From Anguilla to Dominica, St. Lucia to Curaçao, and Across the Shores of the Exumas, Eleuthera, Vieques, and Beyond Discover the Caribbean’s Most Dreamlike Islands Where Turquoise Seas, Hidden Beaches, and Soulful Culture Invite You Into a World of Pure Escape

Published on July 10, 2025

Island Dreams Realized: A 2025 Traveler’s Guide

In a comprehensive 2025 global travel survey, international explorers unveiled their favorite island escapes across the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. The results not only celebrated idyllic landscapes but also shone a light on the vibrant cultural variety and distinctive experiences these regions provide. From luxury retreats and eco-friendly accommodations to untouched beaches, misty mountain trails, and lively town centers, this year’s findings reflected a rising desire among travelers for both peaceful seclusion and engaging exploration.

Understanding the Voting Process

Every year, a broad audience of travelers is invited to reflect on their global experiences. For the 2025 edition, nearly 180,000 individuals participated, casting 657,000+ votes across more than 8,700 destinations and services. When it came to island destinations, each location was scored on key categories:

• Natural scenery and coastlines
• Available attractions and activities
• Dining and culinary excellence
• Local hospitality and friendliness
• Overall value and satisfaction

Voters rated each area from excellent to poor, with the final scores representing an average of all ratings, forming this year’s elite list of island paradises.

Highlights from the Voter Insights

The final selection of islands ranged far and wide geographically. In the north, Bermuda secured a place among the top 10, while to the south, islands like Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—all located near Venezuela—stood out.

One traveler noted that although Bonaire isn’t the easiest to access, its spectacularly clear waters and serene beauty made it absolutely worth the trip. Others praised specific qualities on different islands. St. John earned acclaim for its protected national parklands, Dominica for its dramatic waterfalls and hidden beaches, and Nevis for a booming culinary scene.

Interestingly, some of the islands on the list are home to millions, like Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, demonstrating that both remote serenity and bustling vibrancy can captivate visitors.

In several cases, multiple islands from a single country made the list. The Bahamas was represented by Exumas, Eleuthera, and Paradise Island, while the U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, and Spanish Virgin Islands—notably Vieques and Culebra in Puerto Rico—each boasted strong entries.

Crowning Glory: Anguilla at No. 1

Leading the 2025 list is Anguilla, a narrow yet dazzling island just north of St. Martin. Described by travelers as “small in size but large in heart,” Anguilla has become a consistent favorite in recent years. Its blend of elegant accommodations, high-quality dining, and 33 stunning beaches, including the renowned Shoal Bay and Mead’s Bay, has left lasting impressions.

Visitors were especially drawn to the island’s laid-back pace, friendly atmosphere, and easy navigation. Many described Anguilla as the perfect escape for those seeking relaxation without compromising on sophistication. The hospitality of locals, along with the flawless natural surroundings, made it a destination travelers vowed to return to.

Industry Impacts: Changing Tides in Travel

A Shift in Preferences

The spotlight on islands like Anguilla and Bonaire shows a growing demand for off-the-beaten-path travel. These places appeal to those craving low-density tourism, intimate experiences, and sustainable luxury. It suggests a notable trend where travelers are veering away from over-touristed hubs in favor of eco-conscious and culturally rich destinations.

Infrastructure Development on the Horizon

As lesser-known islands gain global recognition, they’re likely to see strategic investments aimed at improving their infrastructure. This may include new boutique resorts, farm-to-table culinary experiences, and enhanced transportation systems to maintain balance between visitor access and environmental protection.

Islands stepping into the spotlight will likely prioritize eco-tourism programs, expand airport capacity, and upgrade marine transit options, ensuring growth doesn’t come at the cost of natural beauty.

Blending Popularity with Discovery

With so many attractive islands in the rankings, multi-island travel is expected to rise. Travelers may choose to pair time in well-known places like Jamaica with visits to more secluded destinations like Vieques or Culebra, offering a rich blend of culture, nature, and culinary discovery in one itinerary.

Global Impact of Island Tourism

Economic and Cultural Expansion

The increased visibility provided by this survey is expected to spark economic activity in lesser-visited islands. Communities can benefit through job creation, entrepreneurial opportunities, and exposure to global audiences, all while maintaining and showcasing their authentic cultural traditions.

A Sustainable Future

As tourism expands, so does the call for environmental responsibility. Islands are being urged to protect coral reefs, wildlife habitats, and shoreline ecosystems. Emerging destinations, in particular, have the opportunity to set the tone early by adopting green travel principles that align with conservation efforts.

Preparing for Future Uncertainty

Given the ongoing effects of climate change, health crises, and economic shifts, encouraging interest in a broader range of islands helps make the global travel landscape more resilient. By spreading visitor numbers more evenly, communities can weather disruptions while still reaping the rewards of tourism.

The Complete Top 25 Island Rankings of 2025

1. Anguilla – 89.21
2. Dominica – 88.89
3. St. Lucia – 87.56
4. Exumas (Bahamas) – 87.10
5. Eleuthera (Bahamas) – 86.80
6. St. John (U.S. Virgin Islands) – 86.70
7. Vieques (Puerto Rico) – 86.59
8. Curaçao – 86.00
9. Turks & Caicos – 84.93
10. Bermuda – 84.59
11. Aruba – 84.31
12. Grenada – 84.17
13. St. Croix (U.S. Virgin Islands) – 83.85
14. Jamaica – 83.83
15. Virgin Gorda (British Virgin Islands) – 83.45
16. Cayman Islands – 83.38
17. Bonaire – 83.35
18. Antigua – 83.15
19. St. Vincent and the Grenadines – 82.53
20. St. Bart’s – 82.50
21. Nevis – 81.68
22. Jost Van Dyke (British Virgin Islands) – 81.54
23. Paradise Island (Bahamas) – 81.36
24. Culebra (Puerto Rico) – 80.67
25. Dominican Republic – 80.63

This list stands as a powerful reminder of how much the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Bahamas have to offer travelers from around the world—whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth. With every island offering something genuinely unique, the 2025 selections encourage exploration beyond the expected, promising unforgettable journeys shaped by nature, culture, and community.