“In the eyes of Travel + Leisure readers, the best islands in the world promise much more than aquamarine waters, dramatic coastlines, and pristine beaches. All are evidence that we are not only enthusiastically exploring again but re-examining what an ideal island experience might entail,” writes Travel + Leisure on July 12, 2022.

It goes on to explain that in its annual “World’s Best Awards” survey it asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe by sharing their opinions on the world’s top destinations:

In this survey centered on islands, “readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. The majority of the most popular islands offer crystalline sands and thriving marine life that can be explored by divers of any level. Cases in point: the Maldives (No. 2), Bali in Indonesia (No. 3), or Thailand’s Phuket (No. 7). Readers also flocked to isles with rich culture and food, from the ancient ruins and unsurpassable food of Mílos, Greece (No. 4) to nightlife on Ibiza, Spain (No. 17).”

Travel + Leisure’s Top 25 Islands in the World in Order of Popularity

1.  Ischia, Italy
2. Maldives
3. Bali, Indonesia
4. Milos, Greece
5. Fiji Islands
6. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
7. Phuket, Thailand
8. Dominica
9. Boracay, Philippines
10. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
11. Palawan, Philippines
12. Paros, Greece
13. Azores, Portugal
14. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
15. Moorea, French Polynesia
16. Cebu, Philippines
17. Ibiza, Spain
18. St. Vincent and the Grenadines
19. Madeira, Portugal
20. Maui, Hawaii
21.  Anguilla
22. Crete, Greece
23. Mackinac Island, Michigan
24. Island of Hawaii
25. Kiawah Island, South Carolina