made a routine of sipping coffee together on the balcony and planning another day of adventure. That balance of calm and excitement made the trip unforgettable.

We wandered through Nassau’s lively streets, and I loved tasting fresh conch fritters at the local stalls. It felt like such a cool and unusual way to experience the culture beyond the beaches.

I found myself completely relaxed watching sunsets, while we shared those moments hand in hand. For me, that was the most romantic part of the entire vacation.

We agreed that the Bahamas gave us the best of everything: adventure, relaxation, and vibrant culture. I would call it a dream destination, and we can’t wait to return to this brilliant island paradise.

3. Indulge in Dreamlike Tranquility in Bora Bora

We found Bora Bora to be one of the absolute best tropical islands in the world, and I honestly felt like I had stepped into a dream the moment our boat pulled up to the overwater bungalows.

I loved waking up to vibrant turquoise waters right outside my deck, while we jumped straight into the lagoon for a morning swim. It was such a unique and joyful way to start the day.

We agreed that the scenery was magical—the towering Mount Otemanu, the white-sand beaches, and the coral reefs all around made every moment feel like a postcard come to life.

I thought the snorkeling and diving were the coolest adventures. We swam with rays and colorful fish, and I kept thinking how underrated it is compared to other destinations—it really was an underwater paradise.

We spent afternoons kayaking across calm lagoons, and I found so much peace just drifting on the water, while we laughed and explored hidden corners of the island together.

I couldn’t get over how romantic the sunsets were. We watched the sky explode in shades of pink and gold, and we both agreed it was one of our favorite parts of the trip.

We enjoyed the mix of luxury and nature—our bungalow had every comfort, but I felt most alive when barefoot on the sand. For us, Bora Bora was the perfect balance of relaxation, excitement, and magic.

I can truly say this was one of the best vacations of my life, and we both left knowing we had experienced something exceptional and unforgettable.

4. Find Aloha Spirit on the Big Island of Hawaii

We found the Big Island of Hawaii to be one of the most exciting and unusual destinations we’ve ever visited. At some point, we lived there for 6 years which makes me a true local expert! I honestly think it’s one of the coolest tropical getaways in the world.

I loved that the island had so much variety—while we explored lush rainforests and black-sand beaches in the morning, we could be walking across dramatic lava fields by the afternoon. That contrast made every day feel like a new adventure.

We thought Volcanoes National Park was absolutely spectacular. I stood in awe watching steam vents and craters, while we both agreed it was one of the most unique experiences we’d ever had on a trip.

I also loved snorkeling with sea turtles at Kona’s beaches, while we shared laughs spotting vibrant fish darting past us. It was such a joyful and magical moment that felt straight out of a dream.

We drove along the coast and found hidden waterfalls tucked into the rainforest, and I couldn’t believe how underrated some of those spots were compared to the more famous attractions. It felt like discovering secret gems together.

I really enjoyed the vibrant local culture too—tasting Kona coffee, eating poke bowls, and listening to Hawaiian music in small towns. We both thought it added so much to the experience.

We agreed that the Big Island gave us the best mix of adventure, romance, and relaxation. I felt alive every day we were there, and we both left knowing this was one of our absolute favorite vacations yet.

5. Unwind in Chic Seclusion in Turks and Caicos

We found Turks and Caicos to be one of the most magical destinations we’ve ever traveled to, and I honestly think it’s one of the best tropical islands in the Caribbean.

I loved how Grace Bay Beach looked like something out of a dream, with powdery white sand and the clearest turquoise water I’ve ever seen, while we strolled hand in hand along the shoreline feeling completely at peace.

We agreed that the snorkeling here was absolutely spectacular. I couldn’t believe how vibrant the coral reefs were, and we laughed together as colorful fish and even a few stingrays swam right by us.

I felt joyful every morning waking up to views of the ocean, while we enjoyed long, lazy breakfasts overlooking the beach. That slow and relaxed rhythm was exactly what we needed.

