Expedia has unveiled its first-ever Island Hot List for 2025, revealing a dramatic 30% global surge in interest in island travel and spotlighting the world’s most in-demand island destinations—backed by real traveler data. From culture-rich Jamaica to sun-drenched Sardinia, the list captures a powerful shift in traveler preferences toward meaningful, scenic escapes that go beyond the postcard. Released on July 15, the Expedia 2025 Island Hot List is the platform’s new curated guide to island travel, blending verified Expedia data with traveler sentiment, accessibility, hotel quality, air connectivity, and safety indicators to help travelers plan smarter, more personalized trips.
The report finds that travelers aren’t just chasing beaches—they’re craving experiences rooted in authenticity, culture, and community. Many of the featured islands are also trending due to affordability, shoulder-season value, and unique local offerings.
The 2025 Hot List: Top Islands to Visit in the World
Each island on the list has been recognized for a signature experience:
-
Aruba – Best for Year-Round Sunshine
-
Bali, Indonesia – Best for Relaxation
-
Dominican Republic – Best for Adventure
-
Fiji – Best for Community
-
Jamaica – Best for Culture
-
Koh Samui, Thailand – Best for Affordable Luxury
-
Maldives – Best for Romance
-
Oahu, Hawaii – Best for Surfing
-
Paros, Greece – Best for Nightlife
-
Sardinia, Italy – Best for Food Lovers
Travel interest in some destinations has skyrocketed. Paros and Sardinia are each trending up 45% year-on-year, while Koh Samui and Jamaica continue to climb thanks to their cultural depth and natural beauty. The report also identified trending islands for travelers from key regions. Among U.S. travelers, Madeira (+45%), Nantucket (+40%), St. Thomas, Palm Beach, and Turks and Caicos saw strong surges in interest. In the UAE, top picks included Cyprus, Phuket, Malta, Madagascar, and Seychelles, driven by affordability, easy access, and off-peak appeal.
Expedia’s travel insights point to September as the best time for most island trips—outside of the Caribbean’s hurricane season. During this shoulder month, travelers can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices, with hotel rates dropping up to 35% in places like Sardinia and Paros compared to August. “Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travelers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape,” said Melanie Fish, Head of Public Relations, Expedia Group Brands. “Island adventurers want standout stays, affordable prices, and seamless flight access. To get that, our top tips are to travel out of season when stay prices can swing by 50%, and bundle flights and hotels to save even more.”
