Dreaming of sun-soaked shores, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant island vibes? Whether you’re planning a relaxing escape or an adventurous getaway, the world’s tropical destinations offer some of the most breathtaking beach vacations imaginable. We’ve curated 13 stunning tropical spots that combine pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and unforgettable experiences, perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore, and soak up the beauty of paradise. Get ready to discover your next dream beach destination.
1. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is definitely in the running for the most beautiful island paradise in the world and one of the top vacation destinations for a tropical getaway. You can reach the island in just under an hour’s flight from the main island of Tahiti. When you see the beautiful turquoise waters and swaying palm trees, you’ll know you’re in the right spot for serious relaxation. Bora Bora is lush and tropical with perfect white-sand beaches and emerald waters teaming with colorful fish.
2. Phuket, Thailand
Spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets, and warm blue sea surround the island of Phuket, in Thailand, one of the most popular beach destinations in the world. You’ll find a range of experiences and accommodations to fit your budget in Thailand – the prices are also some of the most affordable in the world. Vibrant nightlife and partying carries on in Patong Beach, while remote romantic hideaways can be found not far away. Explore outlying islands like Ko Phi Phi, made popular by the movie The Beach, or relax in high class at one of the ultra-plush all-inclusive resorts that line the coast
3. Fiji Islands
In the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji, famous for its white sand exotic beaches, crystal clear waters, and unspoiled natural environment, is made up of more than 300 small islands. The perennial favorites are the Mamanuca and Yasawa island groups, just north of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. There you will find a kind of paradise you can’t find anywhere else. Snorkeling and diving, relaxing in the shade of a palm tree, and feeling the soft sea air drift by while sipping on a fruity umbrella drink — it’s heavenly.
4. The Maldives
The Maldives, located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, are one of the world’s most celebrated tropical havens. Here is where you’ll find unrivaled luxury, where every resort is its own private island, and where prestigious luxury brands compete to provide the most indulgent luxury you’ll find in the world. There are more than 1200 islands in the Maldives, and many of them have a resort with an incredibly beautiful, powder-soft beach. One of the top activities in the Maldives is diving, and you can imagine why.
5. Seychelles
Made up of 115 islands spread through the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is a dreamlike setting with stunning beaches. There are three main islands — Praslin, La Digue and Mahé — plus a plethora of smaller, outlying islands to visit and each has its own character. The beautiful beaches here are the best in the world, backed by lush tropical jungle and lapped by crystal-clear waters. The rock formations are massive and smoothed by time.
6. The Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Located off the coast of Queensland, these islands offer some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the famous Whitehaven Beach, known for its brilliant white silica sand and clear blue waters.
7. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Rich in culture and history, Zanzibar features stunning beaches with soft white sand and warm Indian Ocean waters. It’s also a great place to explore spice plantations and vibrant local markets.
8. Palawan, Philippines
Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and hidden beaches, Palawan is a nature lover’s dream. The islands of El Nido and Coron offer exceptional snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping adventures.
9. Grand Cayman
Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman Island is a long crescent of coral sand beach on the western end of the island. It’s one of the clearest and bluest stretches of water you’ll ever see. Seven Mile Beach is known for its incredible beauty, and even though it’s not exactly seven miles (more like 4.5), vacationers flock to its developed coastline in troves. You can spend your days lounging at a resort right on the beach, go to nearby Stingray Island to swim with the stingrays, or go snorkeling with the turtles.
10. St. Lucia, Caribbean
Home to many alluring features, like the towering and dramatic Piton mountains, volcanic beaches, and rainforest waterfalls, it’s no wonder St. Lucia makes it onto the list of most incredible beach destinations, and it is a beautiful Caribbean island. It’s also home to one of the most talked about and high-end hotels, the Jade Mountain Resort. St. Lucia really has it all. The views are second to none. It has volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts, and fishing villages.
11. Santorini, Greece
One of the Cyclades islands, Santorini’s distinctive beauty has been captured on film and in paintings. Its submerged caldera, towering cliffs, whitewashed buildings and romantic beaches rejuvenate your senses and put you in the mood for love. The Red Beach of Santorini is unlike any other in the world. Its mesmerizing red cliffs and dark red sand look striking against the blue waters. The town of Oia is one of the most iconic and beautiful locations on the island. It is where all the incredible mountainside photo are taken that you’ve been drooling over.
12. Turks and Caicos Islands
If you’re looking for miles of tropical beach that seem to stretch into the skyline, beautiful lush gardens and tropical landscapes that will mesmerize you, then Turks and Caicos should be on your radar. There are 40 islands in total, though only eight of them are inhabited. If you’re a diver, you may already know that the longest reef in the world can be found here. It’s the ultimate dive destination for snorkelers and scuba enthusiasts with a 14-mile barrier reef on Provo’s north shore and a dramatic 2,134-meter underwater wall off Grand Turk island.
13. Mayan Riviera, Mexico
While this is not a tropical island, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in central America, so it made the list anyway. Located on the northeast corner of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, the Mayan Riviera offers stunning Caribbean views, powder-fine sand, warm azur water to swim in and some of the best all-inclusive beach resorts in the world. You’ll find incredible snorkeling and diving just off the coastline, and a plethora of adventure sports and activities, not to mention a very active nightlife.
14. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is perpetually at the top of the list as a honeymoon spot, because of the amazing views of volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches, and coral reefs. To the south, the beach city of Kuta has exciting bars and nightlife, while Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua are the most popular resort towns, where you’ll find incredible villas with private pools, spas, and private beach huts for long, lazy days.
15. Moorea, French Polynesia
Moorea is a lush island located just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, often considered a quieter, more relaxed alternative to the famous Bora Bora. Its dramatic volcanic peaks rise sharply from crystal-clear lagoons, creating breathtaking scenery that’s perfect for hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking.
16. Phi Phi Island, Thailand
Phi Phi Island is one of Thailand’s most iconic tropical destinations, renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Made famous by its appearance in the film The Beach, the island offers breathtaking beaches like Maya Bay, secluded coves, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Despite its popularity, Phi Phi still retains a laid-back island vibe with lively beach bars, local markets, and friendly communities.
17. Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras and is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. This island offers world-class diving and snorkeling, with colorful marine life and underwater caves to explore. Beyond the water, Roatán has a laid-back Caribbean vibe, with charming beach towns, local markets, and opportunities for zip-lining and exploring tropical forests.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.