12 Best Spanish Islands (2020 Guide)

Want to visit the Spanish islands? Here’s a list of the 12 Best Islands in Spain to visit in 2020 with photos & more details about each one.

Menorca

Menorca is one of the main islands in the Balaeric archipelago, located east of Mallorca. The island is known for its untouched nature and beautiful landscapes. It has a slow pace and rural vibes that make it a great place to go for a relaxing vacation.

Despite its natural beauty, there are fewer tourists coming here, and there are plenty of hidden gems and beautiful calas to explore. Additionally, Menorca is renowned for its Megalithic stone monuments that date back to the Talayotic culture.

Furthermore, the island has a rich flora and fauna with over 900 types of flowers recorded. It also features a diverse birdlife, which makes it an ideal destination for birdwatching.

Cies Islands

The Cies Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, and while they are relatively unexplored by international tourists, it’s a local favorite in the northwestern part of the country. 

The archipelago has been declared a Nature Reserve since 1980 with a rich marine life. Monteagudo is the main island of Cies and it has daily connections with the ports of Vigo during the summer months.

This is also where you can soak up the sun at Praia das Rodas, which has been named as the best beach in the world.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is one of my favorite islands in Spain. I love the volcanic landscapes and the charming houses that have been designed by the local artist César Manrique.

It’s one of the major islands in the Canarian archipelago and it boasts some spectacular scenery that ranges from black sand beaches to volcanic vineyards and desertlike moon landscapes. 

La Gomera

La Gomera is a small island with a diameter of just 25 kilometers but still, there are over 600 kilometers of trails where you can go hiking. This is also where you can experience the whistling language that dates back to the indigenous people.

The landscapes are full of spectacular sceneries and picturesque villages with traditional architecture. Furthermore, the island is home to Garajonay National Park which has a laurel forest that dates back millions of years ago to the times when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

Mallorca

Mallorca is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Spain with more than 10 million tourists annually. The capital, Palma de Mallorca is one of the largest cities in Spain and boasts some beautiful architecture and historic buildings, such as the La Seu Cathedral.

However, most tourists come here to enjoy the beaches and there are countless hotels and resorts to choose from. And while some claim that the island of Mallorca is too touristy, I can assure you that there are still hidden gems, away from the crowds. 

Some of the most charming towns in Mallorca are Valldemossa, Fornalutx, Bunyola, Deia, and Pollensa. The northern part of the island features spectacular scenery such as Cap de Formentor and the Tramuntana mountains.  

Formentera

Formentera is the smallest of the main Balearic Islands in Spain. It can be reached by ferry from Ibiza and is best known for its pristine white beaches, such as Playa de Ses Illetes, which is often named as one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain.

There is also a regular ferry service from the mainland. It’s very popular to go here in July and August, but I recommend that you travel here during the shoulder season instead. Formentera is best enjoyed with fewer tourists since it’s a small island.  

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and home to the highest mountain in Spain. The island is a popular destination for beach vacations and it attracts tourists all-year-round due to its pleasant climate and warm temperatures.

There are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tenerife, namely La Laguna and Teide National Park. Playa de Las Teresitas is also one of the most beautiful beaches in the Canarian archipelago. 

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is known for its large number of beaches and massive sand dunes. It’s also a popular destination for windsurfers and kitesurfers who come here from all over the world. 

It’s the second-largest island of the Canary Islands with a total area of 1,660 square kilometers (640 sq mi). Fuerteventura is also one of the oldest Spanish islands, and it was formed after a volcanic eruption some 20 million years ago.

Visitors can enjoy almost endless strips of sand with beautiful backdrops. La Concha, El Caserón and Corralejo are some of the best beaches on the island. Additionally, it’s also a popular diving destination with several diving schools across the island. 

Ibiza

Ibiza is one of the most famous islands in Spain, especially renowned for its nightlife and clubs that attract celebrities and some of the best DJ:s in the world. However, there’s a different side to Ibiza as well with pristine nature and beaches. 

A large part of Ibiza is protected from development and registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It has been settled since at least the 6th century when Phoenicians came here. 

Even if you’re not a fan of partying from evening to early mornings, Ibiza is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain. If you travel here during shoulder-season, there are fewer tourists and lower prices on accommodation as well.  

El Hierro

El Hierro is one of the smallest islands in the Canarian archipelago. Throughout history, it has been known as the Meridian island, and today it’s a tourist destination that has maintained its traditional look and vibes.

Despite its small size, El Hierro holds a World Biosphere Status by UNESCO, and there are a total of 46 diving sites where divers can explore the rich marine life. Furthermore, it’s the only Spanish island that is 100% self-sufficient with renewable energy. 

