If trying to squeeze out a spot on a crowd-filled beach isn’t your idea of fun, you may want to consider some of the more underrated islands in the world for your next getaway. While there are many islands that offer striking white sands and abundant sun, there are others that provide a unique experience. Whether you want to experience wildlife, history, or perhaps a mix of it all without the crowds, you really need to visit some of these underrated isles.
Saba Island, Caribbean
If you want to skip the crowds in the Caribbean, head to Saba. This island in the Lesser Antilles chain is one that’s rarely talked about, and while the term is definitely overused, it really is one of the region’s hidden gems. Known as “The Unspoiled Queen” for its purity and protection of a unique ecosystem, the five-square-mile island isles left in the Caribbean that don’t receive cruise ships or have much in the way of development. There are no mass resorts or even beaches, for that matter. It’s all about nature and the water here, including an impressive marine park that hosts dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and vibrant coral. Divers and snorkelers can also view underwater mountains created by volcanic activity.
Grenada
Grenada, known as the ‘Spice Island,’ includes the main island of Grenada along with six smaller, outlying outlets. It boasts nearly endless secluded coves and 45 beaches, including one of the region’s very best, Grand Anse. Crisscrossed by nature trails and laced with spice plantations, you can even smell the wonderful aroma in the air, as the mountainous interior is made up of mostly nature preserve and rainforest. Hike the mountains north of the picturesque town of St. George, and enjoy splashing at the base of the 30-foot-high waterfall, Annandale Falls. By taking an excursion to the nearby island of Carriacou, you can enjoy outstanding diving or snorkeling too.
Dominica, Caribbean
Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is the Caribbean island with a Champagne Reef – okay, it’s not the bubbly drink, but an underwater geothermal spring with hot bubbles that make divers and snorkelers feel as if they’re bathing in champagne. Known as the Nature Island, much of the volcanic island is covered by rainforest, and there are only a few lengthy stretches of sandy beach, but it does offer geothermal hot springs and amazing natural swimming holes. Black Sand Beach is home to a hawksbill, leatherback and green turtle sanctuary, while Morne Trois Pitons National Park features the world’s second-largest actively boiling lake.
Naxos, Greece
If you want to experience true Greek island life, head to Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades. While most tourists head to Santorini, Naxos is an uncrowded gem that offers an experience that’s hard to beat, even by its more famous neighbor. There are 46 villages of varying sizes, including multiple white hill towns that glisten in the sun, along with ancient ruins to explore, soaring mountains for climbing, waterfalls for viewing, and gorgeous white beaches lined with clear azure waters for swimming. Be sure to sample some locally-made jams and crepes before setting off on a hiking adventure to the Routsouna waterfall or the summit of Mount Zeuss.
Inisheer Island, Ireland
The smallest of the three Irish Aran Islands, which sit off the west coast near Galway, can be accessed by a passenger-only ferry or a short flight. Here you can experience old Ireland in a place where locals speak Irish Gaelic as their first language and English as the second. The two-square-mile island is home to a shipwreck featured in the opening of the 1990s hit Irish comedy series, “Father Ted,” and can easily be covered in foot, though tours are also available via the local pony-and-cart drivers. Just steps from the ferry dock you’ll see a beautiful stretch of white sands that looks as if it should be in the Caribbean. Dip your toes in the clear cerulean-hued water and you’ll quickly realize that this is the Emerald Isle.
Santa Rosa Island, California
Nearly everyone that travels to California’s Channel Islands, heads to the more famous Catalina Island, but the second largest island offers many delights without the crowds. Santa Rosa Island provides stunning beauty and nature lovers will find lots of things to see and do. While there are no hotels or services here, it makes for a great day trip, or bring your food and camping gear and enjoy sleeping under the stars. There are several trails that traverse the island, offering fantastic hiking opportunities, ranging from the relatively flat trek to Water Canyon Beach to the rugged, mountainous path to Black Mountain.
Tobago
One-half of the island duo that is Trinidad & Tobago, the much smaller of the two is the place to go for serenity. There are no throngs of tourists, and as the island is just six miles wide, no matter where you are, you’ll be close to everything, including beautiful beaches and an underwater Caribbean paradise. In between lounging on the sands and dips in the water, dine on mouthwatering authentic cuisine like curry crab and dumplings, with homemade coconut ice cream for dessert.
Fogo Island
Fogo Island is anything but a tropical island, located off the northeast corner of the Newfoundland coast by ferry from Farewell, but it provides the opportunity to step into what feels like a lost time, forget all about your cares and stray far from the beaten path. With 11 unique communities, there are lots to explore, including Tilting, a traditional Irish village where you’ll hear the sounds of thick Irish lilts and wander across old wooden docks with red-painted fishing rooms. Stroll the walking trails, and visit a gorgeous Caribbean-like beach complete with soft white sands and clear turquoise waters. In the Lane House Museum and Dwyer Premises, you’ll be able to learn about Tilting’s interesting heritage and fishing industry.
