10 Best Islands for Hikers: Unforgettable Trails for Your Next Adventure

Islands are often known for their beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. But for those who love to explore the rugged outdoors, islands can also be a paradise for hiking. From lush tropical jungles to volcanic landscapes, island hikes offer breathtaking views, unique ecosystems, and a sense of adventure that is hard to find anywhere else. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a casual walker, these ten islands offer some of the best hiking experiences in the world.

1. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, located off the northwest coast of Africa, is a hiker’s dream. Known as the "Garden Island," it offers a mix of lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. The island’s famous levada trails (irrigation channels) are perfect for those who enjoy scenic, yet relatively easy hikes.

Why Madeira is a Must for Hikers

Madeira is famous for its levadas, which guide you through lush forests and breathtaking landscapes. The trails, carved into the hillsides, lead to secret waterfalls, volcanic craters, and jaw-dropping coastal cliffs. It’s an ideal destination for both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers, with trails that showcase Madeira’s natural beauty at every turn.

Best Time to Embark on a Madeira Hiking Adventure

The best months to hike in Madeira are from April to October, when the weather is warm and dry. Winter can bring rain, making some trails slippery, so plan your trip during the drier months for optimal hiking conditions.

Top 3 Hikes in Madeira

• Vereda do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo
  This 7-kilometer hike links Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s highest and third-highest peaks. Expect stunning mountain views, dramatic ridges, and challenging terrain. It’s a moderately tough hike, but the vistas are worth the effort.
• Levada do Caldeirão Verde
  A moderate 13-kilometer trail, this levada walk leads through tunnels, dense forests, and ends at the striking Caldeirão Verde waterfall. Perfect for hikers wanting to explore the lush, mystical side of Madeira.
• Ponta de São Lourenço
  An 8-kilometer hike along the island’s eastern peninsula, this trail offers stark volcanic scenery, rugged coastal views, and dramatic rock formations, showcasing Madeira’s more rugged side.

2. Kauai, Hawaii, USA

Kauai, Hawaii’s "Garden Isle," is a tropical paradise with towering cliffs, dense rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. It’s the perfect island for hikers seeking both adventure and breathtaking natural beauty.

Why Kauai is a Must for Hikers

Kauai’s rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems make it a standout hiking destination. From the steep cliffs of the Napali Coast to the vast canyons of Waimea, the island offers a variety of landscapes to explore. Whether you want an easy coastal walk or a challenging mountain ascent, Kauai’s trails are unforgettable.

Prime Hiking Season in Kauai

The best time to hike on Kauai is from April to June or September to November, when the weather is dry, and the trails are less crowded. Summer can be hot, while winter rains may make some trails muddy.

Top 3 Hikes in Kauai

• Kalalau Trail
  This legendary 11-mile trail along the Napali Coast offers towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and lush valleys. It’s a challenging trek for experienced hikers, but the views of the Pacific and the coastline are unbeatable.
• Waimea Canyon Trail
  Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," this moderate 6.4-kilometer hike takes you through red-hued canyon walls to the impressive Waipo'o Falls.
• Awa’awapuhi Trail
  A challenging 10.5-kilometer round-trip hike, the Awa’awapuhi Trail rewards hikers with a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Napali Coast's sheer cliffs and valleys.

3. Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania, an island of wilderness and world heritage sites, offers hikers a chance to explore some of the most pristine landscapes in the world. From alpine meadows to ancient rainforests, Tasmania is a nature lover’s paradise.

Why Tasmania is a Must for Hikers

Tasmania’s wild, untouched beauty is what makes it so special for hikers. Its trails take you through alpine landscapes, alongside serene lakes, and into dense forests. Many of these areas are protected UNESCO sites, ensuring that the island remains a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Best Time to Conquer Tasmania’s Trails

The ideal hiking season in Tasmania is from December to March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. The weather is warm, and the days are long, offering perfect conditions for extended treks.

Top 3 Hikes in Tasmania

• Overland Track
  One of Australia’s most iconic hikes, the 65-kilometer Overland Track is a multi-day adventure that takes you through Tasmania’s stunning alpine region, including Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair.
• Walls of Jerusalem Circuit
  A 4-day trek through Tasmania’s alpine wilderness, this hike offers dramatic views of mountain peaks and tranquil highland lakes.
• Wineglass Bay & Hazards Beach Circuit
  A 12-kilometer trail with views of the famous crescent-shaped Wineglass Bay and the surrounding granite peaks, this hike combines coastal beauty with mountain scenery.

