The top 10 islands to visit in 2026, according to Expedia

Jabir Samuels's recent visit to the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc exceeded his expectations in every way.

On his weeklong July getaway, the Dubai-based travel influencer stayed in a luxurious five-star hotel for around $80 a night, with a balcony and breakfast included. He spent his time tasting unfamiliar tropical fruits such as mangosteen, enjoying the crystal-clear water at the beaches and ending his evenings with a nightly fireworks show.

"It’s far more affordable than a majority of other islands, and you’re not compromising on quality to get that," he said.

Samuel's idyllic experience in Phu Quoc is exactly why it landed on Expedia's recently released 2026 Island Hot List, a ranking of island destinations based on trending interest by the platform's users. While an island vacation is always enticing, there's been a 55% year-over-year search increase for them on the travel platform.

"Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away; they can also be one of the smartest vacation values, thanks to all-inclusive resorts and bundle savings on Expedia," said Melanie Fish, Expedia Group Brand's VP of public relations, in a July 21 press release. "The list was finalized until two destinations generated so much buzz from cruise travelers and soccer fans that we had to give them awards of their own."

No matter what kind of trip you're looking for, there's an island for it. Here are 2026's hottest island destinations, according to Expedia.

St. Lucia - Best for romantic escapes

With rugged volcanic spires, lush jungles and white-sand beaches, St. Lucia exudes a romantic energy. It also offers adventure, from hiking to volcanic springs and renowned scuba diving sites.

Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal - Best for wellness

Located in the Madeira archipelago, Porto Santo is dubbed "the Golden Island" for its over five-mile-long stretch of pristine sandy beach. Travelers are flocking to the island for its purported natural healing properties and unique therapies, like being covered in hot mineral-rich sand made from broken down red algae and shells, not quartz.

Praslin, Seychelles - Best for nature lovers

Home to an ancient palm forest and designated UNESCO World Heritage Site called the "Garden of Eden," Praslin is for people seeking an outdoor escape. Of course, the second-largest island in the Seychelles still has gorgeous white-sand beaches to enjoy as well.

Syros, Greece - Best for cuisine

Located in the Aegean Sea, Syros is a quieter Greek destination compared to more popular Santorini or Mykonos. Tourists can enjoy wandering through this gem's stunning blue and white hilltop towns and tasting authentic, fresh Mediterranean food.

Lofoten Islands, Norway – Best for arctic adventures

If you want wild and untouched, head to the Lofoten Islands. This Norwegian archipelago is situated right above the Arctic Circle and has roots tracing back to the Viking Age. Travelers can explore mountain ranges, pristine fjords and dark, moody beaches.

Palawan, Philippines - Best for natural wonders

Clear turquoise waters and steep, towering limestone cliffs in Palawan make for one of the most stunning backdrops for your beach day. Travelers can island hop around the archipelago, kayak, scuba dive or relax in hot springs.

Culebra, Puerto Rico - Best for water adventures

Culebra is located about 20 miles off Puerto Rico's main island. While travelers could certainly do nothing but spend all day on its famous Playa Flamenco, they can also kayak, snorkel with turtles at the Luis Pena Nature Reserve, ride on a catamaran and make a day trip to the smaller Isla Culebrita.

Sanibel Island, Florida - Best for family escapes

The "Seashell Capital of the World" is an ideal destination for families. Situated off the coast near Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is a laidback destination with plenty of attractions. Families can view manatees at the JN "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge and ride bikes along the more than 26 miles of paved biking trails.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam – Best for affordable luxury

Phu Quoc is an underrated gem in the Gulf of Thailand. Travelers can indulge in luxury beachside accommodations without having sticker shock. They can also spend time exploring the jungles of Phu Quoc National Park and visiting traditional fishing villages like Ham Hinh.

Fiji - Best for multigenerational value

The entire family will easily find a reason to love Fiji. The island nation has the gorgeous beaches travelers are looking for, but also a warm culture, vibrant marine world and aquatic adventures such as surfing and scuba diving with manta rays.

Cape Verde - Best for soccer fans

Interest in this West African destination surged following the World Cup, according to Expedia. Travelers can relax by its stunning beaches, hike volcanic landscapes and try wind surfing.

Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas – Best cruise private island

For the first time this year, Expedia included the private islands exclusive to cruise line passengers. Norwegian Cruise Line guests can enjoy Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Besides a gorgeous beach, the island also offers a waterpark with cliff jumps and 19 waterslides, an adults-only beach club and thrilling activities like jet skiing.