These 12 Tropical Vacations Will Make You Pack Right Now

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Tropical vacations, like the peaceful beaches of Thailand or the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, are the ultimate escape from the daily grind. These destinations attract millions of travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.

Imagine snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs in Bora Bora or sipping fresh coconut water on the white sands of the Seychelles—these are the moments that make tropical getaways unforgettable.

We’ve carefully chosen these 12 destinations because they each offer warm weather year-round and are popular among travelers. From hidden beaches in Bali to jungle escapades in Costa Rica or Hawaii’s dramatic landscapes, these 12 tropical spots deliver sun-soaked vibes and good times.

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Cities for Winter Vacations in the US Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii, USA 1/5

Best Tropical Vacations_Okinawa, Japan_Ishigaki Island

Okinawa, Japan 2/5

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Bali, Indonesia 3/5

Costa Rica 4/5

Thailand 5/5

Results

Hawaii, USA

16 12

Okinawa, Japan

14 14

Bali, Indonesia

16 12

Costa Rica

15 13

Thailand

20 8

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Bali, Indonesia

Bali is perfect for tropical getaways, with must-see spots like the sacred Tirta Empul Temple, the surfing beaches of Uluwatu, and sunrise hikes up Mount Batur for unforgettable views. Visit between April and October for warm and sunny weather and either rent a scooter or hire a driver to get around.

You’ll see centuries-old temples and experience cultural highlights such as gamelan music performances and traditional Balinese dancing at venues like Ubud Palace. Don’t miss the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple, a mesmerizing performance against the stunning cliffside sunset.

There’s also a rich culinary history worth diving into. Be sure to try Babi Guling (suckling pig) at the highly rated Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi or indulge in a traditional Balinese Rijsttafel, a must-try combination of sweet and sour, hot and cold tastes, at Warung Nia Balinesein Seminyak.

For a truly unique experience, visit the temples of Ubud like Pura Tirta Empul and Pura Dalem Ubud. Then, experience the majestic beaches of the Bukit Peninsula, such as Nyang-Nyang Beach and Blue Point Beach. If you love adventure, you can surf, hike, and scuba dive to your heart’s content.

Hawaii, USA

Hawaii is a top choice for tropical vacations, from hiking Diamond Head Crater in Honolulu to driving the scenic Road to Hana in Maui and exploring the Nā Pali Coast in Kauai. Although the weather is pleasant year-round, the high season is December to April because this is when people in colder climates try to escape the cold.

Honolulu, the bustling capital on Oahu, has big-city vibes. Explore the historic Pearl Harbor sites and don’t miss world-class dining with dishes like poke bowls at local favorites, such as the top-rated Ohana Poke House.

If you want luxurious resorts and nature, head to Maui. Relax at Ka’anapali Beach, or witness the sunrise from Haleakalā National Park.

The Big Island offers a more laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals. Visit Volcanoes National Park to see active lava flows or stargaze at Mauna Kea Observatory.

For laid-back charm and friendly people, nothing beats the Big Island. For mountain adventures and bountiful nature, head to Kauai. Kayak along the Wailua River, or relax by the emerald waters of Hanalei Bay. Wherever you go, you’ll enjoy some of the best beaches in the world.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is an ideal tropical destination in Central America offering from rainforest canopy walks to preserved coral reefs. Visit Costa Rica between December and April for dry and sunny weather.

Head to the Caribbean coast to experience some of Latin America’s best diving near Cahuita National Park, where you can explore preserved coral reefs for around $50 per dive. If you’re lucky, you might spot iguanas and toucans.

On the Pacific Coast, Tamarindo is a hotspot for surfing, with the highly rated Iguana Surf Camp and consistent waves suitable for beginners and pros.

In the mountains surrounding the capital of San Jose, don’t miss an hour-long informative tour at Doka Estate Coffee Plantation. You can stay at an eco-lodge in Braulio Carrillo National Park and see stunning wildlife with rates starting at USD 100.

Thailand

Thailand offers tropical getaways with lively cities like Bangkok, meditation retreats at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai and tropical beaches in Phuket and Koh Samui. November to March is the best time to visit Thailand.

Start your journey in Bangkok, where you can visit the Grand Palace, explore Wat Arun, and savor street food at Chatuchak Market, the largest weekend market in the world. Try Pad Thai or Mango Sticky Rice from vendors for under 100 THB (USD 2.90).

In the north, Chiang Mai offers ethical elephant tours at the Elephant Nature Park and organized treks in the surrounding jungles. Phuket is perfect for lively nightlife and luxury resorts, like the 5-star The Slate, while Koh Samui for quiet places like Lamai Beach. For diving, visit Koh Tao, where courses for beginners start at around 11,000 THB (USD 320).

Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa is a tropical paradise at the southern end of the Japanese archipelago. Although it’s part of Japan, it feels like a world away. Visit on April and October for warm weather and fewer crowds.

On the main island, visit the oceanside Sefa Utaki, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the very rocks are sacred, or relax at Emerald Beach, known for its clear waters and soft white sand. The waters are shallow and calm making it perfect for families with young children. Drive along Kouri Island’s bridge to see hidden villages and some of the best reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving in Asia.

