The best islands for a relaxing escape (near and far)

Island life has a natural way of creating distance, not just physically, but mentally too. The moment your surroundings are reduced to enjoying sea air and a simpler way of life, it can do wonders for helping everyday stress fade away, helping you relax. If you’re looking to escape it all for at least a few days, without going too ‘off grid’, an island getaway can be exactly what you need.

Swapping crowds for more natural beauty and a slower-paced holiday can be a rewarding experience. Instead of rushing to see the sights in a tourist hotspot, you can enjoy long walks, quiet beaches and local culture and cuisine that is distinctive from the mainland. If this is music to your ears, below we’ll look at some of the best islands, both short and long haul, that will help you unwind and reset, with each offering a unique holiday.

Near to Home: Easy Island Escapes with Big Relaxation Energy

Sometimes, you just want to get to your destination as quickly as possible and simply relax. With Ireland not too far from some of the best island escapes in Europe, you have numerous options to consider that will help you do just that.

Short flight times, familiar comforts, and a noticeably slower pace make these destinations ideal for a relaxing break that does not feel rushed or overwhelming.

Isles of Scilly

One of the most peaceful options close to home is the Isles of Scilly. Located off the coast of Cornwall, UK, this small group of islands is known for its clear blue waters and unspoilt landscapes that feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. Life here moves gently, so you can spend your time exploring coastal paths, enjoying spacious beaches, and enjoying fresh local seafood. It is an excellent choice for those who want nature, calm surroundings, and a real sense of escape without a long journey.

There are no direct flights to the Isles of Scilly from Ireland, but you can fly to Newquay or Exeter and catch a connecting flight, or hop on the Scillonian III passenger ferry that runs between March and November from Penzance.

Mallorca

Looking for somewhere a bit warmer? The Mediterranean has much to offer in terms of islands to explore, and one of the largest is Mallorca. Yes, it has some lively parts like the capital of Palma and the many resorts, but there are laid-back spots across the island that are away from all of this. Think peaceful villages, secluded coves and beautifully scenic countryside, and you have everything you need for a relaxing break.

Take Puerto Pollensa, located in the North, where days can be spent enjoying leisurely lunches, gentle swims, and relaxed evenings overlooking the sea, whilst Deià in the Northwest has beautiful mountains and relaxed coastal charm worthy of any island escape.

Madeira

Another easy-going choice is Madeira, which combines mild weather with dramatic scenery that feels tropical and otherworldly. Well known for its walking trails and levadas, stunning coastal views, and overall calm atmosphere, Madeira is an ideal escape for those who enjoy nature and slower-paced exploration. You can relax while still appreciating beautiful surroundings and local culture, giving you lots to do during the days if you want more than just lazing by the pool.

For added relaxation, you can enjoy everything from yoga and sound bath meditation on the island to many wellness treatments and spas in Funchal, the island’s capital. Its mild all-year-round climate is perfect for being outdoors that will leave you feeling refreshed.

Further Afield: Dream Islands Worth the Journey

If it’s a long-haul island break you’re craving, where you can spend a good week or two relaxing and unwinding far away, a tropical paradise is always going to be tempting. These islands can offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make up for the long flight.

The Maldives

The Maldives is often considered the definition of island tranquillity and is on many people’s bucket lists. With over 1100 islands, these are grouped by 26 natural atolls that give the Maldives its distinctive and unique geography. With its crystal clear lagoons, villas that hover over the water, and soft white beaches, it is designed for switching off.

There are plenty of resorts to choose from that feel completely remote from the rest of the world, where you can spend your time swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying uninterrupted peace, while evenings bring quiet sunsets and calm ocean sounds. It’s relaxing just thinking about being there. This is one of the reasons why it is especially popular with couples and honeymooners seeking privacy and a memorable location. It’s certainly not a budget location, but it sure lives up to expectations.

Seychelles

Just off the east coast of mainland Africa, you’ll find the equally lauded and serene Seychelles, which is officially the smallest African nation. It is an archipelago consisting of 115 islands that provide a slightly more varied experience compared to other island locations.

Known for its dramatic granite rock formations and lush greenery, where there are many stunning walking trails to enjoy, as well as its uncrowded beaches, the Seychelles is perfect for those who want to balance relaxation with gentle exploration. You can relax by spending mornings on one of its many secluded beaches, before enjoying authentic local cuisine and then heading out on a boat tour. It really is a paradise location that will help you to de-stress and relax.

Bali

For those who prefer relaxation with a cultural edge, Bali provides a deeply restorative atmosphere. Whilst it may be a favourite with backpackers, beyond its beaches, Bali is known for its rice terraces, wellness retreats, and spiritual traditions. Yoga, spa experiences, and slow-paced village life make it popular for those looking to reset both mentally and physically, while still enjoying rich local culture.

You can also enjoy plenty more from the island with hiking tours, as well as temples and waterfalls to explore, which can give you a varied itinerary if you need some other things to do. Much like Mallorca, if you can avoid the heavily tourist parts, Bali offers the relaxation you’re looking for.

Planning a Truly Stress-Free Island Break

Now that you have some ideas, you’ll want to plan out your relaxing break as much as possible. A smooth planning process will help you relax faster and avoid any unnecessary stress.

Choosing the right travel dates is a good first step, as travelling outside peak seasons often means quieter beaches, better availability, and a calmer overall atmosphere. It also means you can enjoy the destination at its natural pace, rather than feeling caught up in crowds. Check destination guides to see when the weather is most pleasant and comfortable, and balance this with your availability.

Packing with relaxation in mind is equally important. Taking lightweight clothing you can layer, comfortable footwear, and a flexible itinerary helps keep days easy and unstructured. You’ll want to leave space for any spontaneous plans as well as simply for doing nothing at all. After all, part of the appeal of a relaxing break is not having to rush around too much.

One key part of stress-free travel is knowing you are covered if plans change or unexpected situations arise. Before you travel, and ideally at the same time of booking, it is sensible to arrange travel insurance with providers like Staysure, who offer comprehensive policies that cover everything from trip cancellations to pre-existing medical conditions. Having the right cover in place is important for your peace of mind when away, allowing you to fully relax and focus on enjoying your island escape rather than worrying about what might go wrong.

Your Perfect Island Escape Awaits

Having time to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the moment without pressure or distraction is what a relaxing escape should be all about. If you decide to visit a nearby island that feels comfortably familiar or a far-flung destination that promises complete escape, the right island break can leave you feeling genuinely refreshed rather than rushed.

Choose a destination that matches your pace and will offer you the perfect balance if you want to do a little exploring. That way, you can turn a simple holiday into a truly restorative experience you’ll want to book again.