The world's top islands for beach vacations
Posted on Wednesday 12 September 2012
in Greece, United States of America, Beach & Islands, Romance, Scenic Beauty
The U.S. News & World Report recently released a ranking of the best islands in the world, and the list is full of world-class exotic destinations. Traversing all oceans and multiple continents, these hideaways offer tourists the best settings for relaxing under the sun.
Travelers searching for the best beach holidays across the globe will find it all at these tropical paradises. The destinations below are just some of the islands that are largely considered to be the world's best by travelers and reviewers alike.
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a destination that is one of the most sought after in the world, and its lush landscape proves why. Volcanoes make up the center of this island, which is just over 121 square kilometers, and jungle fans out around the peaks. Coral reefs protect most of its shorelines, creating sparkling beaches and a great environment for activities.
Sunbathing isn't the only thing to do on this secluded island. Adventure travel excursions such as parasailing or shark feeding are popular with tourists, along with more traditional water sports. Snorkelers and scuba divers will find many location options to choose from, and the opportunity to peek into the world below the ocean's surface is not to be passed up.
Travelers looking for the ultimate in luxury travel don't need to look past this tiny island in French Polynesia. With fabulous resorts and quiet hangouts dotting the landscape, visitors to Bora Bora will quickly discover why this South Pacific gem is called "The Romantic Island."
Santorini and Mykonos
The two Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos have seen their share of history. First settled in the fifth millenium B.C., these isles have evolved over thousands of years to become an international tourist destination.
Santorini is considered to be the romantic of the Greek isles, with visitors arriving by boat and witnessing the dramatic whitewashed buildings towering over the Aegean Sea. Tourists spend the majority of their time dining on local cuisine and relaxing on the isle's black sand beaches, but many also choose to wander to the city's many archeological spots.
Among one of the most visited spots in Greece, Santorini is a definite must-see for travelers on Athens holidays or for anyone searching for the perfect beach destination. Those looking for a more exciting trip can find what they're looking for on the nearby island of Mykonos.
A strong nightlife and fun vibe create a vibrant atmosphere on Mykonos. Visitors enjoy dancing the night away at one of the island's many clubs, but the perfect beaches provide an equally thrilling place to spend the daylight hours. Historic windmills, classic architecture and an annual film festival bring elements of art and culture into this Greek hotspot.
Maui
The Hawaiian islands offer plenty for travelers searching for their own surfer's paradise, but none more so than Maui. Nicknamed "The Magic Isle," this getaway destination has enough beaches and scenic wonders to satisfy any vacationer.
Maui is very different from Oahu, which is the commercial center and most populous island of the chain. Small towns and a quiet atmosphere dominate most of Maui, where visitors pass the time by relaxing on the Pacific beaches, hiking volcanoes or participating in water sports. Swimming and surfing are the two most popular activities, and with so many shores to pick from, travelers can find the beach with just the right waves for their chosen pastime.
Like many exotic islands, Maui can be difficult to get to. Tourists often find cheap flights to Honolulu and then hop on a boat or local airline to take them to the island.
Any island holiday is sure offer relaxing beaches, fun water sports and stunning scenery. Any island considered to be among the best in the world is sure to have all of these and more for travelers willing to venture out to them.
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