12 Amazingly Cheap Islands You Need to Visit This Year

864

Having explored 69 countries, I’ve learned that the world’s most beautiful islands aren’t always the most expensive. For 2025, I’ve compiled 12 affordable island paradises based on years of research and personal experience.

These spots deliver white-sand beaches, crystal waters, and epic adventures without breaking the bank. No overpriced resorts. No tourist traps. Just raw beauty, authentic culture, and prices that’ll make you wonder why everyone else is overpaying. Here are my favorite cheap island getaways you should explore in 2025. I saved some of my favorites for last!

My #1 tip for scoring cheap island flights

Flights are usually the most expensive part of island getaways. But here’s what most people don’t know: I’ve been using Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) for 5 years & it’s saved me thousands. Think $199 flights to the Caribbean, or $280 to the Mediterranean.

You just plug in your departure city, and Going sends flight alerts you’d never find on Google—including mistake fares and flash deals. The free version is great. But I use Premium Version ($49/year) to get alerts sooner (totally worth it for how fast deals disappear).

The cheapest islands to visit in 2025

As a travel blogger, I’ve explored countless islands, each offering amazing experiences. While tropical paradises with white sands and turquoise waters often steal the spotlight, this list goes beyond the obvious. Think Scotland’s rugged Isle of Skye or Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture alongside familiar gems like Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

Islands may take a little extra effort to reach, but trust me, they’re worth it. Ready to explore? Here are the 12 cheapest islands to visit in 2025!

1. Siargao, Philippines

Siargao blew my mind. I spent two weeks here last year, and it was genuinely life-changing. This island in the Philippines is best known for surfing (Cloud 9 is world-famous). But there’s so much more than waves. Think palm-lined roads, crystal-clear lagoons, hidden rock pools, and island-hopping to places like Naked Island and Sugba Lagoon. I also love its coworking spaces and outdoor gyms. They are truly next level!

What makes Siargao unique is its raw, untouched charm. You won’t find mega-resorts or tourist traps here…just friendly locals, scooter adventures, and a laid-back vibe that pulls you in. It’s also insanely cheap. I stayed in a beachfront bungalow for under $20 a night, ate fresh seafood for $3, and rented a scooter for $5 a day. For me, it’s basically Bali in prices and amenities from 10 years ago.

If you’re looking for one of the most affordable islands in the world and a destination that hits you deep in the soul, Siargao’s it. I came for the adventure…but left feeling something way bigger.

2. Sao Miguel, Azores (Portugal)

São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores and one of the best-value destinations in Europe. I visited during the shoulder season, and flights from Boston were under $300 roundtrip. This deal is very easy to find on Going.com – I see direct flights to the Azores from the East Coast all the time. I highly recommend signing up for their free version for domestic flights and the premium for international.

The geothermal hot springs in Furnas cost just a few euros and feel amazing after a long hike. Hike to Lagoa do Fogo early in the morning for fog-free views, then grab a €5 cozido stew cooked underground at a local tasca. Other must-dos: visit Sete Cidades crater, explore the tea plantations (free entry), and swim in natural ocean pools near Mosteiros.

Accommodations are reasonable. I stayed in a clean guesthouse with ocean views for $45/night. You don’t need a tour…renting a car is the key. Gas is affordable, roads are quiet, and the whole island is easy to explore in 3 to 5 days. Groceries and meals out are cheap, and tap water is drinkable. It’s quiet, scenic, and surprisingly budget-friendly.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Welcome to the Island of the Gods! Bali is a destination that is on everyone’s travel bucket list, and it’s no wonder why. This exotic island is known for its stunning beaches, lush rice paddies, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. But did you know that Bali is also one of the cheapest islands to visit? That’s right, you can soak up all the beauty and charm of Bali without breaking the bank!

One of the things that makes Bali such a desirable destination is its unique blend of culture and natural beauty. You can start your day with a sunrise hike up Mount Batur, one of Bali’s active volcanoes, and end it with a sunset yoga class overlooking rice terraces in Ubud. In between, you can visit sacred temples, explore local markets, and indulge in delicious Indonesian cuisine.

