Indonesia Tops New Ranking of the World’s Best Island-Hopping Destinations

According to a new study from the guided tour company Island Hopping, Indonesia ranks as the world’s best island-hopping destination, with more than 6,000 inhabited islands, average highs around 31°C, and ferry rides that cost just under $10 on average. The findings underscore what travelers have long known — that the country’s vast geography and affordability make it a paradise for exploring by sea.

Southeast Asia dominates the list. The Philippines and Thailand round out the top three, tying with destination scores of 49, followed closely by China and South Korea. Together, these five nations showcase a region where ferry routes, safety, and accessibility combine with year-round warm weather to make island-hopping both easy and appealing.

The study evaluated destinations using what it calls a “Best Island-Hopping Score,” combining factors such as the number of inhabited islands, average ferry prices, safety indices, temperatures, and available attractions. It also considers the cost of meals and family living expenses for those who plan to stay longer or travel at a slower pace.

Key Findings

• Indonesia took the top spot with a score of 85, home to 6,000 inhabited islands and over 45,000 attractions and tours.
• The Philippines and Thailand tied for second with scores of 49, offering warm climates (33–34°C), affordable ferry travel, and strong safety ratings.
• China ranked fourth, followed by South Korea, both bolstered by high safety and accessibility scores.
• Italy stood out among European destinations, tying for eighth place but leading the list in attractions, with nearly 185,000 activities listed — more than double any other country.

The Bigger Picture

While the rankings lean toward Asia’s tropical archipelagos, European and Pacific destinations continue to draw travelers with well-developed ferry systems and cultural diversity. Croatia, Chile, Japan, and Portugal rounded out the top 10, each offering distinct island cultures, from volcanic coastlines to vineyard-covered hills.

A spokesperson from Island Hopping noted, “Island-hopping offers travelers a unique way to combine adventure, culture, and relaxation — exploring multiple destinations in a single trip. With diverse climates, landscapes, and experiences, it’s one of the most immersive ways to discover new places.”

The findings arrive as global interest in multi-stop travel continues to climb. The island-hopping market is projected to grow more than nine percent annually through 2033 — signaling that travelers are ready to trade single-destination vacations for itineraries that stretch across the sea.