Island vacation ideas can help you mix up your travels if you’re looking to shake up your vacation routine. If you tend to travel on auto-pilot, you might be missing out on some great destinations, as there are a variety of island vacation spots that will leave you stimulated with culture, cuisine, and local traditions. Skip the vacation to Florida this year in favor of other warm weather destinations including the Caribbean, Hawaii, or even the South Pacific. The best tropical island vacation spot will vary depending on your interests, but the following information might spark interest in somewhere new you never thought before to explore.

There are new island vacation ideas to suit a variety of budgets. Whether you’re trying to travel on the cheap or are willing to splurge, there are new island vacation spots that will perfectly match your desires. While certain islands are very popular, including the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica, there are other lesser-known islands that deserve just as much attention. Some travelers think that the best tropical island vacation spot is one that is free of crowds, and despite what you might think, this is still possible to find in the Caribbean. From St Kitts to Anguilla, Turks and Caicos to Martinique, there are smaller islands that will inspire you to keep exploring the Caribbean.

Smaller islands such as Dominica, Saba, and Guadeloupe are often the best bet if you’re trying to find Caribbean vacation destinations without the crowds. Dominica has a reputation as one of the last unspoiled islands in the Caribbean, with beautiful hiking opportunities and almost unparalleled scuba diving. Saba is just five square miles and it’s not known as a beach island, but if you want the most relaxing destination and as far removed from modern life as possible, this is the place to be, particularly if you’re interested in hiking, scuba diving, and learning about local arts and culture.

Other island vacation ideas encourage travelers to seek out the lesser-known island resorts and beaches on popular islands. While many travelers choose the Bahamas, not many people know about the quiet and relaxing islands such as Bimini. Travelers can combine the convenience of the location of the Bahamas with the charm of secluded beaches in areas outside of Nassau Paradise Island. Another way to enjoy these island vacation spots is by choosing vacation rentals. Sometimes simply escaping the resort atmosphere will make you feel as if you’ve discovered something unique.

To some travelers, the best tropical island vacation spot is a romantic one. If you’re planning a couples getaway, one strategy is to research adults-only properties. These resorts are designed for couples, and no families or children are permitted. This results in a much more relaxed atmosphere by the pool or at the beach, and activities, entertainment, and food is all conceived with an adult audience in mind. Popular romantic island destinations include Fiji and Tahiti in the South Pacific, and if you’re looking for something especially secluded, consider visiting one of the exotic destinations off the coast of Africa, such as Seychelles or Mauritius.

Other island vacation ideas will depend on your interests. Foodies love the many restaurant options of Aruba while honeymooners love the stunning landscapes of St Lucia. For scuba diving, choose the Cayman Islands or to escape it all visit the US Virgin Islands. While the best islands will be an individual choice, the best way to narrow down your options is by deciding first what you want to do on the trip. If you’re traveling on a budget, flexibility will be essential. Many travelers have discovered a new destination in the Caribbean simply by following a good deal on airfare or a quality all inclusive island package. This way you can be pleasantly surprised when you reach an unfamiliar and new destination!