There’s nothing quite like a weeklong escape to a beautiful island to get you out of a rut, and some of the world’s exotic locales offer spectacular views, an abundance of water sport activities and a diverse nightlife scene. Whether you want to relax on the shore or party the night away, here’s where you’ll find the ten best islands on the planet:

#1: Galapagos Islands

These islands won the World’s Best Awards by Travel + Leisure Magazine in 2008, and continue to be the island-of-choice for honeymooners and travelers looking for the ultimate exotic escape. Spend some time exploring the Sierra Negra Volcano, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, go snorkeling in Cousin’s Rock or explore Wolf Island to see nature at its finest. The Galapagos Islands are any nature-lover’s paradise, and offer a myriad of water and hiking activities for the adventurous traveler.

#2: Easter Island

This Polynesian paradise in the southeastern Pacific Ocean is an idyllic location for exploring ancient ruins, visiting the National Park, and soaking up the sun off the Chilean coast. From volcano hikes to guided tours of the Easter Island head statues, this is the place to take in some South American culture and history. Other popular attractions and sites to explore on Easter Island include Anakena Beach, the Poike Peninsula and the Rano Kau Volcano. Rano Raraku Volcano, another popular destination on the island, has historic and religious significance because it once served as an open-sky quarry for residents to carve out their Moai statues.

#3: Maui

Home to world-class golf courses, luxurious spas and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Maui is the place to bask in luxury. Soak up the sun in this Hawaiian paradise that offers plenty of things to see, do and explore. Attend a Luau in Lahaina, go diving off a boat in Ma’alaea, or take a scenic drive along the Hana Highway to see the Haleakala Crater and breathtaking views of the island.

#4: Bali

This Indonesian hotspot is famous for its beautiful temples, historic artwork and over-the-top cultural celebrations and ceremonies. Head here to explore ancient temples and historic homes, watch classical dances, and enjoy the sweeping views of the turquoise waters from the hotels and resorts scattered throughout the island. Take a Banyan Tree bike tour in Ubud to explore the fascinating sights around the islands, or relax at the beautiful SANg Spa with a Balinese massage or body treatment.

#5: Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia

If you’re a fan of water sports, head to these islands for an unforgettable scuba diving or snorkeling experience. Rent a pontoon boat and head out for hours on the sparkling blue ocean, or just relax on the sunny shores to work on your tan. Popular destinations include Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, and the Seventy-Five Mile Beach on Fraser Island. If you’re in the mood for some rest and relaxation, head to the Aqua Soul Spa on Heron Island for a rejuvenating and pampering treatment.

#6: Santorini

Head to Greece to relax in this Mediterranean haven that offers a wealth of tourist activities and sites. Santorini is home to historic Mediterranean villages, golden sandy beaches and nonstop sunshine. It’s also a great place to enjoy delicious, homemade meals at one of several locally-owned restaurants and cafes. Explore the region of Thera, an ancient Roman and Byzantine settlement that’s home to many well-preserved ruins, or take a tour of the Boutari Winery in Perissa to learn about the history of winemaking in Greece.

#7: Seychelles

You can’t find just one island on this cluster of 115 islands of Seychelles, and these islands have become a prime pick for honeymoons and romantic getaways. Head here to relax at the 5-star resorts, take a boat out on the Indian Ocean, and enjoy the majestic beauty of the islands that some call the ‘Garden of Eden’. You can spend a day exploring Curieuse Marine National Park, take a tour of Eustache Sarde’s House, or visit the Aride Island Nature Reserve to see native wildlife and plants.

#8: Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

It’s been named of the most beautiful islands of the world, and for good reason. Cape Breton Island is an enchanting place that’s perfect for whale watching, scuba diving or just for relaxing on the beach. Take a tour of Englishtown aboard Donelda’s Puffin Boat Tours, or hit the Cabot Trail for a hiking session through some of the island’s most beautiful historic sites. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the perfect place to go camping or hiking for the day, and if you want to learn about the history of the island, you won’t want to miss the tours at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.

#9: Mount Desert Island

Located right off the coast of Maine, this island is home to Acadia National park and the famous Cadillac Mountain. The island is also home to four historic towns: Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, Tremont and Mount Desert, each with its own set of villages. Take the Lulu Lobster Boat tour to see Acadia and Bar Harbor from a fresh perspective, and sign up for a tour of the Atlantic Brewing Company to learn about the history of beer-making in the region. You can head to this fascinating island for an historic getaway like no other.

#10: Kauai

Another beautiful piece of paradise in Hawaii, Kauai has been nicknamed the Garden Isle because of its lush gardens and forests, sparkling waters and miles of beaches. Take a tour of the island to enjoy the scenic views of the mountains and ocean, relax by the waterfall, or swim with the dolphins. You can jump onto the Zodiac Raft to take a tour of the Na Pali Coast, take a day trip to the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge and Lighthouse or ride the Kaua’I Plantation Railway. Kauai is an island paradise that would make for an unforgettable trip.

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