Are you thinking of an island holiday in Spain and wondering where to go? We’ve got a list of the best islands in Spain for holidays to plan your next romantic couples vacation, family vacation, or an unforgettable jaunt with a bunch of friends.
Spain is home to over 60 islands, many of which are uninhabited, or completely unheard of by even the most regular visitors to Spain. But we’ve narrowed down 9 of the best Spanish islands for you to check out for your next holiday or weekend getaway.
The Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea are the group of islands off the coast of Spain closest to the mainland. Because of this, they are the most popular group of islands in Spain to holiday on. While the Canary Islands are located a little further away from the mainland, off the coast of Morocco.
There are also a few stunning undiscovered islands off the north-west Spanish coastline near Portugal (Galician Islands), that most people have never heard of.
These 9 islands in Spain offer something for every kind of holiday-maker!
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In This Post:
How to Choose Which Island in Spain for Your Holidays?
Most Romantic Islands in Spain for Couples or Honeymooners:
Tenerife, Ibiza, Formentera, La Palma, Mallorca
Best Islands off of Spain for Families:
Fuerteventura, Tenerife, Mallorca, Menorca, Gran Canaria
Best Spain Islands for Beaches:
Fuerteventura, Ibiza, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Formentera, Cíes Islands
Best Spanish Islands for Adventure:
Lanzarote, Cíes Islands, La Palma, Tenerife, La Gomera
Best Spanish Islands for Food Lovers:
Ibiza, Lanzarote, Menorca
Best Quiet Islands in Spain:
La Gomera, Menorca, El Hierro, Formentera
Best Spain Islands for Views:
Fuerteventura, La Gomera, Tenerife, Mallorca
Best Party Islands in Spain:
Ibiza, Mallorca, Gran Canaria
Best Islands off Spain for Luxury:
Ibiza, Mallorca, Tenerife, Gran Canaria
Islands in Spain that are Totally Underrated:
Il Hierro, Cíes islands, Formentera
9 Best Islands in Spain for Holidays
Most visitors to Spain have visited or at least heard of Ibiza. Famous for its sun-soaked beaches, yoga retreats, and endless party vibes. But whether it’s the food, beaches, outdoor activities, or nightlife that you’re after, we happen to think these 9 islands off of Spain have so much more to offer than Ibiza!
We’ll let you be the judge…
Best Balearic Islands in Spain
#1 | Mallorca (Majorca)
Mallorca is an island in the Mediterranean Sea off the southeastern coast of Spain. The capital and largest city is Palma, an attractive Spanish city known for its rich cultural heritage, gothic architecture, and resorty vibes.
Mallorca is one of the largest islands off of Spain, with an area of 3,640 square kilometers (1,405 square miles) and a population of approximately 1 million. The terrain is mostly hilly and mountainous with some flat areas in the north and south. There are several small islands off the coast of Mallorca, including Cabrera, Dragonera, and Formentera.
The island is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Palau de l’Almudaina, the Bellver Castle, and the Lluc monastery. Mallorca is also known for its nightlife, especially in the resorts of Magaluf and Palmanova.
When it comes to islands in Spain for holidays, Mallorca is up there as one of the best. It’s long been a popular tourist hotspot for its beaches, Mediterranean climate, and diverse landscape. And given it’s so close to the mainland, it’s also a great place to get away for the weekend!
How to Get There: Mallorca can be reached by plane, with regular flights from European cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, London, and Berlin. The island can also be reached by ferry from the Spanish mainland and from the other Balearic Islands.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit Mallorca. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Where to Stay: Pleta de Mar (5 Star) | Terreno Studios (4 Star) | Blue House Mallorca (3 Star)
#2 | Menorca (Minorca)
Menorca is one of the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain, located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is the second largest island in the archipelago after Mallorca.
The island has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January is 14 °C and in August it is 26 °C.
Menorca is a popular tourist destination with its sandy beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. The island is also known for its rich history, traditional architecture, food, and wine.
Some of the most popular tourist attractions on Menorca include the capital city of Mahon, the Cova d’en Xoroi caves, the beaches of Cala’n Bosch and Cala’n Forcat, and the prehistoric site of Naveta des Tudons.
How to Get There: Menorca is one of the most accessible islands off of Spain. The best way to get there is by plane. The island has its own airport, which is located 4 km from the capital city of Mahon. There are direct flights to Menorca from many major airports around Europe, including Barcelona, Madrid, London, and Paris.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Menorca is from May to October when the weather is warm and the beaches are busiest.
