VI
EN
Kaua'i, Hawaii
When mentioning the world's most famous paradise islands, many people can immediately name Kaua'i, Hawaii – a familiar setting often featured in blockbuster films, from Jurassic Park and Blue Island to The Descendants. Not as bustling and crowded as Maui or Oʻahu, Kaua'i offers a peaceful experience exploring tropical rainforests and waterfalls.
Visitors can swim in the picturesque Hanalei Bay, or hike around the expansive Waimea Gorge – also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. Another option is trekking the Kalalau Trail along the Nā Pali coast, considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world.
Ilha de Tinharé, Brazil
Snorkeling with tropical fish, hiking to a 17th-century fortress, and enjoying local delicacies on the sandy beaches of the idyllic Tinharé island are just some of the experiences you'll have when visiting Ilha de Tinharé, Brazil. The car-free village of Morro de São Paulo, located at the northeastern tip of the island, is a two-hour boat ride from Afro-Brazil's capital, Salvador da Bahia – close enough to be a perfect weekend getaway with its palm-lined beaches and crystal-clear waters.
You can sunbathe, swim, or take a speedboat out to sea to admire the coral reefs. At night, the flickering candlelight illuminating the beach is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the music, sway with a cocktail, and sip on fresh fruit caipirinhas (a traditional Brazilian dish made with cachaça, a type of sugarcane liquor).
Ko Raya, Thailand
If you've ever dreamed of swimming with giant starfish or getting a close look at a pufferfish, consider a trip to the paradise island of Ko Raya.
Located off the coast of Phuket, Thailand, Ko Raya Island (also known as Ko Racha) is a haven for outdoor adventurers, offering a range of experiences such as snorkeling in Lah Bay, followed by hiking or renting a mountain bike to explore the surrounding hills.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
Many tourists visiting Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula head straight to popular island destinations like Cozumel or Isla Mujeres, while fewer know about Isla Holbox – part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve. It's also known as a paradise island for snorkelers and thrill-seekers, offering the chance to swim with whale sharks – the ocean's largest fish.
Whale sharks, which can grow up to 12 meters long and weigh up to 20 tons, often congregate in the waters around Holbox each summer (May-September) during their breeding season. Book your tour in advance if possible for a chance to spot flamingos and dolphins on a journey through the mangrove forest, creating unforgettable memories.
Isla Catalinita, Dominican Republic
Tiny Isla Catalinita is an extremely pristine, uninhabited island accessible only by small boat. Located on the eastern edge of the Cotubanamá National Park, it's a dream destination for scuba divers and adventure seekers.
The coral reef just offshore is a colorful home to countless varieties of tropical fish, while Shark Point—a nearby dive spot—attracts even more ocean adventurers.
Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Wine lovers will surely adore the beautiful New Zealand island of Waiheke.
Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island caters to all tastes with its pristine white sand beaches along Hauraki Bay, ideal for swimming and kayaking; cliffside trekking trails with native forests; and sprawling vineyards producing renowned Bordeaux red wines and Chardonnays.
Isla Tortuga, Costa Rica
With its velvety white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island) is affectionately called the most beautiful island in Costa Rica.
Located off the coast of the Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curú wildlife reserve, it's a picture-perfect paradise island, ideal for swimming and kayaking, as well as relaxing with a picnic under towering palm trees. One experience that will make your summer getaway even more memorable is taking a boat trip and, if lucky, spotting adorable dolphins swimming by.