We explored hidden cays by boat, and I thought it was the coolest adventure to find those underrated, secluded spots where we felt like the only two people in the world.

I loved the fresh seafood—especially the conch fritters and grilled lobster—while we both agreed that the local dining scene was a vibrant and unforgettable part of the trip.

We spent evenings watching fiery sunsets melt into the horizon, and I kept thinking how romantic it all felt, while we shared stories and laughter under the stars.

I can say without a doubt that Turks and Caicos was one of my favorite vacations, and we agreed it’s a gem we’d return to in a heartbeat for another spectacular getaway.

6. Belize: Reef Light & Jungle Quiet

We found Belize to be one of the most exciting and underrated tropical destinations, and I honestly felt like it was a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

I loved how the country offered such a cool mix of adventure and relaxation. While we lounged on dreamy Caribbean beaches one day, we could be exploring ancient Mayan ruins deep in the jungle the next.

We thought snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef was absolutely the best. I couldn’t believe how vibrant the corals were, and we swam side by side with nurse sharks, rays, and colorful fish—it felt magical and unforgettable.

I really enjoyed wandering through the vibrant local towns, while we tasted fry jacks, fresh seafood, and rich Belizean chocolate. We both agreed that the culture here was as joyful and unique as the landscapes.

We also had the coolest time exploring the ATM Cave, where I felt amazed by crystal formations and ancient artifacts. It was one of the most unusual and thrilling adventures I’ve ever had.

I loved the balance of rustic eco-lodges and romantic island resorts. We stayed in both, and we agreed it made the trip feel like two vacations in one—one adventurous, one purely relaxing.

We ended our days watching spectacular sunsets over the Caribbean Sea, and I kept thinking how brilliant it was to experience such diversity in one small country.

For me, Belize was the absolute best blend of nature, culture, and adventure, and we both can’t wait to go back to this tropical paradise.

7. Saint Kitts and Nevis: Mango Light & Island Ease

We found Saint Kitts and Nevis to be one of the most underrated gems in the Caribbean, and I honestly felt like we had discovered a dream destination that blended relaxation with adventure in the coolest way.

I loved how Saint Kitts had such vibrant energy, from the bustling capital of Basseterre to the scenic train ride around the island. We both thought it was one of the most unusual and fun ways to see stunning beaches, rolling hills, and old sugar plantations.

We agreed that Nevis, with its quiet charm, was the absolute best for romance. I felt joyful walking through the charming streets of Charlestown, while we both loved the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals who made us feel right at home.

I thought climbing Mount Liamuiga on Saint Kitts was one of the coolest adventures of the trip. We hiked through lush rainforest together, and when we reached the top, we were rewarded with spectacular views that felt magical.

We spent lazy afternoons on Pinney’s Beach, where I felt completely at peace, while we sipped rum punch and watched the waves roll in. It was easily one of our favorite beach days ever.

I loved the history scattered across both islands, from Brimstone Hill Fortress to old plantation estates. We thought it gave our trip an unusual mix of culture and relaxation.

We ended every evening with fiery sunsets that painted the sky in brilliant colors, and I kept thinking how romantic and exceptional the islands felt. For me, Saint Kitts and Nevis were the best kind of hidden paradise, and we can’t wait to return.

8. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

We found Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic to be one of the absolute best tropical getaways, and I honestly felt like it was the perfect mix of relaxation, fun, and romance.

I loved how the beaches stretched for miles, with soft white sand and vibrant turquoise waters. We both thought Bavaro Beach was spectacular, and walking hand in hand along the shore quickly became one of our favorite daily rituals.

We agreed that the all-inclusive resorts here made everything feel easy and joyful. I loved waking up to ocean views, while we enjoyed long breakfasts, poolside cocktails, and endless opportunities for adventure right at our doorstep.

I thought the snorkeling and boat trips were the coolest experiences. We swam together over coral reefs and even found hidden sandbars where the water was so shallow and clear it felt magical.

