Ten most beautiful islands in the world

As a tourist destination, the islands have always been at the top of almost everyone's list. This is quite natural, given the fact that about 71 percent of the earth's surface is covered with water, and the oceans contain about 96 percent of all the earth's water. However, with over 100,000 islands large and small scattered across the oceans, it can be difficult to know and choose your favorite island.

Hundreds of islands have been included in the list of the best islands in the world by travelers, explorers and tourists. However, it can be a difficult task to come to a consensus on the most beautiful islands in the world. Here we solve the dilemma and present the absolutely fabulous 10 most beautiful islands in the world in 2022.

10. Santorini Islands, Greece

Santorini, or Thira, is the best place among the Greek islands. Located in the Aegean Sea, it is a group of islands consisting of Thera, Thirassia, Aspronisi, Palea and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of the Cyclades. Santorini is in the shape of a crescent. It was the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in the world. What remains today is a submerged volcano and a caldera or large crater in the center that is 8 km long and 4 km wide. The crater is under water and has a depth of 400 m below sea level. The entire Santorini island complex is still an active volcano.

Surprisingly beautiful villages are built on the edge of this caldera. There are large clusters of whitewashed buildings nestling at dizzying heights and cascading down cliff sides. Churches have unique blue domes. They have traditional Cycladic architecture, cobbled streets and breathtaking sea views. Enjoy restaurants with stunning views of the volcano. The volcano can be visited by boat from the old port of Fira.

Fira is the bustling capital of the island. A village called Firostefani is about 15 minutes walk from Fira. Imerovigli is the highest point on the rim of the caldera and is about a 30 minute walk from Fira. The path between these villages is littered with hotels, restaurant terraces and endless photogenic views. In the north of Santorini is the beautiful village of Oia.

The beaches of the east coast are covered with black sand. The beaches of the south coast have colorful sandy beaches, including the famous Red Beach. Inside the island there are vineyards and traditional villages. Pyrgos has charming streets. Santorini is considered the most romantic place in the world.

9. Whitsunday Islands, Australia

The Whitsunday Islands are an archipelago of 74 tropical islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia and are part of the Great Barrier Reef. There are resorts on five of the islands, but most of them are uninhabited, and some offer nature beach camping and hiking.

These islands are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia. Most of these islands are national parks. Highlights include access to coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, pristine beaches and clear warm aquamarine waters. They are well connected by two major airports on Hamilton Island and the mainland city of Proserpine. Each year, over half a million visitors visit the Whitsunday Islands.

Airlie Beach on the mainland is the coastal center and main gateway to the islands. There are several popular and beautiful places to explore, including Manta Ray Bay off Hook Island, Blue Pearl Bay on Hayman Island, and Black Island. Regular ferries run to Hamilton and other islands. Many ferry companies depart from Airlie to take people on day trips to places of interest.

It is a great base for organizing adventures on the island and offers a wide range of accommodation, from youth hostels to luxury hotels. Shute Harbor is about 10 km from Airlie Beach and is a quieter place to board ferries to the islands at the jetty, where there are many private boats. Shut Harbor is also known for fishing, which can be done from a pontoon near the jetty or in deeper waters on a fishing boat.

Whitehaven Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its sand is 98 percent silica and is very white in color. It is an uninhabited island that can be reached by seaplane, helicopter or boat. Day trips to Whitehaven depart from Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, and Airlie Beach. A typical day trip includes a visit to Whitehaven Beach, a trip to part of the reef for snorkelling, and a pre-packed lunch. Most of the islands are protected national parks and have no habitation. There are campsites on almost every island.

The Romantic Heart Reef is a small section of the Great Barrier Reef whose corals have formed into the shape of a large heart, first discovered in 1975 by a local pilot. This is visible from the air. In the case of a seaplane, it is possible to land nearby and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef. You can indulge in bareboat, which means hiring a bareboat and exploring Trinity's attractions and resorts.

