If you’re as partial to a party destination as I am, right now there’s no better thought than being whisked off to a sunny island to party. Imagine it now – sun beaming down, swimwear on, cocktail in hand, and music blasting. Perhaps you’re off to a pool party, or to check out a world class DJ. From the White Isle to the electronic festivals of the Croatian islands, there’s a party island for you. So, grab your sunglasses and have your favourite cocktail in hand while you check out my guide to the world’s best party islands.
Looking for more of a busy city party destination? Check out my guide to the best party cities in the world.
Mykonos, Greece
There’s not much more glamorous than the white washed buildings and deep blue oceans of Mykonos. That’s until you experience the party vibes of this vibrant and cosmopolitan island that makes it one of the world’s best party islands. Before hitting the club, Mykonos is a great spot for sailing across the Aegean and dining on delicious Greek seafood. Afterwards, hit the island’s many beach bars and nightclubs. Don’t miss Super Paradise Beach Club to join Mykonos’ most chic crowd. You can always sleep off your hangover the next day on one of the island’s beautiful beaches.
Ibiza, Spain
An island that needs no introduction, Ibiza is undoubtedly one of the world’s best party islands. There’s a party on the White Isle for everyone. Head to San Antonio to applaud the iconic sunsets and to enjoy a drink at Cafe Mambo. Ibiza Town is perfect for a more sophisticated evening of cocktails along the harbour before hitting one of the many super clubs. Here, you can party to sets from world class DJs including Carl Cox and Pete Tong. Don’t miss one of Ibiza’s most impressive clubs, Pacha, or check out Privilege, the world’s largest clubs.
Hvar, Croatia
The Croatian island of Hvar offers everything you could expect from one of the world’s best party cities. It’s a blend of beautiful beaches, historic streets, and excellent nightlife. A glamorous destination, you’ll arrive into Hvar’s glitzy harbour, adorned with super yachts. Relax among the young and beautiful crowd of the island at the popular Hula Hula Beach Club. Don’t miss the daily pop and shake of bottles of rose champagne. Afterwards, catch the boat to the neighbouring Pakleni islands to Carpe Diem to party until the early hours.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is internationally renowned as one of the world’s best party islands, belonging to beautiful Thailand. Get your party started by relaxing on the stunning Patong Beach with a beer or two. You can then check out the many bars, cabaret shows, and nightclubs of Phuket. Start off on one of the island’s two main roads – Rat-U-Thit Road and Thaweewong Road. You’ll discover a sensory overload of neon lights, bars, and nightclubs along Bangla Road. Don’t miss the dance complex of Banana Disco for a night you won’t (or might) forget.
Beachcomber Island, Fiji
Beachcomber Island is a small island that’s a part of the volcanic archipelago of the Mamanuca Islands. It’s a beautiful tiny island that’s perfect for water sports and exploring marine life. Indulge in diving, snorkelling, windsurfing or canoeing by day, before partying at night. Attracting a young crowd, Beachcomber Island is perfect for relaxing on its beautiful Fijian beaches with some drinks to get started. Afterwards, enjoy some of Fiji’s best parties, live music, and entertainment for all kinds of night out. The island really comes to life at night.
Barbados, Caribbean
Barbados may well be famous for its pink beaches, British influence, and luxurious resorts, but did you know it has unrivalled nightlife? One of the world’s best party islands, Barbados is thought to be the birthplace of rum. You’ll find tasty rum cocktails at every bar on the island, ready to get the party started. Head to St Lawrence Gap near Dover Beach for a strip of vibrant bars, restaurants, and clubs. The Cove is a fun club for partying to reggae and calypso music. Barbados’ capital of Bridgetown boasts the much loved open-air club of Harbour Lights where you’ll have a great night.
Florianopolis, Brazil
The capital of the Brazilian island of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis boasts spectacular beaches, fascinating culture, and stunning scenery. The city also helps make Santa Catarina one of the world’s best party islands. A modern city, Florianopolis has chic bars and clubs that make it the perfect party destination. Known as the ‘Island of Magic’ for a reason, the ‘buatchis’, or nightclubs, will make your visit to the island. Hobnob with the rich and famous among the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find a music taste for you among the bars and clubs, from techno to reggaeton and samba.
Aruba, Caribbean
Aruba is a gorgeous Caribbean island with warm temperatures, white sady beaches, and excellent nightlife. Enjoy slow days of diving and sunbathing, yet fast and fun nights on one of the world’s best party islands. There’s a plethora of great bars, casinos with live music, and great nightclubs on Aruba. Relax at a swim up bar during the day to warm up, before heading to Aruba’s Palm Beach area. Here, you’ll find the legendary Gusto nightclub, as well as Soprano’s Piana Bar as well as some lovely beach bars. For an authentic taste of Aruba nightlife, check out the area of Oranjestad for some great pubs and rum shops.
Boracay, Philippines
A small island in the Philippines, Boracay is also the party capital of its country. With beautiful beaches and plush resorts, it’s a party paradise. It’s three mile long White Beach helps to make Boracay one of the world’s best party islands. Check out its neighbouring bars and beachside restaurants for delicious drinks and cocktails. Each has its own atmosphere, with Station 1 and 2 offering lively partying until the early hours. You’ll discover plenty of drinks specials throughout the night too. Station 3 offers more of a relaxed vibe for enjoying a chilled beer near the ocean.
Bali, Indonesia
Thanks to Bali’s status as one of the world’s best party islands, you can expect a great night out. With countless bars, clubs, and beach clubs set in beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect party destination. Enjoy a glitzy atmosphere with affordable drinks and world-class entertainment. Kuta is famous for its great surf and even better party crowd. Don’t miss Finn’s Beach Club for bar service, great music, people, and sunsets. You’ll also find mega clubs in Kuta, while Seminyak has a more sophisticated vibe. In Seminyak, you’ll discover top DJs and delicious cocktails to enjoy.
That’s my guide to the world’s best party islands! Are there any tropical destinations you’d add to the list?
