Discover the Best Islands in Asia

Yes, Asia is a long flight from the U.S., and the jet lag can be a beast. However, when it comes to finding islands that encompass it all—rich culture, healthy marine life, and endless white-sand beaches—you’d be hard-pressed to find a more spectacular part of the world.

The World’s Best Islands

Every year, for the World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on their travel experiences around the globe. They share opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Notably, islands are rated based on activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, culinary offerings, friendliness, and overall value.

Highlights of the Survey Results

After two years atop the list, the Philippine island of Palawan has been unseated, although it still ranks highly due to its friendly locals, crystal-clear waters, and premier diving locales. Visitors must not miss El Nido, with its limestone islets, and Coron Island, where opportunities abound to dive among World War II shipwrecks.

Cebu, another prominent island in the Philippines, made the ranking. One traveler noted that swimming with whale sharks there provides a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Meanwhile, Koh Samui, Thailand’s third-largest island, received accolades for its dreamy beaches lined with seafood restaurants and a variety of accommodations. The Four Seasons Resort on Koh Samui ranked number four in the Top 10 Southeast Asian resort hotel category.

Activities and Attractions

Travelers can hike to the pristine Na Muang waterfall and explore Ang Thong National Marine Park, which is a protected reserve consisting of over 40 islands. “I’ve been to Koh Samui twice and would return in a heartbeat,” said one admirer.

Over in Indonesia, the evergreen honeymoon destination of Bali continues to enchant visitors, who practice yoga in the hills of Ubud and surf the captivating shores of trendsetting Canggu. For those preferring less touristy white-sand beaches, Indonesia’s Lombok, only a 30-minute flight from Bali, presents an appealing alternative. Notably, the number one island, as voted by readers, is another Indonesian gem, equally thrilling and idyllic.