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When you think of the word “island,” you probably think of one of the beautiful Caribbean islands. Or at least, you might think that. There are actually more than 800 islands in the world, and all of them have their own unique history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for the perfect island getaway for a romantic getaway or a vacation for the entire family, these ten unique islands around the world are sure to be worth your time—even if you’re not an island lover.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Located to the North of the Scottish mainland, this is one of the most famous islands in Scotland. This island contains many natural wonders and historical sites like Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Loch Coruisk.
Umnak Island, Alaska
You can locate this small, uninhabited island in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. It is reachable by plane or boat and has a landscape that includes rugged terrain, barren hills, and the remains of military installations.
Grande Terre Island, New Caledonia
Grande Terre Island is the largest island in New Caledonia and has many beautiful sites. It’s also home to the capital, Nouméa. This island has a lot of history because it was once ruled by the French, who established settlements here as far back as 1853. The scenery here is particularly picturesque, with lush greenery and beaches. Many native species live on this island, like the Caledonian crows and New Caledonian lorikeets.
Reef Bay Islands, British Indian Ocean Territory
Head to the Reef Bay Islands if you want to visit a tropical paradise with an equally breathtaking history. The islands are set off the coast of Somalia and were once used as a pirate base by Somali pirates. The British Navy battled the pirates in 1835 and took over the islands after two years of fighting. Today, visitors can explore the old pirate caves and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Skellig Michael, Ireland
Skellig Michael is a small island off the coast of Ireland. It’s home to an ancient monastic settlement and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to some of the best birdwatching in Europe, so if you love seeing birds in their natural habitat, this is the destination for you. While it is a small island, you can still book skellig michael tours on boats, with a guide to provide information about the island’s history.
Isla del Caño, Colombia
Located in the Caribbean off the coast of Colombia, this island is a favorite for tourists and locals alike. Isla del Caño offers visitors some of the best diving, surfing, and fishing around. With such a variety of activities, it is perfect for a family looking for an adventure. In addition, visitors will be able to explore an ecosystem that includes mangroves, beaches, and coral reefs; it’s easy to forget you’re only 30 minutes away from Cartagena.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini in Greece is one of the most popular islands on this list. This is because the island has a rich history and culture, as well as natural beauty. Santorini is home to breath-taking sunsets, beautiful blue-purple water, and white-washed buildings and also boasts active volcanoes and black sand beaches. And if you love exploring new places, there are plenty of bike rentals available for your use on the island.
Heuvelte Island, Netherlands
This North Sea island is only accessible by ferry, making it the perfect destination for a beach vacation. The island’s population is less than 500 people, and they still use traditional farming methods. The Heuvelte has many natural sights—including windmills, dunes, and beaches—and it may be one of the best places to see a sunrise in the world.
Palau
Palau is an island nation in Micronesia, located nearly 500 miles off the coast of the Philippines. The country is comprised of 250 islands and features a unique blend of cultures from both its Japanese and German influences. Palau is also home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world.
Conclusion
The world is full of unique places where you can escape for a vacation and explore new cultures. One of the best ways to find a place to visit is to look for islands off the beaten path because there, you will find rare and wonderful environments that are perfect for creating unforgettable experiences.
