Dreaming of trading your hectic life for island breezes, palmlined beaches, and endless sunshine? Whether you’re seeking an early retirement, remote work lifestyle, or simply a better climate, tropical islands are increasingly popular for expats and digital nomads. But not all islands are created equal when it comes to livability and yearround pleasant weather.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best tropical places to live — islands known for their sunkissed climate, comfortable temperatures, and relaxed lifestyle all year long.
1. Bali, Indonesia – Culture, Affordability, and Sun
Bali is a favorite among digital nomads and expats for its low cost of living, rich culture, and sunny weather. The island enjoys a tropical climate yearround, with average temperatures between 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F). The dry season runs from May to October, making it ideal for beachgoers and surfers.
Ubud and Canggu are top expat hubs, offering coworking spaces, villas, and community events. Add in delicious cuisine, stunning rice terraces, and spiritual temples, and Bali becomes more than just a pretty beach — it’s a holistic lifestyle destination.
2. Phuket, Thailand – Tropical Luxury on a Budget
Phuket combines island paradise with urban conveniences, boasting beautiful beaches, modern hospitals, great food, and a growing expat community. The weather stays warm yearround, hovering around 28°C (82°F), with a rainy season from May to October.
Expats love the easy visa options, access to international schools, and abundance of housing — from budget apartments to luxury villas. And thanks to Thailand’s low cost of living, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
3. Madeira, Portugal – Europe’s Tropical Secret
Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, lies in the Atlantic Ocean and is often called the “Hawaii of Europe.” This volcanic island has a mild tropical climate — warm summers, gentle winters, and very little humidity. Temperatures range from 17°C to 25°C (62°F to 77°F), making it pleasant yearround.
Living in Madeira means access to European healthcare, infrastructure, and safety standards. It’s ideal for those seeking a laidback island life with European perks, beautiful nature, and fewer tourists than mainland Portugal.
4. Roatán, Honduras – Caribbean Charm Without the Price Tag
Roatán is part of the Bay Islands of Honduras, offering all the beauty of the Caribbean at a fraction of the cost of more famous destinations. With temperatures between 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F) throughout the year and English widely spoken, it’s welcoming to retirees and divers alike.
You’ll find small beach communities, affordable real estate, and vibrant coral reefs. While infrastructure can be basic in some areas, Roatán is a hidden gem for those seeking unspoiled island living.
5. Mauritius – A Multicultural Paradise
Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius boasts a tropical maritime climate, with average highs of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) and plenty of sunshine. The country is a melting pot of cultures — Indian, African, European, and Chinese — which reflects in its food, festivals, and language diversity.
Mauritius has strong infrastructure, a stable economy, and incentives for remote workers through longstay visas. With friendly locals, great beaches, and opportunities for hiking and diving, it’s a fantastic longterm destination.
6. Koh Samui, Thailand – Island Ease with Modern Comforts
Quieter and more peaceful than Phuket, Koh Samui is another Thai island paradise that boasts sunny skies, palmlined beaches, and an easygoing lifestyle. The island offers modern amenities, including international hospitals, airports, and shopping centers, while still maintaining its tropical charm.
The weather stays in the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (82°F–89°F), and the cost of living is manageable. Yoga retreats, beachfront cafes, and a supportive expat community make Koh Samui a favorite among those seeking wellness and worklife balance.
7. Tenerife, Canary Islands – Eternal Spring in Spain
Located off the coast of Africa, Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands and boasts one of the best yearround climates in the world — often described as “eternal spring.” Temperatures stay between 18°C and 26°C (64°F to 79°F) all year.
Tenerife offers European quality of life with low taxes, great healthcare, and strong infrastructure. For those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, city living, and beach relaxation, Tenerife ticks every box. And it’s visafriendly for EU citizens and offers a digital nomad program for others.
8. Ambergris Caye, Belize – Caribbean Living Made Easy
Belize’s largest island, Ambergris Caye, offers laidback island life with yearround warmth, averaging 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F). English is the official language, making it easy for North American expats to settle in.
You’ll find sandy streets, beachfront bars, a tightknit expat community, and access to the Belize Barrier Reef for worldclass snorkeling and diving. With relatively easy residency options and no language barrier, Ambergris Caye is ideal for relaxed tropical living.
9. Palawan, Philippines – Natural Beauty and Seclusion
Often ranked among the most beautiful islands in the world, Palawan is a tropical wonderland with turquoise lagoons, limestone cliffs, and uncrowded beaches. Temperatures remain in the high 20s Celsius (mid80s Fahrenheit) all year, and the cost of living is among the lowest on this list.
While infrastructure is still developing, Palawan’s raw beauty, warm locals, and affordability attract adventurous expats and remote workers. Towns like El Nido and Coron offer serene escapes for those who don’t mind trading luxury for nature.
10. Isla Mujeres, Mexico – Small Island, Big Personality
Just a 15minute ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a small Caribbean island with a friendly vibe, colorful streets, and sunny weather yearround (averaging 27°C or 81°F). It offers the charm of Mexico with island tranquility and close access to the U.S.
The cost of living is reasonable, healthcare is accessible, and the community is welcoming. Isla Mujeres is a top choice for retirees, remote workers, and families looking for sun, sea, and simplicity — without total isolation.
Conclusion
Living on a tropical island isn’t just a fantasy — it’s a realistic lifestyle for many who crave sunshine, simplicity, and scenery. Whether you prioritize affordability, healthcare, expat communities, or untouched nature, there’s an island out there that fits your dream. From Asia to the Caribbean, Europe to Central America, these 10 islands with great yearround weather offer more than just palm trees — they offer a new way of life.
Before making a move, always consider visa requirements, healthcare access, and cost of living. But once you’re sipping fresh coconut water while watching the sunset from your hammock, you’ll know you made the right choice.
FAQs
1. Which tropical island has the best weather yearround?
Tenerife (Canary Islands)\\is often considered to have the most consistent and pleasant weather yearround, with mild temperatures and low humidity — making it feel like eternal spring.
2. What is the cheapest tropical island to live on?
Palawan in the Philippines\\offers one of the lowest costs of living, with affordable housing, food, and transportation — perfect for budgetconscious expats.
3. Do any tropical islands offer digital nomad visas?
Yes!\\Islands like Madeira (Portugal), Mauritius, and Thailand offer longstay or digital nomad visa programs, allowing remote workers to live legally while working online.
4. What should I consider before moving to a tropical island?
Important factors include\\visa regulations, healthcare availability, cost of living, climate (including hurricane or monsoon seasons), internet access, and community support.
5. Can families with kids live comfortably on tropical islands?
Absolutely.\\Islands like Phuket, Mauritius, and Ambergris Caye offer international schools, healthcare, and kidfriendly activities, making them great for families.
