HARIANEXPRESS – Bali has officially lost its long-held title as the most beautiful island in the Asia-Pacific region. This coveted status has now been claimed by Koh Samui, Thailand, which secured the top spot in the prestigious Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026. Bali, a perennial favorite, notably dropped to third place in this year’s rankings.
The annual awards, organized by the American travel magazine Travel + Leisure, determine winners based on votes cast by readers. These readers assess various premier tourist destinations across the Asia-Pacific region, considering factors like visitor satisfaction, hospitality standards, service quality, and overall tourism offerings.
Koh Samui’s Rise to Prominence
Koh Samui’s ascent to the top position highlights its growing appeal among travelers. The island is praised for its blend of tropical beach beauty, luxurious resorts, and an increasingly exclusive yet relaxed atmosphere.
Despite its expanding reputation as a luxury destination, Koh Samui has managed to retain much of its authentic charm. This includes its vast coconut plantations, quaint beachfront bungalows, and traditional coastal villages.
The island also gained significant international attention after being featured as a filming location for the third season of the popular television series The White Lotus. This exposure further elevated its profile among global travelers.
Bali’s Shift to Third Place
Meanwhile, Bali’s decline to the third position comes amidst ongoing challenges related to mass tourism. Over the past year, authorities in Bali have intensified efforts to address issues such as visa violations and inappropriate behavior by foreign visitors.
These measures are aimed at preserving the island’s rich local culture and maintaining public order. The shift in rankings reflects the increasingly competitive landscape among premium tourist destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.
“How do you develop one of the world’s most famous island destinations without sacrificing its soul? Koh Samui has managed to do it better than most other places,” wrote Travel + Leisure Asia.
Completing the top three, Phu Quoc, Vietnam, secured the second spot, showcasing its remarkable rise.
Other Top Asia-Pacific Islands
The Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026 also recognized several other outstanding islands. These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking new adventures.
- Palawan, Philippines
- Penang, Malaysia
- Phuket, Thailand
- Koh Chang, Thailand
- Langkawi, Malaysia
- Boracay, Philippines
- Sumba, Indonesia
The nominations for these awards are carefully selected by Travel + Leisure editors and expert contributors across the Asia-Pacific region. Ultimately, the public voting process determines the final winners.
