Prettiest Islands
If you’ve ever admired a postcard featuring a stunning Prettiest island, chances are it’s one of these remarkable destinations. Some boast pristine beaches, hidden bays, dramatic rock formations, and natural blowholes, while others entice visitors with mysterious caves, lush rainforests, vibrant reefs, cultural heritage, historic ruins, and even local rum. No matter what paradise means to you, these 5 islands from around the globe are sure to captivate your senses.
Head to Capri, Italy, for breathtaking scenery and panoramic views you won’t forget. Or explore Thailand, home to iconic filming locations from Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond films. For a deeper cultural experience, travel to Samoa and immerse yourself in the traditional “Fa’a Samoa” lifestyle. And if Greek charm is what you’re after, the island of Paxos offers an authentic taste of Hellenic life and culture.
1 Capri, Italy
Capri’s mesmerizing Blue Grotto, with its glowing azure waters, captivates visitors from around the world—even the most seasoned travelers. But this iconic sea cave is just a glimpse of what the island has to offer. From its striking white limestone cliffs and secluded beaches to the dramatic natural arch that rises above the sea, it’s easy to see why Capri has attracted visitors since the days of ancient Rome.
2 Whitsundays, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef, one of the planet’s largest and most fragile coral reef systems, is home to over 1,600 marine species, including fish, dolphins, rays, whales, and octopuses. Located within this natural marvel are the 74 Whitsunday Islands, the majority of which are safeguarded as national parkland, preserving their untouched beauty.
3 Bali, Indonesia
What’s most breathtaking in Bali? Is it the sun-kissed shores of Nusa Dua, Seminyak, and Jimbaran Bay? The lush rice terraces and sacred sites of Ubud? Or perhaps the island’s thousands of temples—like Pura Empul, where visitors can take part in traditional cleansing rituals, and the cliffside Uluwatu Temple overlooking the sea?
In truth, Bali’s magic lies in experiencing it all. Known as the Island of the Gods, its beauty runs deeper than its scenery, reflected in the warmth of its people and the ever-present spirit of harmony and devotion.
4 James Bond Island, Southern Thailand
Rising sharply from the emerald-green waters of Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island—known locally as Koh Tapu, or “Nail Island”—gained international fame after featuring in the 007 films The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997).
Visitors can join scenic longtail boat tours from popular hubs like Phuket, Khao Lak, and Krabi. These excursions reveal hidden lagoons, rugged sea caves, and even a floating village, making it easy to see why this iconic island continues to captivate travelers.
5 Kauai, Hawaii
Known as the Garden Island, Kauai dazzles with its vibrant Waimea Canyon, which plunges nearly 3,600 feet, and the towering Napali Cliffs, soaring up to 4,000 feet. Poipu Beach, often home to resting monk seals, has been recognized by Dr. Beach as one of the top beaches in the United States.
Inland, the island is adorned with rivers, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Be sure to capture a shot of Wailua Falls, famously featured in the opening scenes of Fantasy Island, while exploring one of the world’s most beautiful islands.
