{"id":12173,"date":"2026-07-21T23:22:38","date_gmt":"2026-07-21T23:22:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/island-hot-list-2026-3\/"},"modified":"2026-07-22T04:12:04","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T04:12:04","slug":"island-hot-list-2026-3","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/island-hot-list-2026-3\/","title":{"rendered":"Expedia\u00a0Reveals 2026 Island Hot List:\u00a0The Close-To-Home Islands Australians Are Searching For\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong><em>Interest in island escapes rises 40% on average as Australians\u00a0prioritise\u00a0short-haul getaways,\u00a0value\u00a0and easier travel<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>22&nbsp;July,&nbsp;2026&nbsp;SYDNEY&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<\/strong>Expedia\u00ae today released its&nbsp;2026 Island Hot List<strong>,&nbsp;<\/strong>revealing&nbsp;the&nbsp;close to home&nbsp;island destinations&nbsp;Australians are favouring,&nbsp;with searches for islands rising an average of&nbsp;40% year-over-year<sup>1<\/sup>, alongside social media mentions up 20%<sup>2<\/sup>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;Based on Expedia&#8217;s search data, the Island Hot List highlights 10 islands within easy reach of Australia that offer a compelling mix of natural beauty, culture,&nbsp;relaxation&nbsp;and value. As travellers look to&nbsp;maximise&nbsp;their holiday time, destinations that deliver&nbsp;escapism&nbsp;without the long-haul journey are continuing to gain momentum.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Expedia\u2019s 2026 Island Hot List&nbsp;for Australian&nbsp;travellers<\/strong><sup>&nbsp;1<\/sup>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>New Caledonia (+75%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Palau (+60%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vanuatu (+45%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cebu, Philippines (+25%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Langkawi, Malaysia (+25%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Jeju\u00a0Island, South Korea (+20%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"7\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fiji (+15%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"8\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Okinawa, Japan (+15%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"9\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The\u00a0Whitsundays, Australia (+10%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"10\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cook Islands (+10%)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Expedia\u2019s 2026 Island Hot List showcases island destinations for every type of traveller, with average accommodation rates from $105 per night to $535&nbsp;per night<sup>3<\/sup>.&nbsp;For&nbsp;value\u2011seeking&nbsp;travellers, Cebu,&nbsp;Okinawa&nbsp;and Jeju&nbsp;Island&nbsp;offer outstanding value, with average accommodation rates under $200 per night.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIsland&nbsp;getaways&nbsp;can offer exceptional value, particularly when travellers bundle flights,&nbsp;accommodation&nbsp;and activities together.&nbsp;That&#8217;s&nbsp;making close-to-home island escapes an increasingly attractive option for Australians looking to&nbsp;maximise their holiday time and&nbsp;budget&#8221;&nbsp;says Sarah King, Expedia Travel Expert.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Expedia\u2019s top tips for Island Travel<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel off-season for better value<\/strong>: Island escapes can be significantly cheaper outside peak periods\u00a0and school holidays. Shoulder and off-season travel often\u00a0deliver\u00a0lower prices on flights and hotels, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Choose close-to-home islands to maximise holiday time:<\/strong>\u00a0Shorter travel times mean more island time. Destinations such as New Caledonia, Vanuatu,\u00a0Fiji\u00a0and the Whitsundays are\u00a0reachable\u00a0can be\u00a0within\u00a0four-hours\u00a0and often a direct flight away.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>You can\u00a0Bundle and\u00a0Save<\/strong>: Travellers can unlock significant savings by bundling flights, hotels, car\u00a0hire\u00a0and activities on Expedia. Booking everything together can save hundreds on average, while simplifying planning<sup>4<\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Use Price Tracking:\u00a0<\/strong>Price Tracking can help\u00a0members\u00a0find the best time to book\u00a0flights, especially useful for long-haul island trips.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Book\u00a0popular\u00a0island destinations\u00a0sooner rather than later<\/strong>: High-demand islands fill up fast, especially\u00a0the likes of Fiji\u00a0during peak holiday periods. Booking early helps secure\u00a0great rates\u00a0and availability.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can save more on your next island escape by booking flights,&nbsp;accommodation&nbsp;and activities together with Expedia on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/deals\/bundle-for-less?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDPACKAGES.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">expedia.com.au\/deals\/bundle-for-less<\/a>&nbsp;<sup>4<\/sup>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">###&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>New Caledonia&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+75% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Noumea-Hotels-DoubleTree-By-Hilton-Noumea-Ilot-Maitre-Resort.h63904423.