Hamilton Island is the largest, busiest and most popular island in the Whitsundays. It is the only island with a commercial Great Barrier Reef Airport that has direct flights from major Australian cities such as Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne. Hamilton Island is also known for its luxurious Qualia Resort, recognized as one of the best hotels in the world. It is located on the northern tip of the island and offers an excellent range of water activities including sailing. Palm-shaded bungalows and yacht club villas are also available. Activities are as varied as trips to the Great Barrier Reef, stunning Whitehaven Beach, golf and tennis, hiking or island exploring. Water activities here include sailing, snorkeling, kayaking and jet skiing.

Daydream Island is the smallest of the Whitsunday Islands and one of the closest to the mainland. This is a family favorite. It has the Daydream Island Resort and Spa. This popular resort has amenities such as mini golf, an open-air cinema, sparkling lagoon-style pools, a kids' club and an outdoor aquarium where guests can feed the rays and sharks. Three beaches offer water sports, including reef fishing and coral watching.

Hayman Island is the northernmost inhabited island. It features an exclusive five-star One&Only resort; on your own private island. It was one of the first islands on the reef that was developed for tourism. This is an incredibly beautiful place with tropical forests, rocky coves, mangroves, palm-fringed beaches and a botanical garden. There are bathing suites and water activities such as fishing, kayaking, swimming, sailing, windsurfing, diving and snorkelling.

South Mall Island is in the middle of Trinity and has a budget resort. The island is part of the Molle Islands National Park. It is a favorite for backpackers, day travelers and vacationers. There are rainforests, reefs, rocky headlands and long beaches fringed with palm trees. It has walkways through tropical foliage and the Spion Kop Track is a favorite. Other activities include golf, tennis, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling and bird watching, especially the colorful rainbow lorikeets.

Long Island is located just a kilometer from the mainland. It is a pristine national park with fringing reefs nearby and walking trails through bushland and secluded coves. There are three resorts with the usual water sports and beautiful beaches with palm-shaded hammocks.

Hook Island offers some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving. Most of the island is a national park with hiking trails to rainforests and coral-strewn beaches.

8. Seychelles, Indian Ocean

The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. These beautiful islands, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, are located some thousands of miles from East Africa. There are numerous beaches, coral reefs and nature reserves. It is home to several rare species such as the Aldabra giant tortoises. The snow-white beaches of Beau Vallon on Mahe and Anse Lazio on Praslin are the most attractive. The stunning pink sands and boulders of Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue are considered one of the most enchanting beaches on earth.

Mahe is the largest and most populous island of the Seychelles. The capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, is on Mahe, which is a hub for visiting other islands. About 90% of the country's 89,000 citizens live here. The northeast of the island is sparsely populated and offers excellent recreational opportunities. There are more beautiful beaches here. Lush mountains rise above the Indian Ocean, offering stunning views of mountain trails and waterfalls. You can go rock climbing, sea kayaking and scuba diving.

The Morne-Seychellois National Park divides Mahe into east and west. The majority of the population lives in the east between the airport and Victoria. The national park has a mountain range with peaks over 900 meters high, covered with dense rainforest. It has some of the most picturesque beaches such as Anse Soleil, Intendance and Takamaka. To the north is Constance Ephelia and Port Lawn Marine Reserve, a protected area that offers some of the best snorkeling and diving on the island.

Praslin is the second largest island in the Seychelles with a population of just 6,500 people. It has stunning white sand beaches and lush rainforests that cover the hills. Beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Jogette are among the best beaches and most beautiful places in the world. From here you can visit other islands. The beaches around the island have white sand and shallow turquoise seas.

7. Maui Island, Hawaii, Pacific Ocean

Maui, also called Valley Island, is the second largest among the Hawaiian Islands. Its area is 727 square miles. The Hawaiian Islands are an archipelago of eight large islands, several atolls, and many small islands in the North Pacific Ocean. The islands stretch over 1,500 miles. Of the eight islands, six are open to visitors, including Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai and Hawaii, which is called the Big Island. The state of Hawaii is officially called the state of Aloha. Kahului Airport is Maui's main airport, while the two smaller airports at West Maui and Hana are for small propeller-driven aircraft only.

