Tropical Vacations Spots: The Best Tropical Vacation Spots With a Perfect Setting for a Relaxing Gateway.

Garrett Gardner

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Tropical locations are those nations located on or near the Equator and are blessed with abundant sunshine, lush ecosystems, and spectacular natural attractions.

These best tropical vacation spots are perfect for summer tropical vacations.

Whether you are looking for an over-water villa in Bora Bora or a bamboo hut on a Bali beach, you’ll find the best tropical destinations with plenty of activities and tropical beauty. Get ready to relax at the best tropical vacation spots by booking accommodations at hotels and resorts via Booking.com.

1. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, meaning “rich port,” is one of the best tropical vacations located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and an unincorporated territory of the United States.

El Yunque National Forest and the other nearby best tropical vacations provide a great chance to explore the Caribbean’s diverse vegetation and wildlife. It is one of the best tropical destinations for snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and sailing due to its wide selection of sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, San Juan, the island’s capital, is a center of culture and architecture and a great place to sample delicious food, gamble, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Puerto Rico is one of the best tropical vacations for families, given the range of activities you can enjoy.

It is also one of the greatest low-cost tropical destinations for those on the East Coast looking for the best tropical vacations while staying at the best hotels in Puerto Rico.

2. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Maldives

The Maldives is home to 26 different coral atolls situated between the southwest coasts of India and Sri Lanka on the Indian Ocean. The sparkling blue sea around them is one of the main reasons they are considered some of the most desirable tropical destinations.

The Maldives is a great place to go if you want to take a plunge into the warm and clean Indian Ocean waters. However, the low-lying nature of the islands makes them susceptible to flooding.

It’s time to go on an epic journey! Most tourists go to one of the more remote areas, instead of Male, for an experience like no other. Think about it: you can stay at a luxurious five-star beach resort and swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters.

The Maldives is a perfect spot for diving and snorkeling, and it is one of the top places for surfing in the world. Surfers usually go to the North and South Male Atolls when they visit.

If you want to go on one of the best tropical vacations in the US, visiting Florida is the ideal choice since it offers more than fun things to do at Disney World. Home to the only coral reef in the US, the Florida Keys are great for a vacation full of adventure, fishing, and stunning beaches lined with palm trees.

The Keys are located more than 110 miles from Miami and are accessible through the Overseas Highway, which links them from Key Largo to Key West.

The best tropical vacations await in the Florida Keys, where vacationers can experience a blend of both nature and culture. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Key Largo offer superb opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

Bahia Honda State Park has some of the most beautiful beaches, while Key West is one of the must-see tropical destinations with its laid-back atmosphere and Caribbean-style villas that pay homage to Ernest Hemingway.

A popular activity in Key West is to visit the southernmost point of the United States.

Although the Florida Keys don’t have natural beaches, there are still plenty of man-made stretches of coastline with beach resorts boasting picturesque palm trees and stunning views of the blue sea.

Fishing enthusiasts will also be pleased to know that tarpon, bonefish, and permit are all abundant.

St. Barts, an island with a French influence, is an idyllic escape for those seeking a luxurious holiday. But it comes at a price. Prices in this area are usually higher than in other places due to the influx of celebrities during the peak months.

It offers a refined atmosphere unlike other tropical destinations, as well as beautiful beaches surrounded by lush hills and high-end shopping and dining.

Low seasons offer unbeatable deals, and there are no private beaches, so it is possible to stay in a chic hotel or private villa without spending a fortune. Popular water sports such as snorkeling, kitesurfing, diving, kayaking, surfing, fishing, and sailing are available.

Gustavia, the capital, is renowned for its red roofs and is one of the most beautiful tropical destinations in the Caribbean.

5. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Zanzibar

After an exciting journey on a safari, the archipelago of Zanzibar in Tanzania is a perfect spot for the best tropical vacations. These coral-fringed islands off the coast of Tanzania, north of Dar es Salaam, have for generations been a hub for international trade.

If you wish to enjoy the best island vacations or amazing tropical destinations while appreciating multiculturalism, the island of Zanzibar, also known as Unguja, is the main attraction of the archipelago and is home to a plethora of cultures from Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe, which you can see in its sights, sounds, and flavors.

The ancient district of Stone Town in Zanzibar is a must-visit spot where visitors can wander through the labyrinth of alleys and explore the island’s rich history, including its exquisite buildings, bustling bazaar, and intricately carved doors.

After a day of exploring, visitors can relax on Zanzibar’s beautiful beaches and take in the sights and sounds of Tanzania.

The coral reefs bordering the isles are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, and the azure seas encompassing the islands are one of the most delightful tropical holiday spots for witnessing graceful shows drift by.

If you are yearning for a wildlife experience, you can visit Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to observe Colobus monkeys in person or book a special animal encounter at Cheetah’s Rock. There are also organized tours to watch dolphins in their natural environment.

