Travelers are setting their sights on a new crop of island destinations, and they’re looking beyond the usual favorites.
According to Expedia’s newly released “2026 Island Hot List,” searches for emerging island destinations have climbed an average of 55% year over year, signaling that vacationers are increasingly swapping crowded, bucket-list hotspots for islands that offer natural beauty, unique experiences and, in many cases, better value. The list also noted social media mentions in these destinations were up 20% over the past year.
“Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away; they can also be one of the smartest vacation values, thanks to all-inclusive resorts and bundle savings on Expedia,” Melanie Fish, vice president of public relations for Expedia Group Brands, said in a statement.
From Caribbean beaches to an island that captured attention during the World Cup, here’s where travelers are planning their next island escape.
The hottest island destinations for 2026
1. St. Lucia (+125%)
Best for: Romantic getaways
A couple strolls along a palm-lined beach at sunset in St. Lucia, which ranked No. 1 on Expedia’s 2026 Island Hot List and was named the best island destination for romantic escapes.trees
(fokke baarssen / Shutterstock)Leading the list is St. Lucia, where searches more than doubled compared with last year. The eastern Caribbean island is known for its dramatic Piton mountains, luxury resorts tucked into lush rainforest and volcanic mud baths, making it a perennial favorite for honeymooners and couples celebrating anniversaries. Sulphur Springs offers a “drive-in” volcano you can see scuba divers on the island can spot variety, from reefs teeming with colorful fish to shipwrecks. A fun fact for your next trivia night: St. Lucia is the only sovereign nation named after a woman.
2. Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal (+85%)
Best for: Wellness and relaxation
A long pier stretches into the Atlantic on Porto Santo, a Portuguese island in the Madeira archipelago known for its golden-sand beaches, tranquil atmosphere and wellness-focused escapes.
(Karol Kozlowski / Shutterstock)Porto Santo is gaining attention for its quieter atmosphere and nine-mile stretch of golden sand beach. The island has become a draw for travelers looking to unplug at spas and beachfront resorts. “It’s gaining momentum this year as travelers move beyond Europe’s classic beach staples in search of calmer, more relaxed stays,” according to Expedia. A top thing to do in Porto Santo is to take a bucket list swim in one of the natural pools
3. Praslin, Seychelles (+80%)
Best for: Nature lovers
Crystal-clear turquoise water laps against a secluded beach on Praslin in the Seychelles, which ranked No. 3 on Expedia’s 2026 Island Hot List and was named one of the best island destinations for nature lovers.
(fokke baarssen / Shutterstock)The Seychelles archipelago is famous for turquoise waters, but Praslin stands out for its UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, home to the rare coco de mer palm. Nearby, vacationers can see giant tortoises on Curieuse Island.
4. Syros, Greece (+60%)
Best for: Cuisine and charm
Colorful waterfront buildings line the harbor on the Greek island of Syros, which ranked No. 4 on Expedia’s 2026 Island Hot List and was recognized as one of the best island destinations for cuisine and charm.
(Nancy Pauwels / Shutterstock)Instead of battling crowds on Santorini or Mykonos, travelers are discovering Syros. The Cycladic island blends colorful neoclassical architecture with waterfront tavernas serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
5. Lofoten Islands, Norway (+50%)
Best for: Arctic adventures
Turquoise coves and cloud-topped mountains create a dramatic landscape in Norway’s Lofoten Islands, which saw Expedia searches rise 50% year over year.
(RuslanKphoto / Shutterstock)Dramatic peaks rise straight from the sea in Norway’s Lofoten Islands, where visitors can kayak through fjords, hike rugged mountains and, depending on the season, experience either the midnight sun or the northern lights. “From the Midnight Sun’s near-24-hour summer daylight to Northern Lights viewing from September to April, the archipelago shines year-round,” according to Expedia.
6. Palawan, Philippines (+40%)
Best for: Natural wonders
Towering limestone cliffs surround the turquoise waters of Palawan in the Philippines, where travelers come to island-hop through hidden lagoons, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and explore some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular seascapes.
(monticello / Shutterstock)Frequently ranked among the world’s most beautiful islands, Palawan is home to limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and crystal-clear waters that are ideal for snorkeling and island-hopping.
By the way, travel experts also named a Philippines beach as the best in the world for 2026.
7. Culebra, Puerto Rico (+35%)
Best for: Water adventures
Flamenco Beach on Culebra, Puerto Rico, is known for its powdery white sand, clear turquoise water and calm conditions that make it a favorite for swimming, snorkeling and other water adventures.
(Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock)Just a short ferry ride or flight from Puerto Rico’s main island, Culebra attracts travelers with calm turquoise waters, coral reefs and Flamenco Beach, with its crescent-shaped bay, that’s often ranked among the world’s best beaches.
8. Sanibel Island, Florida (+25%)
Best for: Family vacations
Sanibel Island is famous for its shell-strewn beaches, where visitors spend hours “shelling” in search of colorful seashells washed ashore by gentle Gulf waves.
(Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock)Looking for a U.S. escape close to home? Sanibel continues its comeback after Hurricane Ian, drawing families back to its shell-covered beaches, wildlife refuges and laid-back Gulf Coast atmosphere.
9. Phu Quoc, Vietnam (+25%)
Best for: Affordable luxury
Fishing boats dot the turquoise waters off Phu Quoc, Vietnam, where visitors can ride the world’s longest three-wire cable car, relax on white-sand beaches and enjoy luxury resorts at budget-friendly prices.
(Huy Thoai / Shutterstock)Vietnam’s largest island is becoming a favorite for travelers seeking upscale resorts at comparatively affordable prices, along with white-sand beaches and vibrant night markets. “This year, it’s a standout for those looking for luxury without the hefty price tag,” according to Expedia.
10. Fiji (+15%)
Best for: Multi-generational trips
Emerald-green islands and vibrant coral reefs surround Fiji’s crystal-clear waters, making the South Pacific archipelago a favorite for snorkeling, diving and multi-generational vacations.
(Goinyk Production / Shutterstock)Fiji rounds out the list thanks to its family-friendly resorts, warm hospitality and activities that appeal to travelers of all ages, from snorkeling excursions to cultural village visits. “One of the most talked-about islands on social media, Fiji is gaining momentum in 2026 thanks to its warm hospitality, rich culture, broad appeal and the kind of variety that suits more than one generation,” according to Expedia.
Two surprise island travel trends
Aerial view of Tarrafal beach in Santiago island in Cape Verde.
(Samuel Borges Photography / Shutterstock)Expedia also introduced two special awards this year after seeing unusual spikes in traveler interest.
Cape Verde saw searches soar 805%, earning the title of “Best Soccer-Inspired Island” after the island nation’s national soccer team captured fans’ attention during this summer’s international competition. Here are some more destinations that are trending after the World Cup.
Meanwhile, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas was named Best Private Island for Cruises. The destination, which is exclusive to Norwegian Cruise Line passengers, has seen rising interest as private island cruise stops become increasingly popular.
How can you save money on an island vacation?
If an island getaway is on your wish list, Expedia says timing and flexibility can make a big difference.
The company recommends traveling during shoulder seasons to score lower airfare and hotel rates while avoiding peak crowds. It also suggests looking beyond famous destinations like Santorini in favor of emerging alternatives such as Syros or Porto Santo, where prices may be lower.
Another money-saving strategy is bundling flights and hotels into a vacation package. Expedia says travelers can often save hundreds of dollars by booking multiple travel components together rather than separately.
Finally, if you’re eyeing a popular island destination during a busy travel period, booking early can help lock in better prices before demand pushes rates higher.