The smaller islands offer even more incredible natural beauty. In Ishigaki, you can dive with whale sharks at Yonehara Beach and see colorful coral reefs in Kabira Bay. In Iriomote Ishigaki National Park, you can lounge on the beaches or hike through jungles.

US Virgin Islands, USA

The US Virgin Islands are a tropical getaway with stunning beaches and outdoor adventure. Visit between December and July to avoid the hurricane season and enjoy little rainfall.

Start on the island of St. Thomas and experience Caribbean culture in the capital, Charlotte Amalie, with colorful markets and Blackbeard’s Castle. Then, head to the island’s famous beaches like Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach for beautiful emerald waters and reefs.

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On St. John, you can hike the moderately challenging Reef Bay Trail for two hours to see ancient petroglyphs and snorkel at the Virgin Islands National Park. Relax on the white sands and crystal clear waters of famous beaches like Trunk Bay and Honeymoon Beach. You need three days to enjoy the park and prepare sturdy boots for hiking and a swimsuit.

No matter which island you stay on, you’ll find luxurious resorts like The Ritz-Carlton on St. Thomas, historic inns, or comfortable short-term rentals by the beach. Rent bikes and ride around the neighborhoods, or hop on a ferry to visit other islands.

Jamaica

Jamaica is a Caribbean destinations of music, culture, incredible cuisine, and friendly people. The Caribbean island also has white sand beaches that rival anywhere else in the world. Visit between December and March for great weather.

Take a tour of Kingston, the capital, through its musical heritage. Visit the Bob Marley Museum to explore reggae’s roots, or take a guided tour of Trench Town, the birthplace of many musical legends. Book an all-inclusive resort like Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica.

Montego Bay’s beaches, like Doctor’s Cave Beach, are perfect for sunbathing, while Negril’s Seven Mile Beach offers a laid-back vibe with crystal-clear waters and beachside bars and free access. Visit the Craighton Estate coffee plantation, but keep in mind there are many steps.Don’t miss trying jerk chicken and goat curry, which often inspires the biggest foodies to return.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is an exotic paradise on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It’s ground zero for all-inclusive resorts, culture, and white sandy beaches. Go early to avoid the long line. For dry weather, visit between December and April.

Rent a jet ski or go on a scuba-diving adventure to explore the nearby MUSA underwater museum. Relax on beaches like Playa Delfines, a free public beach with breathtaking views and photo opportunities at the famous “Cancun” sign.

Beyond the beaches, visit Chichen Itza, a step pyramid that is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and swim in the Sacred Cenote, a water-filled sinkhole. Take the time to visit destinations such as Tulum and explore the ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and Playa del Carmen, just an hour away, offers boutique shopping, lively nightlife, and fresh seafood along the vibrant Quinta Avenida.

Miami, USA

Miami is a tropical hotspot perfect for anyone looking for a wild time on the beach. Visit between December and May for warm weather and little rainfall.

Start on the shores of South Beach for luxury shopping at Lincoln Road and dining at the top-rated Havana Vieja for Cuban food and mojitos. Then, lay by the pool at a luxurious hotel like 1 Hotel South Beach.

Explore the city’s museums like Wynwood Walls or the Pérez Art Museum. At night, you’ll find some of the best nightlife in the country at Mango’s.

For adventures, rent a jet ski, go on a deep-sea fishing trip or snorkel in Biscayne National Park. The nearby Florida Keys are just a short drive away for calmer tropical beaches.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas are a cluster of tropical islands with postcard-worthy beaches and tropical reefs. You’ll find famous all-inclusive resorts such as Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas. Visit between December and April to avoid the hurricane season.

Spot iguanas on Allen’s Cay and swim with pigs at Pig Beach. Head out on the high seas for deep-sea fishing starting at USD 700, or kayak around the remote coves and beaches at Eleuthera to find your own slice of paradise. Dean’s Blue Hole is perfect for diving.

One of the highlights of the Bahamas is the friendly vibe. No matter where you go, you’ll meet people who love to show you a good time. Don’t miss Big Mike’s conch salad in Alice Town.

Vietnam

Vietnam is quickly becoming one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. From its renowned cuisine to stunning beaches, it has everything you’d want in a tropical vacation.

Start out in Ho Chi Minh City to sample pho and banh mi at Ben Thanh Market and explore the War Remnants Museum. Don’t miss a boat tour of the Mekong Delta. Then, head north to Da Nang to relax at My Khe Beach, explore the Marble Mountains, and visit the iconic Golden Bridge.

Further north is Hanoi, one of Asia’s most complex and fascinating cities. Wander the Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature, and try the famous egg coffee at the hidden gem Little Hanoi Egg Coffee. Along the way, you’ll meet friendly people and get to lounge in a place so beautiful that it seems imaginary.

Cairns, Australia

Cairns is home base for the Great Barrier Reef and some of Asutralia’s most famous natural attractions. Hike through lush rainforests to see waterfalls like Barron Falls or take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for breathtaking views. Relax on Trinity Beach or take a cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most famous ecosystems.

In the city, head out to see art galleries, boutique shops, and the Cairns Museum. Enjoy local cuisine at the top-rated restaurant Ochre, or sit down for a pint at Hemingway’s Brewery. For non-stop fun and friendly people, it’s hard to find a better tropical destination than Cairns.