Seychelles

Tropical Islands are what we all daydream about but which is the best tropical paradise to visit? Calm breeze, palm trees, white sand and still clear blue water. Look no further!

Fiji

Consisting of 322 islands, this ocean paradise is a perfect choice for backpackers on a round the world trip. Stop off here in between New Zealand and America and take some time out to relax, fish, kayak, dive, snorkel or whatever else takes your fancy. The Fijian people are so chilled and relaxed. There is no time except for Fiji time!

Seychelles

Seychelles is a republic of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles archipelago is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites one of which is the worlds largest coral island and the other is the location of the biggest coconut in the world. They can weigh anything between 15-30kg! If you fancy a holiday here check out Seyvillas for a holiday in the Seychelles

Flickr: nicogenin

Koh Lipe

This beautiful island is located in the Andaman Sea and is Thailand’s smallest Island. You can walk around this island in an hour and it’s small enough to even swim around if you are that way inclined. As it’s part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, fishing is banned making this an ideal scuba diving location.

Flickr: M4CR

Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group which is part French Polynesia. Home to many world class resorts, the thatched-roof bungalows are perched above the clear blue waters. many of the rooms have glass floors so you’ll catch glimpses of tropical fish swimming beneath your feet!

Flickr: Air Tahiti Nui

Maldives

The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,190 coral islands in the Indian Ocean and rated as one of the most romantic spots in the world. Just imagine sipping cocktails while looking out of your private bungalow at that view. Bliss.

Flickr: karen chappell

Mnemba Island

Owned by the Conservation Corporation Africa, Mnemba Island is located in Zanzibar and its a perfect tropical paradise to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Throw in endangered green turtles  and the ability to swim along with whale sharks, this tropical island is a snorkelers dream.

Flickr: Chris Hutchins

Cebu Island

In the heart of the Philippines lies Cebu Island surrounded by 167 smaller islands. Despite Cebu being a commercial and modern island, some of the smaller islands are still uninhabited making them perfect for exploration. Scuba Diving here is a must and for an authentic Filipino experience be sure to check out some of the smaller fishing villages.

Flickr: Eric Brian Ouano

Gili Isles

If you’re looking for a remote island experience on a budget then you’ve found it. The Gili Islands are composed of an archipelago of three small islands. Located off the coast of Lombok, these islands are minimalist in nature and a perfect get way from the busy lifestyle of Kuta, Bali which most backpackers frequent.

Flickr: mikaku

Curacao

A dutch owned paradise in the southern Caribbean sea off the coast of Venezuelan. A rather unique spot for diving due to it’s “Blue Edge” where the sea floor drops steeply a few hundred feet from the shore. Best get here quick before the coral reefs disappear too!

Flickr: Yannick TURBÉ

Cook Islands

A hundred thousand travellers visit this slice of tropical paradise every year. Consisting of 15 islands, only two of them are inhabited. If you’re looking for a unique experience away from the commercial world, you’ve found it. Blue lagoons, white sand, tropical flowers and clear night skies. If you still need convincing be sure to check out our 7 Compelling Reasons to Visit The Cook Islands.

Flickr: carydunn