These islands were just named the best in Canada

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If you’re dreaming of an island escape without leaving the country, Canada has a few options – including three island destinations that were just named the best in the country. 

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Travel + Leisure has unveiled its annual World’s Best Awards, ranking the top destinations, hotels, cruises, airlines, national parks, and more as chosen by readers. 

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The awards are a reflection of the “extraordinary experiences” readers crave, based on the opinions of more than 207,000 readers who voted on more than 10,088 properties. 

The awards include the top island getaways in Canada for 2026. The list contains bucket-list-worthy destinations with pristine beaches, tons of seaside charm and plenty to do and see on a summer vacation. 

Vancouver Island

Taking the top spot once again is Vancouver Island, which earned a score of 84.96 out of a possible 100 points.

“With temperate rainforests, rocky coasts, and whale watching — plus beloved luxury lodges in towns like Tofino — this British Columbian island is the ultimate wilderness escape,” says Travel + Leisure.

Home to rugged shores and one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems, Vancouver Island is a gateway to coastal adventures. The Island stretches 460 kilometres from the capital city of Victoria to the windswept beaches and rocky headlands of Cape Scott. 

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Must-visit spots: Start in Victoria, where visitors can stroll through harbour, tour the historic Parliament Buildings, and enjoy afternoon tea at the iconic Fairmont Empress.

Tofino, a coastal town on the Pacific Ocean, offers sandy beaches (some of the best in the world) and quiet coves that are backed by a rugged shoreline of hidden boardwalks and trails. 

Where to stay: The Wickaninnish Inn, which was also named one of the best resorts in Canada in the 2026 awards, offers a luxurious stay on Tofino’s Chesterman Beach. 

In Victoria, the Fairmont Empress – Canada’s “Castle on the Coast” –  is an iconic property recognized as the top Canadian city hotel in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards, with boutique rooms and luxe amenities. It’s also said to be haunted. 

Don’t miss: Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, just under a 15-minute drive south from Tofino’s town centre, where you’ll find some of the most postcard-worthy beaches in the province and the iconic West Coast Trail.

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Cape Breton Island 

Coming in second with a score of 84.87 is Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island, an island at the eastern end of the province that’s home to rugged highlands, an inland sea, and rich Acadian culture. 

Drive the famous Cabot Trail, a 298 km highway that weaves through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and delivers spectacular views, to discover charming coastal towns and Acadian villages, taste fresh seafood, and watch whales breach. 

The island is also home to some of the best golfing in the world, including Canada’s first true links course, Cabot Links. 

Must-visit spots: The small town of Inverness is known as a golfer’s dream destination, whether you’re a seasoned pro or novice. It’s also home to a pristine, sandy beach. 

Where to stay: The Cabot Cape Breton is a luxury golf resort overlooking the dramatic coastline of Inverness, and was also named in the World’s Best Awards. The property offers luxe amenities, four on-site restaurants, and access to two beaches. 

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Don’t miss: The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton National Park, where a walk through a boreal forest reveals a panoramic view where the mountains meet the sea. Look for bald eagles, whales and moose, which are often spotted in the area.

Prince Edward Island 

Coming in third is Prince Edward Island with a score of 84.86 out of 100. 

Famous for its red-sand beaches, rolling green farmland and picturesque fishing villages, P.E.I. offers a laid-back coastal escape. 

Start in Charlottetown, where visitors can wander a historic downtown, dine on fresh seafood and enjoy a bustling arts and culture scene. 

For many travellers, however, the island’s biggest draw is its coastline, offering kilometres of sandy beaches, scenic dunes and warm waters perfect for swimming.

Must-visit spots: Cavendish is a bustling, centrally located summer destination on the island home to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and the pristine Cavendish Beach. At the gateway into Prince Edward Island National Park, the beach is renowned for its soft, white sand, blue waters and sandstone cliffs. 

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Where to stay: The Dalvay by the Sea is a charming Victorian inn overlooking PEI’s North Shore. A national historic site, the resort welcomes guests from all over the world — including Prince William and Princess Kate. 

Don’t miss: Literary fans won’t want to miss Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish, a site that inspired Anne of Green Gables author Lucy Maud Montgomery. 

Best islands in the world

Globally, Thailand’s Koh Samui was named the best island in the world by Travel + Leisure readers with a score of 95.64 out of 100. 

“This first-time winner in the Gulf of Thailand — with an array of elevated accommodations, luscious jungles, and roaring waterfalls — has become a leading destination for self-care,” says the publication.

It was followed by the Maldives in Asia, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador and Bali in Indonesia. 

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