Top Ten Small Islands

By “small islands,” I mean extremely small landmasses—generally under 5,000 acres (around 8 square miles), though most of the islands I personally chose are far smaller than that. All of them are marine islands surrounded by water.

There is something almost magical about traveling by boat—or sometimes a causeway—to an island that is small enough to fully grasp at a glance, then being able to walk its entire perimeter in just a few hours. It creates a feeling of quiet control, almost as if you are the ruler of that tiny world.

These places are not typical holiday resorts for families. Instead, they tend to be calm, reflective environments that appeal more to travelers seeking peace and contemplation. Some are widely known landmarks, while others are discovered almost by accident.

My selection of these ten islands is based mainly on historical, cultural, or natural significance. However, it is a deeply personal list shaped by my own travels across the 68 countries I have visited, meaning many other countries with interesting small islands are not included.

Lindisfarne, England (1,000 acres)

Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, sits off the coast of Northumberland and carries strong religious importance. It is accessible by a causeway when tides are low, but becomes completely isolated when the sea rises.

The island has a unique atmosphere that becomes clear when visiting Lindisfarne Priory, once a major center of early Christianity in northern England and associated with St. Cuthbert. Nearby stands Lindisfarne Castle, its distinctive shape visible from far across the mainland. A local specialty worth trying is Lindisfarne mead.

Ilnacullin Island, Ireland (37 acres)

Ilnacullin, also called Garnish Island, is a beautifully designed garden island reached by a short boat ride of about ten minutes from the mainland. Its mild climate, influenced by the Gulf Stream, supports rich plant collections including camellias and magnolias.

Architectural features on the island include an Italian-style temple, a Greek-style temple, and a Martello tower from the Napoleonic era. Climbing the tower offers wide panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and gardens.

Motya Island, Sicily, Italy (100 acres)

Motya Island is an important archaeological site linked to the ancient Phoenicians. Excavations carried out by Joseph Whitaker revealed remains such as burial grounds, barracks, and an artificial harbor.

The Whitaker Museum displays artifacts recovered from the island, including notable sculptures. At times, key pieces have been loaned to major museums elsewhere, such as the British Museum. The island provides a strong sense of ancient Mediterranean history.

Mont Saint-Michel, France (247 acres)

Mont Saint-Michel is a tidal island connected to mainland Normandy by a causeway. It has been fortified for centuries, and its famous abbey dates back to the 8th century.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts millions of visitors each year, so quieter times are best for exploration. Inside, visitors can explore the abbey, cloisters, museums, and the historic village clustered beneath the monastery. Elevated areas offer sweeping views over the surrounding bay.

Veli Brijun, Croatia (1,700 acres)

Veli Brijun is reached by ferry from Fažana and is known for its political and historical connections. It was once a retreat for Yugoslav leader Tito, who hosted numerous international figures such as Queen Elizabeth and Sophia Loren.

The island includes Roman ruins at Verige Bay, a museum dedicated to Tito’s era, and even a small zoo containing animals gifted by foreign leaders. Its Mediterranean garden provides a quiet and relaxing place to enjoy the landscape.

Île de Gorée, Senegal (45 acres)

Île de Gorée is a short ferry ride from Dakar and is a car-free island. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a historical memorial to the Atlantic slave trade, particularly through the House of Slaves museum.

Despite the busy atmosphere of Dakar, Gorée feels peaceful and reflective. Visitors often find it unchanged over decades, aside from a few new restaurants serving local food to travelers.

Robben Island, South Africa (1,200 acres)

Robben Island is reached by ferry from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. The journey itself offers views back toward the city and Table Mountain.

The island is best known for its former prison, where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held. Tours include prison cells, the quarry, and historical buildings, often guided by former inmates. Wildlife such as penguins and tortoises also inhabit the island, adding contrast to its heavy history.

Alcatraz, California, USA (22 acres)

Alcatraz is accessible by ferry from San Francisco’s Pier 33, offering scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and city skyline during the crossing.

The former prison housed famous inmates such as Al Capone and Robert Stroud. Visiting the site gives a powerful sense of confinement and isolation. A typical visit lasts around three hours, and seniors are eligible for discounted tickets.

Pulau Panjang, Jepara, Indonesia (47 acres)

Pulau Panjang is a quiet tropical island surrounded by clear shallow waters and coral reefs. It is reached by a short boat ride from Kartini Beach in Jepara.

The island is covered in lush vegetation, including large cottonwood trees, Java tamarind, and old pines. It also serves as a breeding ground for seabirds, making it both a natural sanctuary and a peaceful escape far from major tourist routes.

Kapiti Island, New Zealand (4,800 acres)

Kapiti Island is one of New Zealand’s most important nature reserves and bird sanctuaries. Access is tightly controlled to protect its fragile ecosystem.

The island offers a rare opportunity to observe native bird species that are no longer common on the mainland. Its landscapes combine rich vegetation with dramatic coastal scenery, making it a valuable destination for conservation-focused tourism.