Scattered across the Indian Ocean, some 1,000 miles east of Kenya, these 115 islands offer everything from unsurpassed white sandy beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites and incredible wildlife. Massive granite rocks and coral fringed beaches create an air of drama and beauty while seamlessly fusing land and sea. There aren't many places on Earth where hawks-bill turtles feel so unthreatened that they come ashore in broad daylight to lay their eggs. These exotic islands were made for exploring by sea, where you can cruise through crystal-clear waters, swim in secluded coves, enjoy barbecue lunches on deserted beaches, and take guided walks through lush tropical forests teeming with life. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to stretches of pure white sand, every island reveals a new facet of this breathtaking natural wonderland.