Expedia publishes a new photograph of dream escapes: Aruba, Bali, and Koh Samui stand out among the most beautiful islands at the moment, driven by increasing searches and verified reviews. The appeal is clear: nearly permanent sunshine, preserved nature, and authentic experiences.
Another major insight: traveling in September multiplies the advantages. The weather is mild, the crowds dissipate, and prices relax, a winning trio for anyone who can travel outside school holidays.
Throughout our survey, we follow Léa, a photographer, and Max, a kitesurfer, who compared offers via Expedia before alternating between Thai coves, Balinese temples, and Aruban bike paths. Their on-the-ground feedback sheds light on this ranking oriented towards “real travel.”
Why Expedia ranks Aruba, Bali, and Koh Samui at the top of paradise islands
The ranking combines booking trends, searches, and verified reviews. Aruba comes out on top: interest in the island has increased by 15% in 2024, a trend that is continuing. Bali attracts for relaxation and wellness, while Koh Samui mixes beaches and a unique Thai vibe.
In parallel, the Dominican Republic emerges as “best for adventure,” and other gems complete the short list: Maldives, Paros, and Sardinia, not to mention American islands like Hawaii, Nantucket, and Palm Beach.
- Aruba — nearly permanent sunshine, semi-desert landscapes, biking, and hiking spots.
- Bali — highly rated for “relaxation,” wellness, and culture (Ubud, Uluwatu).
- Koh Samui — beaches lined with palm trees, street food, snorkeling coves.
- Dominican Republic — “adventure” label: tropical nature, waterfall road, and varied beaches.
| Island | Best Time | Signature | Type of Traveler | Key Insight Expedia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aruba | September to April | Desert beauty + turquoise waters | Hikers, cyclists, families | Rising interest +15% in 2024, nearly guaranteed sunshine |
| Bali | May to September | Wellness, temples, rice fields | Eco-conscious, yogis, foodies | “Best for relaxation,” culture focus and zero waste |
| Koh Samui | January to September | Lagoons, coconut trees, street food | Couples, friends, divers | More intimate alternative to ultra-frequented spots |
| Dominican Republic | December to September | Varied beaches, forests, culture | Adventurers, kitesurfers | “Best destination for adventure” according to the survey |
| Paros (Greece) | May to September | Cycladic villages, coves | Authenticity lovers | Easy-access Mediterranean option |
| Maldives | November to April | Atolls, exceptional snorkeling | Honeymooners, divers | Ideal for a combined “wellness + sea” |
To expand your island inspirations: explore this top of paradise islands and these Canary gems that confirm the diversity of atmospheres available just a few hours flight away.
Final insight: Expedia data shows that the desire for islands is shifting towards the quality of experience rather than just a postcard view.
Traveling in September: optimized weather, flights, and budget
Traveling in September means enjoying a temperate climate and less crowded sites. Léa and Max saved by combining flights with Air France and hotels via Expedia, then a few “collection” nights spotted with VeryChic and Voyage Privé.
In terms of weather, Aruba remains dry, Bali comes out of high season, and Koh Samui is still bright: an ideal balance for alternating between visits and lounging.
- Compare early on Expedia, Lastminute.com, and Promovacances to catch post-summer drops.
- For flights, monitor Air France and partners for flexible routes with layovers.
- Mix accommodations: boutique hotels, club types like Club Med, Pierre & Vacances residences (useful in the Mediterranean).
- Compare packages with TUI France and Leclerc Voyages for highly sought-after islands.
For off-season sun ideas, check out these idyllic beach suggestions to alternate between equators and the Mediterranean according to the weather.
Key phrase: the month of September offers the best ratio of weather/price/calm on most islands in this ranking.
Aruba, Bali, Koh Samui: must-have experiences according to travelers
On-site, Léa and Max’s itinerary confirms the winning trio of the moment: contrasting landscapes in Aruba, culture and wellness in Bali, tropical sweetness and spicy cuisine in Koh Samui. Three islands, three atmospheres, one common thread: the feeling of total escape.
- Aruba: windy spots for water sports, coastal paths for biking at sunrise.
- Bali: yoga classes in Ubud, Uluwatu cliffs at sunset, “zero waste” cafes.
- Koh Samui: night markets, neighboring archipelagos on excursions, temples with beautiful views.
To vary island inspirations, take a look at the enchanting beaches to follow this year: the colors of the water and the lights there are often compared to those of Bali and the Thai islands.
