Islands You Need to Visit Before They Disappear

7 December 2025

Imagine standing on a pristine beach, waves gently lapping at your feet, surrounded by untouched natural beauty. Now, imagine that paradise vanishing forever. Climate change, rising sea levels, and human activity are putting some of the world's most stunning islands at risk of disappearing. If you've ever dreamed of visiting these breathtaking destinations, you might want to start packing your bags—because they might not be around for much longer.

In this article, we'll take you on a journey to several islands that could soon be lost to the ocean. These places are not just vacation spots; they're cultural and ecological treasures fading before our eyes.

1. The Maldives – A Paradise on Borrowed Time

The Maldives is often called a tropical heaven, and for good reason. With its crystal-clear waters, overwater bungalows, and vibrant marine life, it's the perfect escape for beach lovers and honeymooners alike.

But there's a problem—this paradise is sinking. The Maldives is the lowest-lying country in the world, with an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level. As ocean levels rise, the possibility of the Maldives becoming uninhabitable looms large. Scientists predict that if climate change continues at its current pace, these islands could be underwater by the end of this century.

If visiting postcard-perfect beaches and snorkeling in some of the most stunning coral reefs on the planet is on your bucket list, don’t wait too long. The Maldives is living on borrowed time.

2. Tuvalu – The World’s First Climate Refugees?

Tuvalu, a tiny island nation in the Pacific Ocean, isn’t just battling the rising tide—it’s fighting for survival. With only about 10,000 residents, Tuvalu is one of the most remote and least visited countries, but its beauty is undeniable. Think stunning lagoons, colorful coral reefs, and a laid-back, culture-rich lifestyle.

The sad reality? Tuvalu could be one of the first nations to be entirely swallowed by the ocean. Flooding is already a common occurrence, and saltwater intrusion is ruining crops and freshwater supplies. Some Tuvaluans have even started relocating to other countries, fearing that their homeland will one day be uninhabitable.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience an unspoiled island paradise while supporting a community fighting climate change, Tuvalu should be on your list.

3. Kiribati – Struggling Against the Rising Tide

Kiribati is another Pacific Island nation that’s disappearing before our eyes. Made up of 33 coral atolls, Kiribati is exceptionally vulnerable to sea-level rise. Some parts of the country have already been swallowed by the ocean, forcing residents to relocate internally or immigrate to other nations.

Kiribati isn’t just a row of beautiful beaches; it’s home to one of the largest marine reserves in the world. The Phoenix Islands Protected Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for marine biodiversity.

For adventurous travelers, Kiribati offers an off-the-beaten-path experience, complete with world-class fishing, diving, and cultural encounters. But with erosion, rising waters, and climate threats intensifying, this paradise may not last long.

4. The Seychelles – More Than Just a Honeymoon Destination

The Seychelles often pops up in honeymoon brochures as the ultimate luxury getaway, but don’t let the resorts fool you—these islands are teeming with wildlife, unique granite rock formations, and some of the most mesmerizing beaches on earth.

However, climate change is hitting the Seychelles hard. Rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and coastal erosion are all putting this island chain at risk. The famous Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the largest giant tortoise population, is particularly vulnerable.

Many conservation efforts are underway to protect the islands, but the clock is ticking. If you've ever dreamed of visiting the Seychelles, now is the time.

5. The Solomon Islands – A Slow Disappearance

The Solomon Islands, nestled in the Pacific, are a dream for history buffs and nature lovers alike. World War II wrecks, dense jungles, and coral reefs make this place a fascinating travel destination.

Unfortunately, five of the Solomon Islands have already disappeared, swallowed by the relentless rise of the ocean. Erosion and flooding are damaging homes, forcing communities to move inland or relocate altogether.

Yet, despite these challenges, the Solomon Islands remain a stunning destination. Whether you want to dive into history, explore untouched nature, or simply find a quiet tropical retreat, you might want to get there before it's too late.

6. The Marshall Islands – A Nation on the Edge

The Marshall Islands, a collection of atolls and islands in the Pacific, are facing an existential crisis. Rising sea levels, stronger storms, and saltwater intrusion are making life increasingly difficult for residents.

Despite these challenges, the Marshall Islands are stunningly beautiful and culturally rich. You’ll find warm hospitality, stunning coral reefs, and a deep history intertwined with World War II and nuclear testing.

Many of its islands are dangerously close to becoming uninhabitable. If you want to visit a place that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, don’t wait too long—the Marshall Islands may not be around forever.

7. Venice – The Sinking City

Okay, so Venice isn’t exactly an island in the traditional sense, but it's built on a lagoon and is sinking—fast. Add in rising sea levels and worsening floods, and Venice could become the "Atlantis of Europe" in the coming decades.

Venice’s narrow canals, grand palaces, and rich history make it one of the most unique places on earth. But "acqua alta" (high water) events are becoming more frequent, and parts of the city are already disappearing beneath the waves.

There’s something truly magical about getting lost in Venice’s alleyways, sipping espresso in Piazza San Marco, and taking a gondola ride through its famous waterways. If you've never visited, it’s time to go—before this floating masterpiece sinks even further.

8. The Galápagos Islands – A Unique Ecosystem Under Threat

The Galápagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin, are a nature lover’s paradise. Home to unique wildlife like giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas, these islands are one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

But climate change, tourism, and invasive species are putting the Galápagos at risk. Rising sea temperatures are affecting marine life, and human activity is threatening fragile ecosystems. While the islands aren’t disappearing in the same way as others on this list, their delicate balance is shifting.

If you want to see nature at its untamed best, now’s the time to visit the Galápagos before it changes forever.

Final Thoughts

The thought of losing these incredible destinations is heartbreaking. These islands are more than just vacation spots; they’re home to people, cultures, and ecosystems that may not survive if things don’t change.

While visiting these places can be an amazing experience, it’s also important to travel responsibly. Choose eco-friendly options, support local communities, and be mindful of your environmental impact.

One thing is certain—these stunning islands won’t wait forever. If they’re on your travel bucket list, now is the time to see them before they disappear beneath the waves.