Expedia Reveals 2026 Island Hot List: The Next Wave of Trending Islands

Expedia® released its 2026 Island Hot List, revealing the Next Wave of island destinations gaining global momentum with searches for islands rising an average of 55% year-over-year, alongside social media mentions up 20%.

Trending Islands & Highlights
- St. Lucia (+125%) – Romantic escapes; Sugar Beach (5★).
- Porto Santo, Madeira (+85%) – Wellness & relaxation; Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa (5★).
- Praslin, Seychelles (+80%) – Nature lovers; Coco de Mer Hotel & Black Parrot Suites (4★).
- Syros, Greece (+60%) – Cuisine & charm; Syrou Melathron (4★).
- Lofoten Islands, Norway (+50%) – Arctic adventures; Henningsvær Bryggehotell (4★).
- Palawan, Philippines (+40%) – Natural wonders; Carpe Diem Villas & Resort (4★).
- Culebra, Puerto Rico (+35%) – Water adventures; Club Seabourne Boutique Hotel (3★).
- Sanibel Island, Florida (+25%) – Family escapes; Sanibel Inn (3★).
- Phu Quoc, Vietnam (+25%) – Affordable luxury; Green Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa (5★).
- Fiji (+15%) – Multi-generational value; OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort (5★).

Special Mentions (New for 2026)
- Cape Verde (+805%) – Soccer-inspired island; Morabeza Hotel (4★).
- Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas (+50%) – Best private island for cruises; exclusive to Norwegian Cruise Line.

Expedia’s Top Tips for Island Travel
- Travel off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds.
- Swap traditional hotspots for emerging islands (e.g., Syros, Porto Santo).
- Bundle flights + hotels + activities to save significantly.
- Use Price Tracking & Flight Deals for long-haul trips.
- Book early for high-demand islands to secure best rates.