17 Hidden Islands Around the World That Locals Love

While major island destinations like Bali, Santorini, and the Maldives attract flocks of tourists each year, some of the world’s most beautiful islands remain under the radar. These hidden gems are cherished by locals for their natural beauty, quiet charm, and cultural richness. Here are 17 secret islands that are off the beaten path, but well worth the journey.

Ibo Island, Mozambique

Tucked in the Quirimbas Archipelago, Ibo Island is a treasure trove of history and culture. With crumbling colonial architecture, dhow boat builders, and welcoming communities, it offers a tranquil experience. Locals love its slow pace and unspoiled beaches, far from the mass tourism of mainland Mozambique, with coral reefs offshore that are perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Isla Holbox, Mexico

Isla Holbox lies just north of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and is a car-free island known for its laid-back vibes and vibrant wildlife. Locals from nearby regions flock here to swim with whale sharks, kayak through mangroves, or simply relax in hammocks over shallow turquoise waters. Isla Holbox is a low-key paradise that’s managed to maintain its authentic charm.

Flores Island, Portugal (Azores)

Part of Portugal’s Azores archipelago, Flores is considered one of the most beautiful, and least visited,  islands in the Atlantic. Covered in waterfalls, crater lakes, and dramatic cliffs, this island captivates nature lovers. Azoreans love Flores for its raw beauty and peacefulness. Hiking trails, whale watching, and secluded beaches are just a few highlights.

Yakushima Island, Japan

Yakushima is a misty, forested island off Japan’s southern coast, known for its ancient cedar trees, some over 7,000 years old. Locals and nature enthusiasts cherish it for its rich biodiversity and spiritual energy. It served as the inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke. Hiking through the lush forests here feels like stepping into another world.

Isle of Eigg, Scotland

The Isle of Eigg in the Inner Hebrides is a remote, community-owned island known for its rugged coastline and eco-conscious living. Locals take pride in being self-sufficient, with their own renewable energy grid and visitors can enjoy spectacular hiking, birdwatching, and a real sense of community.

Isla del Sol, Bolivia

Floating in the middle of Lake Titicaca, Isla del Sol is a sacred place in Andean mythology. This island, with no cars and only footpaths, feels like a step back in time. Local Aymara and Quechua communities maintain traditional lifestyles, and the island’s archaeological sites and views make it a peaceful, culturally rich escape.

Inis Meáin, Ireland

One of the three Aran Islands, Inis Meáin is the least visited and most traditional. Irish is the main spoken language, and the island retains a strong sense of Gaelic culture. Rugged landscapes, hand-knit sweaters, and stone walls characterize its charm, plus locals love the island for its isolation and connection to Ireland’s roots.

Paxos, Greece

Paxos, located south of Corfu, is a Greek island untouched by large-scale tourism. Known for its olive groves, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters, it’s a summer haven for local Greeks and a few savvy visitors. The main town, Gaios, offers quiet tavernas and sea-view cafes that retain an authentic island atmosphere.

Île aux Cocos, Mauritius

Off the coast of Rodrigues Island in Mauritius, Île aux Cocos is a protected nature reserve known for its birdlife and powdery beaches. Locals treasure this island for day trips and picnics. The shallow lagoons are perfect for snorkeling, and strict visitor numbers keep the ecosystem intact, preserving its pristine beauty.

Isla de la Plata, Ecuador

Often called the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” Isla de la Plata offers similar wildlife without the steep price tag. Located off the coast of Ecuador near Puerto López, the island is home to blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and humpback whales. Ecuadorians love it for its accessibility, ecological significance, and breathtaking hiking trails.

Caye Caulker, Belize

Belizeans adore Caye Caulker for its motto: “Go Slow.” This tiny, laid-back island has sandy streets, colorful houses, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe. It’s less commercial than Ambergris Caye, and locals appreciate its simplicity. Snorkeling in the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve and relaxing by the Split are popular pastimes.

Îles des Saintes, Guadeloupe

A cluster of small French Caribbean islands, Îles des Saintes are beloved by Guadeloupeans for their tranquility and charm. The main island, Terre-de-Haut, features colorful Creole houses, quiet beaches, and Fort Napoléon. Locals visit for weekend getaways, seafood feasts, and stunning views over the bay, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world.

Isla Contadora, Panama

Isla Contadora, part of the Pearl Islands in the Pacific, is a secret haven for Panamanians seeking peace. With white-sand beaches, luxurious yet low-key resorts, and clear blue waters, it’s a favorite retreat. Locals cherish the island’s calm, where you can spot whales, snorkel among tropical fish, or simply bask in the sun.

La Graciosa, Spain (Canary Islands)

La Graciosa, just north of Lanzarote, is the smallest inhabited Canary Island, and arguably the most peaceful. With no paved roads and limited development, it offers a glimpse of island life as it used to be. Spaniards appreciate La Graciosa’s hiking trails, quiet beaches, and the absence of tourist crowds.

Savai’i, Samoa

Often overshadowed by its more populated sister island Upolu, Savai’i is the true heart of Samoa for many locals. Known for lava tubes, rainforests, and cultural traditions, it remains deeply connected to Fa’a Samoa, the Samoan way. Visitors will find welcoming villages, blowholes, and untouched beauty throughout the island.

Isla Grande, Colombia

Located in the Rosario Islands, Isla Grande is a favorite among Colombians from Cartagena who want to escape city life. While visitors can enjoy beach clubs, many locals prefer the quiet parts of the island with mangroves and rustic charm. The surrounding coral reefs offer fantastic snorkeling, and the island’s laid-back vibe is irresistible.

Great Blasket Island, Ireland

Deserted since the 1950s, Great Blasket Island off Ireland’s western coast still draws locals for its haunting beauty and historical significance. Once home to a tight-knit Gaelic-speaking community, the island now offers day trips and overnight stays in renovated cottages. Walking its wild hills with views of the Atlantic is an unforgettable experience.