Wanderlust · 5 min read · November 6, 2025

Tired of the Canaries? Explore these 7 amazing island alternatives

Every year millions of Brits head out to Spain's Canary Islands for near-guaranteed sunshine. But if you're after somewhere different, here are a few alternatives…

Short on time? Let us summarise this guide for you.

If you're looking for sunny island escapes beyond the Canaries, consider these seven alternatives. From Portugal's volcanic Pico and Greece's otherworldly Milos to the chocolate-scented jungles of São Tomé and Príncipe, each island offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and seclusion. For Mediterranean charm, try Italy's Ponza or France's Porquerolles, while Norway's Andøy provides Arctic adventures with whales and the Northern Lights. Croatia's Vis combines hidden beaches with a rich naval history and vibrant cuisine. These destinations promise a slower pace, fewer crowds, and distinctive landscapes worth exploring.

Pico | Azores

Pico is Portugal's answer to Tenerife – volcanic, dramatic, and slow-paced. Mount Pico steals the show, rising above lava fields and neat rows of basalt-lined vineyards.

The island's all about contrasts – bright green hills, black rock, and deep blue sea. It's a hotspot for whale watching and scuba diving, and the seafood is top-notch – fresh, simple, and full of flavour.

Wander through quiet rural villages, stretch out on a black sand beach, or hike up the volcano for some of the best Atlantic views you'll find anywhere.

São Tomé and Principe

Think lush jungle instead of volcanic rock, but the same laid-back island feel. São Tomé and Príncipe sits off the west coast of Africa, dotted in the Gulf of Guinea, and it's got a lot going for it. Empty beaches, rainforest hikes, and some of the best chocolate in the world (seriously).

The vibe? Unhurried. Friendly. Untouched. You won't find big resorts or touristy strips, but you will find colourful colonial buildings, wild swimming spots, and locals who welcome you in with a smile. The islands used to be major cocoa producers, so you'll smell chocolate in the air and see cacao trees growing just off the road.

Best bit? It still feels like a secret. If you love the Canary Islands for their nature and slower pace – but want fewer people and more of an off-the-radar feel – São Tomé and Príncipe is worth the trip.

Milos | Greece

Milos, with its lunar landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages, is a hidden gem in the Cyclades archipelago.

Famous for the discovery of the Venus de Milo, the island offers more than just pristine beaches. It's a geological marvel with diverse landscapes. The white rocks and turquoise sea of Sarakiniko Beach looks like the moon met the Med, while the ancient catacombs are thought to be part of a much larger, hidden necropolis.

The charming fishing village of Klima, with its colourful syrmata – boat houses carved into the rocks – is unique to the island, while its volcanic origins have blessed it with hot springs and a dramatic coastline just begging to be explored. Take a boat to discover hidden sea caves or wander through quaint alleyways for a taste of local Greek cuisine.

Ponza | Italy

Ponza, the largest island of the Italian Pontine Archipelago, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and Italian charm – perfect for a Mediterranean escape away from the crowds.

The island's jagged coastline is adorned with a mosaic of hidden coves, stunning blue grottoes, and secluded beaches accessible only by boat. Ponza's harbour, with its pastel-coloured buildings, bustling waterfront promenades, and chic boutiques, is absolutely enchanting and the perfect gateway to exploring the rest of the island.

Its rich history, from ancient Roman pools carved out of the seaside rocks to the legend of Homer's Odysseus, adds layers of intrigue to its stunning landscapes. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in Ponza's fresh seafood, traditional Italian dishes, and the local wine, best enjoyed with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

Andøy | Norway

Andøy, located in the Vesterålen archipelago of Norway, is a destination of raw beauty and dramatic landscapes, a proper gem polished by the rugged waters and winds of the Arctic.

This northern haven is renowned for its whale-watching opportunities, where the deep, nutrient-rich waters become the stage for majestic orcas and humpback whales. The island's varied terrain, from its pristine beaches to its mountainous interior, is the perfect backdrop to long nights in search of the Northern Lights, or soaking up the soft glow of the midnight sun.

So if you can decide between a trip to the Canaries or an adventure in the Arctic, this is the closest you'll get to both.

Porquerolles | France

Porquerolles is the largest of the Hyères Islands off the southern coast of France. Think sparkling turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush pine and eucalyptus forests.

It's a haven for lovers of the outdoors, with a lengthy network of trails perfect for hiking and biking, leading to hidden coves, scenic overlooks, and fragrant orchards.

The main village, which shares its name with the island, is the French Riviera in miniature. You'll find quaint squares, pastel-coloured buildings, great wine and some stunning local galleries and exhibitions too.

Vis | Croatia

Vis off the Dalmatian coast was once a strategic naval base, closed to the public until 1989. It's retained an untouched charm that's hard to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean, boasting rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and secluded bays.

The beaches are the main highlight here. Seek out the stunning Stiniva Cove, which is encircled by towering cliffs and accessible only by foot or boat. A little sliver of paradise for those willing to make the journey.

The town of Vis, with its elegant waterfront, is bursting with centuries-old architecture, from ancient Greek ruins to British forts. Komiža, a traditional fishing village on the opposite side of the island, is characterised by narrow stone houses and a charming harbour. The local cuisine, heavily influenced by fresh seafood and Italian flavours, complements the island's rich offering of local wines, including the Vugava white wine, made using grapes native to the Dalmatian Coast.