Want to really escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Want to avoid the traffic, the crowds and the noise? On those busy days, we just want to escape to some faraway paradise. Those Instagrammable places with pristine beaches and turquoise waters sound pretty perfect. How can you possibly choose the perfect island for your getaway? There are so many sun-drenched, idyllic places to choose from! Let us help you choose amongst the world’s best islands!
Kick back and relax at the stunning, untouched beaches, and admire the beautiful greenery. These places look like something off of a postcard – but trust us, they’re real! No matter what you plan to do on your vacation – adventuring or taking time out – we have the perfect destinations for you!
Bali
The beautiful island of Bali has made the list thanks to its idyllic coastlines. Turquoise waters – check, sandy shores – check, beautiful weather – check! What is there not to love? Each beach has its own charm, and is surrounded with lush green forests and vegetation. This is why it has made so many of our bucket lists – it’s a spot you just have to visit in your lifetime!
One of the best beaches in Bali is Amed Beach, situated on the northeastern coast. The black-sand makes this spot truly unique, and its turquoise waters are the perfect place to take part in water sports. You can enjoy diving and snorkeling in the depths of the picturesque waters. There is plenty to do for adrenaline junkies! Jimbaran Bay is another favorite amongst tourists and locals. Situated on the south coast, it is the ideal place to eat by the shore. Enjoy the restaurants that line its golden shores, and you can dine on the beach! You will feel like you’re in a movie, and you’ll not want to go home!
As well as the scenic views, Bali is the home to divine luxury resorts. The Bulgari Resort and Hotel combines Italian style and traditional local design – it is a spectacular sight to behold! The naturally-colored pool just adds to its natural beauty and blends in beautifully with the surroundings.
Santorini
Fall in love with Santorini! It is one of the world’s best islands thanks to its romantic atmosphere. We love its phenomenal sunsets, overlooking the Mediterranean sea and the towering mountains. The sun seems to drop into the sea and makes for a jaw-dropping view. We can imagine sipping on a glass of wine while overlooking the breathtaking sunset. This is one of the reasons why tourists flock here.
The volcanic beaches are another reason to choose this stunning island as your next destination. The Greek island boasts beaches with their own individual charm. Kamari Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, and is renowned for its unique black sand and pebbles. The town is a family-friendly town on the east coast of the island. Its relaxed and easy-going vibe makes it the perfect place to escape to. Its long promenade creates a pleasant stroll for you and your travel companions. You can also find a snorkeling school here should you wish to brush up on your water sports skills!
Its uncommon blue-domed churches are another sight you have to see! If you’ve seen any photos, then you’ll know what we’re talking about! If there’s a church to see in particular, it’s the island’s largest church – the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral. It dominates the center of Fira and can be seen for miles.
Bora Bora
You may have seen Bora Bora on your Instagram feed – its magnificent views have made it a hotspot for influencers, as well as tourists! It is known as a very romantic destination, with newlyweds often choosing it for their honeymoons. It is known as the jewel of French Polynesia, with unique and idyllic landscapes to be admired.
Now an extinct volcano, Bora Bora sits amidst a lagoon that glistens in various tones of blue. Also, it is known as a garden of Eden. You can’t help but feel relaxed once you get here! Its sea life is to be acknowledged – go snorkeling in the turquoise waters and see for yourself! See a wide variety of colorful fish, and you can even see sea turtles! There’s nothing quite like it!
Additionnally the island boasts some of the most luxurious resorts in the world. Stay in your very own water bungalows overlooking the pristine blue waters. Four Seasons at Bora Bora is one of the most spectacular stays you’ll ever have! Enjoy your very own plunge pool while making the most of the divine weather. The spa is the perfect way to unwind after a long day in the heat. Feel pampered thanks to their massages, and even give yourself a new look by visiting their hair stylist.
The Polynesian people are extremely welcoming! Hear the sounds of ukuleles while you enjoy the best of Polynesian hospitality. If you have any questions, the locals are ready to help you, and always with a smile on their faces! Everyone’s relaxed and happy, and you’ll get into the Polynesian way of life quickly!
Mallorca
The island of Mallorca is one of the favorites amongst the Spanish Balearic Islands. Its incredible beaches and variety of landscapes make this one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world. It boasts impressive cliffs and turquoise waters, giving you the best of both worlds. Its limestone mountains and secluded coves give it a mysterious yet magical feel, and will make your getaway special! Although it is known as a party spot, it is so much more than that. It’s not just the nightlife that’s vibrant!
Mallorca has 262 beaches, so you will have plenty of choice on where to spend your day when the temperatures rise. If you’re traveling as a family, then Alcudia Beach is the perfect place for you! The water is shallow and the atmosphere is calm, so it’s ideal for bringing the little ones along for a paddle in the sea! Es Calo des Moro Beach in southern Mallorca is owned by a private foundation, explaining its unspoilt environment. Though it’s a bit of a climb down, once you reach the sandy shores, it will have been worth the wait!
While you’re on the beautiful island, discover the capital city of Palma. Palma de Mallorca has a strong historic and cultural identity. If you love discovering ancient architecture, then this is the place to go! You can explore ancient castle ruins, cathedrals, churches and monasteries.
Capri
The Italian island of Capri is one of the world’s best! The romantic atmosphere and seaside views make you feel like you’ve stepped into an old movie. The world-famous public square, or the Piazzetta, is the place to watch the world go by. Sip Aperol Spritz in the evening in the sun and take in the views of the bell tower. Capri comes to life at night, and its night scene is electric! It is normal to sit down for dinner at 10pm, and nightclubs open at around midnight. Dance the night away and sip on the local wines. Be sure to hang around the Piazzetta because that is where the magic happens!
Needless to say, the beaches of Capri are a reason to visit this stunning island. Expect spectacular views and beaches packed with charm! The Marina Grande is the best place for swimming, and it’s just beside the island’s main port. It is also one of the biggest beaches on the island. The waters are blue and clear from some Instagrammable snaps! Marina Piccola is another hotspot, known for its celebrity appearances. You may spot Beyoncé’s yacht or see Lenny Kravitz do a quick gig at a nightclub.
Other striking parts of the Capri landscape are the unique Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni. The Blue Grotto has existed since Ancient Roman times and continues to steal the show. The sunlight bounces on the cave walls to create electric-blue water. The Faraglioni is a huge rock-formation that will probably be one of the first things you see upon your arrival. Get a boat tour and sail by them to get up close!
Crete
The largest Greek island, Crete, is the home to ancient ruins, glorious beaches and the best hiking trails out there! Elafonisi beach is popular amongst locals for its natural beauty, terracotta-toned sands and turquoise waters. The shallow water makes this beach family-friendly. Balos is another firm favorite amongst locals, who brave the dirt tracks for their own part of paradise. Pack yourself a picnic and make a day of it! Take in those sunrays and fall in love with the views of the Gramvousa Peninsula.
You’ll also love Crete for its history, there are dozens of archaeological sites for the history buffs out there! Crete was the center of one of the oldest civilizations in the world, which explains its abundance in ancient ruins. You can visit the ancient palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, Byzantine churches and Venetian ports. The Roman city of Gortyna will also catch your interest, you can see the Law code carved into the rocks.
Greek cuisine is one of the best in the world! The good news is that Mediterranean food is some of the healthiest, so get stuck in! You can taste local delicacies such as Cretan cheese, Kalitsounia (cheese pie) or Loukoumades for the sweet tooth out there (fried dough served with ice cream). It’s getting our mouths watering already!
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