Maui is sandwiched between the Big Island and the much smaller Molokai. Maui is divided into five distinct regions: east, west, south, north and central. Central Maui is where most of Maui's population lives and is the center of business. West Maui has the best beaches on the island, including Kaanapali Beach. It also has the most hotels and resorts. South Maui is home to the famous Wailea Beach, which is home to some of the world's best premium resort hotels. In the northern part of Maui is Haleakala, the highest mountain peak at 10,000 52 feet. It is also the largest dormant volcano in the world. It is located in the center of Maui and is part of Haleakala National Park. The road to Hana is in East Maui. The Hana Highway is a 600-mile road with 50 turns and one-way bridges. There are lush green forests and many scenic stops along the way.

Maui has some of the best whale watching in the world. You can wake up early to see the sunrise in Haleakala. Then, stroll through the historic city of Lahaina, which is famous for whale watching. Makena Beach State Park or Big Beach is one of Maui's largest beaches. It is in South Maui and is almost 2/3 of a mile long and over 100 feet wide. Magnificently beautiful sand and the purest waters attract lovers of diving, swimming and sunbathing. Driving along Haneo Road, behind Koki Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii, the world-famous Hamoa Beach. It is about 1,000 feet long and 100 feet wide with sea cliffs surrounding it. Lush vegetation decorates the beach. There is decent snorkeling and snorkeling on the high seas.

West Maui's Kaanapali Beach is a three-mile stretch of paved sand that runs the length of the beach past hotels to Black Rock. Black Rock crosses the beach and is a popular destination for snorkellers and scuba divers, as well as other water sports such as parasailing, windsurfing and water skiing.

Kamaole Beach in south Maui is located in the city of Kihei and is divided into three separate beach areas with fine white sand and excellent swimming conditions. To the east of Maui is the black sand Honokalani Beach located in Pailoa Bay. Swimming on this is dangerous and should be avoided as the beach is open to the ocean and has no outer reef to break the force of the waves and currents. The beach has caves with a narrow entrance that widens inwards and leads to an open view of the ocean at the other end.

6. Bora Bora Islands, French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean

Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of islands of the French Polynesia Society in the Pacific Ocean. The Society Islands is an archipelago consisting of islands such as Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti. The group of islands to the east was called the Windward Islands, consisting of Tahiti and Moorea. The remaining islands, including Bora Bora, are part of the Leeward Islands group. Bora Bora is an "overseas country" financed by France. The original name of the island in Tahitian was Pora Pora, which means "Firstborn". The island was first discovered in 1722. It is located about 160 miles northwest of Tahiti and about 230 kilometers northwest of Papeete. It's about 2600 miles south of Hawaii.

Bora Bora is one of the scenic wonders and is often referred to as the most beautiful island in the world. Bora Bora is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. It is surrounded by a necklace of coral motus or small islands. This formation has created a tranquil lagoon surrounding Bora Bora. The Bora Bora group of islands includes several islands. The main island is about 11 square kilometers and is small enough to get around in about three hours, but the lagoon is much larger. In the center of the island are two peaks of an extinct volcano, Mount Pachia and Mount Otemanu. The waters of the lagoon constantly change color from emerald green to deep blue.

Bora Bora does not have an international airport, but Air Tahiti offers scheduled flights from Papeete in Tahiti. Bora Bora has one airport, also known as Motu Mute Airport. Bora Bora has a harbor that accepts cruise ships. There is no public transport in Bora Bora. Visitors can rent a car, bike, or a small two-seater buggy from Vaitape, the island's largest city and administrative centre. The 32 km long road runs along the entire coast. The official language is French, but local Polynesian is also spoken. Apart from tourism, which is the main activity of Bora Bora; other activities include deep sea commercial fishing and copra, vanilla and mother-of-pearl production. There are about 12 five-star hotels and resorts on the island.

Bora Bora offers the best in tourism such as diving, snorkeling, 4x4 jeep trips to the mountains, feeding sharks and rays. One amazing fact is that there are no poisonous insects or snakes here. You can sleep anywhere without the risk of being bitten by a snake. Several movies and TV shows have been filmed in this beautiful location, such as South Pacific, Mutiny at the Bounty, Couples Retreat, or Bachelorette. Bora Bora, the pearl of the Pacific, is a romantic place to celebrate and relax; and a dream destination, considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