We had so much fun exploring beyond the beach too. I loved visiting the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, while we both enjoyed discovering waterfalls and lush tropical forests that felt like underrated treasures.

I couldn’t get enough of the lively culture—the music, the dancing, and the flavorful Dominican food. We thought tasting fresh seafood and sipping rum cocktails under the stars was one of the most romantic parts of the trip.

We ended our days with fiery Caribbean sunsets, and I kept thinking how lucky we were to share such a dream destination. For me, Punta Cana was an exceptional mix of adventure and relaxation, and we both agreed it was one of our coolest and most memorable vacations yet.

9. Bali, Indonesia: Temples, Rice Fields & Soulful Stillness

We found Bali, Indonesia to be one of the most vibrant and magical tropical islands we’ve ever visited, and I honestly felt like every day brought a new and exciting adventure.

I loved how the island offered such a unique blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. While we lounged on hidden beaches, we also explored ancient temples and lively markets that made Bali feel both romantic and alive.

We agreed that Ubud was the absolute best for its serene rice terraces and spiritual vibe. I felt so peaceful wandering through the lush greenery, while we enjoyed yoga classes and traditional Balinese spa treatments that felt like pure joy.

I thought the waterfalls scattered across the island were some of the coolest and most underrated gems. We hiked together to hidden cascades, and I couldn’t stop smiling as we swam beneath the refreshing falls.

We spent evenings in Seminyak watching fiery sunsets over the ocean, and I loved how the beach clubs mixed lively energy with a romantic backdrop. It quickly became one of our favorite ways to end the day.

I really enjoyed the flavorful local food—from nasi goreng to fresh satay—while we both agreed that every meal was a delicious adventure in itself. Sharing plates in small warungs made us feel like locals.

We also loved the vibrant coral reefs around the Gili Islands, and I thought snorkeling there was one of the most magical parts of the trip. For me, Bali was the perfect mix of excitement and tranquility, and we both can’t wait to return to this dream destination.

10. Float in Luxury in the Maldives

We found the Maldives to be one of the most spectacular tropical destinations in the world, and I honestly felt like I had stepped straight into a dream the moment we arrived by speedboat over the crystal-clear waters.

I loved waking up in our overwater villa, while we both laughed at the fact that we could jump right from our deck into the vibrant turquoise lagoon. That was one of the coolest and most joyful experiences I’ve ever had on vacation.

We agreed that snorkeling and diving in the Maldives was absolutely the best. I couldn’t believe how magical it felt to swim alongside manta rays, reef sharks, and colorful fish while coral gardens stretched endlessly beneath us.

I thought the sunsets here were the most romantic I’d ever seen. We sipped cocktails together on the beach, while the sky shifted into fiery shades of pink, orange, and gold—it was pure magic.

We enjoyed the vibrant local culture too. I loved tasting fresh Maldivian curries and exploring tiny islands, while we both agreed that discovering the quieter, underrated atolls was a brilliant idea for escaping the crowds.

I also loved how the Maldives struck the perfect balance between luxury and nature. We had every modern comfort in our villa, but I felt most alive walking barefoot across soft sand with nothing but the sound of waves around us.

We both agreed that the Maldives was one of the absolute best vacations of our lives—romantic, exciting, and unforgettable. I left feeling grateful for every spectacular moment, and we can’t wait to return to this gem of the Indian Ocean.

Conclusion

We agreed that every one of these destinations offered its own unique version of paradise. I loved how each trip gave me unforgettable memories, while we both found joy in discovering the coolest beaches, exciting adventures, and most romantic sunsets around the world. For us, the best tropical vacations are about more than just palm trees and turquoise waters—they’re about the vibrant culture, the unusual experiences, and those joyful moments we share together. I can honestly say that whether it’s the Caribbean, the Pacific, or Southeast Asia, we’ve found some of the world’s absolute best hidden gems, and we can’t wait to keep exploring more tropical escapes that feel magical, affordable, and truly unforgettable.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and I'm eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to places of mystery. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.

 

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