Island trips hold a special kind of magic. There is something about being surrounded by water that makes it easier to slow down and you’re kind-of forced to breathe deeply for a change. If you are travelling as a family, there is also something reassuring about being on an island. They tend to have tighter-knit communities so feel safer for children and the pace of life is slower and more relaxed.
If you’re dreaming about your next escape and you’re ready to start planning your summer holiday, here are four beautiful islands that are well worth adding to your travel bucket list. Oh, and I can personally vouch for number two. The Adams Family has holidayed on Santorini and we’d love to return at some point.
- Tenerife, Canary Islands.
Tenerife is a fantastic place to begin, especially if you want a mix of adventure with relaxation. Many travellers discover it through options like a Saga Canaries cruise, which makes reaching multiple islands simple and comfortable. Tenerife itself offers sunny beaches, charming towns and the impressive Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. You can spend one day lounging by the sea and the next exploring volcanic landscapes. It’s one of those destinations that feels lively but laid back at the same time, and you get everything you need in one place.
- Santorini, Greece.
Santorini is well known for its whitewashed buildings with blue domes and stunning sunsets. Walking through the narrow streets alone feels like stepping into a postcard. The island would sit at the edge of a volcanic caldera, giving it a dramatic viewpoint at every turn. You can enjoy a quiet meal overlooking the sea or watch the sun dip below the horizon, but Santorini has that energy and charm that is always hard to forget.
- Bali, Indonesia.
Wherever you go in Bali, you get a rich mix of culture, nature and relaxation. There are rice terraces that feel peaceful when you step onto them and beautiful beaches that feel endless. There is always something new to explore here and you can visit temples, try the local dishes, or unwind in a quiet retreat. There are all inclusive hotel options and the island itself has a gentle rhythm that encourages you to slow down. The best part is that everybody is super friendly, so you feel like you’re being smiled at wherever you go.
- Maui, Hawaii.
Maui is perfect if you want variety in one place. You’ll find the golden beaches just as much fun as the lush rainforests. There are scenic Dr. options that take you past waterfalls and coastal views too. The famous Road to Hana is inexperienced in itself, offering countless spots to stop and take in the scenery. Maui also has a welcoming atmosphere that makes it much easier to settle in and enjoy your time.
Each of these islands offers you something different, but they all share a sense of escape that makes travel feel special. Dramatic landscapes are one thing, but the cultural experiences and understanding the people is quietly another. When planning your trip, remember that you don’t have to see everything at once. Explore at your own pace and take your time, but leave some room for the unexpected. Those local cafes and quiet walks are just as much fun as the dramatic sunsets can be. Adding even one of these islands to your bucket list will give you something exciting to look forward to and want to experience that island feeling, you may find yourself planning the next one before you even get home.
