Skip to main content

These tropical destinations were just ranked as the best places to retire in 2025

GoBankingRate ranked Bali as the top spot for retirees.

People in a pool watch the sunset in Bali
Seminyak Beach, Bali Ern Gan / Unsplash

If you’re dreaming of retiring somewhere warm and scenic with beaches galore, GOBankingRates has just released their list of the best tropical destinations for retirement in 2025. Focusing on factors like affordability, quality of life, and overall appeal, the study highlights ideal spots for retirees seeking a laid-back lifestyle in paradise. Here’s a look at the top-ranked tropical spots where you can live out your retirement dreams in style.

1. Bali, Indonesia

Bali
Dimitri Dim / Pexels

Bali ranked first as a retirement destination, offering an affordable cost of living and excellent medical care. Retirees can enjoy serene beaches, explore lush rice terraces, visit historic temples like Uluwatu, and experience Bali’s rich arts scene and cultural festivals.

Recommended Videos

2. Costa Rica

Costa Rica ocean and sun
Silivan Munguarakarama / Unsplash

Costa Rica, with its welcoming “Pura Vida” lifestyle, is ideal for retirees seeking relaxation and a strong connection to nature. Popular beach towns like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Playa Flamingo offer coastal living, while cities like San José and Escazú provide more urban experiences.

3. Portugal’s Algarve region

Portugal
Julius_Silver / Pixabay

Portugal’s Algarve region, though not fully tropical, offers retirees a warm Mediterranean climate along with amazing scenery. Expected to remain affordable in 2025, Algarve combines comfort and culture, and Portugal’s Golden Visa program simplifies residency for those looking to settle here.

4. Malta

Malta
user32212 / Pixabay

Malta offers a straightforward retirement process with various visa programs for non-EU citizens. With English as an official language, it’s easy to settle and navigate. Retirees can explore stunning beaches, visit historic sites like the Blue Lagoon, or easily enjoy Mediterranean cruises.

5. Panama

A look at the beach at Paunch, Bocas del Toro, Panama.
HH Oldman / Wikimedia

Panama is known for its low cost of living, favorable tax laws, and warm climate. Retirees can take advantage of the Pensionado Program, offering discounts on utilities, healthcare, and other services, making it an attractive option for expats.

6. Hawaii, USA

Sand ocean and mountains around Maui
Samuel James / Unsplash

Rounding out the list is Hawaii, an ideal choice for U.S. citizens seeking a tropical retirement. While the cost of living is higher, the gorgeous landscapes and high quality of life make it worth considering. Retirees can explore world-famous beaches, hike through lush rainforests, visit volcanic parks like Haleakalā, and enjoy traditional Hawaiian cultural experiences. 

Amanda Teague
Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…
This religious site was just named the world’s most underrated landmark
Angkor Wat exceeds expectations
Angkor Wat

A recent study by Capital One UK has named Angkor Wat in Cambodia the world’s most underrated landmark. According to the research, 60% of surveyed travelers said the iconic temple complex exceeded their expectations.

Built in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, it later transformed into a Buddhist temple and remains one of the most significant archaeological wonders in Southeast Asia. 

Read more
The European nation was ranked as the best destination to move to in 2025
Iceland ranks high for quality of life, safety, and more
Field and mountain in Iceland

Looking to relocate in 2025? Remitly’s new Immigration Index has ranked the best countries to move to based on 24 key factors, including cost of living, employment opportunities, healthcare, safety, and overall happiness. After analyzing 82 nations, one European country emerged as the best destination for expats.

Iceland takes the number one spot, scoring high for happiness, safety, and financial stability, though it comes with a higher cost of living. The country boasts gorgeous natural landscapes, a strong social welfare system, and one of the world’s highest minimum wages and annual salaries.

Read more
These are the world’s most affordable countries to travel to in 2025, according to a new study
Laos comes in first place at only $22 per day
Laos

For travelers seeking an affordable getaway in 2025, HelloSafe has unveiled a new study ranking the world’s most budget-friendly travel destinations. The research analyzed 131 countries, factoring in the average daily cost of accommodations, food, and local transportation. The study highlights Asia and Africa as prime regions for low-cost travel, offering wonderful experiences without a hefty price tag.

Topping the list is Laos, where travelers can explore stunning mountains, waterfalls, and temples for just $22 per day. Kazakhstan follows at $27 per day, while Rwanda takes third place at $29.60 per day. 
The most affordable countries to travel around the world: The full list

Read more