The World’s 10 Best Islands

Islands may all share one characteristic—their fringe of water—but the similarity ends there. From flat coral islands to lofty volcanic cones, from culture capitals filled with history to ecotourism capitals devoid of human inhabitants, the world’s islands are as different as the seashells that dot their shores. Check out these 10 top islands you might consider for your next romantic getaway.

Jamaica

Pulsating reggae rhythms, rich history, and the bountiful attractions of the Caribbean’s third-largest island are framed by a lush, tropical beauty. From the lofty Blue Mountains (home of what many swear is the world’s best coffee) to the coastline the color of toasted coconut, Jamaica is postcard pretty. Exploring even a sliver of the expansive island means a menu of choices ranging from greathouse tours to zipline adventures, horseback sojourns to waterfall walks. Bob Marley’s legacy lives on across the island; his lilting tunes are heard almost everywhere, an easy reminder for visitors to “get up, stand up” and put a little bounce in their step.

Cyprus

On the eastern end of the Mediterranean, the island of Cyprus is both European and Middle Eastern, Greek and Turkish. This island was once a center for the cult of Aphrodite, the place where the Greek goddess was supposedly born from the waves. Even today, locals say eternal youth will grace those who swim three times around a rock that protrudes from the sea. For all its Greek reminders, however, many call the cruise port of Limassol the "Paris of the Mediterranean" because of its European air, sidewalk cafes, and stylish atmosphere.

Malta

Located right in the middle of the Mediterranean, the nation of Malta is actually three islands: bustling Malta, rugged Gozo (visited by small ships), and nearly uninhabited Comino. Most passengers see Malta’s port of Valletta, a walled city that was once the headquarters of the Knights of Malta. Memories of the Knights line the cobblestone streets of Valletta including the Palace of the Grand Masters where two-inch-high steps were constructed so knights could ascend in full armor. The oldest history is found on nearby Gozo at the two temples of Ggantija, believed to be the world's oldest freestanding monuments dating to 3600 BC.

Bermuda

Located 650 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras, Bermuda combines a slightly formal British atmosphere and its position as one of the world's richest countries with the island's semi-tropical climate to create a setting where palm-lined roads connect Easter egg-colored houses and trademark pink beaches. With a climate that's often described as having only two seasons -- spring and summer -- Bermuda is a golfer's delight. The island boasts more golf courses per square mile than any other country in the world. And what’s proper to wear on the course? Bermuda shorts, naturally.

Easter Island

Although located on one of the most isolated places on the planet, the stone icons known as moai which guard the austere beauty of Easter Island guarantee that the visitors to this paradise never feel alone. A total of 887 of these rock statues grace the island; they range in size from under four feet to “El Gigante,” at nearly 72 feet. Most statues are found on the southeast coast but their history remains a partial mystery. Anthropologists believe the statues were created between 1400 and 1600 AD, constructed to represent the spirits of island ancestors.

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