La Palma

La Palma is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain and part of the Canary archipelago. It’s a volcanic island that is known for its untouched nature and various hiking trails.

It’s nicknamed Isla Bonita or Isla Verde in Spanish, where the former means “Beautiful Island” and the latter meaning “Green Island”. Some of the best places to visit in La Gomera include the Los Tilos Forest, Volcano Route, Puerto Naos (black sand beach), Santa Cruz de La Palma, and Fuencaliente Salt Pans. 

It’s also an epic place for stargazing, and La Palma is home to one of the best renowned astronomical observatories in the world, the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory.

Gran Canaria

Last but not least, Gran Canaria, one of the most iconic Spanish islands and a long-time favorite among international tourists and locals alike. Most of the tourist towns are located in the south of Gran Canaria where the climate is warm and sunny year-round. 

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital city of the Canary Islands and there are plenty of interesting places to visit in Las Palmas. Additionally, there are several beaches such as Playa Amadores, Anfi Beach, and Puerto Rico beach. 

Furthermore, the island features some spectacular scenery with everything from massive sand dunes to beautiful mountains and valleys. 

More info about the islands in Spain

The most popular Spanish islands are located in either the Balearic archipelago or the Canary Islands. They attract millions of visitors every your, both local and international tourists. However, there are several smaller islands in Spain that are less famous with fewer tourists. 

Mallorca and Tenerife are the largest Spanish islands by size and population together with Gran Canaria. The Canary Islands are situated west of the African continent, but are still part of Spain, although the Province of Canary Islands is an autonomous community.

Murcia, Andalusia, Galicia, Cantabria, and Asturias, as well as the Basque Country, are some of the other regions in Spain where you can find several Spanish Islands.

How many Spanish islands are there?

There is a total of 164 islands in Spain where the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands are seen as the main island groups. 

Which Spanish island has the best beaches?

Formentera is home to the famous Playa de Ses Illetes, but there are several islands in Spain that have beautiful beaches. Mallorca, Menorca, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Tenerife are some of the Spanish islands with the best beaches.  

What are the names of the 4 Balearic Islands in Spain?

Officially, there are 12 Balearic islands. The 4 major Balearic islands are Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. 

Other Spanish islands that are worth visiting

• Illa de Arousa
• La Graciosa
• Cabrera
• Alegranza
• Isla de Tabarca

List of all islands in Spain

Cantabria and Galicia are the two autonomous communities that have the largest number of islands in Spain.

