Sri Lanka named World’s Best Island by Big 7 Travel

Colombo, July 02 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka has been ranked the Best Island in the World by global travel platform 'Big 7 Travel', topping its annual list of "The 50 Best Islands in the World" for 2026.

Now in its seventh edition, the ranking recognises the world's most outstanding island destinations based on a combination of previous media coverage, social media popularity, emerging travel trends, and assessments by Big 7 Travel's editorial team.

Sri Lanka claimed the top position ahead of several internationally renowned destinations, earning praise for its 833-mile coastline, misty central highlands, lush tea plantations, rich cultural heritage, and remarkable biodiversity. The platform also highlighted iconic attractions such as Yala National Park, known for its wildlife safaris, and the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress as key reasons behind the country's top ranking.

Mo'orea in French Polynesia secured second place, followed by Socotra in Yemen, Madeira in Portugal, and Ecuador's Galápagos Islands to complete the top five.

Big 7 Travel noted that Sri Lanka's unique blend of natural beauty, history, wildlife, and cultural diversity makes it a destination unlike any other, echoing the famous observation by explorer Marco Polo, who described the island as "the finest island of its size in all the world."

Top 10 Best Islands in the World – 2026

1. Sri Lanka

2. Mo'orea, French Polynesia

3. Socotra, Yemen

4. Madeira, Portugal

5. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

6. Great Exuma, Bahamas

7. Seychelles

8. Achill Island, Ireland

9. Koh Lipe, Thailand

10. Milos, Greece

Full list of the World's Best Islands https://www.enjoytravel.com/en/travel-news/guides/best-islands-in-the-world