The top 10 island hotspots have been named - and Fiji didn't even make the top 5

It's the year of the island as more Aussies dream of getting away to their own little oasis in the sun, sand and surf.

Searches for island escapes have risen a huge 40 per cent this year compared to last, as Aussies look to escape their busy schedules for the slow thrum of island life.

New data from booking platform Expedia shows New Caledonia, Palau and Vanuatu are trending - and all are short-haul flights from Australia.

But what is it about island life that has Aussies searching - and why now?

Island holidays are having a "major moment" in 2026, says Sarah King, Expedia travel expert.

While Australians have "always loved a tropical escape", the data shows interest in island destinations is growing.

"We're seeing more Aussies prioritise destinations closer to home that make it easy to switch off, slow down and recharge, without the time and expense of long-haul travel," King tells Explore.

"With incredible island escapes just four to 10 hours away, travellers can get the feeling of escapism without extensive travel time."

Holidaying on a tropical island doesn't have to be prohibitively expensive and value is playing a "bigger role" in travel decisions this year. Some island destinations offer accommodation rates for under $200 average per night.

"Many island holidays can be surprisingly budget-friendly, particularly when accommodation, dining and activities are bundled or paid for up front, making it easier for travellers to plan and manage costs," King says.

"Combined with growing demand for shorter, easy-to-book breaks, it's no surprise island destinations are seeing an increase in popularity."

Surprisingly, Australia's perennial favourite island, Fiji, didn't make Expedia's top five trending islands for 2026. The top honour goes to New Caledonia, with 75 per cent more searches on Expedia platforms from September 22, 2025 to March 22, 2026, for travel in 2026, compared to the same period the previous year.

"New Caledonia combines crystal-clear lagoons and white-sand beaches with a distinctive blend of French and Melanesian culture. Home to one of the world's largest UNESCO-listed lagoon systems, it's an ideal destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration," says King.

Palau came in at number two with 60 per cent more searches for 2026 travel.

"Palau is a paradise for divers and nature lovers, famous for its emerald Rock Islands and the extraordinary Jellyfish Lake. Improved flight access out of Brisbane has firmly put the destination on travellers' radar," King says.

The Palau Tourism Board says Australian visitation was up a staggering 87 per cent year-on-year from January to May.

Vanuatu came in third on Expedia's list, with 54 per cent more searches.

"Vanuatu appeals to Aussies looking for a mix of laid-back island living and adventure. Travellers can spend one day relaxing on pristine beaches and the next witnessing eruptions of Mount Yasur, one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes," King says.

These islands were followed by Cebu in the Philippines, Langkawi in Malaysia, Jeju Island in South Korea, then Fiji.

Islands are the king of all-inclusive accommodation, ideal for travellers who prioritise budget and costs up front and like to minimise decision-making on the ground, King says.

"Destinations such as Fiji and Vanuatu are well known for resort stays that can bundle accommodation, meals, transfers and activities, making it easier to plan and keep costs predictable," she says.

Many islands on the list also offer a wide range of accommodation styles. The Whitsundays, Cook Islands, Okinawa, Jeju and Cebu are great for villas, holiday homes and self-contained stays that appeal to families and groups, while Langkawi and New Caledonia offer a mix of luxury resorts, boutique hotels and private villas.

The cheapest islands on the hotlist are Cebu, with an average daily accommodation rate of $105, and Okinawa, at $150 average per night, and Jeju Island at $185.

The priciest are The Whitsundays at $535 average per night and Fiji at $420.

King says travelling off-season can help you nab the best deal.