White sand beaches and aquamarine seas contribute to making some European islands feel surprisingly tropical. Fruity cocktails with little umbrellas only add to that charm. Are these islands tropical by definition? No. However, are these islands tropical in spirit? Absolutely. Below are ten surprisingly tropical European islands to consider for your next warm and lush getaway.
Rhodes, Greece
Blending the beauty of nature with a rich history, it’s evident on arrival why Rhodes in Greece can be considered a tropical European island.
If warm summers and mild winters are your thing, Rhodes certainly won’t disappoint. Found off the coast of Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Here, you’ll be able to saunter from sandy beaches to Medieval City of Rhodes– a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rhodes Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour is a great way to learn the local history while exploring many hidden gems you might not come across otherwise.
Rhodes has an array of tropical beaches, perfect for a summer in the sun. If you’re after tranquillity, Tsambika Beach’s velvety sand and outstanding views will suit you just fine. After more of a lively atmosphere? Try out Faliraki Beach – popular for watersports, boasting sandy shores with warm water.
Overlooking the old town of Rhodes, In Camera Art Boutique Hotel is a design eye’s dream, blending traditional Greek houses with modern design touches.
Porquerolles, France
With a population of around 300 people, this quaint island in the Îles d’Hyères, Var, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France, should make your list of islands to visit in Europe. If you’re after serenity on your next holiday, the beaches that surround Porquerolles are sure to delight. Explore the eucalyptus and pine-tree-lined Plage Notre Dame, dubbed one of the best beaches on the Riviera.
As Porquerolles is part of Port-Cros National Park in France, it’s useful to know that there are some rules to be aware of for your visit. For example, you can’t visit in a car or pick flowers on the island. Giving the island a unique charm, Porquerolles is the perfect destination for a reset. Guests of T3 Escale à Giens are a quick 500 meters from Giens Peninsula and a 14-minute walk from La Mandra restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh, creative Provençal dishes aside from a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Elba, Italy
If you love having a choice of beaches, Elba should most definitely feature on your bucket list of tropical European islands. With over 100 sandy shores to choose from and clear blue skies, the tranquil scenes are something straight from a magazine. Not sure where to start?
Spiaggia di Forno is particularly popular, with plenty of opportunities for diving. For a spot of relaxation, Biodola is a wonderful spot on a sunny day. Villetta San Martino has two holiday home residences, Both with reserved parking at ‘La Biodola’, one of the most renowned white sand beaches on the island.
La Graciosa, Canary Islands
One of the best tropical islands to visit for a secluded break is La Graciosa. Saunter through the streets of whitewashed houses in Caleta del Sebo before visiting the north of the island to see some volcanoes.
After more of a relaxed break? The beaches of Playa de las Conchas boast light sands and a warm sea, sure to lull you into tranquillity. La Graciosa also has a renowned food scene. Having the freshest seafood, you’ll be able to eat delicious dishes such as grilled octopus, seafood stews and locally caught fish. True seafarers may want to select Luxury Yacht Kamikara – the perfect place to windsurf, snorkel and dive to your heart’s content.
Sardinia, Italy
Offering a warm atmosphere and relaxing beaches, Sardinia in Italy is an outstanding island to visit in Europe.
The beaches of Sardinia have an ambience and white sands that offer an undeniable charm. Some standout beaches include La Pelosa, Cala Mariolu and Spiaggia La Cinta all of which offer stunning views and clear seas. Case Li Conchi Sardegna three-bedroom villa is an expansive, historic property surrounded by manicured greenery, a terrace and pool, anda short walk to the beach.
Gozo, Malta
Despite being the second-largest island on the Maltese archipelago, travellers tend to bypass Gozo in favour of its bigger neighbour. Be assured though, Gozo deserves just as much press. With mesmerising sunsets and unique architecture, like the Rotunda of Xewkija, the Ġgantija temples and the Ta’ Pinu Basilica,Gozo is one not to forget.
Booking.com’s travel predictions for 2025 found that nearly one quarter (23%) of the current baby boomer generation want vacations that involve adventure (up from 10% in 2024**) this year. The Islands Full-Day Catamaran with Captain Imam will take you to Crystal Lagoon – Comino’s more exclusive lagoon, and Blue Lagoon – a small bay with shallow, azure-colored water. Snorkelling, diving, and swimming are especially popular on this tour, plus sea caves exploring for the adventurous traveler.
Check into the classically rustic Gozo Break Farmhouses, each with its own private pool and garden, in the villages of Kercem and San Lawrenz.
Madeira, Portugal
The variety of terrain and landscape on Madeira makes it possible to fit multiple holidays into one trip. You could undertake strenuous mountain climbing one day and lounge on the beach the next. You’ll find it especially difficult to tear yourself away from the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula due to its cliffs, rock formations and expansive views.
Most of the sandy bays here are only accessible via kayak but it’s worth the journey if you want to go marine diving or to spend a few hours sunbathing in near complete seclusion. Perfectly placed between the city and the lush landscapes, Villa 65 – City Edge Retreat two-bedroom home is the perfect base from which to explore Madeira.
Ksamil Islands, Albania
Close to the Albanian town of Ksamil in the Ionian Sea, the Islands of Ksamil can only be reached by boat and makes for a scenic day trip. Some of the islands are connected by a raised sandbank and all of them are surrounded by flowing forests of seagrass. Meanwhile on land, evergreen forests can be found above clear, aquamarine waters and offer shade from the midday heat.
Just a 6-minute walk from Ksamil Beach and half a mile from Coco Beach, Villa M Cako three-bedroom villa has free bikes available to guests and care hire available.
