Over 186,000 readers voted for the best islands on the planet as part of Travel+Leisure’s annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024.

The Maldives, which is just as “beautiful as every picture you have seen”, tops the list with 95.63 points. This resounding sentiment was summed up by one enthusiastic reader in three words; “Paradise on Earth,” Travel+Leisure wrote.

Sneaking in at second position is the under-the-radar Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc scoring 94.41 points, said the magazine while announcing the results of the vote.

The island is an emerging tourism destination which is ultimately its greatest strength. While several beaches in Southeast Asia are developed, Phu Quoc maintains an understated tranquility, it shared.

Bali of Indonesia came third with 93.26 points. Called the “Island of the Gods”, Bali’s rich heritage can be experienced through its traditional ceremonies, old temples, and intricate dance performances.

Rounding off the list were global destinations including Milos and Crete of Greece; Dominica, Hvar, and the Dalmatian Islands of Croatia; Galápagos Islands of Ecuador; Koh Samui of Thailand; and Great Barrier Reef Islands of Australia.

Islands were specifically rated on criteria such as natural attractions/beaches, activities/sights, restaurants/food, people/friendliness, and value.