This website uses cookies

Read our Privacy policy and Terms of use for more information.

Matador Logo

The 10 Best Islands to Visit in 2026

There’s never really a bad time for an island trip, although Tom Hanks might beg to differ. 2026 brings a few extra reasons to finally book that island escape.

In Mallorca, a rare total solar eclipse will darken the island for the first time in more than a century. In Dominica, the hike to Boiling Lake is about to change forever with a 4-mile-long cable car, set to become the longest of its kind in the world when it opens in late 2026.

Elsewhere, travelers will find islands celebrating one-time culinary honors, reopening to tourism, or offering experiences that may not be around much longer. These are the islands worth planning around this year.

T R A V E L

Humpback Whales, Sea Lions, and Dolphins on a 7-Day Immersion in Baja

Each humpback fluke carries unique markings like a fingerprint. Guests aboard the Venture uploaded their fluke photos to Happywhale, a citizen-science database that helps scientists track individual whales across oceans.

Photo: Jesse Adams

Gray whale populations are declining fast, and some Baja operators are putting increasing pressure on the few whales that remain. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is taking a different approach, prioritizing responsible wildlife viewing and shifting focus toward Baja’s broader ecosystem of dolphins, sea lions, and marine life.

N E W S

Delta Is Cutting Food and Drink Service on Hundreds of Flights

flight attendant serving drinks

Photo: Delta News Hub

Delta is cutting food and drink service on flights under 350 miles, affecting more than 400 routes. Main cabin and Comfort passengers will no longer receive complimentary service, though first class will remain unchanged.

✈️

G U I D E

I Visited Toronto Ahead of the World Cup and Now, I Really Wish I Had Tickets

Football balls during open training session conference in Toronto before the Canada-Jamaica Mens International Friendly match at BMO Field in Toronto Canada September 2, 2017

Photo: ACHPF/Shutterstock

Toronto is already gearing up for the 2026 World Cup. Between stadium preparations, packed neighborhoods, and one of the world’s most diverse food scenes, the city feels more than ready for its moment on the global stage.

G E A R

How a Hardshell Roller Set a New Sustainability Standard

The Coraza line looks as good as it travels. Photo: Tim Wenger

Photo: Tim Wenger

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH COTOPAXI

Cotopaxi’s new Coraza luggage line is built around a simple idea: when something breaks, you should be able to fix it. The result is a more repairable, longer-lasting hardshell roller that pushes sustainability beyond recycled materials.

Where to Stay

The 17 Dreamiest Island Airbnbs Off the Coast of Florida
The 14 Dreamiest Island Airbnbs for Weekend Trips From NYC

Travel Well

The Matador Editorial Team

Hey, it’s me, your newsletter editor. Have feedback? If you’ve got thoughts or ideas, just hit reply and send them my way. I’m all ears.