11 of the most exotic places to travel in the world

When you’ve had your fill of history, culture and man-made wonders, sometimes sun, sea and sand is all you need. Desert islands like Fiji and Maui top the bucket lists of many a traveller, with all the ingredients for the perfect exotic holiday: tropical climes, swaying palms and blissful white-sand beaches. Closer to home, the Canary Island of Fuerteventura and Vis in Croatia make getting away from it all as easy as pie. Whether you're after some serious escapism or want to marvel at mother nature, Lucy McGuire picks some of the most exotic places to travel in the world. And for more inspiration, read our where to go when alternative month-by-month guide

1. Maui, Hawaii

With a legendary surf scene and golden crescent beaches that span more than 120 miles, there are attractions everywhere you turn in Hawaii

Where to stay

Best hostel: Friendly Tiki Beach Hostel is the perfect surfer hangout for travellers on Maui. The beach is just moments away, while the communal areas are great for socialising with other guests. Rooms can be booked either indoors or outdoors; all come with indoor bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and communal kitchen facilities. There's a Women's Dorm ("Wahine"), too. Group activities – such as Friday night BBQs – add to the fun.

Best beachfront hotel: Napili Kai Beach Resort is a dazzling beachfront property where you can eat, sleep and play to the sounds of the ocean. The resort has its own putting green, four swimming pools, two whirlpool hot tubs, several outdoor BBQ areas and even two shuffleboard courts. Whether you want to put your feet up or while away the days with more active pursuits, it is all possible here.

What to do

Best to stay active: Maui is a tropical wonderland, laced with tremendous trails and hiking routes. Book onto a5h Waterfall and Rainforest Hike to take in a range of breathtaking 10–40m-high waterfalls. You'll have the chance to swim in natural pools, enjoy a fresh picnic lunch and learn all about the culture, flora and fauna of the area from your experienced naturalist guide.

Best to relax: A Luxurious sunset cruise is an enchanting way to see Maui in the colourful tones of the evening. Drink in the sunset views from a luxury catamaran, while your award-winning chef prepares your dinner. Experiences don't come better than this.

Maui, Hawaii, seen from above © Joe West/Shutterstock

2. Puerto Rico

With a tropical climate, secluded palm-fringed beaches and topography as varied as a patchwork quilt, Puerto Rico

Where to stay

Best for spa & golf: The

Best budget option: Aside from being kind on the wallet, Chalet Olas del Sol sports superlative sea views. There's a garden, too, as well as a number of great hikes in the area. With two bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen, Olas del Sol is a great option for small groups or families on a budget.

What to do

For water enthusiasts: Active travellers shouldn't miss the chance to kayak in Fajardo. Taking to the waters of Bio Bay Laguna Grande Nature Reserve comes with a twist. After a full safety briefing, you'll head out in your kayak for a sunset to remember; after dark falls, the magic really begins. Marvel at the bioluminescent bay as the water's surface comes alive with twinkling sparkles created by tiny organisms. It is the perfect reminder that Puerto Rico is among the world's the most exotic holiday destinations.

For hiking: El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest registered by the US National Forest System. It offers fantastic hiking, with dense foliage, tumbling waterfalls and gushing rivers. The best way to learn about the area and its native flora and fauna is to take a guided tour to El Yunque.

El Yunque national forest in Puerto Rico © Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock

3. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

If you're looking for exotic destinations close to home, this one's for you! Fuerteventura m

Where to stay

Best for families: The all-inclusive AluaVillage Fuerteventura is the perfect base for families in Fuerteventura, with a dedicated children's pool, children's area and a chock-a-block entertainment programme. While the kids are happily amused, adults can take advantage of the spa – complete with steam bath, whirlpool tub, saunas and sundeck.

Best for spa & wellness: The Royal Palm Resort & Spa - Adults Only welcomes guests who are sixteen and older, making this an excellent choice for couples after some serious pampering. The spa includes an indoor pool, landscaped sauna area, gym and even a salt cave. As you might expect, there's an extensive list of cosmetic and wellness treatments on offer, too.

What to do

Best for spectacular landscapes: Book onto a Dune Buggy Tour to take in the gorgeous scenery of Fuerteventura in a PGO 600 buggy. Petrol heads and adventurers are in for a wild ride, with most of the tour spent exploring off road.

