There’s something about islands that feels instantly magical. Maybe it’s the idea of being surrounded by an endless ocean, or the promise of discovering traditions and wildlife found nowhere else. Perhaps it’s the offer of one-of-a-kind experiences away from mainland crowds. Island destinations are like little worlds-within-worlds: self-contained, unique, and often full of surprises.
At Remitly, we understand that many immigrants and expats are natural explorers. If you’ve already crossed borders to start a new life, it’s only natural to be curious about destinations that feel different, authentic, and memorable. Island travel offers just that. So, we’ve put together this guide to the world’s most fascinating islands and archipelagos to help you choose your next adventure.
Remote Pacific wonders
The Pacific and Indian Oceans are full of remote islands that feel like secrets whispered between travelers. These remote landmasses are often tricky to reach, but once you finally arrive, you’ll never forget the experience.
Socotra Island, Yemen
If stepping onto another planet is on your bucket list, Socotra might be the closest you’ll get. Nicknamed the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean”, this island is dotted with umbrella-shaped Dragon’s Blood trees and plants that exist nowhere else. The landscapes are so surreal that people often describe them as “sci-fi movie set vibes.”
Locals live simply, relying on fishing and herding for their livelihood. Many traditions have survived for centuries, thanks to Socotra’s isolation.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Divers call Raja Ampat paradise, and they’re not exaggerating. The archipelago is part of the Coral Triangle—its four main islands anchor coral reefs that host over 1,500 fish species and 75% of the world’s coral. Dip beneath the surface and you’ll find yourself swimming in a living kaleidoscope.
On shore, Papuan communities share dances, songs, and crafts with visitors. Tourism is still low-key here, and much of the profit goes to supporting conservation.
Lord Howe Island, Australia
Lord Howe is a place where time seems to slow down. Visitor numbers are capped at 400 at any one time, which means beaches stay empty, the coral reef thrives, and the island’s UNESCO status is well protected.
Most people get around on bicycles, and the accommodations are family-run. The vibe is relaxed, peaceful, and feels almost like stepping into a postcard you can actually live in.
Arctic and sub-Arctic archipelagos
Not all islands mean coconut trees and hammocks. In the north, you’ll find archipelagos shaped by glaciers, polar nights, and incredible resilience.
Svalbard, Norway
Svalbard sits at 78°N latitude, halfway to the North Pole. There are more polar bears than people here, and in summer, the sun refuses to set. It’s also known for having some of the best views of the Northern Lights. This island is dramatic, icy, and unlike anywhere else.
Yet Longyearbyen, the main town, feels surprisingly lively, with schools, shops, and cultural festivals. Life here is tough, but it’s proof that humans and nature can coexist in even the harshest conditions.
Faroe Islands
Picture sheep grazing on grass-roof houses, puffins flying over cliffs, and tiny villages nestled into fjords—that’s the Faroe Islands. This far-flung archipelago features 18 volcanic islands between Iceland and Norway with just over 50,000 people.
The Faroese language and traditions have survived despite centuries of outside influence. For visitors, it feels like stepping into a fairytale where nature and culture live side by side.
Franz Josef Land, Russia
If remoteness had a capital, it would be Franz Josef Land. Accessible only by icebreaker, this Arctic archipelago is made up of glaciers, polar bear habitats, and abandoned polar stations.
Few people ever make it here, but those who do describe it as standing at the edge of the world. It’s raw, wild, and a living reminder of humanity’s urge to explore the unknown.
Tropical Atlantic secrets
The Atlantic Ocean hides some incredible treasures, too, from volcanic islands to cocoa-scented breezes and tiny communities that thrive far from mainland life.
São Tomé and Príncipe
This two-island nation off West Africa is small but unforgettable. Covered in rainforest and volcanic peaks, it’s also famous for cacao plantations that produce some of the best chocolate on the planet. The pace here is slow and easy, celebrating Creole traditions and warm hospitality.
Ascension Island, UK
Ascension feels like a giant experiment in coexistence. Green sea turtles return to nest here every year, and Green Mountain—an actual cloud forest—was planted by humans in the 19th century. Currently, the isolated island has no permanent residents; instead, scientists and workers call it home temporarily.