To do Bali on a budget, start with accommodation. Hostels, homestays, and guesthouses in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak can go for $8–$20 a night. For groups, private villas can be surprisingly cheap when split.

Eat at warungs or night markets where meals like nasi goreng and mie goreng cost $1–$3. Smoothie bowls and fresh juices are everywhere and usually under $4.

Rent a scooter for around $5/day instead of using taxis. It’s the cheapest way to get around…just wear a helmet and watch the traffic. You don’t need to splurge to enjoy Bali’s nature, food, and culture. Plan smart, eat local, and skip the tours when possible.

4. Island Grande, Colombia

Isla Grande is part of Colombia’s Rosario Islands, just a one-hour boat ride from Cartagena. It’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to escape the city and experience clear Caribbean waters on a budget.

For day trips, tours start around $15–$25 and usually include transport, lunch, and access to a beach club. If you want to stay overnight, basic beach huts or eco-hostels start at $25–$40 per night. Electricity can be limited, so charge devices during the day.

Bring cash…there are no ATMs on this beautiful island. Meals at local spots cost around $5–$10, and fresh fish is the best thing to order. You can rent snorkel gear or book boat tours to see mangroves, coral reefs, and bioluminescent plankton at night.

There’s not much Wi-Fi, so it’s a good spot to unplug. Use water shoes for rocky areas and arrive early if you’re not staying overnight – boats back to Cartagena fill up fast.

5. Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is one of the most breathtakingly rugged islands in Europe…and visiting in the off-season (November to March) makes it surprisingly affordable. You’ll find discounted rates on guesthouses, fewer crowds at top sights, and dramatic winter scenery you won’t get in summer.

Rent a car (essential here) and explore iconic spots like the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Pools – often with nobody else around. Portree, the island’s main town, is a good base with budget B&Bs and cozy pubs that stay open year-round. Don’t miss Eilean Donan Castle on your way in or the Talisker Distillery for a warm-up. The medieval castles are next level!

Expect shorter days and moody weather, so plan hikes early and pack waterproof gear. Some businesses close for winter, but nature doesn’t. If you’re into wild landscapes, road trips, and peace, Skye in the off-season is unforgettable…and far cheaper than peak summer.

6. Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean

Another of the most affordable islands to visit is the nation of Sri Lanka. It’s located just off the coast of India in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka has some truly swanky hotels that could cost you hundreds of dollars per night. But if you intend to travel on a budget, you can certainly find discounted accommodations or even hostels and homestays. Those will be your cheapest options for where to stay.

Planning your visit

Sri Lanka is such a cheap island to visit for the same reason as the Isle of Skye: there’s so much to do outdoors for little cost or none at all. You can walk the streets of basically any city and find fresh, low-cost produce. Or you can bask on one of Sri Lanka’s many beautiful and picturesque beaches. If you want to catch some fascinating sights on the human history end of things, Sri Lanka has several Buddhist temples to visit. Or check out the local flora and fauna at one of the country’s national parks.

Getting around in Sri Lanka is pretty easy. You have so many public-transport options, including buses, taxis, and trains. You can take any of these to get where you’re going for just a few U.S. dollars.

All in all, Sri Lanka is really going to be one of the most affordable islands to visit. The best time to go is from November to April. That’s the dry season where you should experience warm but relatively dry days.

7. Roatan, Honduras

Welcome to Roatan, a tropical paradise of Honduras! This island destination is a hidden gem that offers visitors pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. And the best part? Roatan is one of the cheapest islands to visit, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Roatan is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing island getaway. Spend your days lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and sipping on a fresh coconut. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving in the vibrant coral reefs that surround the island. Roatan is also known for its eco-tourism, with opportunities to explore the island’s lush rainforests and encounter exotic wildlife.

