15 Gorgeous Spanish Islands To Add To Your Bucket List

Do you ever wish you could just hop on a plane and find yourself in a place with clear waters, charming villages, and a laid-back vibe? Spain’s islands have all of that and more. So, let’s take a look at 15 Spanish islands you’ll definitely want to add to your bucket list.

Mallorca

Mallorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands and offers a wide range of experiences. Its capital, Palma, features landmarks like the Palma Cathedral and a busy waterfront full of restaurants and shops. Inland, you’ll find traditional villages such as Soller and Valldemossa.

Ibiza

While known for its world-class clubs and beach parties, this island’s quieter side is filled with peaceful coves and charming villages like Santa Gertrudis. What many don’t know is that Ibiza’s biodiversity is remarkable, as the island is home to various bird species, such as the Audouin’s gull. 

Menorca

Menorca, in contrast to its more famous neighbors, is an island for those seeking serenity. Its beaches are far less crowded than those of Mallorca, with some of the most beautiful, like Cala Mitjana, only accessible by foot or boat. 

Formentera

A peaceful island, Formentera embraces a slower pace, with bicycles and mopeds the main modes of transport. Visit Ses Illetes, a beach that looks like it’s been plucked from a dream, with white sand stretching into the turquoise sea. 

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, offering an incredible mix of volcanic terrains, lush forests, and sandy beaches. It’s home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, which you can hike or take a cable car to the top.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is often referred to as a “miniature continent” because of its diverse climate zones. Here, the Maspalomas sand dunes are a must-see, stretching like a desert in the middle of the island, while the villages in the mountains provide a glimpse of rural life. 

Lanzarote

This one’s volcanic backdrops make it one of the most visually striking islands in Spain. Moreover, the island’s dramatic eruptions have created otherworldly terrain, like the Timanfaya National Park, where geothermal heat still simmers beneath the earth’s surface. 

La Palma

With over 1,000 kilometers of trails, this island is a hiker’s dream. Its dedication to preserving its dark skies makes it a top destination for stargazing, and La Palma is also home to one of the most important astronomical observatories in the world.

La Gomera

La Gomera offers trails winding through the UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park. The island’s dense forests and ancient laurel trees create a mystical atmosphere. If you’re an adventurer, take a dip in the natural pools of Vallehermoso and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the island.

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is famous for its long, golden beaches and constant winds, making it a top destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding. But it’s not all about the surf—Fuerteventura’s small villages and untouched nature offer a relaxed vibe for anyone looking to unwind. 

El Hierro

El Hierro is the second-smallest of the Canary Islands and one of the least visited, making it a perfect destination for those looking to avoid the tourist crowds. Visitors to El Hierro can enjoy its dramatic terrain, where volcanic craters meet the sea and crystal-clear waters that make it a haven for divers. 

Cabrera

Just south of Majorca, Cabrera Island remains a hidden paradise that is protected as a national park. Wild and unspoiled, it’s a haven for rare birds. Moreover, strict visitor limits preserve its magical stillness, making every trip feel like stepping back into a quieter, purer Mediterranean world.

Cies Islands

The Cies Islands are a hidden gem for those who love nature and serenity. The island’s highlight is its beaches—Praia de Rodas is frequently ranked among the best in the world. Visitors can also enjoy peaceful walks and explore the local flora and fauna.

Tabarca

Tabarca is Spain’s smallest inhabited island, just off the coast of Alicante. This charming island is known for its traditional village and marine reserve. So, spend your day snorkeling, wandering through the cobbled streets, and savoring local seafood at the harbor.

Ons Island

If you’re looking for an island without crowds, traffic, or noise, Ons Island is a smart pick. Part of Galicia’s Atlantic Islands National Park, it’s a protected spot packed with beaches and hiking trails. Plus, cars aren’t allowed, which keeps the island peaceful and makes it easy to explore on foot.