Aruba: Caribbean beauty, constant sun, and outdoor activities
Aruba combines pale beaches and semi-desert landscapes, a rare contrast in the Caribbean. Max loved biking along the coast in the early morning when the trade winds maintain an ideal temperature.
The promise “where desert beauty meets Caribbean happiness” is verified in the coves and parks. Travelers also seek snorkeling sessions in clear waters here.
- To do: coastal biking, snorkeling at the reefs, sunset on the west side.
- To pack: reef-safe sunscreen, filtered water bottle, light windbreaker.
- To compare: packages via Expedia, TUI France, and Promovacances.
Craving other Caribbean horizons? The Dominican Republic beaches offer a variety of atmospheres in the same region of the world.
Insight: nearly permanent sunshine and simple logistics make it an “easy” island for a first long-distance journey.
Bali: relaxation, wellness, and vibrant culture
In Bali, Léa alternated yoga classes, cooking workshops, and walks in the rice fields. Ubud remains the epicenter of wellness, while Uluwatu puts on shows in the evening on its cliffs.
The “zero waste” movement has spread in cafes and eco-lodges: an opportunity to travel lightly and responsibly, without compromising comfort or local gastronomy.
- A must-see: Ubud at dawn, Uluwatu at sunset, Sidemen for the rice fields.
- Advice: book activities via Expedia to group transfers and insurance.
- Variation: combine Bali with another Southeast Asian island for an extended escape.
Extend to Thailand with this complete guide or these 10 must-see Thai islands to compare atmospheres and seasons.
Key phrase: in Bali, taking your time is key — slowing down enhances the quality of the experience.
Koh Samui: Thai softness, lagoons, and night markets
Koh Samui checks off beaches, cuisine, and short trips to neighboring islands. Max found calm snorkeling spots in the morning, followed by lively markets for inexpensive dinners.
Logistics remain smooth and the hospitality is very warm. The island suits both couples and groups of friends, with numerous coves for seclusion.
- Highlights: Fisherman’s Village, longtail boat tour, Wat Plai Laem at sunset.
- Tip: mix Samui with Koh Phangan or Ang Thong for varied landscapes.
- To read: alternatives to Phuket here Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, etc. and the status of open Thai islands here update.
For combinations of beach + culture, these Mediterranean island ideas (Corfu, Ionian Islands) offer a European alternative: Corfu at a low price and hidden gems of the Ionian Islands.
Insight: Samui aggregates the best of Southern Thailand with reassuring accessibility for a first trip to Asia.
Where to book: comparators, companies, and good deals to know
To lock in a good rate, Léa and Max’s winning approach: compare on Expedia, monitor flights from Air France, and then choose between collections and clubs (depending on the stage) via VeryChic, Voyage Privé, Club Med, TUI France, Leclerc Voyages, Lastminute.com, and Promovacances. In the Mediterranean, Pierre & Vacances residences remain a practical option.
To nourish your inspiration feed, also explore these resources: 10 ranked French beaches in Europe and this selection of memorable paradise islands.
- Timing: aim for September and remain flexible for 2-3 days.
- Mix & match: combine comparator + private sale to create a custom offer.
- Add-ons: include “bonus” islands like Paros, Sardinia, or the Canaries (guide).
| Destination | Where to compare / book | Package idea | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aruba | Expedia, Air France, TUI France | Flight + all-inclusive hotel | Flexibility J-3/J+3 to catch the best connection |
| Bali | Expedia, Voyage Privé, VeryChic | Ubud + Uluwatu combo | Nights in eco-lodges + grouped transfers |
| Koh Samui | Expedia, Leclerc Voyages, Lastminute.com | Flight + hotel + ferry to neighboring islands | Look for alternatives to Phuket: guide |
| Dominican Republic | Expedia, Promovacances, Club Med | All-inclusive beach + excursions | Spot the most beautiful beaches: selection |
| Paros / Mediterranean | Pierre & Vacances, Expedia | Flight + residence + car | Compare with Ionian Islands: inspirations |
To broaden your map, head to the island of Thailand with this overview Bangkok–islands and this focus on “10 islands” to explore. For Europe, Corfu remains an accessible gateway: good deals.
Final insight: by mixing a comparator, a regular airline, and private sales, you can recreate the “best of three worlds” without compromising the experience.
For even more blue and turquoise ideas, these selections of enchanting beaches help to set a next departure as soon as the weather allows.