4. Dominica

Dominica, the Caribbean’s "Nature Island," is a paradise for adventurous hikers. Its rugged terrain, volcanic peaks, and dense rainforests offer some of the best hiking experiences in the Caribbean.

Why Dominica is a Must for Hikers

Dominica’s untouched, natural beauty is its biggest draw. Hikers can explore the island’s volcanic landscapes, trek through thick rainforests, and visit hidden waterfalls. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, making it a truly wild destination for hikers.

Best Time to Hit Dominica’s Trails

The best time to hike in Dominica is from December to April during the dry season. Heavy rain in the wet season (June to November) can make trails muddy and difficult to navigate.

Top 3 Hikes in Dominica

• Boiling Lake Trail
  A challenging 13-kilometer trek that takes hikers through volcanic valleys and lush forests to the world’s second-largest boiling lake. The otherworldly landscape makes it a must-do.
• Waitukubuli National Trail
  Spanning the entire length of Dominica, this 185-kilometer trail can be tackled in sections. It offers a variety of landscapes, from coastal paths to dense forests.
• Morne Trois Pitons National Park Trail
  A hike through Dominica’s UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring volcanic craters, lush valleys, and stunning views of waterfalls and boiling lakes.

5. Reunion Island, France

Reunion Island, a volcanic gem in the Indian Ocean, is a hiking haven with dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Hikers can explore lush forests, volcanic calderas, and some of the most remote villages in the world.

Why Reunion Island is a Must for Hikers

Reunion Island offers an unparalleled variety of landscapes. You can hike through lush rainforests, across volcanic lava fields, or up to the summit of an active volcano. The island’s well-marked trails make it accessible for all levels of hikers.

Optimal Hiking Season on Reunion Island

The best months for hiking on Reunion are from May to October, during the cooler, drier season. Avoid the wet season from November to April when heavy rains can make hiking dangerous.

Top 3 Hikes on Reunion Island

• Cirque de Mafate
  A multi-day trek through an isolated volcanic caldera, this hike takes you to remote villages only accessible by foot. The rugged terrain and stunning scenery make it an unforgettable experience.
• Piton de la Fournaise
  One of the most active volcanoes in the world, hiking to the summit of Piton de la Fournaise is a thrilling experience. The hike is around 5 hours round trip, with incredible views of volcanic craters and lava fields.
• Piton des Neiges
  The highest peak on Reunion Island, this challenging 7-hour hike offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding Indian Ocean.

6. Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye, with its rugged landscapes and mystical ambiance, is one of Scotland’s top hiking destinations. Its unpredictable weather only adds to the island’s wild charm.

Why Isle of Skye is a Must for Hikers

The dramatic scenery of Skye, from its jagged mountain ridges to its sweeping coastal cliffs, makes it a truly unique hiking destination. Whether you're seeking a short scenic walk or a tough mountain trek, Skye’s landscapes are mesmerizing.

Best Time for a Skye Hiking Adventure

The ideal hiking season on the Isle of Skye is from May to September when the weather is milder. However, be prepared for sudden weather changes no matter the time of year.

Top 3 Hikes on the Isle of Skye

• The Quiraing
  This 6.8-kilometer loop takes hikers through a landslip with surreal rock formations and sweeping views of the coastline. It’s one of the most photographed spots on Skye.
• Old Man of Storr
  A 3.8-kilometer hike that leads to one of Skye’s most iconic landmarks, the Old Man of Storr. The views from the top are spectacular, especially at sunrise.
• Fairy Pools
  An easy 2.4-kilometer hike that takes you to a series of crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls in the Glen Brittle area. A magical spot for nature lovers.

7. Fogo Island, Cape Verde

Fogo Island is dominated by its active volcano, Pico do Fogo, offering hikers a unique opportunity to explore volcanic landscapes. The island’s mix of lava fields, fertile valleys, and dramatic peaks make it a one-of-a-kind hiking destination.

Why Fogo Island is a Must for Hikers

Fogo’s volcanic terrain sets it apart from other hiking destinations. Hikers can ascend the slopes of Pico do Fogo, explore black lava fields, and traverse fertile valleys. The island’s raw, rugged beauty is perfect for adventurous souls.

