Many people dream of an island vacation. But if you're going to make the journey, which ones live up to the hype? TripAdvisor asked travelers and came up with these answers.
What’s the top-rated island in the world? Maui, according to TripAdvisor. The travel planning and booking site recently released the winners of its Travelers’ Choice awards for islands. Maui also ranks as the best island in the US.
“With common traits like breathtaking beaches, exciting activities, and popular hotels and restaurants, the Travelers’ Choice Islands are favorites of the TripAdvisor community,” says Barbara Messing, TripAdvisor’s chief marketing officer.
Pretty and popular, islands can be costly places to stay during high season. How can you take an island getaway without busting your budget? Visit during “shoulder season”—the period between the slow season and peak tourist season. According to Messing, shoulder season rates may be nearly 30% less than peak times.
TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Islands in the World and How to Save Money
1. Maui, HI
Average hotel rates: spring $346; summer $339; fall $315; and winter $412.
Save an average of 24% by visiting in fall.
2. Santorini, Greece
Average hotel rates: spring $166; summer $256; fall $195; and winter $186.
Save an average of 35% by visiting in spring.
3. Jamaica, Caribbean
Average hotel rates: spring $262; summer $234; fall $227; and winter $304.
Save an average of 25% by visiting in fall.
4. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Average hotel rates: spring $604; summer $424; fall $451; and winter $697.
Save an average of 35% by visiting in fall.
5. Bali, Indonesia
Average hotel rates: spring $92; summer $106; fall $99; and winter $99.
Save an average of 13% by visiting in spring.
6. Majorca, Spain
Average hotel rates: spring $145; summer $173; fall $162; and winter $200.
Save an average of 28% by visiting in spring.
7. Mauritius, Africa
Average hotel rates: spring $216; summer $185; fall $236; and winter $286.
Save an average of 24% by visiting in spring.
8. Phuket, Thailand
Average hotel rates: spring $77; summer $65; fall $84; and winter $126.
Save an average of 39% by visiting in spring.
9. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Average hotel rates: spring $593; summer $649; fall $642; and winter $558.
Save an average of 9% by visiting in spring
10. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Average hotel rates: spring $375; summer $401; fall $423; and winter $450.
Save an average of 17% by visiting in spring.
All photos courtesy of TripAdvisor.