Did you make a bucket list for 2016? Is traveling in it? We have chosen ten great islands to consider, that will provide with all the fun nature has to offer. Browse through the list and pick your favorite one!
10. Harbour Island, the Bahamas
The most impressive thing about the island is a 5 km (3 mi) long stretch of soft pink sand! It makes it one of the most unusual beaches in the world. The elegant island provides numerous resorts, that ensure ultimate relaxation in these pristine surroundings. Visitors can go swimming, snorkeling and fishing, while in the evening they can visit the town and enjoy its exciting nightlife.
Why go?
This is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches in the world! Also the Bahamas is a desirable holiday destination, since it has numerous great beaches and resorts.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
9. The British Virgin Islands
Being among the most prosperous states in the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands makes approximately half of its wealth from tourism. Numerous soft sandy beaches and crystal clear water make it a desirable holiday destination. The volcanic origin of the islands however provides even more versatile landscape. The Baths – a coastal area of Virgin Gorda – is famous for the grottoes, tunnels, pools and huge boulders on the beach – similar to those in Seychelles.
Why go?
Tourists can enjoy many activities: snorkeling and exploring the coral reefs, enjoying a cocktail in one of many bars, sunbathing, sailing or hiking in the rain forest – the options are inexhaustible!
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
8. The Faroe Islands
The gorgeous islands, posited in between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, are under the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark. A group of 18 islands fascinate with amazing unspoiled nature. Despite the sovereignty, 50,000 residents have preserved their language and culture. Cities are clean and charm with the colorful houses, that add up to the landscape.
Why go?
This is a wonderful retreat, which exudes tranquility. One can find herself in a this majestic place, uninterruptedly exploring the mountains, valleys, and waterfalls.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Jóan Petur Olsen
Poto by Grégoire Sieuw
Photo by Unknown
7. Hvar Island, Croatia
It is regarded a jewel of the historically and culturally significant Dalmatian islands, scattered in the Adriatic Sea. Since antiquity Hvar has been an important port for the Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. Versatile history is present in numerous architectural monuments, that attract not only curious tourists, but scientists, historians and archeologists as well.
Why go?
The island also features rich nature, great beaches, and fresh air, since it is further from polluted civilization. Instead one can admire fragrant fields of lavender or ancient olive trees. Local wine manufacturers are among the leaders in Croatia, therefore Hvar never ceases to spoil the visitors with good wine.
Photo by Europe Trotter
Photo by Ilja Veselica
Photo by Sungbin Park
Photo by Unknown
6. Sardinia, Italy
Being the second largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia has a very long coast and numerous sandy beaches. The nature is versatile and provides all year round activities: horseback riding, sailing, even skiing in winter. And the cuisine is exquisite.
Why go?
Various activities, beautiful nature, great Italian cuisine and never ending pleasant weather.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
5. The Cook Islands
The islands are in association with New Zealand and locals are also citizens of the latter country. Tourism has been developed here and provides most of the income. Numerous world-quality resorts ensure divine vacation, while white sandy beaches, turquoise water, and palm groves make it an ultimate holiday destination.
Why go?
It is easy to book a holiday on the Cook Islands since tourism and facilities are very well developed here. The coral atolls can be reached by plane from Auckland, Sydney, and Los Angeles.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
4. Lord Howe Island, Australia
Two hours off Sydney, the volcanic island is a jewel of an Eastern Australian coast. It is only 11 km long and 2 km wide. The Coral Sea rinses its shores and it has a beautiful strip of The Great Barrier Reef. Although very beautiful, the remote island is not open to everyone all the time. Only 400 visitors are allowed to be there at a time. Therefore the natural beauty of Lord Howe Island has been well preserved.
Why go?
The island is home to unique and rare animals, volcanic peaks, rainforests and, of course, a coral reef, which can be observed from the crystal clear water lagoon. No pollution, no tourist traffic! A quiet piece of heaven on Earth.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
3. Tahiti, French Polynesia
The most populous and largest French Polynesian island, popularized by French Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin, Tahiti is another exquisite destination for a wonderful summer holiday. Guests are provided with a spectacular range of activities: from Tahitian spa treatments and wedding ceremonies, to island tours, shark feeding and private picnic on uninhabited islets – just find time to experience it all!
Why go?
It is easily accessible – there are daily flights from Los Angeles, Japan, Australia and Chile. It takes 8 hours from LA, 5 hours from Hawaii and New Zealand to get to Tahiti.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
2. Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia
Crystal clear and warm water in the Coral Sea is perfect for bathing and diving. Since the island is found in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, it has plenty of great diving spots. Cruise trips around the island and air tours are also a popular activity, which enables to explore the gorgeous Hill Inlet – the northern part of Whitehaven Beach, where sand and water create a fusion of colors.
Why go?
Iconic Whitehaven Beach is found here – the most desirable holiday destination in Australia, which is the synonym of the whole island group.
Photo by Mitchell Burns
Photo by Matteo Capuzzi
Photo by Gregor Lichtfuss
Photo by Unknown
1. New Zealand
Located in the southwestern corner of the Triangle, New Zealand is definitely a place to see at least once in a lifetime. Its biodiversity, natural wonders, and historic heritage provide an unforgettable experience. Polynesians have settled here in the 13th century and created a unique Māori culture, present until nowadays. Numerous parks, mountains, and beautiful cities attract visitors from around the world all year round.
Why go?
New Zealand is one of our favorite destinations since it provides an inexhaustible abundance of wonderful sites and views. Tourists go there for a number of reasons: skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountaineering, even wine tasting – just pick your favorite activity. But unique nature must be the main attraction – it is impeccable!
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Joseph Michael
Photo by Mark Watson
Photo by Unknown