If you need ideas for your stay in Zanzibar, Chumbe Island Coral Park is a great option. It has a spice plantation that can be toured and eco-bungalows that have no negative impact on the environment.

Situated close to New Zealand, Aitutaki Island located in the Cook Islands is one of the most desirable tropical destinations for tourists.

It has everything that a person looks forward to during the best tropical vacations; a striking turquoise lagoon, lush-green hills, beaches lined with palm trees, and some of the friendliest people in the Southern Pacific.

Rarotonga, being the major airport and the largest island, is the location where most of the travelers to the Cook Islands disembark; however, Aitutaki, which is just 45 minutes away by plane, is the real jewel in this cluster of 15 beautiful tropical islands.

What makes it so attractive for a holiday? From swimming to kayaking, snorkeling to fishing, the Cook Islands has plenty of activities to engage in. Moreover, visitors can take a peek into the slow-paced village life that comes to a halt on Sundays for religious services.

There are over twenty islets in the lagoon, with Tapuaetai (One Foot Island) being a famous area for day trips for people visiting the Cook Islands.

If you want to treat yourself, you could stay in a rental bungalow over the water and imagine you are Robinson Crusoe for the day, lounging on a deserted motu.

Bora Bora, one of the most outstanding tropical holiday locations, is the ideal representation of a South Pacific paradise.

French Polynesia is the house to a luxuriously lush and surprisingly attractive island that ascents to a high green apex encompassed by a shimmering turquoise lagoon, making it an exhilarating destination you won’t want to miss out on!

The shores are fringed with coconut palm groves, and luxury bungalows are built on piles over the tranquil waters, some of which have glass floors permitting visitors to observe the lively marine life below. You can snap photos of ocean creatures and upload them to social media, while using the best VPN services to protect your online privacy.

Not only does Bora Bora stand out in terms of its natural beauty, but it also satisfies the criteria if you are looking for the top tropical vacation spots with cultural importance. French is the official language, and the fine dishes served here reflect the nation’s culinary history.

It’s no surprise why numerous couples think of Bora Bora to be one of the ultimate honeymoon spots in the tropics. The landscape is stunningly beautiful, and there is no lack of activities.

8. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Kaua’i, Hawaii

People are drawn to the lush rainforests, magnificent waterfalls, and towering cliffs of Kauai – the “Garden Isle” as one of the top tropical destinations.

This tropical paradise is perfect for an unforgettable journey, boasting a more relaxed atmosphere than its more well-known Hawaiian counterparts, Maui and Oahu.

Poipu tends to experience less rain than the rest of the island, which is one of the rainiest places on the planet. Visitors can explore the ocean depths and view turtles and colorful fish among the coral reefs.

There are also opportunities to traverse the picturesque Napali Coast, sunbathe on golden beaches, or explore the depths of the Waimea Canyon, which spans 10 miles.

What makes Kauai one of the best tropical vacation spots? Not only are there beautiful beaches, but also the lush tropical vegetation that fills the island, which is why it’s worth staying at the best hotels in Hawaii.

9. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Colombia

Colombia is one of the ideal places to go for a tropical holiday, with a wide range of climates. Adventure seekers can find a variety of terrains to explore, from the snowy peaks of the Andes to the hot deserts and humid Amazon.

This nation, which was once marred by violence, is now becoming a popular destination for those seeking an adrenaline-filled vacation.

Those who are looking forward to a beach holiday won’t be disappointed either. Colombia is the only country in South America that has both the Caribbean and Pacific Coast, giving beach-goers the best that these coasts have to offer.

The Caribbean offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. For those who prefer surfing, the Pacific Coast has the perfect waves.

The country also offers a wide range of cultural experiences, with numerous festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the year.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beach holiday, the Riviera Maya in Mexico is a great option. This region made up of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel is situated on the southern Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and is a hugely popular spot for tourists.

What makes this one of the top tropical vacation destinations? Many of its long, stunning beaches are home to all-inclusive oceanside resorts, however, there are also other options such as yoga retreats and boutique hotels.

Visitors to the Riviera Maya can enjoy activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing in the crystal clear waters, or if they’re interested in culture, they can explore the incredible ancient ruins of Tulum, situated on a cliff above the Caribbean Sea or Chichén Itzá, a few hour’s journey from the resort area.

The Mamanuca Islands in Fiji are one of the most beautiful places to take a holiday and are ideal if you have ever imagined yourself on a deserted, sunny island in the Southern Seas.

This exquisite cluster of almost 20 islands is accessible from Nadi, which is the main hub, because of its amazing white-sand beaches, seas of a turquoise color, and healthy coral reefs.

