Top 10 Tropical Destination Spots For Your Next Vacation Getaway

If you’re looking for the top 10 tropical destinations for your next vacation getaway, you’ve come to the right place!

Summer is approaching, and that means it’s time to start planning your next tropical vacation. Nothing helps you relax and unwind like laying on a warm, sandy beach with your favorite blended drink, getting a glowing tan. Not to mention, all the memories you’ll make on your adventure!

In this article, we’ve gathered the top 10 tropical destinations around the world for you to explore.

Let’s jump in!

1. Bali, Indonesia

There’s a reason Bali Indonesia was named the number 1 travel destination by TripAdvisor, as the number of visiting tourists grows substantially every year. This increase in tourism has had a direct effect on the number of luxury resorts and developments in Bali over the last few years, including many high-end boutiques opening in the city. If posh-style shopping isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Bali is a city that offers something to suit everyone’s taste!

That said, the main attraction in Bali would have to be the tropical beaches - which feature white-sand and clear blue waters. This is particularly true in the region of Uluwatu in the south. If you are really up for an adventure, ask the locals where you can find a secret beach…

2. Aruba, Dutch Caribbean

Aruba is often referred to as the island of iguana and flamingos. As one of the world’s number 1 tropical destinations, this tiny Dutch Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela is definitely world visiting. 

From sailing into the sunset, to safari tours and everything in between, there are so many activities offered in Aruba. The European influence throughout the island is evident within the architecture, and features Dutch gables painted in beautiful tropical colors. If you’re looking for a unique and action-packed vacation, Aruba is for you!

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

You’ll find Bora Bora just northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia. Best known for its unbelievably beautiful clear turquoise waters, this small island in the South Pacific is an excellent tropical destination for those who love diving. You can expect to see fish-a-plenty, as well as many underwater sea creatures such as sharks and manta rays. In fact, there is a joke stating that the number of sharks in French Polynesia outnumbers the people there, unsurprising - seeing as there are 16 different species there.

It’s worth mentioning - if you visit Bora Bora from August to October, you may have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of a humpback whale, as this is their migration period. 

4. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Off the east coast of Malaysia, you’ll find one of the most beautiful tropical destinations for your next summer vacation: the Perhentian Islands.

Among the many things that make these islands amazing, is the fact that they aren’t really the typical traveler’s radar. Aside from those who visit the Perhentian Islands for a backpacking trip or to dive in the incredibly clear waters around the coast, this region of Malaysia sees few tourists. I don’t know about you, but the lack of visitors is a positive in my book. Less crowds mean less traffic, fewer lines for activities, and more open space to relax and enjoy the sunny beaches this coast has to offer.

With an abundance of sea life, stunning beaches and lush tropical forests, the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia are a must-see for travelers.

5. The Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands off the coast of Lombok in Indonesia offer one of the most unique and beautiful tropical destinations to visit on earth. 

Made up of three small islands, this Indonesian destination has grown tremendously in popularity over the last few years - due, in part, to the increased number of images uploaded to social media showcasing one of the island’s many features: the overwater swings at sunset. 

Although the swings are one of the most popular tourist activities, there is much more to explore when visiting this tropical wonderland. As previously mentioned, the Gilis are made up of three islands: Gili Trawangan - known primarily as the party island for its many activities and nightlife, Gili Air - the island with the best beaches and a laid back atmosphere, and Gili Meno - the most laid back of the three islands. Each island offers unbelievable sunsets, white sand beaches and incredible snorkelling and diving spots. You can do your exploring on foot or by bicycle, no cars allowed on these islands!

6. The Exumas, Bahamas

As one of the top tropical destinations in the world, the Exumas in the Bahamas are famous for their bright white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and their popular “pig beach”. 

Regardless of the types of activities you enjoy participating in, you’ll find an endless number of options when visiting the Exumas. Swimming alongside black tip sharks in the ocean, for example. This is just one of the many life-changing activities you can experience in the Exumas. 

Word on the street is that the best time to visit the Exumas is between October and may - making this a prime tropical destination getaway to enjoy during the cold, winter months. Another word of advice: Opt in to rent a villa on the coast of the beach, rather than a hotel room in the city when you visit the Exumas. Close access to the water and nature will make this vacation even more magical!

7. El Nido, The Philippines

El Nido is one of over 5,000 islands that make up the Philippines - and it’s one of the most popular among tourists (for good reason), because it’s breathtakingly beautiful. Boracay and Coron are the other two most frequently visited islands in the Philippines.

Due to the popularity of these islands, the Philippines’ government recently shut down the island of Boracay to all tourists for rehabilitation - in an effort to allow the island to recover from the impact of tourism. Additionally, the islands have upped their eco-friendly efforts by encouraging recycling - offering separate bins for various types of materials and/or products. We’re super impressed by their initiative to preserve and protect the beauty of their land.

8. Zanzibar, Indian Ocean

Truly a sight for sore eyes, Zanzibar Archipelago is a tropical destination located in the Indian Ocean just 15 miles away from the coast of Tanzania. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys total and complete relaxation while on a getaway, Zanzibar is the place for you. With its stunning turquoise-blue water and shallow sandbars, this is the perfect location to sit back and enjoy. 

Zanzibar is also an ideal add-on to a safari trip in Africa, or even a peaceful place to rest on your way down from a hike up Kilimanjaro. If you’re a history buff, take a visit to the World Heritage Site of Stone Town, where you can explore Zanzibar City’s old quarter.

Featuring a number of small deserted islands within swimming distance of the mainland, Zanzibar provides a romantic setting for you and your lover to enjoy in a more private setting than most tropical destinations can offer. Not to mention - these small scattered islands are virtually unvisited by tourists and locals, alike. So you can score a secluded spot to soak up some sun quite easily.

9. Dead Sea, Israel

I know what you’re thinking - the Dead Sea Israel doesn’t typically come to mind as an ideal tropical destination vacation, but hear Us out!

Visiting the Dead Sea and the desert landscapes Israel has to offer will leave you pleasantly surprised. Set apart from the rest of the tropical destination locations, many spots in Israel are truly breathtaking, unique and one-of-a-kind, sure to make your trip memorable. 

Within the Dead Sea, there are natural salt formations that resemble little secluded islands. You can swim or take a small paddle boat to check them out - all of which deliver on the promise of an unforgettable tropical destination vacation.

10. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination spot that is in high demand these days. And if you choose to visit this beautiful country, you’ll know why. Just about every tourist who takes a trip to Sri Lanka will tell you that they fell in love with the place.

Sri Lanka is a country that has it all - literally. Incredible beaches (that are almost always empty!), unbelievable sites to see - including historic preserved heritage towns, and endless exploring to do through national parks that are filled with elephants and leopards. One could argue that Sri Lanka is a life-changing tropical destination to visit.

Some of the most popular coastal areas to visit in Sri Lanka include Galle, Tangalle, and Bentota.