When it comes to vacation planning, who wouldn’t want to relax on a beautiful island? There’s the sun, sand and most definitely smiles, whether from yourself or the locals. An island vacation doesn’t mean just lazing on the beach, doing nothing. We’ve rounded up some of what we think are the best islands where you can indulge in any activities you’d like, all while soaking up some precious vitamin D!
Seychelles, East Africa
Does this spot look familiar? The boulders of the Seychelles Islands are featured prominently and most desktops would have them as a display picture. The Seychelles is made up of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. In this particular picture, these are granite boulders at La Digue, one of the main islands of The Seychelles. This island hosts one of the rarest birds on Earth, the black paradise flycatcher. Additionally, time stands still here because lots of people still travel by ox-cart and bicycle. La Digue is wonderful for snorkelling and diving and its satellite islands are great for day trips. The archipelago is one of the oldest on the planet and also has the cleanest air so you can breathe easy on your holidays here.
Capri, Italy
With its towering natural arch, white limestone cliffs and hidden beaches, the island of Capri is one that’s not to be missed. It was already a retreat spot for Emperors Tiberius and Augustus, who wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of ancient Rome! Famous for the Blue Grotto, hop onto a wooden rowboat, lay back and enter a tiny portal to a cavern that’s lit by azure blue light where the water is crystalline blue and remember to take a video of your experience! Other than that, walk down Marina Grande (in the picture), the main port of Capri at the foot of Mount Solaro. This is also where those sailing to Capri by private boat can moor.
Kauai, Hawaii
In a list of best islands in the world, how can we not include Hawaii? Kauai island is also known as the Garden Island, famous for its myriad of landscapes which includes rivers, rainforests and waterfalls. Every picture you take on this island will be postcard worthy and would most definitely jazz up any Instagram feed. This is the island to be at if you and your travel buddies are adventure junkies. Go kayaking at Wailua River, snorkel on Poipu Beach or hike the trails of Kokee State Park and afterwards, relax in the laid-back little towns.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
There are 74 islands that make up the Whitsunday Islands and it’s located between the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia and the Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef is a huge stretch of coral that’s the Earth’s most extensive coral reef system. The most popular island to visit is Hamilton Island where you can check in at a high-end resort and book tours to include helicopter flights to see sights such as Heart Reef and the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach’s Hill Inlet.
Santorini, Greece
According to legend, this is where the fabled island of Atlantis was! Another screensaver staple with their iconic whitewashed buildings with blue domed roofs overlooking the Aegean Sea. Santorini has plenty of places to take pictures with centuries-old windmills, ancient ruins and colourful wooden fishing boats. We’d suggest staying at one of their boutique hotels in order to better explore their towns. Oia, which is pictured in the sunset snap above is one of the towns in Santorini and features whitewashed houses carved into the cliff tops and Oia Castle is known for its sunset views.