Best for ocean tours: If a Dune Buggy Tour sounds like a bit too much adrenaline, plump for a Dolphin & Whale watching tour instead. Seeing these beautiful animals breaching the waters is a breathtaking experience.

Fuerteventura's desert-like interior © leoks/Shutterstock

4. Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Azure water, swaying hammocks and hidden beaches can all be found in Colombia

Where to stay

Best for beachfront vibes: With an outdoor pool and a sun terrace literally overlooking the beach, Senda Casa Tayrona Los Naranjos enjoys a stunning location. The characterful thatched roof and dark-wood shutters give the whole place tropical tiki vibes.

Best hostel: Shuttles from Simon Bolivar airport can be arranged directly to Viajero Hostel Tayrona & Ecohabs, making this a very accessible choice. But ease of access isn't the only thing going for Viajero Hostel. There's also a stunning pool, hammocks strung up under the palms and bookable activities including surf classes. The restaurant, meanwhile, serves up delicious dishes of fresh seafood. Why not wash it down with a tropical cocktail?

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If you're thinking of visiting Colombia – let us know

Tayrona National Park in Colombia © streetflash/Shutterstock

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5. Vis, Croatia

The secret’s out; the Croatian island of Vis

Where to stay

Best for staying in the historical centre: Hotel San Giorgio is a friendly place with kind and helpful staff and a charming garden courtyard. Rooms are clean, colourful and come in the form of standard doubles plus junior and deluxe suites. The latter comes with a jacuzzi – perfect for special occasions and anniversaries.

Best sea-front spot: Mira Sea Front Guesthouse offers a good range of self-catering apartments on Vis. The studios and apartments are found in two different locations, both in the small village of Komiza. True to the name, all have sea views.

Tailor-made travel

Rough Guides has paired with local experts in Croatia to offer personalized holidays – find out more!

Be prepared for spectacular beaches on Vis © ninopavisic/Shutterstock.com

6. French Polynesia

French Polynesia

Where to stay

In Bora Bora: The Maitai Bora Bora offers a range of accommodation, from classic overwater bungalows to beach bungalows and ocean- and garden-view rooms. Located near to Matira Beach, the only public beach on Bora Bora, the hotel also has two restaurants and two bars. Settle in to your new luxurious surroundings before taking to the waters to get up close and personal with the island's dazzling marine life.

In Tahiti: Vanira Lodge, in the village of Teahupoo on the Tahiti peninsula, faces the ocean on one side and is backed by dense forest on the other. For exotic locations, this is the spot to beat. Choose from "nature", "spa" or "terrace" bungalows. All are exquisite, but the Maara nature bungalow is particularly atmospheric; raised on stilts at the edge of the forest, it's a far cry from the bungalows back home.

What to do

In Bora Bora: Explore the underwater world of Bora Bora on a Shark & Snorkeling Safari and seek out black tip sharks, moray eels, sting rays and other tropical marine life. Knowledgeable guides will help you spot colourful fish. Warning: searching for sharks, naturally, isn't for the faint of heart.

In Moorea: Booking aHalf-day 4x4 Safari Tour will allow you to discover a number of island highlights in style. From visiting a tropical garden to admiring an old volcano crater from the island's pineapple fields and visiting a distillery, travellers will be captivated from start to finish.

French Polynesia has that true "pinch-me" quality as one of the most exotic places in the world © Daboost/Shutterstock

7. The Yucatan, Mexico

This southeast corner of Mexico

Where to stay

In Tulum: If you love art and design, look no further thanCasa Malca. This luxury hotel oozes contemporary charm, while modern art is hung throughout the rooms, hallways and communal areas. The spacious suites are works of art in themselves, making this a popular spot for weddings.

In Playa del Carmen: The philosophy at Palmaïa - The House of Aïa Wellness Enclave All Inclusive is all about being in harmony with nature. The concept is played out in everything from "vegan suites" to hand-crafted dishes in their restaurant and an innovative "Architects of Life" programme that promotes spiritual growth. Yoga, meditation, healing ceremonies or transpersonal astrology, anyone?