Where to Stay: Lago Resort Menorca (5 Star) | Menorca Experimental (4 Star) | Hotel Bahia (3 Star)
#3 | Formentera
An idyllic island located just south of Ibiza in the Spanish Balearic Islands, Formentera is known for its natural beauty, stunning white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
It’s a lesser-known holiday hotspot than its Balearic sister islands, Ibiza and Mallorca. But that makes it one of the most underrated islands in Spain for holidays.
Although small in size, Formentera offers plenty of things to do, from exploring secluded coves and bays to enjoying the numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes. There are also a number of water sports on offer, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and kayaking.
What makes Formentera truly special though is its relaxed atmosphere and unspoilt natural surroundings. The island has a strong commitment to environmental protection and there are no high-rise buildings or large hotels, meaning that it has managed to retain its authentic charm.
If you’re looking for the best Spanish island to truly relax and unwind, Formentera is the perfect destination.
How to Get There: There are regular ferry services to Formentera from the nearby islands of Ibiza and Mallorca. So, you can fly to Ibiza or Mallorca Airport and take a connecting ferry.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Formentera is between May and October when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the island can be busy during the peak summer months of July and August.
Where to Stay: Five Flowers Hotel & Spa (5 Star) | Hotel Es Marès (4 Star) |Hotel Club Sunway Punta Prima(3 Star)
Best Canary Islands in Spain
#4 | Tenerife
The Spanish Island of Tenerife is one of the Canary Islands, located just off the northwest coast of Africa. It is the largest and most populous island of the Canaries with over 900,000 inhabitants.
The island is of volcanic origin and is characterized by its mountainous terrain. Its highest point is the volcano of Mount Teide, which is also the highest point in Spain.
Tenerife is a popular tourist destination for its sunny climate, beaches, and cultural attractions. The most popular activities include hiking, swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. The island also has a number of museums and cultural sites, including the Museum of Nature and Man, the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre, and the Auditorio de Tenerife.
In short, Tenerife has something for everyone, making it the perfect vacation destination.
How to Get There: Tenerife can be reached by plane from most major airports in Europe and Africa. There are also regular ferry services from the mainland of Spain and the other Canary Islands.
Best Time to Visit: Tenerife is during the months of November to April when the weather is mild and the days are sunny. However, the island is busy with tourists during this time so it is advisable to book your accommodation and flights in advance.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama (5 Star) | Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa (4 Star) | Beverly Hills Heights (3 Star)
#5 | La Palma
La Palma is one of the Canary Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Africa. It is known for its black-sand beaches, its active volcanoes, and its lush, green landscapes.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in La Palma. You can go hiking or mountain biking in the volcanic landscapes, go swimming or surfing at the black-sand beaches or take a boat trip to see the island’s wildlife.
There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. If you’re looking for a relaxed and beautiful island to explore, La Palma is the perfect place for you.
How to Get There: There are direct flights to La Palma from various airports around the world, or you can take a ferry from Tenerife.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit La Palma is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny.
Where to Stay: Villa Guadalupe (4 Star) | Sol La Palma (4 Star) | Hacienda San Jorge (3 Star)
#6 | Lanzarote
Lanzarote is an island in the eastern Canary Islands. It is the fourth most populous island in the archipelago. The island is known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and unique volcanic landscape.
There are many things to do on the island, including swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, fishing, hiking, and biking. The island also has a number of tourist attractions, such as the Cueva de los Verdes, the Jameos del Agua, and the Mirador del Rio.
Lanzarote is one of the best Spanish islands to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
How to Get There: The easiest way to get to Lanzarote is by plane. There are direct flights from many European cities, including London, Paris, Madrid, and Barcelona. The flight time from London is about four hours.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Lanzarote is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The island gets busy during the summer months, so it is advisable to book accommodation and activities in advance.
Where to Stay: Meliá Salinas (5 Star) | Royal Marina Suites Boutique Hotel (4 Star) | Hotel Club Siroco (3 Star)
#7 | Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is part of the Canary Islands group, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine.
Fuerteventura is a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. There are also many opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird watching.
The island’s capital, Puerto del Rosario, is home to a museum and a number of restaurants and bars. Other notable towns include Corralejo, with its sandy beaches and dunes, and Caleta de Fuste, a resort town with a golf course.
