Three islands - Aruba, Bali, and Koh Samui - land on Expedia's 'Island Hot List,' featuring the most sought-after island travel destinations for the year 2025.
Expedia Reveals Top Island Destinations for 2025
Interest in island vacations is soaring, with a 30% increase globally according to travel giant Expedia. The company's 2025 Island Hot List showcases a diverse range of destinations that combine natural beauty with cultural richness and evolving traveler trends.
Leading the pack is Aruba, named the best island for "Year-Round Sunshine". Known for its desert beauty and Caribbean bliss, Aruba offers a reliable escape outside the hurricane belt. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and relaxing at the beach. Travel interest in Aruba has surged by 15% over 2024, making it a popular choice.
Bali, Indonesia, takes the crown for "Best for Relaxation". Eco-conscious travelers will find a haven here, with zero-waste hospitality, wellness, and cultural connection on offer. The island is also a top choice for those seeking sustainable tourism options.
Oahu, Hawaii, is rated as "Best for Surfing". Adventure seekers will be drawn to its world-class waves.
The Dominican Republic is highlighted as "Best for Adventure". Tourists are opting for outdoor excursions like waterfall treks, mountain biking, snorkeling, and ziplining instead of all-inclusive resorts. The country's growing emphasis on cultural connections beyond all-inclusive resorts is also noteworthy.
Fiji, Jamaica, Koh Samui, Thailand, the Maldives, Paros, Greece, and Sardinia, Italy, round out the list. Sardinia, with its food culture and wellness tourism, is particularly popular, drawing visitors with its Blue Zone longevity and immersive agritourism experiences.
Madeira, Nantucket, St. Thomas, Palm Beach, and Turks and Caicos are leading in rises in traveler interest, with Madeira up 45% and Nantucket up 40% year-on-year.
Expedia's report considered factors like affordability, accessibility, weather, traveler safety, and inclusivity. September is the optimal time to be on island time, offering a good mix of affordability and weather. Travelers can save up to 50% on average stay prices when booking off-season, according to Expedia.
The full Expedia 2025 Island Hot List can be found on Expedia.com. This curated list provides a comprehensive guide to the best island destinations that embrace sustainability, authenticity, and cultural richness.
- For those seeking a serene getaway, Bali, Indonesia, is the best destination for relaxation, offering eco-friendly accommodations and cultural immersion.
- Food and cultural enthusiasts might find Sardinia, Italy, appealing, as it stands out for its food culture and wellness tourism, particularly its Blue Zone longevity and immersive agritourism experiences.
- Aruba offers more than just year-round sunshine; it also provides a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and relaxing at the beach, making it an attractive option for travelers.
- If you're interested in shopping, entertainment, and general news, alongside your island vacation, the diverse range of destinations on Expedia's 2025 Island Hot List, including Koh Samui, Thailand, and Paros, Greece, should cater to your lifestyle and preferences.
