Aruba, Jamaica: Expedia’s First-Ever “Island Hot List” + Fave Canadian Island Destinations

Endless beaches. Swaying palm trees. Pretty coastal villages.

Expedia says the world is in love with islands, and they’ve created a special list of the best islands for everything from relaxing to affordable luxury. They also have come up with a list of the top islands for Canadians.

Expedia today (July 15) released its 2025 Island Hot List, a first-of-its-kind guide to island travel based on verified data and traveler insights. The inaugural report reveals global interest for islands is up 30%.

“From the cultural richness of Jamaica to the sunny shores of Koh Samui, the islands on the 2025 list reflect travelers’ values,” Expedia said. “Beyond the beautiful photos, they offer culture and authenticity, demonstrating how islands are adapting and redefining what it means to travel to these unique edges of the world.”

Here are the destinations that made Expedia’s global Island Hot List

• Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine)

• Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation)

• Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure)

• Fiji (Best for Community)

• Jamaica (Best for Culture)

• Koh Samui, Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury)

• Maldives (Best for Romance)

• Oahu, Hawaii (Best for Surfing)

• Paros, Greece (Best for Nightlife)

• Sardinia, Italy (Best for Food Lovers)

Top Islands for Canadian Travelers

“Beyond these global hotspots, Expedia data also shows a rising wave of interest in islands that hold unique appeal for Canadian travelers. Top of the list is Barbados (interest up 30%), Sint Maarten (+50%), Turks and Caicos (+10%), Cape Breton, Nova Scotia (+30%) and Îles de la Madeleine (+30%).

“Whether driven by affordability, easy access or seasonal appeal, these locally relevant escapes are climbing the charts, offering travelers familiar flavors with a fresh twist.”

The Expedia Island Hot List is based on a comprehensive analysis of factors including Expedia travel data, accommodation rates and quality (based on real traveler reviews), accessibility, air connectivity, weather and seasonality, tourism appeal, and traveler safety and inclusivity – as informed by travel advisories and traveler sentiment.

“Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travelers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape,” said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations. “Island adventurers want standout stays, affordable prices and seamless flight access. To get that, our top tips are to travel out of season when average stay prices can fluctuate by as much as 50% and bundle flights and hotels together, to knock nearly $680 CAD on average off your trip.”

While the optimum time to visit varies by destination, the global report pinpoints September is, on average, the best time for an island getaway (outside of the Caribbean, where it’s hurricane season), when affordability and weather conditions align to offer the best overall experience.

Expedia Top Tips for Island Travel

• Look out for all-inclusive options – Expedia recently reintroduced all-inclusive vacations in Canada, offering travellers a convenient and cost-effective way to book complete getaways, including flights, airport transfers, meals and even childcare.

• Travel off-peak and save big: Average stay prices can swing by up to 50% depending on the season. Skip crowds and get better deals by traveling during the shoulder or off-season. Think Sardinia or Paros in September – just outside peak – where prices can drop by 35% compared to August.

• Use Flight Alerts to help you know when to book: Turn on Price Tracking in the Expedia app to get notified the moment fares dip. It’s the easiest way to catch a deal without constantly checking.

• Island hop for unexpected adventures: Why stay on one island when you can explore more? Ferries and short flights open a world of hidden beaches, local flavors, and off-the-radar gems, just beyond the main drag.

• Bundle and save more: Flights, car hire, hotels, and activities – all in one place. Expedia’s customizable packages can help travelers save hundreds on average when booking multiple items together. Bonus: your full itinerary is stored in one place.

• Score 25%+ savings with the Expedia Halfway There Sale: With average island hotel rates ranging from $205 CAD in Bali to $897 CAD in the Maldives, members can save 25% or more on select stays during Expedia’s Halfway There Sale . Book by July 21, 2025, travel by October 312, 2025.