What to do

In Tulum: Tulum isn't all about white-sand beaches. The area's long history and rich culture is showcased in the wealth of Mayan ruins here – best explored with the help of a local guide. Visit the archaeological zone and a cenote on a guided tour to get beneath the skin of the area's culture before cooling off in a gorgeous cenote.

In Playa del Carmen: It would be criminal to stay in Playa del Carmen withoutvisiting world-famous Chichén Itzá. The massive El Castillo pyramid that once dominated the old Mayan city remains the undisputed highlight. On a guided tour you'll not only benefit from the knowledge of your guide, but you'll save time by skipping the lines, too.

Tailor-made travel

Consider combining the Yucatán with a visit to Mexico City

Caribbean coast and Mayan ruins in Tulum © DC_Aperture/Shutterstock

8. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia

This paradise island off Cambodia

Where to stay

Best for families with children: One Resort has a children's playground, plus a range of fantastic activities for the whole family to enjoy (think snorkelling, diving and fishing). The in-house restaurant makes mealtimes carefree, while the resort's two swimming pools and private beach area are perfect for cooling off. Family rooms and bungalows complete the picture.

Best budget choice: The white and blue beach huts of Sarasea Resort are totally charming, with little patios out front to sit and watch the world go by. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, garden and private beach area. The bungalows may look simple, but each comes with a flat-screen TV – not that you'll want to watch it, with the ocean lapping at your door.

Tailor-made travel

With Rough Guides tailor-made trips we can connect you with alocal expert in Cambodia to plan your ideal holiday

Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia © Nebula777/Shutterstock

9. Whitsunday Islands, Australia

The brilliant white and blue hues of the Whitsunday Islands

Where to stay

Hamilton Island beachfront: Large rooms – with private balconies – and gorgeous views are the hallmark of the Reef View Hotel. To make the most of the hotel's beachfront location, ask for a room that looks out over the twinkling Coral Sea, though the garden rooms are pleasant too. On top of various room options (including family rooms) are a range of superlative suites. For those with deep pockets, the two-bed terrace suite and the presidential suite are the best of the bunch.

Best for on a budget: Palm Bungalows might be reasonably priced, but there's nothing else that feels "budget" here. The stylish interiors are light and airy, while private balconies overlook the lush, tropical gardens. With air conditioning, tea and coffee and free Wi-Fi, plus a fitness centre, swimming pools and tennis courts, the facilities are excellent, too. And with Catseye Beach just a two-minute walk away, the world is your oyster.

What to do

Best for active travellers: There's a whole host of exciting activities to get excited about on the Whitsundays. For a day to remember, why not roll several stellar experiences into one, by attempting to snorkel, raft, and bush walk - all in one day. Action-packed adventures don't come better than this.

Best views: The Whitsunday Islands might look great from ground level, but the views from the air are something else entirely. Book a scenic flight from Airlie Beach and enjoy bird's-eye views over the dramatic seascapes of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. In-flight commentary helps travellers identify the key landmarks from above.

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays © Tanya Puntti/Shutterstock

10. Fiji

When it comes to exotic holiday destinations, Fiji

What to do

Best for culture enthusiasts: The Untold Broadway Show entrance is a contemporary story about ancient Fiji told through song and dance. It's a well choreographed show, staged in a 450-person capacity arena by internationally renowned dance company VOU Dance Fiji. Prepare to be blown away.

Best for nature experience: The Fijan Nature & Waterfall Experience takes in the sublime tropical rainforests of Colo-I-Suva Nature Reserve, where your experienced guide will highlight all the local flora and fauna. Jungle treks can be hot work, but there are several natural pools and waterfalls along the way – the perfect excuse to jump in and cool off.

Tailor-made travel

Get to know Fiji with a local expert: Fiji Forever

Navala village, Viti Levu island, Fiji © Don Mammoser/Shutterstock

11. Madagascar

Home to otherworldly landscapes and one of the Earth’s most unique eco-systems, few places match the Eden-like quality of Madagascar

Tailor-made travel

The Tsingy Rouge stone formation in northern Madagascar © Chr.Offenberg/Shutterstock

There are plenty of outstanding candidates for the most exotic places to travel in the world, but these are the pick of the bunch. If you're ready to start planning your next trip, get in touch with our local experts today

Top image: Island of Maui, Hawaii © Joe West/Shutterstock

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