Praia da Marinha in Algarve is one of the most iconic beaches of Portugal

World’s 16 best islands and beaches of 2025 (including three at home)

Feeling the squeeze? We’ve got the perfect antidote with these handpicked places to lay down a towel.

  • byCraig Tansley
You can do nothing on beaches anywhere,but Aitutaki in the Cook Islands takes it to the extreme,with a pace so slow you’d swear time was suspended.

Forget the bucket list:15 of the world’s best places to do nothing

Over tick-a-box sightseeing while you travel? Here are 15 places where chilling out is nothing to feel guilty about.

  • byBrian Johnston
Wayfinder Waikiki:cool and affordable.
★★★★
Hotel reviews

This is the best-value hotel you can find in Honolulu’s top location

I’m a huge fan of Hawaii,yet even I will admit it can be a painfully expensive destination. That’s what makes this hotel such a pleasant surprise.

  • byKristie Kellahan
Raja Ampat offers the richest marine biodiversity on Earth.

The 12 greatest islands of all time

Ranging from beach escapes to art hubs and foodie hotspots,here are the world’s 12 best islands according to our writers.

Bora Bora from the air.

One of the world’s most beautiful spots is getting easier to visit

A few years ago,it seemed French Polynesia was off the boil as a destination. But in 2023 the French territory announced a plan to double tourist numbers.

  • byBrian Johnston
Advertisement
The Grand Dining Room.
★★★★
Ship reviews

This ship’s claim to offer the best dining at sea is no idle boast

Regatta doesn’t have the expensive finishes and furnishings of a luxury ship,but cleverly creates an indulgent air.

  • byBrian Johnston
Sheraton Denarau Villas.

This Fijian island is the perfect fly-and-flop escape

Fiji’s Denarau Island has enticing options for tropical travellers wanting an easy stay at an all-inclusive resort.

  • byShaney Hudson
Bee man

Six of the best experiences in the Greek Cyclades Islands

Blue-domed churches and whitewashed houses – these are the calling cards of the Cyclades,but delve deeper for local,transformative experiences.

  • byFlip Byrnes
Morning light on Port Macquarie’s Shelly Beach.

The scenic coastal spot that punches above its small-town weight

Midway between the Gold Coast and Sydney,Port Macquarie is shrugging off its “God’s waiting room” label.

  • bySheriden Rhodes
Palm-tree perfection … Taha’a,French Polynesia.

Best lagoon in the Pacific? We’ve found a winner

Better than Moorea,or Bora Bora,or Aitutaki. But you won’t believe this patch of French Polynesia is real until you’ve seen it for yourself.

  • byBrian Johnston