Breathtaking Islands – I’ve always believed that a perfect beach vacation can reset your soul—there’s something magical about the ocean, the sand, and the calm that comes with being by the water. But not all beaches are created equal. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit some truly stunning islands, each offering something a little different. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure, or just a peaceful spot to unwind, there’s an island out there for you. Let me walk you through five of the most breathtaking islands I’ve visited for a beach vacation—and hopefully, one of these will spark your wanderlust.
5 Breathtaking Islands for Your Next Beach Vacation
1. Palawan, Philippines – Where Paradise Meets Adventure
Palawan is one of those places that feels too beautiful to be real. I’ll never forget the first time I stepped onto the white sands of El Nido and saw the towering limestone cliffs that seem to rise out of the turquoise water. If you’ve ever seen those iconic photos of secluded lagoons with crystal-clear water, this is it. And yes, it looks exactly like that in person!
For a beach vacation, Palawan is perfect if you’re someone who likes a mix of relaxation and adventure. I spent my days island-hopping, swimming in lagoons, and hiking to secluded beaches. A big tip here: make sure to go on a private island-hopping tour to see spots like the Secret Lagoon and Big Lagoon—getting there early in the day means fewer crowds, and trust me, you’ll want those pristine photos without a bunch of strangers in the background. One thing I didn’t expect? The food! The fresh seafood is next-level. If you love a good fish taco or grilled shrimp, you’re going to be in heaven.
But here’s the thing—I’ve made the mistake of booking a tour on the wrong day. This was a lesson learned: check the weather forecast first! I went on a tour during the rainy season and got stuck on a boat for hours because of a storm. So, lesson learned: always look up the weather first and book during dry season for the best experience.
2. Maui, Hawaii – The Island That Has It All
Maui is the place to be if you’re someone who wants variety in their beach vacation. From the lush, green Hana coastline to the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park, this island has it all. I visited Maui last summer, and I was blown away by how diverse the beaches are. On one side, you have calm, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing, and on the other, you’ve got big waves great for surfing and kiteboarding.
A must-do is the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park. You’ll be up before dawn (set an alarm for at least 3:30 AM, yikes), but trust me, the view of the sun rising over the crater is worth every second of lost sleep. The colors in the sky were unlike anything I’ve ever seen. However, the weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all kinds of conditions. Bring layers, especially if you’re heading up the mountain!
As far as beach time goes, one of my favorite spots was Makena Beach (also known as Big Beach). The sand is so soft, and the water is warm and inviting. A note of caution, though: there are strong rip currents, so be sure to swim with care or stick to the calmer waters at nearby beaches like Kamaole.
3. Seychelles – A Remote, Luxurious Escape
I’ll be honest: I didn’t know much about Seychelles before I visited, and now I can’t stop raving about it. If you’re dreaming of a luxurious, secluded escape with stunning beaches and a sense of exclusivity, Seychelles should be high on your list. Located in the Indian Ocean, it’s a group of islands with some of the most pristine beaches I’ve ever seen—think powdery white sand and waters so clear you’ll think you’re swimming in a pool.
The thing that stood out most to me in Seychelles was how quiet and untouched everything felt. You can find spots where you’ll have a beach entirely to yourself, which is rare in today’s world. I stayed at a private resort on Mahé Island, and they arranged for me to do a day trip to Praslin Island. The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin is where I hiked through thick forests and saw giant coco de mer palms—truly an otherworldly experience.
One piece of advice: If you’re planning to explore the islands on your own, be prepared for the steep costs. The resorts here are luxurious but not cheap, so it’s important to budget accordingly. That said, it was totally worth it for the quiet, peaceful experience.
4. Bora Bora, French Polynesia – The Ultimate Romantic Getaway
If you’re thinking about a romantic beach getaway, Bora Bora is basically the gold standard. I’ve visited a few times now, and it’s just as magical as people say. With overwater bungalows, crystal-clear lagoons, and the looming presence of Mount Otemanu in the background, everything about Bora Bora screams “paradise.”
What makes this place extra special is the intimacy of the resorts. My partner and I stayed in an overwater bungalow, and it was the kind of place where you wake up to the sound of waves crashing underneath you. It felt like we were the only people on the planet. I loved doing nothing but lounging in the sun, enjoying fresh coconut water, and swimming with stingrays and sharks in the lagoon. It’s one of those destinations where you can truly disconnect from everything and focus on just being with each other.
If you’re going, though, don’t make the same mistake I did and forget to plan your meals! Bora Bora is not cheap, and while there are some great restaurants, they can be pricey. So, look into meal packages at your resort to help save some cash. Also, don’t miss the sunset cruise—it’s one of those bucket-list experiences where you feel like you’re in a dream.
5. The Maldives – A Beach Lover’s Dream Come True
Finally, if you’re looking for the ultimate “I need a break from the real world” spot, The Maldives is it. Honestly, if you’ve ever Googled “beautiful beach destinations,” you’ve probably seen these islands pop up—and for good reason. The Maldives is a place where you can truly escape. With its overwater villas, private beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s hard to find a more idyllic spot to unwind.
One thing I learned about the Maldives is that it’s not all about just chilling on the beach (though you can totally do that). The snorkeling and diving here are out of this world. The fish are so colorful, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a manta ray or sea turtle. But, just like Bora Bora, the Maldives isn’t cheap. Everything from food to activities can add up fast, so it’s a good idea to book packages ahead of time to manage costs.
My advice: If you’re going for a honeymoon or special occasion, splurge a little on the overwater villa. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best island for your beach vacation depends on what you’re looking for. Whether you want adventure, luxury, or total seclusion, there’s an island for you. Just be sure to plan ahead, especially for places like Seychelles or Bora Bora where costs can surprise you. And remember, the best experiences are often the ones you least expect. Wherever you go, enjoy the magic of the islands and let the beach be your happy place!
