What Are the Best Islands to Visit?

Some regions of the world are particularly well suited to island hopping because they feature clusters of islands within easy reach of one another. Short travel distances and well-developed transportation networks make it possible to combine several stops in a single journey.

Five of the best island-hopping destinations include:

• Hawaii – volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, and iconic Pacific beaches
• Greece – whitewashed villages and historic islands scattered across the Aegean Sea
• Thailand – dramatic limestone islands amidst turquoise waters
• Croatia – medieval island towns along the Adriatic coast
• Indonesia – vibrant culture and welcoming tropical islands

Each of these destinations allows travelers to move easily between islands while experiencing different scenery, cultures, and coastal landscapes along the way.

The islands of Hawaii offer remarkable variety within a single archipelago. Short inter-island flights connect dramatically different landscapes, from volcanic terrain to lush rainforests and golden beaches.

Popular islands to combine include:

• Oahu – home to Honolulu, historic landmarks, and the famous beaches of Waikiki
• Maui – known for whale watching, luxury beach resorts, and the scenic Road to Hana
• Kauai – dramatic emerald cliffs along the Na Pali Coast and lush rainforest valleys
• Hawaii Island – active volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and striking natural contrasts

Because each island offers a distinct landscape and atmosphere, combining two or three creates a journey that feels relaxed yet varied.

With thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean Sea, Greece has been one of Europe’s classic island-hopping destinations for decades. Many of the most beautiful spots lie within the Cyclades, where regular ferry routes and short regional flights make for easy connections.

Common island combinations include:

• Santorini – famous for its cliffside villages and sweeping views of the volcanic caldera
• Mykonos – lively beaches, elegant restaurants, and charming harbor towns
• Crete – the largest Greek island, home to ancient archaeological sites and historic cities

Travelers often find that each island offers its own personality. One may be known for nightlife and beaches, while another offers quiet villages or centuries-old cultural landmarks. No matter where you go, it’s easy to find plenty of reasons to visit Greece.

Southern Thailand is famous for its turquoise waters and dramatic limestone islands rising from the sea. Many of these islands are located close to one another, making it easy to travel between them by ferry or speedboat.

Two popular island-hopping routes include:

Andaman Sea islands

• Phuket – the main gateway island with international access
• Phi Phi Islands – striking limestone cliffs and emerald lagoons
• Koh Lanta – a quieter destination known for long sandy beaches

Gulf of Thailand islands

• Koh Samui – luxury resorts and palm-lined beaches
• Koh Phangan – a mix of lively beach scenes and peaceful coves
• Koh Tao – one of the region’s best islands for snorkeling and diving

These clusters allow travelers to experience multiple tropical environments while staying within a relatively small geographic area. And no matter where you go, Thailand’s hospitality is legendary with a few simple dos and don’ts for visitors.

The Adriatic coast of Croatia is lined with historic towns and islands that lie just offshore. Ferries and private boats connect these destinations, allowing travelers to move easily between picturesque coastal cities and nearby islands.

A typical island-hopping journey might include:

• Dubrovnik – a spectacular medieval city featured in Game of Thrones overlooking the Adriatic
• Hvar – known for its vibrant harbor, historic squares, and nearby vineyards
• Korčula – a beautifully preserved island town with narrow streets and centuries of history

Sailing between these islands also reveals secluded coves, quiet fishing villages, and scenic coastal landscapes hidden from the mainland.