A little island time is always a good idea. And right about now you’re mapping out your weekend escapes, so we have more than a few places to add to your goals list. But not all islands are one-size-fits-all. Whether you want to be one with nature, immerse yourself in utter luxury, or just want to dance on a table, we have an island for that.
The Island: Malaysia’s Desaru Coast
Location
Off the coast of Malaysia, you’ll find one of the most scenic getaways the Southeast offers. White sandy beaches with warm, inviting, crystalline waters? Check. A foray of untouched natural beauty at your fingertips? Check. Oh, and don’t forget the unmatched fresh seafood.
Overview
When you really want to unplug and live a little like Crazy Rich Asians, Desaru is your go-to. It is one of the best islands in the world to feel like you’re on survivor — except skip to the part where you’ve already won your million and it’s time to live it up, all of your creature comforts included. No sleeping on the sand for you, unless it’s on a day bed at Dior Beach Club.
Island Vibes
A perfect hideaway where you can literally feel the sun and sea healing and recharging you from the outside in. But if you’re still in the mood to live it up, there are plenty of top-notch restaurants and bars where you can get your wiles out. Think lesser-known Greek Islands vibes, but still warm and sunny in the dead of winter.
Stay: One & Only Desaru Coast
If you’re familiar with One & Only, you know that you can expect a stay of a lifetime no matter where in the world you are. And if you’re looking to go all-out, there’s a stunning four-bedroom villa, tucked away from the rest of the resort for ultimate privacy. Plus, it comes full with a private spa, pool, and butler.
The Island: St. Barths
Location
Ah, the Caribbean Sea. Situated in the French West Indies, getting to St. Barths is a real commitment. But upon stepping off your aircraft, its easy to see-why so many are eager to make the trek. The locals here are famously friendly as well — maybe thanks to the year-round perfect weather and water temperatures.
Overview
When it’s island time, it’s hard to ignore St. Barths. It’s practically a given that it’s one of the best islands in the world. There’s a reason why it’s where the celebs go after all. Glamour. Just forget about money, because a burrata will run you 100 Euro.
Island Vibes
Good times, and ultimate luxury. We’re talking about top of the top, but you already knew that. St. Barth’s is where you go when you need to dance on a table at Nikki Beach. And you have your favorite, but you already knew that too.
Stay
It shouldn’t be a surprise that when it comes to St. Barths, there are plenty of insane stays to choose from. Opt for Cheval Blanc St. Barth, which is literally classified as a palace, or The Rosewood Le Guanahani, giving you an authentic island feel without sacrificing any of the bells and whistles – including a Sense Spa. Eden Rock of course is the Hall of Fame for St. Barths.
The Island: Canouan
Location
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a stretch of 32 islands tucked into the Caribbean Sea, some of which you’ve probably heard of – but odds are, not this one. Which should strike you as a good thing, in this case. It’s private, stunning, and perfect for that under-the-radar getaway you’ve so desperately been craving.
Overview
Snorkeling, anyone? Beyond the exotic fish, you’re likely to spot some high-profile people. This is where the celebs and billionaires hideout, in utter luxury with an array of top-of-the-top luxury accommodations to cater to your every whim. If you want to escape the tourism circuit while still getting pampered to the 9s, this is the island for you.
Island Vibes
Canouan is one of the best islands in the world for when you want to truly go off-grid. It’s the destination for total relaxation and luxury. There’s no scene around here — it’s low-key, chill. For when the vacation you want consists of working on your tan and finally finishing that book you’ve been meaning to get to all year.
Stay
For one of those aforementioned luxury stays, we recommend The Mandarin Oriental Canouan, where you’ll discover private golf courses, a full-service spa, fine dining experiences, and villas fit for royalty. For a slightly more low-key stay, opt for Soho House, where you won’t find villas, but full immersion into the chic beach vibes that the island has to offer.
The Island: Fiji
Location
The Pacific Islands are always a good idea, even in the dead of winter when some of your go-to spots (like Greece perhaps) are too brisk for a true beach getaway. But beyond the perfect weather, the Pacific islands are home to unique natural wonders, and an assortment of which you won’t usually find all in one place. Lush greenery, waterfalls, and hot springs are yours to explore.
Overview
When you think Fiji, you think organic, unfiltered natural in all of its indelible forms. The local culture thrives and maintains its very own, very special ecosystem, including some of the world’s most vibrant corals and marine life.
Island Vibes
Fiji is the place for the whole family to visit. There’s something for everyone. Year-round temperate weather means it’s the perfect destination to try your hand at snorkeling, but Fiji doesn’t just stop at the beach – though that is spectacular too. You’ll also find otherworldly scenery, which you can opt to hike through for a more active vacation. Oh, and we can’t forget the food – this trip of a lifetime will certainly linger on your tongue, as well as in your thoughts.
Stay
Como recently took over Luacala Island, and it’s even better. While Fiji is still very much an island, what makes it one of the best islands in the world is that it’s not quite a bubble.
Six Senses also has a property in Fiji, where the focus is of course wellness. The Six Senses Fiji is located on Malolo Island. It’s a boutique property with 24 pool villas.
The Island: Seychelles
Location
In the Indian Ocean, East of continental Africa is the country of Seychelles. It is an archipelago made up of over 100 islands all offering something a little bit different. The inner islands are easier to get to and have more tourism-friendly activities but for those whose wanderlust craves a journey off the beaten path, the outer islands provide a true opportunity for rugged adventuring, if that’s your style.
Overview:
The Seychelles are for when you miss Island hopping, and you want a vacation that doesn’t exactly feel like a vacation, but rather more of an adventure. Where you can make it up as you go along, and love what you find along the way. Creole beach food grilled to mouthwatering perfection, and 2 UNESCO heritage sites. Aldabra Atoll, where you’ll discover giant tortoises and Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.
Island Vibes
You’re off the coast of Africa. Venture to La Digue on Seychelles for the granite boulders – just know they make you work for these views. You have to hike to the 4-5 beaches over rocks and scale walls but your reward is total, utter paradise. And don’t expect a five-star meal at the end either. There’s no food, only a guy who sells you beverages. Normally, you don’t take candy from strangers, but in this case, you can (and should).
Stay
For a luxury home base, The Four Seasons has two resorts on the islands of Mahé and the secluded Desroches. With over 70 activities to choose from and 7 villas with private pools to choose from, you don’t really need to leave the resort – though you’ll want to, and we suggest you hit as many of the islands as possible. On Félicité island, you can opt to stay at Six Senses Zil Pasyon, where the hotel is embedded within the unspoilt natural beauty of the forested coast. Oh, and you can take a dip with the turtles when you’re not at the spa.
