
Islands are often associated with luxury and exclusivity, but they don’t have to be expensive. There are many islands around the world that offer stunning scenery, rich culture, and diverse activities for a fraction of the cost of other destinations. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the nature, or experience the nightlife, there is an island for you.
In this article, we will show you how to travel to 12 amazing islands on a budget. We will give you some tips and suggestions on how to save money on flights, accommodation, food, and activities. We will also tell you about some of the best features and attractions of each island. So here are 12 cheap islands to visit around the world!
1. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania that offers a unique blend of African and Arabic influences. It is famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and spice plantations. You can also visit the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has winding alleys, mosques, and markets.
Zanzibar is one of the cheapest islands to visit in Africa. You can find flights from mainland Tanzania for as low as $50 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses for around $10-$20 USD per night. Food is also cheap and delicious, especially if you try the local specialties like biryani, pilau, and urojo soup.
Some of the activities you can do in Zanzibar are:
- Snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs
- Swimming with dolphins or turtles
- Taking a spice tour or a cooking class
- Exploring the Jozani Forest or the Nungwi Village
- Relaxing on the beach or at a hammam
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the most popular islands in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. It has something for everyone: beautiful beaches, lush rice terraces, sacred temples, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. You can also enjoy a variety of activities like surfing, yoga, hiking, or shopping.
Bali is also one of the cheapest islands to visit in Asia. You can find flights from nearby countries like Singapore or Malaysia for as low as $100 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or homestays for around $5-$10 USD per night. Food is also cheap and tasty, especially if you try the local dishes like nasi goreng, sate, or gado-gado.
Some of the activities you can do in Bali are:
- Visiting the iconic Tanah Lot or Uluwatu temples
- Watching a traditional dance or ceremony
- Hiking up Mount Batur or Mount Agung
- Relaxing at a spa or a hot spring
- Partying at Kuta or Seminyak
3. Crete, Greece
Crete is the largest and most diverse island in Greece. It has a rich history, culture, and cuisine that reflect its ancient and modern influences. You can explore the ruins of Knossos, the birthplace of Zeus; admire the frescoes of Agios Nikolaos; or taste the famous Cretan diet that includes olive oil, cheese, and wine.
Crete is one of the cheapest islands to visit in Europe. You can find flights from mainland Greece or other European countries for as low as $50 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or apartments for around $10-$20 USD per night. Food is also cheap and fresh, especially if you try the local specialties like dakos, kalitsounia, or raki.
Some of the activities you can do in Crete are:
- Swimming or sunbathing at Balos Lagoon or Elafonisi Beach
- Hiking through the Samaria Gorge or the White Mountains
- Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum or the Chania Old Town
- Exploring the Spinalonga Island or the Lassithi Plateau
- Enjoying the nightlife at Malia or Hersonissos
4. Curaçao, Caribbean
Curaçao is an island in the Caribbean that belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It has a colorful and multicultural heritage that mixes Dutch, African, Spanish, and Portuguese influences. You can see this in its architecture, language, music, and art. It also has some of the best beaches and coral reefs in the region.
Curaçao is one of the cheapest islands to visit in the Caribbean. You can find flights from nearby countries like Colombia or Panama for as low as $200 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or bungalows for around $20-$30 USD per night. Food is also cheap and varied, especially if you try the local dishes like keshi yena, arepa di pampuna, or stoba.
Some of the activities you can do in Curaçao are:
- Snorkeling or diving in the Blue Curaçao or the Mushroom Forest
- Visiting the Willemstad Historic District or the Curaçao Museum
- Shopping at the Floating Market or the Handelskade
- Exploring the Shete Boka National Park or the Christoffel National Park
- Partying at Mambo Beach or Pietermaai
5. Palawan, Philippines
Palawan is an island in the Philippines that is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. It has some of the most stunning landscapes and seascapes in the world, such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the El Nido Lagoons, and the Coron Islands. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, turtles, and dugongs.
Palawan is one of the cheapest islands to visit in the Philippines. You can find flights from Manila or Cebu for as low as $50 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or cottages for around $10-$20 USD per night. Food is also cheap and delicious, especially if you try the local delicacies like lechon, adobo, or halo-halo.
Some of the activities you can do in Palawan are:
- Kayaking or boating in the Bacuit Bay or the Honda Bay
- Exploring the caves and rock formations of Sabang or Ugong
- Trekking to the waterfalls and hot springs of Port Barton or San Vicente
- Visiting the wildlife sanctuaries and conservation centers of Calauit or Tubbataha
- Relaxing on the beach or at a spa
6. Malta, Mediterranean
Malta is an island in the Mediterranean that has a rich and diverse history and culture. It has been influenced by various civilizations, such as the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Knights of St. John, French, and British. You can see this in its architecture, language, religion, and cuisine. It also has some of the best weather and scenery in Europe.
Malta is one of the cheapest islands to visit in the Mediterranean. You can find flights from mainland Europe or North Africa for as low as $100 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses for around $20-$30 USD per night. Food is also cheap and flavorful, especially if you try the local dishes like pastizzi, ftira, or timpana.
Some of the activities you can do in Malta are:
- Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Valletta, Mdina, or Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
- Exploring the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, or Tarxien
- Swimming or diving in the Blue Lagoon, Blue Grotto, or St. Peter’s Pool
- Taking a ferry or a boat to Gozo or Comino islands
- Enjoying the nightlife at Paceville or Sliema
7. Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean
Sri Lanka is an island in the Indian Ocean that offers a variety of attractions and experiences for travelers. It has some of the best beaches and surf spots in Asia, such as Arugam Bay, Mirissa, or Unawatuna. It also has some of the most diverse wildlife and nature reserves in the world, such as Yala National Park, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, or Horton Plains National Park.
Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest islands to visit in Asia. You can find flights from nearby countries like India or Maldives for as low as $100 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or homestays for around $10-$20 USD per night. Food is also cheap and spicy, especially if you try the local dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, or kottu.
Some of the activities you can do in Sri Lanka are:
- Visiting the ancient cities and temples of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, or Kandy
- Climbing up Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Adam’s Peak
- Taking a train ride through the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya or Ella
- Watching elephants, leopards, whales, or turtles
- Relaxing on the beach or at a spa
8. Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria is an island in Spain that belongs to the Canary Islands archipelago. It has a diverse landscape that ranges from volcanic mountains to desert dunes to green forests to sandy beaches. It also has a vibrant culture that mixes Spanish and African influences. You can enjoy a variety of activities like hiking, biking, golfing, or surfing.
Gran Canaria is one of the cheapest islands to visit in Europe. You can find flights from mainland Spain or other European countries for as low as $50 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or apartments for around $20-$30 USD per night. Food is also cheap and tasty, especially if you try the local dishes like papas arrugadas, mojo, or ropa vieja.
Some of the activities you can do in Gran Canaria are:
- Visiting the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Roque Nublo or the Caldera de Bandama
- Exploring the sand dunes of Maspalomas or the caves of Artenara
- Enjoying the carnival, the music, or the art of Las Palmas
- Taking a ferry or a boat to Tenerife or Fuerteventura islands
- Relaxing on the beach or at a spa
9. Fiji, Pacific Ocean
Fiji is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean that consists of more than 300 islands and atolls. It is known for its friendly and hospitable people, its diverse and colorful culture, and its pristine and tropical environment. You can experience the Fijian way of life, known as “bula”, which means hello, welcome, and happiness.
Fiji is one of the cheapest islands to visit in the Pacific. You can find flights from nearby countries like Australia or New Zealand for as low as $200 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or resorts for around $20-$40 USD per night. Food is also cheap and fresh, especially if you try the local dishes like kokoda, lovo, or kava.
Some of the activities you can do in Fiji are:
- Snorkeling or diving in the Great Astrolabe Reef or the Rainbow Reef
- Visiting the cultural and historical sites of Suva, Nadi, or Levuka
- Hiking to the waterfalls and villages of Taveuni or Kadavu
- Taking a cruise or a seaplane to Mamanuca or Yasawa islands
- Relaxing on the beach or at a spa
10. Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is an island in Mexico that lies off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is famous for its coral reefs, marine life, and Mayan ruins. You can also enjoy its lively culture, cuisine, and nightlife. It is one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean and a popular cruise ship destination.
Cozumel is one of the cheapest islands to visit in North America. You can find flights from mainland Mexico or other countries for as low as $100 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or hotels for around $10-$20 USD per night. Food is also cheap and delicious, especially if you try the local dishes like cochinita pibil, ceviche, or margaritas.
Some of the activities you can do in Cozumel are:
- Snorkeling or diving in the Palancar Reef or the Chankanaab Park
- Visiting the Mayan ruins of San Gervasio or El Cedral
- Shopping at the Plaza del Sol or the Punta Langosta
- Exploring the Cozumel Museum or the Punta Sur Eco Park
- Partying at Carlos’n Charlie’s or Senor Frog’s
11. Mauritius, Indian Ocean
Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean that is known for its multiculturalism and diversity. It has a mix of African, Indian, French, and British influences that can be seen in its language, religion, music, and cuisine. It also has some of the most beautiful beaches and lagoons in the world, such as Trou aux Biches, Flic en Flac, or Le Morne.
Mauritius is one of the cheapest islands to visit in Africa. You can find flights from nearby countries like South Africa or Madagascar for as low as $200 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses for around $20-$30 USD per night. Food is also cheap and diverse, especially if you try the local dishes like dholl puri, rougaille, or alouda.
Some of the activities you can do in Mauritius are:
- Swimming or sailing in the Blue Bay Marine Park or the Grand Baie
- Visiting the botanical gardens of Pamplemousses or the sugar museum of L’Aventure du Sucre
- Hiking to the waterfalls and craters of Black River Gorges National Park or Chamarel
- Taking a catamaran or a helicopter to Ile aux Cerfs or Rodrigues island
- Relaxing on the beach or at a spa
12. Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania is an island state of Australia that lies off the south coast of the mainland. It is known for its wilderness, wildlife, and wine. You can explore its rugged mountains, forests, lakes, and coastlines, and encounter its unique animals, such as the Tasmanian devil, the wombat, or the platypus.
Tasmania is one of the cheapest islands to visit in Australia. You can find flights from mainland Australia or New Zealand for as low as $100 USD round trip. You can also find budget accommodation in hostels or campsites for around $10-$20 USD per night. Food is also cheap and fresh, especially if you try the local products like cheese, honey, or beer.
Some of the activities you can do in Tasmania are:
- Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Port Arthur, Macquarie Island, or Cradle Mountain
- Exploring the caves and rock formations of Mole Creek Karst National Park or the Bay of Fires
- Watching the penguins, seals, whales, or dolphins
- Taking a ferry or a boat to Bruny Island or Maria Island
- Relaxing on the beach or at a spa
Conclusion
Islands are not only beautiful and relaxing, but also affordable and accessible. You can travel to any of these 12 amazing islands on a budget and enjoy their scenery, culture, and activities. You can also save money by booking in advance, traveling off-season, or volunteering or working in exchange for accommodation or food.
We hope this list of the 12 cheap islands to visit around the world inspires you to plan your next island getaway. Remember to check the travel restrictions and requirements before you go, and to respect the local customs and environment when you are there. Happy travels!