World’s 8 Most Gorgeous Islands

Temperatures are rising as summer approaches. Get your gear out and prepare to drool over this list of dream summer destinations as we take a look at some of the world’s most enchanting islands.

The Maldives

Mention the Maldives, and picture-perfect images of lavish water bungalows, sparkling turquoise waters and uninhabited islands come to mind. The Maldives is an island country in the Indian Ocean, made up of 26 beautiful atolls. If you’re looking to splurge, Maldives holidays make for the ideal honeymoon and romantic escapade.

Flickr photo by nattu

Christmas Island, Australia

What was once a refugee camp during the war is now a peaceful, quiet isle rich in endemic flora and fauna. The Christmas Island, an Australian territory in the Indian Ocean, has had minimal human interference and is home to some unique animal species that can only be found here. Come and catch the annual red crab migration, swim with whale shark or observe turtles nesting by night – it’s a wildlife lovers’ paradise.

Photo by Shawn Brenneman from divingchristmas.

Bora Bora, the French Polynesia

Surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef, Bora Bora is one of the many islands in the French Polynesia. Made famous by its trademark water bungalows that stand on stilts over clear waters, Bora Bora has plenty to offer besides the ocean. Further inland, traverse the slopes of an extinct volcano or trek through its luscious rainforest.

Flickr photo by jsmoral

Koh Rong, Cambodia

A deserted island that lies 40km off the coast of Sihanoukville in Cambodia, Koh Rong is one of the rare and unspoiled islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Those who prefer tranquility to the party islands of Thailand should head out here as soon as possible, as constructions to convert Koh Rong into a luxurious resort destination are underway.

Flickr photo by Alex Schwab

Camiguin, the Philippines

Camiguin is located off the the northern coast of Mindanao, and is lesser known than the other tourist hubs like Palawan, Cebu and Boracay. With a rich cultural heritage and diverse eco-system, you’ll be able to engage in a wide spectrum of activities. Start your day by climbing its old volcano, soaking in the hot spring and then chilling out on miles of white beach before hiking out to its numerous waterfalls.

Flickr photo by Storm Crypt

Seychelles

In this exotic Indian Ocean archipelago, expect turquoise waters similar to that of the Caribbean Islands, without the flashy resorts and tourists. With over 115 islands, couples can go island-hopping one day, forest-trekking through its lush foliage the next or scuba diving in its deep waters.

Flickr Photo by J.Ballester

Palau, Micronesia

Another far-flung nation in the Pacific Ocean, Palau is as exotic as it can get. Rare orchids, plants and vines embellish the island’s lush jungle interiors. Palau is considered one of the world’s best dive locations with pristine coral reefs and proliferate marine life. It is also home to the Rock Islands, a unique phenomena of 485 jutting limestone islets. Its jellyfish lake offers an extraordinary experience like no other.

Flickr Photo by PacificKlaus

Vava’u, Tonga

Tonga, an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, is made up of 169 islands, with over 36 of them uninhabited. Among the islands, Vava’u is one of the most stunning isles. Shaped like a jellyfish, Vava’u is made up of small islets trailing off like tentacles into a quiet lagoon. Hike up to Mt Talau or explore the Hunga Cliffs and catch a glimpse of humpback whales in winter.

Flickr photo by JSA_NZ

[Via: WildJunket]