Sri Lanka has been ranked the No. 1 island in the world in the 2026 edition of “The 50 Best Islands in the World” published by global travel platform Big 7 Travel.
Now in its seventh year, the annual rankings are based on a combination of factors, including previous media coverage, social media popularity, emerging travel trends, and evaluations by the Big 7 Travel editorial team.
Sri Lanka secured the top position ahead of several internationally renowned island destinations, with the platform highlighting the country’s 833-mile coastline, mist-covered central highlands, lush tea plantations, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional biodiversity.
The ranking also praised iconic attractions such as Yala National Park, renowned for its wildlife safaris, and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as key reasons behind Sri Lanka’s top placement.
According to Big 7 Travel, Sri Lanka’s unique combination of natural beauty, history, wildlife, and cultural diversity offers visitors an experience unlike any other.
The recognition echoes the famous observation of renowned explorer Marco Polo, who once described Sri Lanka as “the most beautiful island in the world for its size.”
The island of Moorea in French Polynesia ranked second, followed by Socotra in Yemen, Madeira in Portugal, and the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador.
Top 10 Islands in the World – 2026 (Big 7 Travel)
- Sri Lanka
- Moorea, French Polynesia
- Socotra, Yemen
- Madeira, Portugal
- Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
- Great Exuma, Bahamas
- Seychelles
- Achill Island, Ireland
- Koh Lipe, Thailand
- Milos, Greece
The latest recognition is expected to further strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a leading global tourism destination and support efforts to attract more international visitors in the years ahead.
