TRAVEL SLEUTH
Six Incredible Islands
You Probably Haven’t Visited (and May Not Have Heard Of)
by Diane Selkirk
With nearly 900,000 islands scattered across the world, most of us will only visit a handful. While familiar tropical hot spots may top your bucket list, countless lesser-known islands offer adventure, serenity and cultural richness—without the crowds. From seafaring history to unique wildlife and empty beaches, here are six islands worth discovering.
Walk in History’s Footsteps on St. Helena
Remote St. Helena is much more than Napoleon’s final destination—it’s a time capsule brimming with natural wonders. Whale shark season (December to March) offers a rare chance to swim with gentle giants. Follow hiking trails that echo Charles Darwin’s footsteps as he catalogued discoveries on the mid-Atlantic island. Or visit Edmund Halley’s observatory where he mapped the stars of the southern sky. Once reachable only by ship, the 2017 opening of the Saint Helena Airport makes it easier to access the island’s volcanic landscapes, unique wildlife and historic sites. sthelenatourism.com
Take a Sensory Journey Through the Comoros
Once dubbed the “Perfume Isles” for its plantations of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and ylang-ylang, the Comoros archipelago offers a cultural mosaic of African, Arab and French influences. Situated between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique, these Indian Ocean islands boast coral reefs, white sand beaches and dense jungles. Wander through the narrow alleys of Mutsamudu’s medina and then immerse yourself in the island’s spice trade history on a spice tour. Cap off your day with a dip in the warm tropical waters under a vibrant sunset. vanilla-islands.org/en/indian-ocean-islands/comores/
Explore Prohibition’s French Connection on Saint-Pierre and Miquelon
Just off Newfoundland’s southeastern coast, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon blends French flair with rugged Canadian scenery. Known for its Prohibition-era rum-running, the archipelago is steeped in history. Visit Ile-aux-Marins (Sailor’s Island), an uninhabited isle with traditional homes and sweeping views that double as an open-air museum. As a French territory, you’ll pay in euros, snack on croissants, sip Bordeaux and feel worlds away—yet a new car ferry makes it a breeze to island hop from Newfoundland. en.spm-tourisme.fr
Escape to Vanua Levu’s Rugged Shores
For a South Pacific escape minus the usual crowds, Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu, delivers. Rugged and wild, the island is known for its laid-back towns, lush waterfalls and exceptional food markets. In the south, the town of Savusavu draws sailors and divers, while bustling Labasa offers a glimpse of authentic Fijian life. The Great Sea Reef, one of Fiji’s most stunning coral sites, is a must for ocean lovers. After a day on the water, indulge in a Fijian lovo—a traditional feast cooked in an underground oven with local favourites like taro, breadfruit, cassava and fresh seafood. fiji.travel/places-to-go/vanua-levu
Meet Madagascar’s Wild Side on Nosy Be
Nosy Be, meaning “Big Island” in Malagasy, is Madagascar’s popular yet blissfully low-key paradise. Friendly and fun, Nosy Be’s biggest draw is its unmatched biodiversity. From lemurs to sea turtles to bushy-tailed aye-ayes, these remarkable creatures guarantee memorable encounters. Trek through Lokobe National Park to spot Nosy Be’s famous black lemurs and listen for the sounds of Madagascar’s wildlife high in the canopy. Then, hop a boat over to Nosy Tanikely marine reserve to snorkel its vibrant coral reef. madagascar-tourisme.com/en
Experience Swahili Charm on Lamu Island, Kenya
Looking for a car-free getaway? Lamu Island off Kenya’s coast is a Swahili treasure where the streets are narrow and donkeys reign supreme. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu is steeped in Swahili architecture, Islamic culture, and ancient traditions. Stroll through Lamu Old Town and see mosques, markets and coral-stone homes, or take a sunset dhow cruise to view the island from the water. To slow the pace even further head to the beach for a long walk, or go for a snorkel in the nearby marine reserves. lamutourismassociation.com