Fuerteventura is a popular holiday destination for those looking for a sunny getaway, but in our opinion, is one of the most underrated Spain islands to visit for a holiday.
How to Get There: Fuerteventura is accessible by plane from many European cities. The airport is located in the island’s capital, Puerto del Rosario.
Best Time to Visit: Fuerteventura is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between October and April when the weather is cooler.
Where to Stay: Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa (5 Star) | Sol Fuerteventura Jandia (4 Star) | Dunas Club (3 Star)
#8 | La Gomera
La Gomera is known for its lush, green landscapes and dramatic cliffs, and is one of the quieter Spain islands to visit. The island’s capital, San Sebastian, is a quaint town with pastel-colored houses and a lively harbor.
La Gomera is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience both the natural beauty of the Canary Islands and the lively culture of its towns and villages.
La Gomera is also known as one of the best Spanish islands for hiking, and there are many trails that wind through the island’s forests and along its coastline. Visitors can also take boat trips to see the island’s wildlife, including dolphins and whales.
If you are looking for a place to relax and explore, La Gomera is the perfect destination.
How to Get There: There are direct flights from the UK to La Gomera Airport (GMZ) from London-Gatwick (LGW) and Manchester (MAN). Alternatively, you can take a flight to Tenerife South Airport (TFS) and then take a short ferry ride to La Gomera.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit La Gomera is from May to June or September to October. These months offer the perfect combination of warm weather and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay: Parador de La Gomera (4 Star) | Villas La Gomera (4 Star) | Apartamentos Los Telares (3 Star)
#9 | Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is one of the most popular Spain islands to visit because of its beauty, things to do, and what makes it special. It is the second most populous island of the Canaries, after Tenerife, and the third largest in terms of land area, after Fuerteventura and Tenerife.
Gran Canaria is of volcanic origin and has an area of 1,560 square kilometers. The capital is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, also the largest city on the island.
The island has a population of approximately 850 000, making it the most populous island of the Canaries. The island is home to the Canary Islands’ largest airport, Gran Canaria Airport.
Gran Canaria is characterized by its diverse landscape, with something to offer everyone, making it one of the most popular islands in Spain for holidays. From the bustling cosmopolitan capital, Las Palmas, to the idyllic white sand beaches of the south, Gran Canaria is an island of contrasts.
The island is also home to a number of protected areas, including the Parque Nacional de las Palmas (National Park of the Palms), which is home to the island’s indigenous population of Canarian palm trees.
How to Get There: The easiest way to get to Gran Canaria is by flying into Gran Canaria Airport. The airport is located in the south of the island, about 20 kilometers from Las Palmas. There are direct flights to Gran Canaria from a number of major European cities, including London, Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Berlin and Frankfurt.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Gran Canaria is from November to March. This is when the temperatures are milder and there is less rainfall. However, the island is a year-round destination and there is always something to do, no matter what time of year you visit.
Where to Stay: Salobre Hotel Resort & Serenity (5 Star) | Boutique Hotel Cordial Malteses (4 Star) | Hotel Riosol (3 Star)
Have we missed a spot? Can you recommend any other great islands in Spain for other holiday-makers to check out? Let us know in the comments below!
Ready to Book Your Island Holiday in Spain?
A visit to Spain should be high on everyone’s travel bucket list, as it features some truly amazing islands and holiday destinations. We hope this guide to the best Spanish islands has helped you to plan your next vacay.
To help plan your trip, be sure to visit the official Spanish Tourism website. And don’t forget to take a look at our other Spain travel blog articles for handy tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit:
- 11 Picture Perfect Places for a Weekend in Spain (that’s not Barcelona or Madrid)
- 9 of the Best Islands in Spain for Holidays (that’s not Ibiza!)
Feeling inspired? Here are 10 amazing destinations you must add to your Travel Bucket List!
Looking for Somewhere to Stay in Spain?
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Booking.comPlanning a trip soon? Here is a list of the websites and resources we use for booking everything from flights, to accommodation, tours, and more:
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- Airbnb | HomeAway to find the best apartment and home rentals
- Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals
- Luxury Escapes | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
- Get Your Guide for a great range of day tours
- Tourradar | Intrepid for multi-day experiential and adventure tours
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- Skyroam to stay connected to WiFi everywhere I go
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About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
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