Tristan da Cunha
Welcome to the world’s most remote inhabited island. With only around 200 residents, Tristan da Cunha is all about community, resilience, and self-sufficiency. It’s a long journey to get there, but once you do, you’ll find a way of life built on cooperation and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.
Volcanic marvels and geological wonders
Some of the world’s most fascinating islands were born of fire. These volcanic landscapes are dramatic and full of stories.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos need little introduction. Darwin’s theory of evolution was shaped here, thanks to giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and other species found nowhere else.
Visiting feels like entering a living laboratory. Strict rules keep the islands protected, so every trip is also a lesson in how precious our ecosystems are.
Azores, Portugal
Nine volcanic islands scattered in the Atlantic, the Azores are home to crater lakes, geothermal springs, and incredible whale watching. The scenery is lush and dramatic, perfect for adventurers.
They’re also becoming a hotspot for digital nomads. Affordable living, friendly communities, and sustainability efforts make them an excellent base for anyone craving island life.
Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju is a volcanic gem. Its lava tubes are some of the longest in the world, and the “haenyeo”—female divers—have been free-diving for seafood for centuries. UNESCO even recognizes their tradition as part of the world heritage.
Islands shaped by history and legends
Islands aren’t just about landscapes; they’re often where myths and history come alive.
Iceland
Glaciers, geysers, and Viking sagas define Iceland. Folklore is part of life here, with many Icelanders believing in elves and “Huldufólk”, the hidden people. Pair that with epic landscapes, and the whole island feels like a fantasy.
Reykjavik buzzes with creativity, but head out into the countryside and you’ll see how deeply nature and culture are connected.
Crete, Greece
Crete is the birthplace of Europe’s earliest advanced civilization: the Minoans. The Palace of Knossos is tied to the Minotaur legend, blending myth and archaeology. Beyond history, Crete is full of village festivals, mountain hikes, and food that’s hearty and delicious.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is often called the “Island of the Gods”, and the name fits. Temples, ceremonies, and daily offerings fill the island with color and ritual. At the same time, Bali has become a creative hub for artists, digital nomads, and wellness seekers. Tradition and modern influence blend in fascinating ways here.
Islands with unique wildlife encounters
Some islands are unforgettable simply because of the animals that call them home.
Komodo Island, Indonesia
Komodo Island is the only place on Earth where Komodo dragons roam free. These massive reptiles look prehistoric, and seeing one in the wild is memorable. The surrounding waters are just as impressive, with coral reefs and manta rays.
Falkland Islands
The Falklands are a penguin paradise. Five different species live here, and travelers often describe the experience as “penguins as far as the eye can see.” Beyond penguins, you’ll find albatrosses, seals, and dolphins.
Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania is rugged and wild, home to unique species like the Tasmanian devil. Protected parks cover much of the island, making it a haven for nature lovers. Hike a mountain one day, watch wombats the next—Tasmania balances wilderness with accessibility.
Islands perfect for adventure seekers
For some, island travel means relaxation; for others, it’s all about adrenaline.
Réunion Island, France
Réunion is basically a playground for hikers. Trails lead past volcanoes, waterfalls, and dramatic peaks. It’s tough, but the views are worth it. The cultural mix of French, Creole, Indian, and more adds flavor to the adventure.
Borneo
Shared by three countries, Borneo is all about jungles, rivers, and orangutans. Trekking here feels like stepping into a rainforest documentary. Dayak communities also keep traditions alive through crafts and storytelling, making the cultural experience as rich as the natural one.
South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is pure adventure. Fjords, glaciers, and extreme sports like bungee jumping make it a thrill-seeker’s paradise. Queenstown is the hub, buzzing with energy and adrenaline. If you love outdoor challenges, this is the place.
Islands for digital nomads
Many consider islands as homes away from home. These spots welcome remote workers with open arms.
Madeira, Portugal
Madeira has become a hotspot for digital nomads thanks to its Nomad Village project. Reliable internet, affordable living, and stunning landscapes make it ideal. Afternoons here often mean emails with an ocean view, followed by hikes through lush mountains.
Canggu, Bal
Canggu has long been a hub for creatives, nomads, and surfers. Co-working spaces, yoga studios, and buzzing cafes make it feel international, yet Bali’s traditions remain strong. Many nomads come for a season and end up staying for years.
Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands offer sunshine year-round, affordable costs, and strong immigrant networks. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are particularly popular. It’s a balance of modern infrastructure and laid-back lifestyle, perfect for anyone looking to combine work and play.
Food and culture in island life
From recipes passed down through generations to traditions preserved against the odds, islands tell their stories through food and culture.
Food and flavors
Sicily serves history on a plate, blending Greek, Arab, and Italian influences in arancini, pasta alla norma, and cannoli. Meanwhile, Jamaica is bold and vibrant, with jerk chicken hot off the grill, tropical fruits, and rum shared alongside music and laughter. Hokkaido, Japan, offers comfort in colder climates, miso ramen, fresh crab, and sea urchin that feel like a warm hug after a long day.
Each island’s food reflects its environment and heritage, turning meals into experiences that connect travelers with local life. Whether sweet, spicy, or hearty, flavors become the most memorable souvenirs.
Cultural communities
Culture thrives differently on islands, shaped by distance and resilience.
On Rapa Nui, nearly 1,000 moai statues stand as symbols of Polynesian ingenuity, while music and dance keep traditions alive today. Madagascar, the world’s fourth-largest island, is just as unique in culture as in wildlife, blending African and Asian influences in its storytelling, music, and cuisine. Palawan in the Philippines is known for limestone cliffs and underground rivers, but its Indigenous communities preserving ancient traditions are just as striking.
Visiting these islands gives you a chance to meet people whose customs, art, and heritage remind us that culture is every bit as captivating as nature.
Fragile islands and conservation stories
Some islands are on the frontline of climate change, while others prove what’s possible when nature is protected. Both stories highlight how fragile and resilient these places can be.
Islands at risk
The Maldives, Tuvalu, and Kiribati are stunning but vulnerable. Rising sea levels threaten the Maldives’ turquoise lagoons, Tuvalu’s low-lying atolls, and Kiribati’s coastlines, putting entire communities at risk.
Yet resilience shines through. Islanders are adopting conservation practices and cultural preservation, while travelers who visit support local economies, working hard to secure a future.
Conservation success stories
Other islands offer hope. Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles protects giant tortoises, while Rottnest Island in Australia thrives as a car-free sanctuary where quokkas roam.
Cousin Island, once damaged, has bounced back into a thriving reserve. These success stories prove fragile ecosystems can recover when people and nature work together.
Practical island travel considerations
Islands are magical, but they’re also unique when it comes to planning.
Planning your island adventure
Entry rules can vary a lot. Some islands require visas, while others limit visitor numbers. So it helps to spend some time researching before you book.
Timing is key, too. Wildlife migrations, turtle nesting, or seasonal festivals can transform your trip. Book early, especially on islands with few flights or hotels.
Sustainable island tourism
As we’ve mentioned, islands are fragile, which means travelers have a responsibility. Choosing eco-friendly lodgings, reducing waste, and supporting local businesses make a huge difference.
Respecting traditions matters too. Try to learn a few phrases, understand local customs, and always leave places as you found them. Your presence can either harm or help, so it’s a good idea to choose the latter.
Discover your next island adventure
From penguin colonies to volcanic peaks, island legends to digital nomad hubs, the world’s islands are endlessly fascinating. Each one offers a mix of beauty, culture, and resilience that makes it stand apart. Whichever islands you choose to visit, remember, how you travel matters.
FAQ
What makes an island or archipelago fascinating?
Islands often evolve in isolation, creating unique ecosystems and cultures. That mix of the rare and the unexpected is what makes them so appealing.
How do I choose which island to visit?
Think about your passions: wildlife (Galápagos, Madagascar), culture (Easter Island, Faroe Islands), or adventure (Svalbard, Raja Ampat). Then, balance that with your budget and travel time.
Are remote islands safe?
Mostly, yes, if you prepare well. Research advisories, get travel insurance, and respect wildlife. Safety often comes down to planning.
What’s the best time to go?
It depends. Arctic islands shine in summer, while tropical ones have wet and dry seasons. Check festivals and wildlife calendars before choosing travel dates, too.
How far ahead should I plan?
Three to six months is ideal. Some islands book out even earlier, especially if they limit visitors.