5. Palawan Islands, Philippines

Palawan is an archipelago consisting of 1,780 islands and islets. The province of Palawan consists of the long and narrow island of Palawan and all the other small islands surrounding it. Palawan Island is the largest island and a strip of land about 650 km long on the blue sea. National Geographic has ranked it several times as one of the best islands in the world, not only for its beauty but also for its amazing biodiversity. Palawan is a rare, amazing tropical island with jungles, mountains and white beaches. It has almost 2,000 kilometers of coastline with rocky coves and white sandy beaches. It also has a vast area of ​​virgin forest that covers a chain of mountain ranges. The jungle is home to 100 species of birds. The highest mountain peak is Mount Mantalingahan, which reaches a height of 6,843 feet. Rare and amazing wildlife on the islands includes purple crabs, Philippine deer, Philippine pangolins, Palawan bearcats, Palawan hornbills and beautiful butterflies.

Puerto Princesa is the capital and has an international airport. It has the mysterious grandeur of an underground network of caves and a river flowing through vast rocky corridors, and striking formations that plunge into dark pools. The river goes directly to the sea, and its lower part is subject to tidal influences. This site has an ecosystem stretching from the mountain to the sea and some of the most spectacular examples of biodiversity. The underground river inspires awe and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Honda Bay is a short drive north of Puerto Princesa. It offers excellent diving, snorkeling and swimming in crystal clear waters. In the northern part is El Nido, which is the gateway to the picturesque Bacuit archipelago with islands with white sand beaches, coral reefs, diving and swimming with whale sharks.

In the northeast of Palawan, the Kalamianes group of islands consists of the islands of Busuanga, Coron, Culion and Linapakan among over a hundred islands. The town of Coron, located on the neighboring island of Busuanga to the east, offers boat trips on the lake, brackish lagoons and exotic creatures. Coron is famous for snorkeling and scuba diving. He has several World War II Japanese shipwrecks off Coron Bay. For scuba divers, this area is a Mecca. There are shallow reefs for snorkeling and spectacular underwater caves. There are seven mountain lakes, including the majestic Kayangan Lake with the clearest water of all the islands, the famous twin lagoons and the underwater cave of Barracuda. There are tropical sea creatures such as giant clams, starfish, clown fish, sea snakes, sea turtles and dolphins.

Calauit Island Safari is an entire island dedicated to the conservation of African wildlife. Herds of giraffes, zebras, gazelles, deer and other animals roam here, originally brought from Kenya to create a safari island. The Palawan Islands have a lot to explore and discover beyond the natural beauty they offer.

4. Saint Lucia, Caribbean

Saint Lucia is a small island nation in the Caribbean. It is located halfway down the Eastern Caribbean chain and north of Barbados. It is 24 miles south of Martinique and 21 miles northeast of Saint Vincent. It is the second largest of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles. Saint Lucia is a member of the Commonwealth countries. English is the official language. Saint Lucia is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, and is shaped like the island of Sri Lanka. The capital and major port is Castries.

On its eastern coast is the Atlantic Ocean, while the beaches of the west coast owe their beauty to the calm Caribbean Sea. Vieux Fort, on the southern tip of the island, has an international airport. Vizhi has a small airport for regional flights. International transportation and cruises are carried out from the ports of Castries and Vieux Fort. St. Lucia has gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, miles of pristine rainforest, natural waterfalls, breathtaking views, and friendly locals. Saint Lucia offers exciting and exotic outdoor activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, windsurfing, deep sea fishing, jet skiing and scuba diving. The island has steep coastlines and beautiful reefs. Saint Lucia is of volcanic origin. It has been inhabited long before colonial times, and cultural treasures from its rich past and many different traditions have been preserved here. The island is dotted with ancient fortresses, small villages and open-air markets. Sugarcane used to be the main crop, but since 1964 bananas have become the main crop. Other crops are coconuts, cocoa, citrus fruits, spices, cassava and yams. There is a local fishing industry.

The island is bisected from north to south by a central range of wooded mountains, the highest point of which is Mount Gimi, peaking at 3,145 feet. The north and south of the island represent two different cultural centers. Rodney Bay to the north offers a pristine modern marina full of waterfront bars, high end restaurants and modern amenities in the midst of a beautiful bay. The Soufrière to the south is filled with retro Caribbean vibes, candy-colored villages, roadside barbecue tents, and grilled fish on the beach. It is a magnificent region of old plantations, hidden beaches and the geological wonder of the Piton Mountains.

