These 20 islands are an adventurer’s dream

By virtue of their geography, islands are natural havens for adventure seekers: Surrounded by water, a voyage is required just to reach them.

Yet some islands are a cut above. These places are extra remote, have wild natural features, or rare (and sometimes dangerous) creatures that lend a particular allure. Some have existing infrastructure making the adventure experience as seamless as booking a tour, while others require a little more effort for the reward. (See 21 of the world’s best island escapes.)

From swimming through teeming reefs to trekking up jungle volcanoes, from skydiving and rock climbing to surfing alongside penguins, these extraordinary islands all but guarantee adventure—you just have to be bold enough to seek it.