These are the ‘hottest’ islands to visit in the world in 2026, according to Expedia
It’s that time of year when most of us are coming home in damp puffer jackets, dreaming of taking a holiday to some warm island where the sun shines all day.
If you need some inspiration, Expedia has released its Island Hot List for 2026, featuring ten trending island spots – most of which are just a short flight away.
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1. New Caledonia // This is the top of the list, the cream of the crop. Just a three-hour direct flight from Australia’s east coast, New Caledonia has seen a massive 75 per cent year-on-year increase in searches.
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“New Caledonia, just under four hours from Australia’s east coast, offers Aussie travellers a rare combination of crystal-clear lagoons and beaches alongside a rich blend of French and Melanesian culture,” Sarah King, Expedia Travel Expert, told nine.com.au.
“Travellers can spend one day relaxing by the UNESCO-listed lagoon and the next exploring local villages, culture and hiking trails.”
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2. Palau // In second place is Palau, which has only come onto many travellers’ radar in the past year or two. The archipelago, found just north of Papua New Guinea, is considered one of the world’s best destinations for snorkelling, kayaking, scuba-diving, wreck-diving and deep-sea fishing.
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Direct Brisbane–Koror flights have made the Pacific paradise more accessible and appealing.
“From the iconic Rock Islands to the unforgettable experience of Jellyfish Lake, it delivers the kind of bucket-list moments travellers are increasingly seeking,” Sarah said.
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3. Vanuatu // Third place on the list is Vanuatu, with a 45 per cent increase in searches.
The island continues to gain popularity for its authentic cultural experiences, volcanic landscapes and laid-back island lifestyle, making it perfect for both families and couples.
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4. Cebu // This spot in the Philippines came in fourth. It offers the perfect blend of island relaxation and adventure; white-sand beaches and turquoise water, plus epic marine sports and island-hopping tours. It also offers great value for money, with average accommodation costs under $200 a night.
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5. Langkawi // The Malaysian archipelago of Langkawi, made up of 99 islands, rounds out the top five.
Langkawi draws in travellers with its luxury resorts, rainforest scenery and tranquil beaches, for those who are after a more sophisticated tropical escape.
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6. Jeju Island // Sixth place goes to this beautiful spot in South Korea. Another budget destination where accommodation prices are relatively low, the island is home to beach resorts and a volcanic landscape of craters and cavelike lava tubes.
Here, you can climb South Korea’s tallest mountain, Hallasan, a volcano with a crystal clear lake in its crater.
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Click through to see where else made the list.....
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