FIRST-EVER EXPEDIA 2025 ISLAND HOT LIST REVEALS TOP ISLANDS TO VISIT IN THE WORLD, BACKED BY DATA
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Koh Samui,
Jamaica andFiji named among top 10 global islands - Island searches globally up on average 30%
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Paros and
Sardinia trending up 45% year-on-year
Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/expedia/9334952-en-expedia-2025-island-hot-list-reveals-top-islands-to-visit-in-the-world
From the cultural richness of
Here are the destinations that made Expedia's global Island Hot List:
- Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine)
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Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation) - Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure)
- Fiji (Best for Community)
- Jamaica (Best for Culture)
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Koh Samui,
Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury) - Maldives (Best for Romance)
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Oahu,
Hawaii (Best for Surfing) -
Paros,
Greece (Best for Nightlife) -
Sardinia , Italy (Best for Food Lovers)
Top Islands for US Travelers
Beyond these global hotspots, Expedia data also shows a rising wave of interest in islands that hold unique appeal for US travelers. Top of the list is Madeira (+ 45%), Nantucket (+ 40%),
The Expedia Island Hot List is based on a comprehensive analysis of factors including Expedia travel data, accommodation rates and quality (based on real traveler reviews), accessibility, air connectivity, weather and seasonality, tourism appeal, and traveler safety and inclusivity – as informed by travel advisories and traveler sentiment.
"Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travelers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape," said
While the optimum time to visit varies by destination, the global report pinpoints September (outside of the
Expedia Top Tips for
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Travel off-peak and save big: Average stay prices can swing by up to 50% depending on the season**. Skip crowds and get better deals by traveling during the shoulder or off-season. Think
Sardinia or Paros in September – just outside peak – where prices can drop by 35% compared to August**. - Use Flight Alerts to help you know when to book: Turn on Price Tracking**** in the Expedia app to get notified the moment fares dip. It's the easiest way to catch a deal without constantly checking.
- Island hop for unexpected adventures: Why stay on one island when you can explore more? Ferries and short flights open a world of hidden beaches, local flavors, and off-the-radar gems, just beyond the main drag.
- Bundle and save more: Flights, car hire, hotels, and activities – all in one place. Expedia's customizable packages can help travelers save hundreds on average when booking multiple items together. Bonus: your full itinerary is stored in one place.
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Score 25%+ savings with the Expedia Halfway There Sale: With average island hotel rates ranging from
$150 inBali to$655 in theMaldives **, members can save 25% or more on select stays during Expedia's Halfway There Sale. Book by21 July 2025 , travel by 31 October 2025*****.
Inclusion in the list is a source of pride for many destinations eager to showcase their unique attributes to travelers. Leaders from
"We are honored that the pearl of the
"Being named among Expedia's top 10 island destinations is a proud moment for
Learn more about the top 10 islands on
Notes to Editor
- Destination Insights:
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Aruba - Best For: Year-Round Sunshine
- Best time to travel: September
- Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation : JOIA Aruba by Iberostar -
Insider Tip: Desert Beauty Meets Caribbean Bliss.
Aruba's arid landscapes and consistent sunshine make it a standout for 2025. With expanded biking trails and eco-friendly stays, the island blends outdoor adventure with relaxedCaribbean vibes. -
Bali, Indonesia - Best For: Relaxation
- Best time to travel: September
- Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation : Potato Head Suites & Studios -
Insider Tip: Reimagined for the Conscious Traveler. The lush landscapes, rice terraces and spiritual atmosphere of
Bali remain iconic, but the island is transforming under new creative tourism initiatives. Destinations across the island – from tranquil inland retreats to mindful beachside escapes – are embracing zero-waste hospitality, wellness, and cultural connection. -
Dominican Republic - Best For: Adventure
- Best time to travel: April
- Travel Interest: Up 10% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation :Casa de Campo Resort and Villas -
Insider Tip: Caribbean Cool, Redefined. Long known for all-inclusive resorts, the
Dominican Republic is evolving. Cultural connections and an emphasis on adventure travel – think waterfalls and mountain biking – make it one of the most dynamicCaribbean picks for 2025. -
Fiji - Best For: Community
- Best time to travel: September
- Travel Interest: Up 5% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation : Nanuku Resort Fiji -
Insider Tip: Leading the Pacific in Eco-Luxury.