Exploring the island in a budget-friendly way

When it comes to experiencing Roatan on the cheap, there are plenty of options for budget-friendly accommodation. From cozy hostels to charming guesthouses, there are plenty of options for travelers of all budgets. Food and drinks are also affordable, with local eateries offering delicious Caribbean cuisine at reasonable prices.

One of the best ways to experience Roatan on the cheap is by taking advantage of the many free activities the island has to offer. You can hike through the lush jungles, explore the island’s picturesque villages, or simply spend a lazy day lounging on the beach.

Transportation on the island is also affordable, with taxis and buses readily available. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a scooter or bicycle to explore the island at your own pace. You’ll quickly see why this is one of my favorite budget islands.

8. Aruba, Caribbean Sea

Next up on this list of the cheapest islands to visit is Aruba, located in the Caribbean Sea north of Venezuela. You have probably heard of Aruba before. It is quite a popular destination for people looking to get away from the humdrum of their daily lives and enjoy some time in the tropics. Because Aruba is so popular, though, you may think that you can’t visit this Caribbean island on a budget. Not so!

Getting by on the cheap

Plenty of hotels around the island offer pleasant rooms for well under $100 per night. You don’t necessarily need the biggest and best resorts to enjoy your time away. And because the scenery is so beautiful here, you also don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy what’s around.

Take a trip to Eagle Beach in the capital city of Oranjestad. There, you can enjoy the white sands and calming blue Caribbean waters. You can also take in Aruba’s awesome nightlife. Or wander up to the northern coast of the island to see and photograph California Lighthouse, the tallest structure on Aruba. There is so much else to do for no or low costs in Aruba. You can rough it out on the terrain in east Aruba to see the Natural Pool. And it will be no burden to visit the island’s Donkey Sanctuary to see how people care for the wild donkeys of the island. You may also just enjoy walking about in Oranjestad to photograph the unusual architecture.

It’s warm in Aruba all year, but if you want to get the absolute best weather for yourself, anytime between December and March would be ideal.

9. Oahu, Hawaii, Pacific Ocean

Oahu (as in, “Oh wahoo!”) in Hawaii is definitely a cheap island to travel to if only for the range of options you have for accommodations and transport. This is where Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu is. Because there’s no shortage of hotels in the city, you should be able to find a place for much less than what the big resorts will charge you per night to stay in this Pacific paradise.

Spending time outdoors

From here, if you want a truly cheap vacation, why not set out into the great outdoors? From Honolulu’s Waikiki neighborhood, you can ascend the steep incline of the volcanic Diamond Head to get a gorgeous view of the area. And since you’re in the area, why not get in some R&R at Waikiki Beach? There, you can go swimming or surfing or just relax on the sand.

There’s so much else to do on Oahu if you really want to visit on a budget. Visit the Buddhist Byodo-In Temple in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park in the east. You can also enjoy some peaceful solitude at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden. There are also so many hiking trails to explore in Oahu that you could stay occupied for weeks.

The best times to visit Oahu are during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Those times are outside of the island’s rainy season and also before things get too busy with other tourists.

10. Puerto Rico, US Territory

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean territory of the United States. As such, Americans can get there with no passport or need to exchange currency. I consistently list Puerto Rico as one of the most affordable islands to visit because there’s so much you can see and do without spending a dime.

Getting around on the cheap

If you know your history, you know that Puerto Rico became a Spanish colony in the early 1500s. That means when you visit the island now, you can see the unique colonial architecture from that period. Nowhere is this more evident than the Old San Juan district of the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan. There, you can see the old buildings, the Spanish-era forts such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and the magnificence of the main square, Plaza de Armas.

There are so many things to do in Puerto Rico that you’ll have a hard time fitting them all in! You can go shopping on Ashford Avenue in San Juan. Or tour the Casa BACARDÍ distillery nearby. You can also hit up the absolutely stunning white beaches and take in the blue waters.

You can find cheap hotels and other accommodations on the island, too. I’m talking about rooms for less than $100 a night. Best of all, they take U.S. dollars on the island since it’s an American territory! Puerto Rico is definitely one of the most affordable islands to visit. The best time to go is over the winter of the Northern Hemisphere, between December and April. If you want to save on hotel costs, going between April and June is better.