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Double Tree By Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:\u00a0<\/strong>$370 per\u00a0night\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:\u00a0<\/strong>One of Australia&#8217;s closest island\u00a0neighbours,\u00a0travellers\u00a0are drawn to its\u00a0crystal-clear\u00a0lagoon, affordable luxury\u00a0resorts\u00a0and touch of France without the long-haul flight. With increasing air capacity, it offers\u00a0great value\u00a0and unique experiences closer to home.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Palau<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel\u00a0Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+60% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Malakal-Island-Hotels-Palau-Royal-Resort.h1253126.Hotel-Information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Palau\u00a0Royal\u00a0Resort<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:\u00a0<\/strong>$300 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:\u00a0<\/strong>Known for its pristine marine environment and world-class diving, Palau is attracting Australians\u00a0seeking\u00a0a more exclusive island escape.\u00a0Direct Brisbane\u2013Koror flights and a recent profile boost have made the Pacific paradise more accessible and appealing\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Vanuatu&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+45% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Port-Vila-Hotels-Iririki-Island-Resort-Spa.h1190931.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iririki Island Resort &amp; Spa<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:\u00a0<\/strong>$280 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0Easily accessible from Australia, Vanuatu continues to gain popularity for its authentic cultural experiences, volcanic\u00a0landscapes\u00a0and laid-back island lifestyle, making it perfect for both families and\u00a0couples.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cebu, Philippines&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+25% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Cebu-Hotels-Radisson-Blu-Cebu.h3936349.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Radisson Blu Cebu<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>$105\u00a0per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0Combining island relaxation with adventure, Cebu appeals to\u00a0travellers\u00a0looking for white-sand beaches, vibrant marine life, island-hopping\u00a0opportunities\u00a0and excellent value for money.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Langkawi, Malaysia&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+25% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Langkawi-Hotels-Pelangi-Beach-Resort-Spa.h527261.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pelangi Beach\u00a0Resort\u00a0&amp; Spa<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>$325\u00a0per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0Travellers\u00a0are increasingly choosing Langkawi for its luxury resorts, rainforest\u00a0scenery\u00a0and tranquil beaches.\u00a0Offering a more relaxed\u00a0alternative\u00a0to some of Asia&#8217;s busier hotspots,\u00a0while\u00a0maintaining\u00a0the value on\u00a0the ground,\u00a0Langkawi\u00a0appeals to Australians seeking a sophisticated tropical escape.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Jeju&nbsp;Island, South Korea&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+20% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Jeju-City-Hotels-Shilla-Stay-Plus-Iho-Tewoo.h103083580.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shilla Stay Plus Iho Tewoo Ocean Front<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>$185 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0Rising interest in Korean travel is putting Jeju in the spotlight, with\u00a0travellers drawn to its dramatic volcanic landscapes, coastal\u00a0scenery\u00a0and unique local culture.\u00a0A favourable exchange rate with the Korean won is also making the island an attractive-value island.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fiji&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel\u00a0Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+15% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Korotogo-Hotels-Outrigger-Fiji-Beach-Resort.h564500.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Outrigger\u00a0Fiji Resort<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate:\u00a0<\/strong>$420 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0A perennial\u00a0favourite\u00a0among Australians, Fiji\u00a0remains\u00a0popular for its warm hospitality, luxury beachfront\u00a0resorts\u00a0and easy accessibility, with expanded Gold Coast flight options further boosting its appeal as a convenient tropical escape.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Okinawa, Japan&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+15% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Okinawa-Hotels-Hotel-Nikko-Alivila.h197413.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotel Nikko\u00a0Alivila<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>$150 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0As\u00a0travellers\u00a0look beyond Japan&#8217;s major cities, Okinawa is gaining attention for its subtropical climate, turquoise\u00a0waters\u00a0and resort-style holiday experience.\u00a0Combined with the\u00a0favourable\u00a0exchange rate,\u00a0Okinawa is the ideal retreat after the fast pace of Japan&#8217;s mainland.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Whitsundays, Australia<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+10% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Whitsundays-Hotels-Whitsunday-Apartments.h1655585.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Whitsunday Apartments, Hamilton Island<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:\u00a0<\/strong>$535 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0Offering world-famous beaches and direct access to the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays continue to attract\u00a0travellers\u00a0seeking a premium island\u00a0getaway\u00a0closer to home.