Summary
Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite islands in Asia.
GoTravelDaily readers fondly recalled pre-COVID-era visits to the best islands in Asia. Now that the region is reopening, they are surely eager to return to these five stunning destinations, including the islands of the Maldives, as well as those found in Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—sharing their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.
1. The Maldives
The Maldives—also voted by readers as No. 2 among the World’s Best Islands overall—consists of approximately 1,200 islands. Selecting among them is facilitated by the fact that less than a sixth of these islands are inhabited. However, even the islands that are open to visitors remain blissfully secluded. The sensation of getaway is accentuated at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, which is situated on its own private island (and is ranked as this year’s No. 3 hotel in the world). Every snorkeler and diver across these atolls will feel they have prime access to stunning scenery. “Beautiful beaches and good food,” one reader summarized, adding that “the flight to our island by sea plane was wild.”
Score: 94.44
2. Bali, Indonesia
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 92.51
3. Phuket, Thailand
Score: 91.90
4. Boracay, Philippines
Score: 90.89
5. Palawan, Philippines
Score: 90.81