The coastal twin peaks Gros Piton and Petit Pitons rise 2,500 feet above sea level. Two huge stone pyramids rise sharply above the sea and surround a small bay. They have magnificent rainforests where wild colorful orchids, giant ferns and birds of paradise thrive. Glossy-feathered tropical birds include endangered species such as the native St. Lucia parrot, which is the national bird; black finch from St. Lucia and oriole from St. Lucia. There are green fields and orchards of bananas, coconuts, mangoes and papaya. Near Petit Piton, in the crater of an ancient volcano, there are boiling sulfur springs. The city of Soufrière was named after this volcano. Soufrière Volcano is the world's only erupting volcanic crater.

The rainforest in the highlands of St. Lucia is one of the best places in the Caribbean for hiking and bird watching. The island also offers excellent conditions for golf, tennis, sailing and many other leisure activities. Soaring volcanic peaks, lush rainforests and colorful waterfalls are just some of the top attractions. Saint Lucia is a Treasure Island storybook that has all the elements: jungle, volcanoes, secluded sandy coves and beaches.

3. Fiji Islands, South Pacific

For those who may not know, Fiji isn't just an island or two; it is an archipelago of 333 beautiful sunny islands with charming beaches. 106 of these islands of various sizes are inhabited. They are found in the South Pacific, not far from Australia and New Zealand. There are islands with five-star resorts and spas; and several private islands. These islands offer a wide range of recreational activities and experiences ranging from skydiving to off-road cycling, from rafting to scuba diving and hiking to cultural extravaganzas. The Lomaiviti Island Group lies at the center of Fiji's colonial past and is home to the country. the first capital, Levuka, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The inner islands are well developed tourist destinations with attractions such as diving, fishing, snorkelling and whale watching. These islands offer a charming island experience. There are several luxury resorts on the island of Covo.

Viti Levu is the largest island and one of the largest in the South Pacific, with an area of ​​10,000 sq. km. It has a main international airport in Nadi. Suva is the capital of Fiji and the largest city. It is 190 km south of Nadi. It is a highly multicultural regional center and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Oceania. It has shopping centers and farmers' markets, restaurants, entertainment, parks, gardens, museums, outdoor activities and a vibrant nightlife. Nandi is an island city with an international airport offering a variety of cuisines from different cultures, from food to shopping. Hindi or Fujian music plays in shops and restaurants. It has hotels and resorts and is close to Mamanukas and Denarau Island. The Coral Coast is a kilometer-long stretch of beaches and coves along the Royal Highway between Nandi and Suva. The region is named so because of the large fringing reef that starts from the coastline. It is a famous tourist destination offering the complete resort experience as well as village visits, beach life and diving to experience true island life.

Vanua Levu is the second largest island in Fiji. It attracts many adventurous tourists. The city of Savusavu has a protected bay for yachting. The Wasali Game Reserve is a rainforest with hiking trails. You can explore the island or dive among the corals.

Denarau Island is located less than 10 kilometers from Nadi. It is located on the main island of Viti Levu. It has great resorts, stunning beaches and an 18-hole golf course. Denarau Island is the largest integrated resort in the South Pacific. There are big hotels and resorts here such as Hilton, Westin, Sheraton, Sofitel, Radisson, etc. Despite being an island, it is connected to the mainland by a small causeway.

The Mamanuca Islands are a chain of 20 exotic islands that can be reached by boat or plane from Nadi International Airport. These islands have beautiful resorts and beaches with white, silvery-white sand. Several films and television series such as Cast Away and The Revenant have been filmed in these locations. These islands offer parasailing, windsurfing, dolphin watching, surfing and diving such as Big W and Gotham City. This is the perfect place for the whole family.

The Yasawa Islands are located in the northwest of Viti Levu. There are resorts and plenty of accommodation here, as well as plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling and diving. These pristine green grass-covered islands have sparkling china beaches and cool blue waters.

Taveuni is known as a garden island. It is well known for ecotourism with nature reserves with native plants and wildlife. It also has a marine park and is a birdwatching paradise with over 100 species of exotic birds.