At first glance, it’s obvious why the islands in this area have been selected as the settings for the Survivor TV show and the movie Cast Away with Tom Hanks. The perfect island in Fiji for your vacation will depend upon the kind of holiday you desire and the budget you have.

Why is it among the best tropical vacation spots?

Get ready to book your stay because there are plenty of hotels to pick from, like low-priced backpacker lodges, hotels with thatched bures in the traditional style, and top-notch retreats like Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Vomo Island Resort, and the adults-only Tokoriki Island Resort!

Matamanoa Island Resort, Mana Island Resort, and Malolo Island Resort are some other great alternatives.

Located in the Bahamas, which is situated 300 kilometers east of the state of Florida, the Abacos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the tropics.

The Out Islands or the Family Islands in the Atlantic are quite distinct from the renowned holiday spots in the vicinity of Florida.

What makes Abacos one of the best tropical vacation spots? There, one can find tranquil fishing villages where people travel using golf carts and boats, as well as picturesque beaches lined with pine trees.

The British Loyalists were the ones who initially colonized the tropical islands, and their legacy is still evident in the form of the quaint colonial buildings that line the curvy streets, even as the Bahamas now also features modern additions like beachfront resorts and villas.

Elbow Cay, which is known for its iconic candy-striped lighthouse, Green Turtle Cay, a three-mile-long island that provides a glimpse into the old Bahamas, and Treasure Cay on Great Abaco, with its glorious white-sand beach washed by waves of dazzling hues, are also part of the Abacos.

Ambergris Caye, an amazing tropical holiday spot, is the biggest of Belize’s two hundred cayes and is a highly popular tourist destination situated close to the Yucatán Peninsula.

The seagrass flats in the Caribbean are not ideal for swimming; nevertheless, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve allows for incredible snorkeling and diving adventures in shallow waters off the shore.

It is one of the most appealing tropical vacation spots mostly because it is part of the Belize Barrier Ree. It also happens that it’s the second-largest barrier reef in the world after Australia’s world famous Great Barrier Reef.

At Shark Ray Alley, vacationers can come into close contact with nurse sharks and stingrays. Fishermen may try to catch permit, tarpon, snook, or barracuda, and they also have the chance to spot bonefish on the flats.

San Pedro, the major city on the island, is another draw, with its extraordinary restaurants that offer seafood and Mexican cuisine and its streets filled with golf carts. Furthermore, because of its proximity to different locations, there are plenty of day trips available.

14. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Seychelles

If you are looking for a holiday in a tropical paradise, Seychelles should be your number one destination. More than fifty percent of the 115 islands are preserved, making it the perfect spot for nature lovers.

With UNESCO-listed nature reserves, colorful coral reefs, and beautiful boulder-ringed beaches, there are countless spots to explore. You can also take your pick from beach resorts and guest houses if you’re looking for accommodations.

The main island of Mahé is a popular stopover, as it is home to the capital Victoria, the cruise ship terminal, and the breathtaking Morne Seychellois National Park.

Praslin Island is famous for its Vallee de Mai palm forest, recognized by UNESCO, and La Digue has some of the most stunning beaches in the archipelago, making it a must-see for beachgoers. There are even more off-shore islands that are sure to delight.

Port Douglas, situated around an hour away from Cairns in Queensland, used to be a peaceful fishing town, but it has now become a well-known tourist destination. Those who like to explore the outdoors will find this to be one of the best tropical vacation spots.

The Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Site, are both within easy reach and both lead to the coast of Cape Tribulation. The town itself is lined with mango trees and palm trees, offering many chic boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

Moreover, Port Douglas is known for its Four Mile Beach, a white crescent lined with rainforest.

This beach is popular all year round, though swimming is not allowed from November to June.

Discover the incredible isles of the Andaman Sea from a pleasant home base on the Andaman Coast. One of the top tropical vacation destinations in the world with picturesque marine views, it has lush limestone heights that ascend from the azure waters.

What renders it one of the best holiday spots in the tropics? The Phi Phi Islands, renowned for their abundance of seaside resorts and the shooting of The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio, include Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh.

These tropical island destinations are a staple of the Phuket day tour route, but if you go further out you may discover your private heaven.

More than one hundred of these jade gems, such as James Bond Island, can be found in Phang Nga Bay.

Krabi and Phuket, the largest tropical islands in Thailand, are two of the most commonly used starting points for adventures to the neighboring natural marvels. At Khao Sok National Park, farther north, you may encounter elephants amid jungle-covered summits.

Homestays and low-cost bamboo huts along the coast.

The Dominican Republic, located near the eastern coast of Hispaniola, is a wonderful option for those looking to have a nice tropical vacation, but on a smaller budget. It offers a lot more than just beautiful beaches and resorts.

This highly-regarded holiday destination has many exciting elements that will make your trip truly memorable. It boasts a great amount of diverse geographic features, ranging from lush rainforests to deserts, and its culture is rich in history and culture.