Island	Autonomous Community	Province
Isla de Ízaro	Basque Country	Vizcaya
Garraitz	Basque Country	Vizcaya
Santa Clara	Basque Country	Guipúzcoa
Aqueche	Basque Country	Vizcaya
Txatxarramendi	Basque Country	Vizcaya
Villano	Basque Country	Vizcaya
Isla de los Faisanes	Basque Country	Guipúzcoa
Montehano	Cantabria	Cantabria
Santa Marina o Los Jorganes	Cantabria	Cantabria
Pedrosa	Cantabria	Cantabria
Virgen del Mar	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla del Castro	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla de San Pedruco	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla de la Oliva	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla Conejera	Cantabria	Cantabria
Urros de Liencres	Cantabria	Cantabria
isla Sarnosa o Castru los Carneros	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla de Mouro	Cantabria	Cantabria
Castril, Amío o Mío, Las Lastras de Pechón	Cantabria	Cantabria
La Pasiega o Solita	Cantabria	Cantabria
La Torre	Cantabria	Cantabria
Peñón de Moja el Rabo	Cantabria	Cantabria
Ratones o Marnay	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla de la Horadada	Cantabria	Cantabria
Islote de Ansión	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla Segunda	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla Casilda	Cantabria	Cantabria
Neptuno Niño	Cantabria	Cantabria
Oriñón	Cantabria	Cantabria
Castro	Cantabria	Cantabria
Cuarezo	Cantabria	Cantabria
Llera	Cantabria	Cantabria
Águila	Cantabria	Cantabria
Suaces	Cantabria	Cantabria
Garfanta	Cantabria	Cantabria
Isla de la Hierba	Cantabria	Cantabria
La Campanuca	Cantabria	Cantabria
Deva	Asturias	Asturias
Pantorgas	Asturias	Asturias
Islas de Póo	Asturias	Asturias
Isla Herbosa	Asturias	Asturias
Isla del Castrón de Santiuste	Asturias	Asturias
Isla del Forcón	Asturias	Asturias
Isla de Borizo	Asturias	Asturias
Isla del Carmen	Asturias	Asturias
La Islona	Asturias	Asturias
Isla de Tapia	Asturias	Asturias
Isla de Veiga	Asturias	Asturias
Isla Ballota	Asturias	Asturias
Illa de Arousa	Galicia	Pontevedra
Islas Cíes	Galicia	Pontevedra
Ons	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de Sálvora	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de La Toja	Galicia	Pontevedra
Islas Sisargas	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de Cortegada	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de Onza	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de Tambo	Galicia	Pontevedra
Islas Estelas	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla Coelleira	Galicia	Lugo
Isla de Tourís Novo	Galicia	Pontevedra
Islas de San Pedro	Galicia	A Coruña
Islas Sagres	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de Vionta	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de Toralla	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla da Marma	Galicia	Pontevedra
La Toja Pequeña	Galicia	Pontevedra
Ansarón	Galicia	Lugo
Guidoiro Areoso	Galicia	Pontevedra
A Creba	Galicia	A Coruña
Lobeiras	Galicia	A Coruña
Centoleiras	Galicia	A Coruña
Beiro	Galicia	Pontevedra
Farallóns	Galicia	Lugo
Guidoiro Pedregoso	Galicia	Pontevedra
Malveiras	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de Os Forcados	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de Santa Comba	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de Noro	Galicia	A Coruña
Islas Briñas	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de La Rúa	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de San Simón	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de Area	Galicia	Lugo
Isla de Pombeiro	Galicia	Pontevedra
Isla de Santa Cruz	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla del Penedo da Ínsua	Galicia	Lugo
Isla Herbosa	Galicia	A Coruña
San Clemente	Galicia	Pontevedra
San Vicente	Galicia	A Coruña
San Antón (Pontevedra)	Galicia	Pontevedra
San Antón (La Coruña)	Galicia	A Coruña
Pancha	Galicia	Lugo
Gavoteira	Galicia	A Coruña
Isla de Santa Catalina	Ceuta	Ceuta
Isla Canela	Andalusia	Huelva
Isla de La Gaviota	Andalusia	Huelva
Isla de Saltés	Andalusia	Huelva
Isla Mayor	Andalusia	Sevilla
Las Palomas	Andalusia	Cádiz
Isla de León	Andalusia	Cádiz
Trocadero	Andalusia	Cádiz
Sancti Petri	Andalusia	Cádiz
San Andrés	Andalusia	Almería
Terreros	Andalusia	Almería
Isla Negra	Andalusia	Almería
Alborán	Andalusia	Almería
San Sebastián	Andalusia	Cádiz
Piedra Salmedina	Andalusia	Cádiz
Piedra del Hombre	Andalusia	Cádiz
Isla Mayor	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla Perdiguera	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla Grosa	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla del Ciervo	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla del Fraile	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla de Mazarrón	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla de Escombreras	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla del Sujeto	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Rondella	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Las Palomas	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla Plana (Cartagena)	Murcia	Región de Murcia
Isla de Tabarca	Valencian Community	Alicante
Islas Columbretes	Valencian Community	Castellón
Benidorm	Valencian Community	Alicante
Portichol	Valencian Community	Alicante
Descubridor	Valencian Community	Alicante
Medas	Catalonia	Gerona
Port Lligat	Catalonia	Gerona
Encalladora	Catalonia	Gerona
Isla de S’Arenella	Catalonia	Gerona
Isla del Castellar	Catalonia	Gerona
Islas Formigues	Catalonia	Gerona
Isla de Buda	Catalonia	Tarragona
Isla Massa d’Or	Catalonia	Gerona
Mallorca	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Menorca	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Ibiza	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Formentera	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Cabrera	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Isla Dragonera	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Isla de Espalmador	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Isla de Colom	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Isla del Aire	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Isla del Rey	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Isla de Tosqueta	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Islote de Binicodrell	Balearic Islands	Islas Baleares
Tenerife	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Fuerteventura	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Gran Canaria	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Lanzarote	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
La Palma	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
La Gomera	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
El Hierro	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
La Graciosa	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Alegranza	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Lobos Island	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Montaña Clara	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Roques de Anaga	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Roque de Garachico	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Roque del Este	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Roques de Salmor	Canary Islands	Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Roque del Oeste	Canary Islands	Las Palmas
Islas Chafarinas	Plaza de Soberanía
Islas Alhucemas	Plaza de Soberanía
Isla de Perejil	Plaza de Soberanía

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Which of the Spanish islands would you like to visit? Leave a comment below!