The Lau Islands are several small islands in the Far East of Fiji. Only three islands have accommodation and no restaurants. These islands are completely untouched and offer traditional Fijian hospitality.

The pristine Kadavu Islands are famous for diving and are home to the world-famous Great Astrolabe Reef. The islands have rainforests, bird watching, and sea kayaking tours.

2. Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Mark Twain once said: "First Mauritius was created, and then heaven was copied from it." The Republic of Mauritius is one of the most beautiful and visited countries on the African continent. Apart from the rich natural beauty, another striking feature is the hospitable nature of the Mauritian people. Located in the Indian Ocean, off the southeast coast of Africa, Mauritius is located almost 800 km east of the island of Madagascar. Its area is 1,864 sq. km, and dimensions - 39 x 28 miles. Here are the most beautiful crystal clear lagoons, coral reefs and white sand beaches. The islands of Saint Brandon, Rodrigues and Agalega are also part of the Republic of Mauritius.

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and is located on the western side of the country. There is a diverse population. Mauritius also offers many adventures such as snorkeling and surfing. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling as most of the island is covered in mountains. Other attractions are Center Equestre De Riambel, Heritage Golf Club, Divers'Ocean, Les 7 Cascades etc. Mauritius has an international airport in Plaisance and there are other airports located throughout the country. Air Mauritius is the national carrier. It has port facilities at Port Louis.

The culture of Mauritius is influenced by Indian, Chinese and European cultures. Mauritius celebrates several festivals of various religions, such as Christmas, Kavadi, Chinese New Year, Pre Laval, Diwali, Mahashivaratri and many others, which have become an integral part of Mauritian culture. About two-thirds of the population are of Indian origin, descendants of indentured laborers recruited to work in the sugar industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries. About a quarter of the population are Creoles of mixed French and African ancestry, and there are small numbers of people of Chinese and French-Mauritian ancestry. The official language is English, but the popular language spoken by 80 percent of the population is Creole. Bhojpuri is spoken by one tenth of the population, while French is spoken by a small percentage. Other languages ​​spoken include Hindi, Chinese, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu. About half of the population is Hindu, one-third are Christians and Catholics, and most of the rest are Muslims.

Mauritius is of volcanic origin and is surrounded by coral reefs. The northern part is a plain that rises to a central plateau bordered by small mountains. The highest point at 828 meters is the Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire in the southwest. There are two major rivers, the Grand River in the southeast and the Black River, which are the main sources of hydroelectric power. Lake Vacoas is the main source of water. Peter Boat is the second highest mountain in Mauritius. More than half of the country's territory is fertile and has plantations of sugar cane, the main export crop. They also grow vegetables and tea. About 600 native tree species remain. Fauna includes sambra deer, tenrec - a spiny insectivore, mongoose, as well as a number of bird species. The Dodo, the famous flightless bird, was extinct by 1681.

On the east coast are the most beautiful beaches of the island, located next to the emerald lagoons. It is also a paradise for water sports. The main attraction is the Belle Mare beach, which stretches for several kilometers. There is also a turtle farm and an 18-hole golf course. The public beach of Roches Noires extends to Poste Lafayette, which is a great place for fishing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Bras d'Eau is a small bay in the Poste Lafayette lagoon. Belle Mare has a beautiful white sandy beach and parasailing over a turquoise lagoon. There are many caves in the Roches Noires area and birds such as Mauritian fruit bats and swallows live in these cool dark caves. There are also many lava tubes connected to the sea that have been converted into cool freshwater springs where you can swim and swim among the fish. Bras d'Eau National Park offers a mountain bike trail through shady exotic forest.

The central plateau is located at an altitude of 400 to 600 meters above sea level. Starting south of Port Louis, this sprawling urban area is home to approximately 400,000 people, more than one-third of the island's population. The four towns of Rose Hill, Quatre Bornes, Vacoas and Curepipe form the heart of the island. Curepipe has some of the coldest temperatures and is home to Trou aux Cerfs, the crater of a dormant volcano, and the Curepipe Botanical Garden with its rare plant species. Near the Vacoas reservoir is the Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao, a natural lake formed in the crater of an extinct volcano and a famous pilgrimage site for Mauritian Hindus. The People's Museum of Indian Immigration of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute has a museum that details the daily life of Indian immigrant workers in the nineteenth century.