So if you’re looking for a great tropical vacation spot, the Dominican Republic (also referred to as “DR”) is the place to be!

One of the top holiday destinations in the tropics is Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, and La Romana, which boast an array of all-inclusive beachfront resorts. However, if you venture outside these tourist-filled areas, you will stumble upon an array of activities and experiences.

You can go mountain climbing, rafting on the Rio Yaque del Norte, explore the jungle, and go cycling through the pine woods. Furthermore, the Samaná Peninsula is home to some of the most unspoiled shorelines. In addition, the cultural attractions are also quite popular.

18. Ideal Tropical Vacation Spots: Mauritius

Mauritius, situated in the Indian Ocean to the northeast of Madagascar, is a tropical island paradise. Its awe-inspiring panoramas are a product of its volcanic landscape, while its glistening sandy beaches are dotted with spas, golf courses, and five-star resorts.

What makes it one of the best tropical holiday destinations to search for on Booking.com? The beach is the best part! Many travelers plan a trip to Iles aux Cerf so they can take in the breathtaking lagoon.

Other renowned holiday spots include Pereybere, Le Morne beach, and Flic en Flac, all of which offer endless fun and excitement in the sunshine.

Due to the crystal clear waters, water sports are some of the most popular activities in Mauritius.

You may try kitesurfing, sailing, or even organize a deep-sea fishing trip, apart from swimming and snorkeling along the beautiful beaches or plunging into the radiant coral reefs off the western coast of the island.

A wide range of plant and animal species are exclusive to the region.

19. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a perfect paradise for those seeking a spiritual journey as well as the best tropical vacations. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore its fragrant temples, marvel at its rice fields illuminated by the setting sun, and engage with its welcoming inhabitants.

Accommodation and food can be had at a reasonable cost, making it ideal for those looking for an inexpensive vacation.

Kuta and Seminyak are two great spots to stay if you wish to experience a lively beach atmosphere with an abundance of shops and eateries, and excellent surfing conditions.

Sanur is a favorite amongst families due to its mild waves, and Ubud, based in the verdant countryside away from the coastline, is its spiritual center.

Apart from its beaches, Bali is renowned for its affordable spa treatments, allowing for some well-deserved self-pampering without denting your wallet. Lastly, travelers can choose from a wide range of lodging, from cost-effective hostels to luxury villas.

The Nicoya Peninsula, situated on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, is one of the leading holiday spots for travelers keen on ecotourism and surfing. It attracts people from all walks of life with its attractive sandy beaches and perfect waves for surfing.

Tamarindo is one of the most preferred destinations on the peninsula. It is a great spot for surfers of all levels. Those make it one of the best tropical vacations.

What makes it one of the most sought-after tropical holiday spots? It is a hub of hedonism with a mixed crowd of thrill-seeking visitors, surfers, families, and laid-back foreigners.

One can go swimming, scuba diving, horse riding, zip lining, and watch leatherback turtles hatch at Playa Grande (from October to March) in the area of Tamarindo.

Santa Teresa, located in Mal Pais on the southwestern tip of the peninsula, is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, yoga retreats, organic restaurants, and boutique hotels.

21. Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Sri Lanka

For any type of tropical holidaymaker, Sri Lanka offers something that they will enjoy. Boasting more than eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well as other cultural and natural attractions, the country is a great destination for a budget-friendly vacation.

Dreaming of a laid-back beach holiday, with a hammock between palm trees and white sand? That can be found in Sri Lanka too. Whether you’re a pro surfer or a beginner, its world-class surf breaks will satisfy you.

Alternatively, those who like to explore underwater can snorkel or dive around coral reefs and fish-filled wrecks, making it one of the best tropical vacations.

The country is also incredibly picturesque, so if you’re looking for a safari adventure, Sri Lanka has plenty of wild animals to spot, such as sloth bears, leopards, water buffalo, elephants, and a wide range of birds.

The Best Tropical Vacation Spots: Takeaway

There is a wide variety of choices when it comes to the best tropical vacation spots. From the jungle of Puerto Rico to the white sands of Thailand, there is something for everyone.

Australia, Seychelles, Dominican Republic, Belize, Bahamas, Florida Keys, Fiji, Mexico, Colombia, Hawaii, Tahiti, Zanzibar, the Caribbean, and the Maldives all offer unique experiences for a memorable journey.

Whether you seek action-packed holidays, peaceful best tropical vacations, or a mix of the two, these top tropical vacation spots will deliver the perfect vacation. Pave the way for an idyllic tropical stay by making hotel reservations in advance via Booking.com.

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Polly Hyson is a proficient writer and editor with about six decades of practical experience. She is qualified in a range of niches but specializes in client wellbeing topics. When not producing, she’s likely operating out, swimming, or accomplishing Yoga.

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