We could all use a prolonged prescription to island time, where the clocks seemingly stand still, and the schedules, stresses and screen time of everyday life disappear. Sometimes a healthy dose of vitamin ‘sea’ is exactly what the doctor ordered, but if you’re looking for a crowded island resort, you won’t find it here.
Bustling resorts with loud music, happy hours with toothpick umbrellas and run-of-the-mill buffets for every meal may feel like island luxury to some, but they certainly don’t lull the body, mind and soul into that slow and soulful island rhythm.
What we can promise is postcard-perfect island luxury that is as scenic as it is relaxing, with just the right mix of guilt-free romance, energetic family fun (for all ages) and unforgettable island adventure.
So if you’re the type of traveller that’s happy to forego setting alarm clocks to reserve sun loungers and queuing for beach towels, and replace them with secluded beaches, luxuriously exclusive properties, impossibly fresh seafood and an array of responsible water activities, you’re in the right place. Barefoot beach luxury awaits…
Vitamin sea for the soul
Before diving into the unique beauty and adventure of each enchanting tropical paradise, these special offers might help guide your journey.
The checklist for the best island vacation is simple: snow-white sand; 50-shades-of-turquoise water; gently swaying palm trees; and those carefree, sun-kissed island vibes. Most tropical island destinations will tick these boxes. And while most will also tick the boxes for romance, adventure and family fun, some islands are far more suited for couples, families and adventure-seekers than others. So which tropical island is the best to visit? Well, that depends on you.
Escape the monotony and routine of everyday life and indulge in some old-school island romance and laidback luxury-for-two.
Create the perfect balance of do-nothing-all-day island relaxation and unhurried, yet exciting and unforgettable island adventure.
Find just the right mix of island adventure and much-needed relaxation to suit every age and interest in your multi-generational family.
From a tiny, heart-shaped private island off the shores of Zanzibar to the granite-strewn coastline of the Seychelles, each tropical island boasts its own unique flavours, captivating landscapes and warm island hospitality.
Seasons change, and so do our interests. Browse by month to uncover some of the unique seasonal highlights of each island destination.
What better way to ring in the new year than with a tropical island escape to the ultra-romantic Mnemba Island? Start with a few days on Zanzibar Island, to explore its labyrinth of winding alleys, vibrant markets and spice plantations, then cocoon on the nearby heart-shaped nirvana that is Mnemba Island for the ultimate in seclusion and relaxation.
Take a breathtakingly scenic helicopter flip from the Mozambican coastline to the tropical island of Benguerra, where relaxation and adventure meet. Glorious beach days are spent relaxing on the golden stretch of soft sand, riding horses bareback into the ocean, and snorkelling/diving the world-class reef. The romantic castaway picnic is an absolute must.
Settle into your own rustic beach banda on Mnemba Island, a small private island off Zanzibar. Enjoy sunny walks on the beach, complemented by leisurely island lunches and afternoon siestas. Get PADI-certified on the island and explore the surrounding atoll or opt for some snorkelling, sea kayaking or SUPing. Toast the sunset on a traditional dhow cruise.
This is a beautiful time to indulge in the romance, adventure and luxury of the Maldives. The tides are calm, allowing good visibility for divers as they explore the enchanting underwater world. The days are warm and sun-kissed and, although there is a slight chance of tropical showers towards the end of the month, they are short-lived and refreshing.
May is the perfect time to hit the sunny beaches and warm waves of Mauritius, when the temperatures are moderate and not yet humid. From May, there are ideal wind conditions for surfers and kite surfers. Go island-hopping, explore markets, discover forested trails or just relax on the beach. A definite must-see are the seven-coloured earths of Chamarel.
The days are warm and the sky is blue, making June a tranquil time to discover the boulder-strewn beaches of the Seychelles. From May, the south-easterly trade winds start to blow, producing ideal conditions for some picturesque sailing. Hop on a bike, go hiking, delve into the deep blue, sample the island food and meet the endemic Aldabra giant tortoises.
Although endangered green sea turtle egg layings and hatchings do occur year-round, the official turtle season peaks from May to July on the private, barefoot beach paradise of Mnemba Island. Witness upwards of 100 tiny hatchlings as they emerge from the nest and cheer them on as they brave the arduous trek to sea. Definitely one for the bucket list.
The tropical and luxurious Benguerra Island, which forms part of the picturesque string of islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago, is ideally situated for Mozambique’s whale watching season. Each year, from July through to September, pods of giant humpback whales migrate to the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean for their annual mating and calving season.
This is typically Mauritius’ driest month, making it the perfect time for beach lovers, sun worshippers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Take to the sky for a scenic flight over the famed optical illusion of the Le Morne underwater waterfall. Venture out for an unhurried day exploring vibrant markets, or view the underwater wonderland from a glass-bottom boat.
The temperatures are pleasant in the Seychelles, making it a great time for an active island adventure. In between trade wind seasons, the wind conditions are calm, allowing great visibility for diving. This is also the start of egg laying season for the hawksbill turtle. Get out and explore the sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, lush rainforest, and more.
November heralds the end of the wet season in the Maldives, so from now through to April, not only are temperatures ideal, so too are the diving conditions and visibility. Head into town to experience the hustle and bustle of a local fish market, or for those seeking a quieter pace, opt for an unforgettable sand bank picnic and a sundowner dhow cruise.
Gift yourself with an end-of-year island escape to tropical Mauritius and celebrate the festive season in style with hot, sunny days on the beach. This is one of the best months for underwater adventure, when the water is warm and visibility is good. Enjoy fresh, festive seafood feasts, explore the island’s many highlights and toast the year’s end, island style.
Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake your stay to any of our destinations
If you haven’t yet decided which dreamy island paradise best suits your unique needs and interests, then click on the various buttons below to filter out the island experiences, partner properties, stories, and so on … and start dreaming.
It’s time to escape to a carefree island where the only Monday blues are the lapping waves and the sky above.
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