\u00a0Group-friendly holiday homes, an expanding collection of luxury accommodation, and an evolving dining scene are helping to elevate the region\u2019s appeal.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cook Islands&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Interest:<\/strong>\u00a0+10% YoY\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hotel Recommendation:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/Rarotonga-Hotels-The-Edgewater-Resort-And-Spa.h1583329.Hotel-Information?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.ISLANDHOTLIST.GENERIC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Edgewater Resort &amp; Spa<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Average Daily Accommodation Rate<\/strong><strong><sup>3<\/sup><\/strong><strong>:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>$370 per night\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Why\u00a0It&#8217;s\u00a0Trending:<\/strong>\u00a0The Cook Islands are gaining attention for their unspoiled natural beauty,\u00a0crystal-clear\u00a0lagoons\u00a0and relaxed atmosphere. Improved air access and a mix of resorts, villas and holiday homes are making this authentic\u00a0South Pacific\u00a0island\u00a0a highlight.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>FAQ<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. What is Expedia\u2019s 2026 Island Hot List?<\/strong>\u00a0<br>Expedia&#8217;s 2026 Island Hot List is an Expedia\u00a0data-led ranking of 10 fast-rising island destinations experiencing the strongest growth in Australian\u00a0traveller\u00a0interest this year.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2.&nbsp;How did Expedia choose the islands on the list?<\/strong>&nbsp;<br>The islands were selected using Expedia&#8217;s accommodation search data,&nbsp;identifying&nbsp;destinations that recorded significant growth in&nbsp;traveller&nbsp;demand compared with the previous year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3.&nbsp;Is island travel trending in 2026?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Island travel continues to gain momentum in 2026, with Expedia reporting a 66% year-on-year increase in searches for&nbsp;islands.Travellers&nbsp;are increasingly seeking scenic escapes that combine unique experiences, relaxation, and accessibility.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4.&nbsp;What are the best islands for a short getaway?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Expedia\u2019s 2026 Island Hot List spotlights to New Caledonia, Vanuatu,&nbsp;Fiji&nbsp;and the Whitsundays as standout closer-to-home options,&nbsp;which can be&nbsp;reachable in around&nbsp;four&nbsp;hours and often by direct flight, so you can maximise time on the island rather than in transit.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5.&nbsp;When is the best time to visit islands?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best time to visit many island destinations is outside peak periods and school holidays, as travelling in the shoulder or&nbsp;off\u2011season&nbsp;can mean lower prices on flights and hotels, fewer&nbsp;crowds&nbsp;and a more relaxed experience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>About the Expedia Island Hot List<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The Expedia Island Hot List&nbsp;is based on&nbsp;accommodation&nbsp;searches made on&nbsp;all&nbsp;Expedia.com.au&nbsp;from&nbsp;22&nbsp;September,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;to&nbsp;22&nbsp;March,&nbsp;2026, for travel any date in 2026, compared to searches made from&nbsp;22&nbsp;September&nbsp;2024&nbsp;to&nbsp;22&nbsp;March,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;for&nbsp;travel dates in 2025.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><sup>2<\/sup><sup>&nbsp;<\/sup>Based&nbsp;on&nbsp;social&nbsp;mentions&nbsp;for&nbsp;Island&nbsp;Travel&nbsp;between&nbsp;10 March &#8211; 10 June 2026, compared to&nbsp;same period&nbsp;the previous year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Based on average accommodation&nbsp;rates on Expedia.com.au for travel between 5 July 2025 &#8211; 3 May 2026&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;Savings vary and are not available on all bundles&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Interest in island escapes rises 40% on average as Australians\u00a0prioritise\u00a0short-haul getaways,\u00a0value\u00a0and easier travel\u00a0 22&nbsp;July,&nbsp;2026&nbsp;SYDNEY&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;Expedia\u00ae today released its&nbsp;2026 Island Hot List,&nbsp;revealing&nbsp;the&nbsp;close&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":12177,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[138],"tags":[],"companies":[73],"locations":[72],"class_list":["post-12173","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured","companies-expedia","locations-sydney","entry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12173","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12173"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12173\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12178,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12173\/revisions\/12178"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12177"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12173"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12173"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12173"},{"taxonomy":"companies","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/companies?post=12173"},{"taxonomy":"locations","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.au\/newsroom\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/locations?post=12173"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}