Southeast Asia has no shortage of stunning islands, and this year, several of them have landed top spots on Travel+Leisure’s World’s Best Islands 2025 list.
Over 657,000 votes were cast, and islands were rated based on natural attractions, activities, food, friendliness and value.
Leading the pack is Palawan, Philippines in second place, known for its limestone cliffs, clear lagoons and the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Bali, Indonesia comes in third, while the Maldives ranks sixth on the list, securing its position as a perennial favourite among luxury travellers.
And at the very top of this year’s list is Páros, Greece – a charming Greek island that’s a more laid-back alternative to its busier neighbours like Santorini and Mykonos.
These are the top 10 best islands in the world in 2025:
- Páros, Greece
- Palawan, Philippines
- Bali, Indonesia
- Ischia, Italy
- Fiji
- Maldives
- Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
- Hvar & the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
- Madeira, Portugal
- Mallorca, Spain
View the full list here.
Have you heard? Just in: all the new and awesome UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia for 2025
Plus: These are the 15 best cities in Asia for 2025, according to nearly 180,000 travellers
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox.