Katie and Pierce
Island vacations don’t have to cost a fortune. Some of the world’s most beautiful tropical destinations are surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. The cheapest islands to visit span the globe, from Southeast Asia’s $15-a-day adventures to European gems under $80 daily.
Smart travelers know the secrets: flying during shoulder seasons, staying in local guesthouses, and eating where locals eat. Many of these cheapest islands to visit also have favorable exchange rates that make your money go further.
1. Madeira, Portugal
This Portuguese island floating in the Atlantic Ocean feels like a year-round spring destination. Madeira combines dramatic volcanic landscapes with subtropical gardens and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet.
Portugal’s overall affordability extends to this Atlantic gem, making it one of the cheapest islands to visit in Europe. Unlike many tourist destinations, Madeira doesn’t have a true off-season, which means consistent pricing and reliable weather throughout the year.
The island’s famous levada walks (historic irrigation channels turned hiking trails) cost absolutely nothing and take you through some of the most stunning scenery imaginable. The Monte toboggan ride, where you slide downhill in a wicker basket steered by two men in traditional white clothes, costs about $25 and is pure fun.
Budget breakdown: Guesthouses run $30-55 per night, local meals at family-run restaurants cost $8-15, and the excellent public bus system charges about $5 for day passes.
Best time to visit: Any time works, but spring and fall bring the best deals on accommodation.
Money-saving tips: Stay in Funchal’s outskirts rather than the city center, use public buses instead of taxis, and pack lunches for your hiking adventures.
2. Boracay, Philippines
Boracay’s powdery white sand beaches and turquoise waters made it famous worldwide, but the Philippine peso’s favorable exchange rate keeps it accessible for budget travelers. This small island packs incredible variety into just 4 miles of coastline.
White Beach stretches for 2.5 miles and divides into three stations, each with different vibes and price points. Station 1 has the finest sand and highest prices, while Stations 2 and 3 cater more to budget-conscious travelers without sacrificing beach quality.
Water sports abound here, from kiteboarding and windsurfing to island hopping tours that visit hidden coves and snorkeling spots. The nightlife scene rivals any party destination, with beach bars serving cheap drinks and live music until dawn.
Budget breakdown: Budget hotels in Stations 2 and 3 cost $15-35 per night, local Filipino meals run $3-8, and most activities range from $10-30.
Best time to visit: November through April brings dry weather and perfect beach conditions.
Money-saving tips: Stay in Station 2 or 3, eat at local Filipino restaurants instead of international cuisine, and book activities directly with operators rather than through hotels.
3. São Miguel, Azores
The largest of the Azores islands sits in the middle of the Atlantic like a green jewel. São Miguel combines Portugal’s affordability with off-the-beaten-path pricing that keeps costs reasonable even during peak season.
This volcanic island feels like several destinations rolled into one. Crater lakes with different colored waters sit next to bubbling hot springs, while black sand beaches meet dramatic coastlines. The town of Furnas cooks traditional cozido stew underground using volcanic heat.
Whale watching here ranks among the world’s best, with sperm whales, dolphins, and seasonal migrations visible year-round. The island’s compact size makes it perfect for road trips, and rental cars cost much less than guided tours.
Budget breakdown: Family-run guesthouses charge $35-60 per night, meals at local tascas (taverns) cost $8-15, and car rentals run about $25 per day.
Best time to visit: May through October brings the warmest weather and best whale watching conditions.
Money-saving tips: Rent a car to explore independently, eat at local tascas instead of tourist restaurants, and visit the free natural hot springs instead of paid spa facilities.
4. Zanzibar, Tanzania
This spice island off Tanzania’s coast blends African, Arab, and Indian cultures into something completely unique. Zanzibar’s favorable exchange rate and low local costs make it one of the cheapest islands to visit anywhere.
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, winds through narrow alleys filled with spice shops, traditional markets, and historic buildings. The architecture tells stories of sultans, traders, and explorers who shaped this crossroads of cultures.
Pristine beaches ring the island, particularly on the east coast where white sand meets impossibly blue water. Spice tours, snorkeling trips, and sunset dhow cruises provide cultural immersion at budget-friendly prices.
Budget breakdown: Local guesthouses cost $15-30 per night, street food and local meals run $3-8, and most activities range from $5-20.
Best time to visit: June through October brings dry weather perfect for beach time and outdoor activities.
Money-saving tips: Stay in local guesthouses in Stone Town, shop at Darajani Market for fresh produce, and use daladalas (local minibuses) for cheap transportation around the island.
5. Crete, Greece
Greece’s largest island combines ancient history with stunning beaches and mountain villages where time seems frozen. Crete’s size creates competition among accommodations and restaurants, keeping prices more reasonable than smaller Greek islands.
Ancient Minoan palaces like Knossos reveal 4,000-year-old civilizations, while Venetian harbors in Chania show more recent European influences. The island’s diverse landscapes range from pink sand beaches to snow-capped mountains.
Local tavernas serve some of Greece’s best food at prices that won’t shock your budget. Fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional dishes like dakos (rusks with tomato and cheese) showcase authentic Cretan flavors.
Budget breakdown: Budget hotels and pensions cost $25-45 per night, taverna meals run $8-15, and local buses charge $2-8 for most routes.
Best time to visit: April through June and September through October provide perfect weather with shoulder season pricing.
Money-saving tips: Travel during shoulder seasons, stay in mountain villages rather than beach resorts, and use the reliable public bus system instead of rental cars.
6. Co To Island, Vietnam
This hidden gem in northern Vietnam near Ha Long Bay remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism. Co To Island’s untouched natural beauty and rock-bottom local prices make it a budget traveler’s dream.
Three main islands connected by bridges create diverse landscapes from peaceful fishing villages to dramatic clifftop viewpoints. The clear waters and coral reefs provide excellent snorkeling, while hiking trails lead to secluded beaches and panoramic vistas.
Local fishing families often rent simple rooms in their homes, providing authentic cultural experiences alongside budget accommodation. Fresh seafood costs almost nothing, and the island’s small size makes walking the primary transportation method.
Budget breakdown: Family homestays cost $10-20 per night, fresh seafood meals run $3-8, and boat trips to nearby islands charge $10-15.
Best time to visit: April through October provides the best weather for outdoor activities and beach time.
Money-saving tips: Stay with local families, eat at family-run seafood restaurants, and book boat trips directly with local fishermen rather than tour operators.
7. Trinidad and Tobago
These twin Caribbean islands get overshadowed by more famous neighbors, which keeps prices reasonable and crowds manageable. Trinidad and Tobago pack incredible diversity into a small area, from rainforests to coral reefs.
Trinidad pulses with energy, especially during Carnival season when the island becomes the Caribbean’s party capital. Steel pan music was invented here, and locals take pride in sharing their musical heritage with visitors. Tobago focuses more on beaches and diving.
Both islands feature free public beaches, extensive hiking trails, and some of the Caribbean’s best birdwatching. The local food scene mixes Indian, African, and Caribbean influences into unique flavors.
Budget breakdown: Local guesthouses charge $30-50 per night, street food and local restaurants cost $5-12, and public transportation runs $3-8 for most trips.
Best time to visit: January through May avoids both hurricane season and Carnival’s premium pricing.
Money-saving tips: Use public transportation instead of taxis, eat at local food courts and street vendors, and avoid traveling during Carnival when prices double.
8. Siargao, Philippines
Siargao transformed from a sleepy fishing island into a world-famous surf destination while somehow maintaining its laid-back charm and budget-friendly prices. The island attracts surfers for Cloud 9’s perfect barrels, but non-surfers find plenty to love too.
Palm-lined roads perfect for scooter adventures connect pristine lagoons, hidden rock pools, and white sand beaches. Island hopping tours visit Naked Island (literally just a sandbar), Daku Island’s coconut forests, and Sugba Lagoon’s crystal-clear swimming holes.
The island’s growing coworking scene and outdoor gyms cater to digital nomads, while beach bars and restaurants maintain the chill surfer vibe. Accommodation ranges from beach huts to boutique hotels, all priced for backpacker budgets.
Budget breakdown: Beachfront bungalows cost $5-20 per night, local meals run $2-5, and scooter rentals charge about $5 per day.
Best time to visit: March through October brings consistent surf and dry weather.
Money-saving tips: Stay in local homestays, eat at neighborhood eateries, and rent scooters for independent transportation around the island.
9. Malta
This tiny Mediterranean nation punches above its weight in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty. Malta’s strategic location between Europe and Africa created a unique blend of influences, while its size keeps transportation costs minimal.
Valletta, one of Europe’s smallest capitals, packs incredible baroque architecture into just 0.24 square miles. The Blue Lagoon on nearby Comino Island boasts some of the Mediterranean’s clearest water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Ancient temples older than Stonehenge dot the landscape, while excellent diving sites attract underwater adventurers. The island’s compact size means you can see everything without expensive inter-island flights.
Budget breakdown: Budget hotels cost $30-50 per night, local meals run $8-15, and public buses charge just $1.50 per ride.
Best time to visit: April through June and September through October provide perfect weather with off-season pricing.
Money-saving tips: Travel during shoulder seasons, use the excellent public bus system, and visit free historic sites like the ancient temples and Valletta’s streets.
10. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Vietnam’s largest island sits in the Gulf of Thailand like a tropical paradise waiting to be found. Phu Quoc combines Vietnam’s famous affordability with island relaxation and adventure opportunities.
Long Beach stretches for miles along the western coast, perfect for sunset watching and beach lounging. Floating fishing villages show traditional ways of life, while night markets serve incredibly cheap and delicious street food.
The island produces Vietnam’s famous fish sauce and black pepper, both available for tasting and purchase at local farms. Cable car rides to nearby islands and national park hiking trails provide adventure without breaking budgets.
Budget breakdown: Hostels and budget hotels cost $8-20 per night, street food meals run $2-5, and motorbike rentals charge about $5 per day.
Best time to visit: November through April brings dry weather perfect for outdoor activities.
Money-saving tips: Eat street food at night markets, stay in budget accommodations away from resort areas, and rent motorbikes for independent island touring.
11. Bali, Indonesia
The Island of the Gods balances spiritual culture with tropical beauty and backpacker-friendly prices. Bali’s strong tourism infrastructure means excellent value for money across accommodation, food, and activities.
Rice terraces around Ubud create some of the world’s most photographed landscapes, while beaches in Canggu and Seminyak cater to surfers and sun seekers. Ancient temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu provide cultural experiences and stunning sunset viewpoints.
Local warungs (small restaurants) serve authentic Indonesian food for incredibly low prices, while the island’s compact size makes scooter transportation both fun and affordable.
Budget breakdown: Hostels and homestays cost $8-25 per night, warung meals run $1-5, and scooter rentals charge about $5 per day.
Best time to visit: April through October brings dry weather ideal for outdoor activities and beach time.
Money-saving tips: Stay in Ubud or Canggu rather than Seminyak, eat at local warungs instead of Western restaurants, and use scooters for transportation.
12. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Scotland’s most famous island trades tropical beaches for dramatic landscapes that look like fantasy movie sets. Skye’s rugged beauty costs much less during winter months when accommodation prices drop significantly.
The Old Man of Storr, Fairy Pools, and Quiraing create hiking opportunities through some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery. Traditional pubs serve hearty Scottish food and local whisky, while cozy B&Bs provide warm hospitality.
Winter visits mean shorter days and unpredictable weather, but also fewer crowds and magical scenes of snow-capped mountains and moody skies. The island’s small size makes it perfect for long weekend escapes.
Budget breakdown: B&Bs cost $40-70 per night, pub meals run $12-20, and car rentals charge about $30 per day.
Best time to visit: November through March for budget travelers willing to embrace winter’s dramatic beauty.
Money-saving tips: Visit during off-season months, stay in B&Bs rather than hotels, prepare your own meals when possible, and take advantage of free hiking trails and natural attractions.
13. Roatan, Honduras
This Caribbean island combines world-class diving with laid-back island vibes and Central American prices. Roatan’s coral reef system creates some of the hemisphere’s best underwater experiences at a fraction of Caribbean resort costs.
The island caters to eco-tourism with zip-lining through tropical forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and pristine beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Local culture blends Caribbean, Central American, and indigenous influences.
Diving here costs much less than other Caribbean destinations, with excellent visibility and abundant marine life including whale sharks, dolphins, and colorful reef fish.
Budget breakdown: Budget hotels and guesthouses cost $25-40 per night, local meals run $8-15, and diving packages range from $20-50.
Best time to visit: February through August provides the best weather and diving conditions.
Money-saving tips: Stay in the West End rather than resort areas, eat at local comedores (family restaurants), and book diving packages rather than individual dives.
14. Puerto Rico, US Territory
This Caribbean gem eliminates many travel complications for US citizens while providing tropical paradise at competitive prices. Puerto Rico uses US dollars and requires no passport, making it incredibly accessible.
Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets wind past colorful colonial buildings and historic forts. El Yunque rainforest provides hiking trails and waterfalls, while bioluminescent Mosquito Bay creates magical nighttime kayaking experiences.
The island’s mix of beaches, mountains, cities, and culture means something for every type of traveler. Public transportation connects major attractions, keeping costs reasonable.
Budget breakdown: Budget hotels cost $50-80 per night, local meals run $10-20, and public transportation charges $1-3 per ride.
Best time to visit: December through April for peak weather, May through November for better deals.
Money-saving tips: Stay outside San Juan in smaller towns, use public buses and trains, and visit free attractions like beaches and hiking trails in El Yunque.
15. Kos, Greece
This Greek island near Turkey flies under the radar compared to Santorini and Mykonos, which keeps prices reasonable while delivering authentic Greek island experiences. Kos combines ancient history with beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Ancient ruins include a medieval castle and Roman-era sites, while beaches range from busy resort areas to secluded coves perfect for swimming. The island’s compact size makes cycling a popular way to get around.
Traditional tavernas serve fresh Greek food at prices that won’t shock your budget, while the nightlife scene caters to young travelers looking for fun without luxury price tags.
Budget breakdown: Budget hotels cost $25-40 per night, taverna meals run $8-15, and local transportation charges $2-5 per trip.
Best time to visit: May through September for beach weather, shoulder seasons for the best deals.
Money-saving tips: Visit during off-season months, eat at local tavernas rather than tourist restaurants, and use public transportation or bicycles instead of taxis.
