45 Tropical Island Getaways

By The Active Times Staff/Sept. 24, 2014 9:59 am EST

For many of us, the season has come where we start to cuddle up under the covers, take our big sweaters out from the attic, and warm up frozen toes by the fire. But, as the fire warms our little toes, imagine that same warmth coming from soft, white sand. The sand covers your feet as the sun beats down from above. [slideshow:1103]

Dreaming of paradise is sometimes the only way to get through the unbearable fall and winter weather. But with the holiday season sneaking up on us, never has there been a better time to make your dreams a reality.

From scuba diving to hiking to lounging on the beach, there is an activity and a paradise for everyone. Relax and unwind as you are surrounded by some of the most picturesque sights you'll ever see. Soak up all the romance an island has to offer, or simply bring your favorite book and find a quiet hideaway.

Leave all your worries behind, and take time off from your hectic life. Everyone deserves a nice, breezy, sun-drenched island vacation. From Oahu to Punta Cana to Barbados you're sure to find your ideal tropical island getaway in our list of these 45 paradise destinations around the world.

Ambergris Caye

As the largest island of Belize, Ambergris Caye is surrounded by white sand beach. The island, named after the large lumps of ambergris that washed ashore is about 25 miles long and one mile wide. But don't let the size fool you, it is jam packed with gorgeous attractions including the Belize Barrier Reef which is the second largest barrier reef in the world. Go zip lining through the forest, sail through the cayes, cave tube through Maya caves or simply go for a nice walk through the jungle in this colorful destination.
—Catarina Cowden

St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. John is the ultimate island getaway for travelers seeking a truly secluded escape. And while this vacation will take you far from civilization, you'll still enjoy the benefits of modern amenities like high-end boutiques and jewelry stores. Though it's the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John is home to the unspoiled terrain of the Virgin Islands National Park, which means you'll encounter incredible opportunities for activities like sailing, hiking and snorkeling.
—Katie Rosenbrock

Click here to escape reality and explore 43 more tropical island getaways.