Mayo island named 8th Best Island in the World for 2026
Mayo gem named on global travel site Big 7 Travel’s annual list of the best 50 islands in the world
Achill Island has earned international recognition after being named the eighth best island in the world in the latest annual rankings published by global travel website Big 7 Travel.
The prestigious list, now in its seventh year, celebrates 50 of the world’s most spectacular islands, with Achill securing a place in the global top 10 alongside renowned destinations in French Polynesia, the Galápagos, the Seychelles and Greece.
Achill was praised for its breathtaking scenery, unspoilt coastline and outstanding natural attractions.
The island’s world-famous Keem Bay, regularly recognised as one of the world’s finest beaches, was highlighted for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, while the surrounding Atlantic waters were also noted as a seasonal haven for basking sharks.
Sri Lanka claimed the top spot as the world’s best island for 2026, followed by Mo’orea in French Polynesia in second place and Socotra, Yemen, in third.
The rankings were compiled by the Big 7 Travel editorial team using a combination of previous travel awards, international media rankings, feedback from its global online audience and its own editorial assessment.
The recognition is yet another major boost for tourism in Mayo, with Achill Island continuing to attract visitors and asserting itself as one of Ireland’s premier tourism attractions.
The full list of the top 50 can be seen here.