There are several excellent hotels and lagoons on the west and southwest coasts that are calm enough for swimming, snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, kayaking, pedal boats and sailing. Tamarin Bay and the world famous "One Eye" at Le Morne have the best waves for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. Mount Le Morne towers over the clear lagoon below. Le Morne has beautiful hotels and golf courses. Mount Le Morne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a monument to the harsh period of slavery in Mauritius.

The region has several natural parks, such as Casela and Gros Cayu, which are best for family outings in stunning surroundings where African lions, giraffes and other animals can be seen. Albion is known for its beaches and lighthouse. . Flic en Flac has white beaches lined with casuarina trees and is popular with swimmers and snorkelers. Tamarin Bay is a famous popular surf spot. The West Coast is the place to swim, play and watch dolphins. In the south, the wildest and most beautiful landscapes of Mauritius. Mahebourg is a famous fishing village on the shores of Grand Port Bay. It also houses the National Naval and Historical Museum. The Pointe Canon in Mahébourg is a popular concert venue and also hosts an annual regatta. The Ile aux Egret Nature Reserve is a small island with an area of ​​27 hectares, located 800 m from the southeast coast. Blue Bay Beach, surrounded by a semi-circle of casuarinas, has fine white sand, clear water and live corals and is ideal for snorkelling. Blue Bay Marine Park can be explored on a glass bottom boat to see marine life including parrot fish, trumpet fish and barracuda.

1. Maldives, Indian Ocean

The Maldives is an archipelago consisting of 26 coral atolls located in a chain that crosses the equator in the Indian Ocean. Within these atolls there are 1,192 islands, of which about 200 are inhabited and 100 are resorts. They lie south-southwest of India, south of the Indian Lakshadweep Islands, in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is spread over approximately 90,000 395,000 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 26 people. It is one of the most geographically dispersed countries in the world and the smallest Asian country in both area and population. The Maldives is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches. Although there are a number of atolls, most resorts are located in North Male, South Male, Ari, Felidhoo, Baa and Lhaviani atolls. The Maldives archipelago sits atop the Chagos-Maldives-Laccadives Ridge, a vast underwater mountain range in the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives got its name from the Sanskrit word maladwipa, which means garland of islands. Male is the capital as well as the largest and most populous city. It is located on the southern edge of Kaafu Atoll. Male receives a curse from the Mahal for being the home of the "Royal Dynasties". It is also called the Royal Island. The local culture is a mixture of South Indian, Sinhalese and Arabic influences, which is reflected in the traditional music, cuisine and art of the island. The locals speak Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken.

The tourist resort islands of the Maldives consist of an exclusive hotel on their own island with a population entirely based on tourists and labor, with no locals or homes. These islands are less than one kilometer long and about 200 meters wide; and are located at a maximum height of about 2 meters above sea level. In addition to the beach around the island, each island has its own "house reef" which serves as a large natural pool, coral garden and natural aquarium for scuba divers and snorkelers. They also protect swimmers from ocean waves and strong tidal currents. The Maldives has the world's first underwater restaurant, an underwater nightclub and an underwater spa.

With an average ground level of just 1.5m above sea level, the Maldives is the lowest country on earth and has a very fragile ecosystem. The Maldives is at risk of flooding due to rising sea levels. The UN Environment Commission has warned that at the current rate of sea level rise, the Maldives will become uninhabitable by 2100.

The Maldives is the perfect place for diving enthusiasts. Surrounded by ocean on all sides, the charming atolls of the Maldives are the perfect place to explore the marine life of the Indian Ocean. The beauty of coral reefs and azure waters make the Maldives one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Submarine trips are another activity for families traveling with children. From here you have a magnificent view of the reef and rare species of fish, turtles and sharks in their natural habitat. The ultra-modern submarine "Kit" is the largest tourist submarine. Some of the best islands and their attractions are described below.

