In its second annual sunny escapes list, Vrbo identified trending island destinations with plenty of sand, space, and sweeping views. To inspire sunseekers to find a place to stay, Vrbo selected a showstopping private vacation home in each locale based on premium amenities, value for families, and proximity outside of busy tourist areas.  

Vrbo’s sunny island escapes list:   

Turks and Caicos: Though Providenciales is a popular choice for travellers with the convenience of direct flights and an international airport, there are several Vrbo options located outside the main resort areas and cruise ports where relaxation revelers can spread out and enjoy some of the clearest waters in the world. This canal-facing property sleeps 10 (averaging $175 per person, per night) and supplies complimentary paddleboards, kayaks and a tiki bar for resort-style living without the crowds. 

St Martin / St Martaan: A binational island, St Martin is part of France whereas St Martaan is part of the Netherlands. Because of the open borders, travellers can easily experience both cultures, with the Dutch side offering easy access to nightlife and shopping, and the French side housing more nature areas. This Seaview Villa in St Martin comes in at just $105 per person nightly and showcases a panoramic view of Orient Bay Beach and bohemian style decor surrounded by a tropical garden.  

Hawaii: The most northern and fourth largest island in the Hawaiian chain, Kauaʻi is known as “The Garden Isle” for its lush rainforests and natural wonders. Travellers will find peace and paradise in untouched, sprawling shores, proving to be less busy than popular Waikiki. This beachfront estate sleeps four, boasts a private hot tub, and is surrounded by greenery, providing a natural, tropical oasis from the outside world.  

Cayman Islands: Known for white sand and pink coral beaches, it’s no surprise the Cayman Islands have seen an increase of Canadian travellers. The least populated of the three island regions, Little Cayman is a small piece of paradise just 16 kilometers long, and 1.6 kilometers wide. Sitting right on a secluded beach, visitors of this charismatic Vrbo cottage can head straight from the backdoor to the sea and snorkel in the protected reef.  

Curaçao: Just like its namesake drink, the waters surrounding this Caribbean retreat are a brilliant blue. Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Coral Estate puts wellness at the forefront with an on-property spa and garden, and hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, and flamingo watching just minutes from the villa. The historic and popular city center of Willemstad is reachable by a 30-minute drive.  

Bahamas: Under four-hours of flight time from Toronto, the Bahamas are a popular spot for Canadians seeking idyllic island views. While Nassau is known as a hub for entertainment and activities, the other 16 major islands can serve as a welcome escape for travellers seeking a slower pace. Situated on waters of Harbour Island, this Vrbo Seabreeze home boasts a large pool, private dock and covered patio for dinning a la fresco with your favourite people.  

Saint Lucia: Majestic mountains and cerulean seas await visitors to breathtaking Saint Lucia. Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by nearly untouched rainforest, guests at Cosmos villa will feel like they’ve stepped back in time without a stranger in sight. The sprawling property sleeps 14 at $130 per person nightly, and premium amenities like the 48-inch infinity pool and outdoor pizza oven make this the perfect oasis for both space and togetherness.  

 Looking for even more privacy? Solitude seekers can also rent Vrbo vacation homes on entire private islands for 360-degree views that don’t miss.  

• Little Harvest Caye: Placencia, Belize – Boasting 114 five-star reviews, this private Vrbo island has five suites on 1.5 acres, all for your guests, and is just a five-minute boat ride from Placencia Village.  
• Easter Sister Rock Island: Marathon, Florida – Just off the Florida coast, this fully stocked island comes complete with modern furnishings, a regulation-sized pool table on the veranda, and its very own helicopter pad. 
• Lago Cocibolca: Granada, Nicaragua – Situated on the lake, this elegant retreat promises serenity with its lush gardens and yoga outlook and is a ten-minute boat trip from the Unesco World Heritage site of Granada. 

Travellers looking to plan a sunny escape can download the Vrbo app and use filters to find the best oceanfront or beachfront locations, amenities such as private pools, patios and grills, and nearby activities such as snorkeling, spas, golfing and wineries to narrow in on their perfect vacation home .