Island paradises: 8 enchanting destinations away from the crowds

By MiNDFOOD

Aerial view of Britannia Bay, Mustique.
Aerial view of Britannia Bay, Mustique.
Discover these hidden island gems around the world, where tranquility, natural beauty and unique experiences await beyond the typical tourist trail.

1. MUSTIQUE, THE GRENADINES

This small, privately owned island in St Vincent and the Grenadines is an exclusive getaway frequented by rock-n-rollers and royalty alike. The Cotton House and Firefly are the only places for non-residents to stay. If you need an escape with sun, sea and salt water this is it.

Canouan, The Grenadines.

2. CANOUAN ISLAND, ST. VINCENT, THE GRENADINES

Canouan means “island of the turtles” in the local language and sports a lush landscape with rolling hills and secluded coves to explore. The powder-white sand, turquoise waters, exotic coral and quaint beaches make it paradise to enjoy. The Raffles Canouan offers breathtaking views and a list of activities.

Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

3. FERNANDO DE NORONHA

Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago of 21 islands off the coast of northern Brazil with a majority of the archipelago declared a maritime national park. With a restricted number of visitors allowed at any time, this national park is a true treasure of protected and endangered species.

Marina Corta is Lipari’s little fishing port, where small boats berth.

4. LIPARI

Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands north of Sicily. Its natural beauty was created by a succession of volcanoes making it a fascinating geological masterpiece. As expected the food, the people and the beat of Lipari is Italian in every way.

A view of the beautiful turquoise waters of Harbour Island, Bahamas.

5. HARBOUR ISLAND, BAHAMAS

Part of the Bahamas collection of over 1,100 islands, this small island has more than three miles of pink sand. The Rock House is a stand-out place to stay.

The white pristine beach and blue waters of Vivonne Bay Kangaroo Island

6. KANGAROO ISLAND, AUSTRALIA

You’ll have to fly from mainland Australia or ferry over, but once you’re at this island you’ll appreciate the effort. For animal lovers there’s no place better to see native Australian animals and birds in their natural habitat.

 

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7. MUHU ISLAND

Muhu is an island off Estonia in the Baltic region with a population of less than 2,000. The island still has a working windmill, folk traditions, and a small luxury hotel and spa called Padaste Manor.

coconut palm trees at Playa Flamenco (Flamenco Beach) on Isla Culebra, Puerto Rico

8. CULEBRA

Culebra is an archipelago off Puerto Rico with many of its islands classified as nature reserves. There are bird sanctuaries as well as stunning beaches.

Reuters

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