Island Escapes: Beyond the Traditional Beach Vacation
The phrase “island getaway” often evokes visions of warm summer heat, palm trees, a refreshing cocktail, and the gentle roar of waves in the background. While a good beach vacation does wonders for the body and soul, island beach vacations can offer more than only sun, sand, and fruity drinks.
There are hundreds of thousands of unique islands all around the world, each with offerings that go beyond the average beach vacation. Whether you are looking for stunning volcano treks, immersive wildlife adventures, traditional cultural experiences, or jungle expeditions, here are eight island escapes that venture beyond the traditional beach vacation.
1. Sicily, Italy- A Mediterranean Oasis with World-Class Food, Active Volcanos, and History
As the Mediterranean’s largest island, Sicily has no shortage of incredible sights to witness and explore. Sicily is a time capsule for human civilization with the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs calling the island home. With multiple architectural style influences spanning thousands of years, history fanatics will be able to fully immerse themselves in the culture. Travel to the island’s capital, Palermo, and explore the vibrant backstreets and go on a culinary adventure by going on a street food tour before slowing down with a glass of wine at one of the many family-run vineyards. Hiking enthusiasts will love watching Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, erupt and light up the night sky. Sicily promises to be an island getaway that has something for everyone in the family.
2. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador- Wildlife Unlike Anywhere Else on The Globe
An archipelago of volcanic islands in the Eastern Pacific, the Galápagos Islands are famous for their large number of species, studied by Charles Darwin in the 1830s. The province is divided into three regions, defined by the three most populated islands of Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela. While the islands boast stunning beaches, the biggest attraction is the wildlife that can be seen on and around the islands. Snorkel with sea lions and other marine life in Isabela, hike the Sierra Negra volcano, and go on one of the many boat tours to try and spot the famous Galápagos Giant Tortoise.
3. São Miguel, Azores, Portugal- The Hawaii of Europe
Boasting black sand beaches, geothermal hot springs, crater lakes, and whale watching, São Miguel is the largest island in Portugal’s Azores archipelago. The island provides a perfect blend between adventure and relaxation where one day you can hike to the Boca do Inferno viewpoint for stunning panoramic views over a volcanic lake and the next you can treat yourself to a spa day at one of the many hot springs around the island. Marine wildlife lovers should not miss whale and dolphin spotting boat tours led by a marine biologist and culture and culinary fans should not miss the local cozido, a traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.
4. The Faroe Islands, Denmark- A Nordic Landscape
Settled between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands are an excellent option for the traveler looking for an island escape with less of a traditional beach vibe. These islands, shaped by the winds and roaring waters of the Atlantic, were once volcanic islands, but are now characterized by misty fjords, cottages, tall waterfalls, and cute puffin-covered cliffs. A visit to the Faroe Islands is perfect for hikers and those looking to connect with nature such as the trail around the Sørvágsvatn Lake. The islands host multiple village festivals annually that directly tie into the Faroese culture and where you can try fermented lamb or other local dishes native to the country. A trip to the Faroe Islands is one that will never be forgotten!
5. Mauritius, Africa- An Island Nation Full of Culture and Rainforests
On first glance, Mauritius looks like a classic tropical paradise perfect for honeymooning couples. However, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to this island country tucked off the southeastern African coast. For adventure seekers, canyoning near Chamarel or scuba diving off the coast is a popular outdoor activity. Hiking in Black River Gorges National Park will leave you speechless as you search for wildlife such as monkeys while climbing to the perfect overlook. The island culture is a fusion of Creole, Indian, French, and Chinese influences as seen in the local festivals, one-of-a-kind street food, tea houses, vibrant markets, and colorful temples.
6. Wadjemup (Rottnest Island), Western Australia- The Island with the Cutest Wildlife
Be prepared to meet your new favorite animal because no trip to Wadjemup (also known as Rottnest Island) is complete without taking a few selfies with the local quokka population. This island, located offshore from Perth, is a protected nature reserve with bike paths, sandy white beaches, surfing locations, and thousands of quokkas, a small wallaby-like marsupial native to the island. These friendly animals are the star attraction of this island, but there are plenty of attractions including swimming, snorkeling, or learning more about the Whadjuk Noongar people, the traditional owners of the land. Most people visit the island on a day trip from Perth or Fremantle, but you can also stay a few nights by booking one of the cabins across the island.
7. Sado Island, Japan- A Quiet and Culturally Diverse Island
While Tokyo is the country’s technological and urban gem, off the coast of Japan, Sado Island is like stepping into a quieter and more traditional version of the country. For those looking to slow down and learn more about the traditional culture and soak in the natural beauty of the area, this island is a perfect getaway destination. Sado’s mines used to be the center of Japan’s gold mining activity and once fueled the Tokugawa shogunate. Today you can explore these historic mines, explore one of the many wooden temples, or take a traditional round tub boat down the lava formed coastline. Visit the Taiko Center and take in a traditional taiko drum performance or take a drumming class of your own. Sado Island may be under the radar for now, but it is bound to be one of Asia’s top islands to visit, so be sure to visit soon!
8. Prince Edward Island, Canada- The Home of Anne of Green Gables
Many may know Prince Edward Island as being the backdrop and home of Anne of Green Gables, but this island has so much more to offer. Popular during the summer and fall months, this Canadian island has miles of trails lined with wildflowers, coastlines carved by the crashing waves of the Atlantic, and festivals that provide an insight into the local culture of the region. Visiting during the summer means long days, seafood boils, and cycling along the many trails, while visiting during the fall brings bright and vibrant foliage, cozy nights at a historic farmhouse cabin, and lazy mornings at the farmer’s market. Prince Edward Island is the perfect place for those looking for a literary getaway in a beautiful landscape.
An island escape does not need to be limited to only lazy days on sandy beaches. Whether you are looking for a volcano hike, local cultural and culinary experiences, or spotting rare native wildlife, each of these islands invites you to experience culture, adventure, and storytelling. If you are ready for your next island adventure, contact the team at Avondale Travel. Our team is ready to customize your island escape to cater to your interests and vacation dreams.