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Best island holidays

From Menorca to the Maldives, find out which island should make your next-to-visit list. 
Homebirds can ramp up the relaxation on an island escape to the Balearics, while idyllic spots like the Maldives or the Caribbean should top your list if you fancy going far-flung. Whatever the verdict, we know that island holidays are a big hit with holiday hunters, so we’ve rounded up our favourites across the globe. Take a look and see which one matches your vibes…

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1. Canary Islands

These islands are a year-round favourite, thanks to their always-sunny climate. So, whether you’re after a summer escape or a dose of winter sun, the Canary Islands have you covered. If you’re all about the beaches, book a break to Fuerteventura or Gran Canaria for golden stretches and sandy dunes. For camera-ready volcanic landscapes, choose between Tenerife and Lanzarote. Tenerife’s Mount Teide is right in the centre of the island, and Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park sprawls over the isle’s west coast. And, if you’re looking for a sleepy set-up, La Gomera and La Palma are your best bet. Plus, La Palma offers some of the best stargazing spots worldwide. Pretty cool, right?

Find out more about holidays to the Canary Islands.
Golden sand beach, Fuerteventura.

2. The Maldives

When it comes to idyllic escapes to tiny islands, the Maldives tops the list. You’ll find this chain of islets – around 2,000 – in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives might have earned a well-deserved reputation with honeymooners, but it’s a great destination to bring your family for a trip. Thanks to the coral reefs that ring most of these islands, the scuba diving’s legendary. If you’d prefer to stay above the water – literally – book a stay at one of the iconic water villas, which perch on stilts above the waves.

Find out more about holidays to the Maldives.
Aerial view of beach and water villas at sunset.

3. Balearic Islands

The best bit about holidays to the Balearic Islands is how easy it is to get to them. White sand and blue seas are just a couple of hours’ flight away. You’ve got a trio of islands to choose from. First up, there’s Ibiza. This iconic island’s all about wellness by day and neon-lit nightlife after dark. Want something quieter? Majorca’s the biggest island of the lot. Its beaches range from shell-shaped coves to supersized sweeps of sand. And Menorca’s sleepy vibes make it the perfect spot for a chilled-out break.

Find out more about holidays to the Balearic Islands.
View of the boats in the ocean in Menorca.

4. Greek Islands 

Greece’s islands make up the majority of the country’s holiday hall of fame. You’ve got everything from huge names like Rhodes and Crete to hidden gems like Samos and Kefalonia. They’ve all got something in common – a standout selection of beaches to kick back on. Plus, in classic Grecian style, you can expect historical sights around every corner. The Ancient Greeks certainly left their mark on these islands, so if you fancy a break from the sand, you can get your history-buff hat on.

Find out more about holidays to Greece.
View of Rethimno, Crete.

5. Mauritius 

From its kaleidoscopic coral reefs to its lush greenery, holidays to Mauritius are a colourful affair. As well as its easy-on-the-eye scenery, there’s tonnes to keep you busy on your holiday. Grab your snorkel and dip beneath the clear waters to check out the reefs at Belle Mare, or hike over the volcanic landscapes of Black River Gorges National Park. But Mauritius’ best bit has to be its beaches – all 330 kilometres of them. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to make the most of them. Our picks? Sandy Balaclava Bay – a scoop of coastline dashed with ivory-coloured swathes – or Calodyne, for footprint-free stretches.

Find out more about holidays to Mauritius.
Aerial view over the beac and colourful houses.

6. Caribbean Islands 

Last, but certainly not least, you’ve got the Caribbean Islands. These white-sand spots practically invented island holidays, and they’ve definitely got them down to a fine art. We’re talking chilled-out vibes, tropical coastlines and a world-class line-up of beaches. You’ve got lots of options when it comes to which island to pick, from big names like St Lucia to lesser-known spots like St Kitts. But whichever island you opt for, you’re in for a holiday filled with long, lazy days on sandy beaches and cooling dips in turquoise waters.

Find out more about holidays to the Caribbean.
Browse our full range of destinations.

Or, take things up a notch with our favourite private island holidays. Plus, check out our best beach holiday destinations and our top holidays for families.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Hannah Stratton and Conor Braniff

Last updated: 20.02.2025

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