Top 10 Tropical Holiday Destinations

Whether you’re planning your honeymoon, an anniversary celebration, or a romantic escape, the allure of a tropical vacation is hard to resist. Tropical holiday destinations conjure visions of palm trees, pristine sandy beaches, elegance, indulgent drinks, days lounging in the sun, and simply enjoying the finer things in life. Fortunately, many places deliver this experience, allowing us to enjoy a lifestyle we often think is reserved for daydreams.

To bring your dreams of a tropical holiday to fruition, consider one of these ten astonishingly beautiful tropical destinations.

A girl sitting on the beach under a tree in a tropical destination.

1. Maldives

The Maldives has a reputation for being a stunning tropical getaway. It’s a destination where towns or cities are not the main attraction. Instead, it’s one of the 26 atolls that draws vacationers to the islands. Many offer overwater accommodations where you feel like you’re floating into the Indian Ocean and immersing yourself with the scenery.

Overwater bungalows in Veligandu Island, Maldives
Overwater bungalows in Maldives are a popular draw for romantic holidays.

But the Maldives offer far more than just stunning scenery. The country is renowned for its diving sites and boating adventures. If you feel like venturing to the capital city of Malé, you’ll discover plenty of museums, tasty cuisine and cultural sites to explore. 

2. Hawaii

The islands of Hawaii have long been go-to destinations for those seeking a tropical getaway, and they continue to hold an appeal for sun-seekers. Two of the most popular islands for couples on a getaway are Maui and Oahu. They each offer a variety of resorts and ample opportunities to lounge on stunning beach locales.

Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout in Oahu, Hawaii.

While you’re there, you can hike to waterfalls through dense greenery and feel like you’ve discovered a private oasis. Thanks to Polynesian influence, Hawaii offers some of the tastiest food in the USA, whether you’re dining at a fancy restaurant or a casual picturesque beachside venue.

3. Costa Rica

Adventure and relaxation collide in Costa Rica. The country invites couples to take on new challenges and let go of the stress of everyday life. Located in Central America, and similar to neighboring countries, Costa Rica offers a warm climate and a wealth of sandy beaches. Beyond the beaches and casual coastal living, Costa Rica holds the appeal of an abundance of wildlife. That draws animal lovers eager to view creatures like sea turtles, sloths and toucans in their natural habitats.

sunset over a mountain along the beach in Costa Rica.
Sunset along a picturesque beach in Costa Rica.

The food scene in Costa Rica is impressive for foodies who love to explore the world through taste. There are also a host of spa and wellness venues where you can unwind. All these activities combine to offer a trip filled with everything in life that brings you joy, including looking for free sweepstakes coins, which you can comfortably do from your hotel room.

4. Mauritius 

East of Madagascar lies Mauritius, a place so strikingly beautiful that it’s hard to believe it is real. The water is crystal clear and a stunning shade of aquamarine. The sand is white and soft under your feet, making the beaches impossible to pass up. The tropical island country is also home to enjoyable hikes to scenic lookouts, vibrant reefs you can snorkel or dive through and various pristine golf courses. It is also teeming with luxury resorts and hotels that beckon you to stay for a while.

A tiny island atop the clear turquoise waters with the larger island of Mauritius in the background.

5. Riviera Maya, Mexico

There are many places worth visiting in Mexico, but if you’re looking for a tropical getaway, Riviera Maya is the place to go. The area is located along the Caribbean Coastline and is highly lauded for its snorkeling and diving sites. Though if you prefer to stay on the shore, you’ll still find plenty to keep you entertained. You can visit the Tulum archaeological site, dive into caves like the Rio Secreto, and even embark on a wine tasting at a swim-up bar.

The Chichén itzá Pyramid in Mexico with a partly cloudy blue sky.
Chichén itzá Pyramid in Mexico.

The best part is that Riviera Maya delivers all this at a much more budget-friendly price than other destinations that offer equal beauty and warmth.

6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a popular honeymoon destination where couples can swim with sharks and stingrays during the day. Then they can settle in for fine French-influenced cuisine and cocktails in the evening. Like the Maldives, popular accommodations here are private overwater bungalows that feel like idyllic private sanctuaries. Besides observing marine life or visiting the public beaches, popular activities include visiting the Bora Bora Turtle Center, walking through local art galleries, and hiking mountains. 

Palm trees atop the blue water with mountains atop Bora Bora in the backdrop.
Bora Bora offers paradise as a tropical holiday destination.

7. Palawan, Philippines

While Palawan is filled with small fishing villages, it also oozes luxury, offering resorts on private islands and a true tropical escape for travelers. During your stay here, you can explore the tiny island’s vast array of wildlife and UNESCO World Heritage Sites (including an underground river and limestone cave system). Sitting down at one of the island’s many charming restaurants for an enjoyable meal is another highlight. 

8. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is more than just a place where you can find a luxurious getaway. It is also a place where you can immerse yourself in endless wellness opportunities and cultural experiences. Notable experiences include visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary or exploring Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a collection of scenic rice fields that are absolutely breathtaking at sunrise and sunset.

A scenic overlook down upon a picturesque beach enclave Bali.
Bali, Indonesia.

9. Grenada

The Caribbean Sea country of Grenada offers a wonderful escape for ecotourists seeking to learn more about the island’s natural wonders and history. Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Park, one of the biggest tourist attractions on the island, invites snorkelers to dive into the water’s depths to view the unique artwork and marine life support system.

Colorful houses along the mountain with a view of the Caribbean Sea in St. George's, Grenada.
St. George’s, Grenada.

10. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Located off Africa’s East Coast is Zanzibar, an island destination gaining recognition as a dream tropical getaway. The island is home to all-inclusive resorts, shaping a worry-free experience where you can simply unwind and enjoy the beaches, heritage sites (like Stone Town), and countless outdoor activities. Travel + Leisure recommends adding this as a last stop of a safari trip in mainland Tanzania to relax and unwind before heading back to daily life.

Sunrise over the Indian Ocean, boats and balcony
A picturesque sunset in Stone Town, Zanzibar.

Conclusion

These tropical destinations located in a wide variety of geographic spots are wonderful destinations for honeymoons, anniversaries or romantic getaways. Whichever you choose to vacation in, you’re sure to have a holiday you won’t forget anytime soon!

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