Fiji continues to be a benchmark in regenerative tourism. With coral restoration programs, strong community-based tourism and private island retreats,Fiji blends sustainability with unforgettable luxury. -
Jamaica - Best For: Culture
- Best time to travel: December
- Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation :S Hotel Montego Bay -
Insider Tip: Beyond the beaches.
Jamaica is tapping into its roots in 2025, inviting travelers to explore a vibrant fusion of rhythm, flavor, and natural beauty. From reggae and rum to waterfalls and authentic cuisine, whether you're exploring theBlue Mountains or relaxing on Negril's Seven Mile Beach,Jamaica offers a soulful escape worth plenty of local charm. -
Koh Samui,
Thailand - Best For: Affordable Luxury
- Best time to travel: March
- Travel Interest: Up 55% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation :Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort -
Insider Tip:
Wellness Island of the East. Koh Samui isThailand's rising wellness capital. In 2025, the island is attracting travelers for yoga retreats, detox programs, and beachside spirituality – all while maintaining its reputation for nightlife and natural beauty. -
Maldives - Best For: Romance
- Best time to travel: May
- Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation : Jumeirah Olhahali Island Maldives -
Insider Tip: Remote. Relaxed. Refined. The
Maldives remains the ultimate romantic, luxury escape, but 2025 marks a shift: floating villas powered by solar, coral farming initiatives, and a growing push for carbon-neutral tourism. It's paradise with a purpose. -
Oahu, Hawaii - Best For: Surfing
- Best time to travel: September
- Travel Interest: Up 10% year-on-year*
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Hotel Recommendation : Halepuna Waikiki byHalekulani -
Insider Tip: A Cultural Comeback. In 2025,
Oahu is redefining itself beyondWaikiki . With renewed focus on Native Hawaiian culture, eco-tourism, and off-the-beaten-path adventures – fromNorth Shore surf villages to sacred heiau trails –Oahu offers a deeper, more responsible way to experienceHawaii . -
Paros,
Greece - Best For: Nightlife
- Best time to travel: September
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Hotel Recommendation : Andronis Minois - Travel Interest: Up 45% year-on-year*
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Insider Tip: The New Greek Darling. While Santorini and Mykonos remain popular, Paros is emerging as the Cycladic gem to watch. A rising design scene, low-key luxury stays, and its charming port towns make it ideal for travelers looking for serenity with soul.
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Sardinia, Italy - Best For: Food Lovers
- Best time to travel: September
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Hotel Recommendation : Aethos Sardinia - Travel Interest: Up 45% year-on-year*
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Insider Tip: Longevity Meets Luxury.
Sardinia's Blue Zone status draws wellness seekers, while its rugged coastline and hilltop villages continue to attract travelers from far and wide. 2025 sees a boom in agritourism and immersive experiences where you can eat, hike, and live like a local.
Download destination images and videos .
About the Expedia Island Hot List
The Expedia Island Hot List is based on a comprehensive analysis of factors including:
- Global traveler interest – islands that are trending and growing in popularity
- Accommodation rates – destinations offering a spectrum of affordability
- Flight and lodging accessibility – strong air connectivity and plenty of hotels to service demand
- Quality of hotels – based on real traveler reviews and overall guest experience ratings
- Weather and seasonality – essential considerations for any island escape
- Tourism appeal – range of cultural, natural, and recreational attractions
- Traveler safety – based on travel advisories and traveler sentiment highlighting islands considered safe, inclusive and where travelers are free to explore.
* Based on global accommodation interest for islands from all Expedia POSa from
** Based on the average daily rate from all Expedia POSa for travel from
*** Savings vary and are not available on all packages. Savings are compared to the price of the same components booked separately.
**** Price Tracking is available as an Expedia member benefit. Price history is based on the lowest priced flight per day based on searches on Expedia, for your specific search enquiry.
***** Halfway there sale: Book by
About Expedia
Expedia® is one of the world's leading full-service travel brands, with a mission of helping travelers get the most out of every trip they take by providing everything they need all in one place. and feel supported every step of the way.
Expedia's commitment to insights matched with its unprecedented scale allows them to understand their travelers better than anyone else, delivering exactly what they need, when they need it. Expedia's personalized experiences backed by incredible technology enables them to deliver the widest selection of product offerings across accommodations, transportation, activities and experiences, that help travelers get the most out of their journey.
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