11. Boracay, Philippines

For our next stop on this journey to the cheapest islands to visit, we’re headed to Southeast Asia. This time, it’s Boracay in the Philippines. This is just one of more than 7,100 islands that make up the country, but this place is worth it. You can’t fly directly to Boracay, but it’s just a short boat trip over from the island of Panay. That’s where the closest airport is: Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (MPH).

One of the best islands

Travelers from around the world consistently rate Boracay pretty high on their lists of the best and most affordable tropical islands to visit. And all the stories are true! The gorgeous resort island features some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. The blue waters meet the white shores against sweeping vistas of the ocean and the mountains of nearby islands.

Despite the stunning location, you can definitely find cheap hotels on Boracay. You don’t need anything too fancy to enjoy all there is to do here. From snorkeling to parasailing to shopping and hiking, you will love your time away in this true island paradise. Or, if you want the most relaxing vacation you’ve ever had, a week on the beach can work wonders. Especially when you’re lounging on one of the top-rated islands in the world for beach quality!

You will experience the warmest and most pleasant weather in Boracay between November and April. The springtime of March to May is also beautiful! Of course, these are also popular times for other international tourists. You can always travel there in the off-season of July to November, too.

12. Malta, Mediterranean Sea

Topping off the list of cheap islands to travel to is the sunny island nation of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. For reference, Malta is located south of the Italian island of Sicily.

History and beaches

Now, Malta is an interesting place to visit no matter where you’re coming from. That is due to its unique position as an island that spans multiple worlds simultaneously. The history of Malta dates back millennia. You can actually visit temples from the Stone Age on Malta. The nation’s history also spans the Crusades and afterward. It seems to be a place where West and East have come together over the years.

As such, there are a number of historic sites you can visit here in addition to the Neolithic temples. There’s the Rotunda of Mosta, an ornate Catholic church. Or see the royal palace the Casa Rocca Piccola.

If you’re looking for something more relaxing and low key, Malta has some of the best beaches in the world on its three islands. You can also stroll along the Valletta Waterfront and bask in the views of the boats and the water.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to visit Malta. Like most of these islands, you can find cheap hotels and do a lot of things outdoors for free. If exploring history in a picturesque Mediterranean location while also lazing around on some beaches sounds like fun to you, you’ll love Malta. It is one of the most affordable islands to visit!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest islands to visit

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the cheapest islands to visit in 2025.

How can I save money traveling to these cheap islands?

I understand that, even if these islands are cheap to visit, getting there by plane may not be. Airfare can be all over the place, and there’s no telling how and when prices might change. Fortunately, I have found a way to alleviate a lot of that pain. Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) has been saving me money on airline tickets for years. You just put in your origin point and destination and receive free email alerts from Scott’s. The emails contain cheap mistake fares that you won’t find anywhere else. There’s also a $49/year premium version with more timely alerts. Scott’s Cheap Flights has saved me a ton of money over time. I know it can do the same for you.

What is the cheapest Caribbean island to visit?

The Caribbean is an endlessly popular region to travel to for the stunning beauty of its beaches. If you’re from the Northern Hemisphere and want to get away from a chilly winter for a few days, the Caribbean is a great place to go.

As far as the cheapest island destination in the Caribbean, that honor would have to go to the Dominican Republic. You can get cheap hotels, relax on the beach, and benefit from the exchange rate with the U.S. dollar. It’s a popular tropical vacation spot, and you can enjoy it all on a budget.

What are the cheapest airlines in the world?

If you want to travel all over the world visiting cheap islands, it can be challenging to lock down a specific airline that can take you to all your preferred places. However, I can still do my part by listing off some of the cheapest airlines to fly with in the world:

• AirAsia (Malaysia)
• easyJet (England)
• Ryanair (Ireland)
• IndiGo (India)
• Spirit Airlines (United States)
• JetBlue (United States)
• Tigerair Australia (Australia)
• Air Arabia (United Arab Emirates)