8 Smallest Islands in the World for Peaceful Retreats

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Exploring the planet we call home is always fascinating. These smallest islands in the world are no exception. 

Sometimes, the crowds can be overwhelming, and you just want to lounge in a tiny, lush haven. If the need for solace calls, these few thousand square feet destinations should be on the top dial. 

Smallest Islands in the World 

Travel & Leisure and Daily Passport deemed the UK’s Bishop Rock and Senegal’s Fadiouth the smallest islands in the world, offering top-rated seclusion for travelers. Other inhabited outposts sharing the same reputation also include: 

1. Bishop Rock, United Kingdom - 0.000736 square kilometers   

Bishop Rock is the smallest island in the world with a building. This was acknowledged by Guinness World Records in 2018. Despite not having permanent residents within its league, the UK’s tiniest land is an incredible travel destination. Visitors can afford to join a boat tour to witness dolphins, seabirds, and seals with their bare eyes, as the surrounding Scilly archipelago is relatively easy to conquer. 

2. Kodakarajima, Japan - 1 square kilometers 

Kodakarajima, a Japanese hidden gem, is one of the world's smallest islands, with only 43 permanent residents. These people heavily rely on the surrounding oceans to make a living, so it’s hard to imagine an airport within the small boundary. Even so, travelers can still visit Yudomari Onsen– the island’s most popular tourist spot by ferries or boats from Kagoshima. 

3. Monuriki, Fiji - 1,15 square kilometers 

Once a filming location for Cast Away, Monuriki has earned its well-liked reputation among travelers. Though there is currently no accessible place to reside, you can still plan a day itinerary including a guided nature walk, swim, and snorkel from nearby resorts. The idyllic blend of volcanic rocks and crystal-clear waters makes the trip to this one of the world’s smallest islands worth the trouble. 

4. Isla Mujeres, Mexico - 4,22 square kilometers

Often cited as a cultural destination, Mexico’s charm stretches beyond a vibrant city life. Underneath all the quavering noises everywhere else in the country, Isla Mujeres sits comfortably within its 4.3-mile area. Here, your quiet days are compromised by various fun activities, from coral reefs exploration and snorkeling opportunities to a charming visit to the Underwater Museum of Art. 

5. Sondre Sandoy, Norway - 5 square kilometers

What is an island vacation without the coastal gusto? Sondre Sandoy understood the sentiment faultlessly, presenting the scenic views of secluded beaches and mesmerizing paths. Get your pajamas ready for an incredible night at the Stuevika campsite, with promising sunrise scenery the next morning. 

6. Fox Island, Alaska - 5,471 square kilometers 

As the name suggests, Alaska’s secluded havens are a home for numerous wildlife, including humpback whales, sea otters, and spotted puffins. In the background, glacial waters, pebbled beaches, and dense forests decorate the small island in their way. To make things even spicier, book a room at the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge and disappear completely into nature. 

7. Fadiouth, Senegal - 17,34 square kilometers 

With a breathtakingly unique wooden footbridge between the mainland and Fadiouth, this second-smallest island in the world has a striking foundation of seashells. Every other day, its shining appearance captivates the attention of tourists alike, inviting them to take a closer look at the shell-covered houses and the 800-year-old baobab tree. If you are one of them, catch the truest deal of Joal and Fadiouth with only an $84 entrance fee. 

8. Corvo Island, Portugal - 17,6 square kilometers 

Unlike the other contenders, Corvo Island has a hovering superstar, known as Caldeirao, or a volcanic crater, around its teeny-sized area. The tall attraction is dazzlingly surrounded by two lakes, as well as wildflowers and grassy fields. Upon your vacation, start the day with a leisurely hike around Caldeirao and trail along its path into the island’s only village, Vila do Corvo.

Are you craving solitude, stunning scenery, or an encounter with rare cultures? The smallest islands in the world offer more than just their modest size. These hidden gems invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the world in its most intimate form. To those who are more into historical sites, head to the largest ancient cities here.

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