Banana Reef, located on North Male Atoll, is the oldest world famous diving site in the Maldives. It got its name from its banana shape. Divers can explore its beautiful caves, rocks and coral beds, which are home to several species of exotic fish and other marine life such as squirrel fish, soldier fish and Maldivian larva fish. The main attractions of the Banana Reef include underwater activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, etc.

Manta Point is a place where divers can snorkel or snorkel with giant manta rays. This species weighs up to 5,000 pounds and has a wingspan of 25 feet; and are found here in large numbers.

Alimanta Island is another beautiful diving spot in the Maldives. It is located on the eastern edge of Vaavu Atoll and is one of the protected diving sites. Tourists are offered diving excursions, night dives and day and night snorkel trips. Other activities include windsurfing, canoeing and sailing. Emerald crystal clear shallow water is great for swimming and playing with children.

Biyadhoo Island is located in South Male Atoll. Spread over ten acres of land, the island abounds with bananas, coconuts and mangoes, as well as cucumbers, cabbages and tomatoes. It is popular for its sparkling waters and adventurous water sports, and is also called a snorkeling island.

Nalaguraidu Island, also known as the Isle of the Sun, is located in South Ari Atoll. It has stunning beaches with clear azure waters, shimmering white sands and untouched nature. This is one of the most visited beaches and the most popular among honeymooners.

Mirihi Islands is one of the most popular beaches among tourists. It is named after a local flower. There are overwater bungalows on the resort island. It is ideal for honeymooners and those seeking peace and tranquility. The whole island is covered with palm trees and covered with white sand.

Bioluminescence can be observed on Muddhu Island in Baa Atoll. Small organisms known as ostracod crustaceans light up the beach and water. Luminous crustaceans on the surface of the ocean against the midnight blue sky and white sand on the beach create a delightfully mesmerizing spectacle on the island. Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

HP Reef, also known as the Rainbow Reef due to its many colors, is a strong current dive site in North Male Atoll that is great for those who want to explore the underwater world. It has soft corals in different colors and gorgonians or sea whips. With dives up to 40 meters deep, the reef is great for spotting a variety of reef fish, manta rays, tuna and other marine life.

Fish Head is located on the North Ari Atoll and is considered one of the best dive sites in the world. It offers divers the opportunity to see a large school of gray reef sharks as well as other marine life such as fusiliers, great napoleons and hungry barracudas. This dive site also has black corals, caves and underwater rock formations.

Fua Mulaku is in the south. Although it is the smallest of the single island atolls, it has the largest island in the Maldives. This island is very fertile and grows fruits and vegetables such as mangoes, oranges and pineapples.

Utemu Island in Haaalif Atoll is home to Utemu Ganduwaru, which is popular as the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Takurufaanu, who fought a fifteen-year war to expel the Portuguese from the Maldives. This is a well-kept wooden palace.

Veligandu Island is located on the North Ari Atoll. This is a small island full of amazing greenery. The lagoons provide excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

On Kudahuvadhoo Island in South Nilandhu Atoll is one of the mysterious burial mounds known as havitts, which are believed to be the ruins of Buddhist temples. This island also has an old mosque with fine stonework.

Gan Island is located in the Addu Atoll south of the equator. Here you can go diving among giant manta rays, shark species and green turtles. The largest shipwreck in the Maldives, British Loyalty, is also off the coast of Ghana. The westernmost islands are connected by roads across the reef, called Link Roads, which are 14 km long. You can also cycle around the island on rented bikes and chat with the friendly locals.

The Maldives is not only crystal clear waters, blue lagoons and silvery beaches, but also an amazing variety of marine life, corals and over 2000 species of fish, from reef fish and reef sharks to moray eels, rays and whale sharks. The islands' many sheltered lagoons are also the perfect place for a family getaway or romantic getaway. It would take several articles to describe the beauty of the nature of the Maldives.

It is difficult to choose the best island among hundreds of beautiful paradise islands scattered around the world. The best of them are the most distant and located in hard-to-reach parts of the oceans. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why they have retained their original beauty. At the same time, the accessibility of the islands is also important from the point of view of visitors. For this reason, some of the exquisite islands were not included in this list. On the other hand, there are islands that are so popular that they have lost their exclusivity. You can have your own list of favorite islands, and if any of them don't appear in the list, you can return to it with your comments.