Visit The World’s Best Islands According To Travel + Leisure Readers

With idyllic beaches and backed by waving palm trees, islands are renowned for an unforgettable escape from daily life. However, some are better than others according to readers voting in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for 2024. While the report reveals the top 25 Best Islands to Visit Around the World, here we look at the top 3 to consider for your next island vacation.

Travel + Leisure’s Best Islands to Visit Around the World

As part of Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for 2024, the magazine’s readers voted for what they consider to be the best islands around the globe. While many islands offer an escape to paradise with their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, some also feature a range of exciting activities, including everything from regional festivals and sampling local cuisine, to surfing and snorkeling adventures. According to T+L’s readers, these are the absolute tops for an idyllic island getaway.

In the survey, readers specifically rated the islands on the following criteria:

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

For each criterion, readers could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. Meanwhile, the top 3 islands include two that need little introduction for idyllic island getaways. The Maldives came in at No. 1, while Bali came in third place. No. 2 if an under-the-radar island in Vietnam, Phú Quoc, located in the Gulf of Thailand. Let’s take a brief look at these three Top Islands to Visit in the World according to Travel + Leisure readers.

 1. The Maldives

Nestling in the Indian Ocean, The Maldives consists of a string of 1,192 islands, with only 200 currently inhabited. Just thinking of this remarkable archipelago, brings luxurious overwater bungalows to mind with surrounding clear, turquoise waters. The Maldives hosts around 3 percent of the world’s reefs and its biodiversity makes it a popular snorkeling and scuba diving location.

One lover of scuba and snorkeling wrote that the “marine life there is beyond expectation.” Another noted that “the location is just as beautiful as every picture you have seen.” Yet another T+L reader simply wrote, “Paradise on Earth.” Meanwhile, the island features a reader score of 95.63.

2. Phú Quoc, Vietnam

Phú Quoc is located off the western coast of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand. While still relatively unknown, the island has gained popularity in recent years. This is an emerging tourism destination, which is its greatest strength for travelers. While many beaches in Southeast Asia are well-developed, Phú Quoc remains wonderfully tranquil and the perfect place to chill out.

However, while it might lack the amenities of other island locations, this doesn’t mean travelers can stay in luxurious accommodations. The island features the deluxe Regent Phú Quoc, with its pristine beach, a rooftop infinity pool and suites with private pools. Readers rated this island at 94.41.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is a volcanic paradise off Indonesia’s coast, renowned for its idyllic beaches and beautiful lush landscapes. Moreover, it is known for its vibrant culture and spiritual traditions. Bali’s rich heritage can be experienced in its traditional ceremonies, intricate dance performances and its ancient temples.

Meanwhile, readers also praised the Balinese people for their warm hospitality and the location for good value for money. Readers scored Bali at 93.26.

Explore the full list of the 25 Best Islands to Visit Around the World according to Travel + Leisure readers here and plan your next idyllic island getaway.