Best Beach and Island Vacations for 2026

Why? Classic Creole culture, idyllic beaches, and the markets of Victoria.

Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles and with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and dramatic granite peaks, this tropical paradise is a haven for those seeking a true island escape. 86% of the island's population resides in the bustling capital city of Victoria, known for its vibrant market and port, where Creole is the cuisine of choice (a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by a variety of culinary traditions, including French, African, Indian, Chinese, and British). The mountainous landscape of central Mahé tapers to cliffs that fall into the sea.

For beach lovers, Beau Vallon and Anse Intendance offer powdery sands and crystal clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and diving into Mahé’s underwater world, teeming with colorful coral reefs and marine life. Three National Parks are located on and within the surrounding islands of Mahé, where you can find rare and endangered plant life such as the Jellyfish Tree, various orchids, and the otherworldly and carnivorous Seychelles Pitcher Plant. Offering more diversity of experiences than some of the smaller, private Seychelles islands, Mahé's properties still boast ultra luxe accommodation and privacy making it the perfect destination for luxury island vacations.

Recommended Accommodation: Anantara Maia - Distinctive luxury private villas grace porcelain sands and lush forests. Beyond the inherent beauty of this property, the personalized hospitality and exceptional dining are noteworthy highlights.

Why? Some of the best unspoiled reef diving in East Africa, alongside barefoot luxury, relaxation and solitude.

For the ultimate castaway seclusion, Mnemba Island is the perfect choice. Less than a mile in circumference, the island offers a remote, idyllic beach experience. A premier choice for those seeking luxury safari and beach vacations. Surrounded by some of the best dive sights in Africa, guests can enjoy the company of prolific marine life, with turtle season extending usually from April through August. Ardent divers will fall in love with the coral reefs around Mnemba and water sport enthusiasts will avail of excellent windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling. The island is ideal for honeymooners as it is remote, intimate and utterly romantic.

Recommended Accommodation: Mnemba Island - For true barefoot luxury, Mnemba Island is the perfect private island escape. The size of the island makes it intimate and relaxed.

Why? Authentic Maldivian cuisine, thriving marine life and an unmatched luxurious ‘private island’ feeling.

Haa Alif Atoll is the northernmost collection of 43 islands in the Maldives, 14 of which are uninhabited. Each island in the Maldives has its very own resort, so if luxury private island vacations are on your life agenda this is the perfect place. The mesmerizing crystal blue of the Indian Ocean envelops the islands in bliss as you explore one of the world's most exotic locations. Haa Alif Atoll opened to international tourism in 2005, and the resort's surrounding tropical landscapes remain unspoiled and natural.

Recommended Accommodation: Patina Maldives Fari Island - Immerse yourself in this luxurious retreat. With a 5-star Forbes Travel Guide rating, guests can expect exquisite service and a plethora of unique activities and experiences.

Why? Diverse landscape, coral reefs and big game fishing.

Benguerra Island is the second largest island located in southern Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago and offers a diverse landscape for intrepid travelers who want to veer off the beaten track. Turquoise seas give way to 2500km of golden beaches with a rich marine life just past the shore. An incredible dive site that may give you the chance to spot a rare and endangered dugong (protected inside the Bazaruto National Park) as well as stunning coral reefs. Inland, the diverse island landscape delights with a mixture of forest, savanna, freshwater lakes and a wetland ecosystem supporting a variety of plant and animal sightings.

Recommended accommodation: AndBeyond Benguerra Island - Enjoy an island hideaway surrounded by a protected marine reserve, perfect for divers, lovers and anyone seeking an idyllic escape.

Why? 13km of white sand coastline, private and quiet villas and renowned sunsets.

For unbeatable beaches, great diving and unforgettable sunsets, head to Mauritius’ west coast. Le Morne has the most dramatic setting on the entire island. Its long stretch of sand, reef-protected lagoon and superb golf course are all laid out at the foot of an imposing mountain. The winds off Le Morne also offer up great windsurfing and kitesurfing. The best known and longest beach on the west coast, Flic en Flac, offers a 13km stretch of postcard-perfect white sandy beaches. Cross the nearby Black River to Tamarin Bay to find a locally renowned spot among surfers and paddleboarders, or stop by the markets to prepare a beachside picnic. A lagoon by the Flic en Flac beach allows for safe swimming protected by the reef, with a host of watersports on offer.

Recommended Accommodation: Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa - One of the finest hotels in Mauritius, offering inspiring villa accommodation with private pools set in lush tropical gardens, beside a blissfully beautiful white sand beach. Perfect for the ultimate luxury beach vacation experience.