Best Time to Hike Fogo’s Volcanic Trails

The best time for hiking on Fogo is between November and May, during the cooler, dry season. The wet season, from August to October, can make the volcanic trails more difficult to navigate.

Top 3 Hikes on Fogo Island

• Pico do Fogo
  A challenging 7-hour round-trip hike to the summit of Cape Verde’s highest peak. The ascent is tough, but the panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic are worth it.
• Chã das Caldeiras to Mosteiros
  This trek through lava fields and fertile valleys offers stunning views of the island’s unique volcanic landscape.
• Alto de Fogo Loop
  A 10-kilometer loop that takes you around the base of Pico do Fogo, showcasing the stark beauty of the island’s volcanic terrain.

8. Seychelles

The Seychelles, often known for its postcard-perfect beaches, also offer lush tropical rainforests, granite peaks, and rugged hiking trails. Hikers can enjoy a blend of coastal and forested landscapes, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, secluded beaches, and rich wildlife encounters.

Why Seychelles is a Must for Hikers

Seychelles presents an idyllic mix of hiking through dense forests while still being close to the sea. Trails often pass through pristine nature reserves, and you might spot giant tortoises or rare tropical birds. With a network of trails across its main islands, Seychelles offers both gentle walks and more demanding hikes that reward you with dramatic views of the Indian Ocean.

Best Time to Explore the Trails of Seychelles

The best time for hiking in Seychelles is from May to October, when the weather is drier and cooler. These months make for pleasant hiking conditions, avoiding the heavier rains of the wet season (November to April), which can make trails slippery.

Top 3 Hikes in Seychelles

• Morne Blanc
  This moderately difficult 3-kilometer round-trip trail on Mahé takes hikers through a dense forest before rewarding them with a breathtaking panoramic view from the summit of Morne Blanc. You’ll have a stunning view of the western coastline, with lush greenery stretching out to the turquoise waters.
• Anse Major Trail
  This 2-hour coastal trail leads to the secluded Anse Major beach on Mahé, offering scenic ocean views, rocky granite cliffs, and lush tropical vegetation. The 6-kilometer round-trip hike is ideal for those wanting a mix of forest and beach exploration.
• Copolia Trail
  A short but steep 2-kilometer hike that leads to a granite peak, Copolia Trail offers one of the best views on the island of Mahé. From the top, you’ll have a panoramic view of Victoria, the capital, and the surrounding islands of the Seychelles archipelago.

9. Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, is a volcanic island off the southern coast of South Korea. The island's unique lava formations, dormant volcano, and extensive hiking trails make it a popular destination for both nature lovers and adventurous hikers.

Why Jeju Island is a Must for Hikers

Jeju’s volcanic history is what sets it apart as a hiking destination. The island is dominated by Hallasan, a dormant volcano at its center, and offers a wide range of trails through craters, lava tubes, waterfalls, and lush forests. Jeju’s diverse terrain allows for easy walks along coastal cliffs or more challenging climbs up its volcanic peaks.

Best Time to Tackle Jeju’s Trails

The ideal time to hike on Jeju Island is from March to June or September to November. These months offer cooler temperatures and less rain, making for pleasant hiking conditions. Summers can be hot and humid, while winter might bring icy conditions to the higher trails.

Top 3 Hikes in Jeju

• Hallasan Summit Trail
  This challenging 19-kilometer round-trip trail takes you to the summit of Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak. The hike offers diverse landscapes, from dense forests to volcanic craters, and the view from the summit on clear days allows you to see the entire island and the surrounding sea.
• Olle Trail (Route 7)
  The Jeju Olle Trail is a series of interconnected trails that circle the island’s coast. Route 7 is one of the most popular, offering a 15-kilometer hike along stunning coastal cliffs, past fishing villages, and through lush countryside.
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
  A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 1-kilometer hike takes you to the top of a volcanic crater formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions. It’s a relatively short but steep climb that rewards hikers with breathtaking views, especially at sunrise.

10. La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain

La Palma, often called "La Isla Bonita" (The Beautiful Island), is one of the lesser-known Canary Islands but is considered one of the best for hikers. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with diverse landscapes that include lush forests, deep gorges, volcanic craters, and black sand beaches.

Why La Palma is a Must for Hikers

La Palma’s landscape is incredibly diverse for its size. Hikers can trek through verdant laurel forests, ascend volcanic craters, or follow paths that meander through fertile valleys. The island’s minimal tourism means its trails are often quieter, offering solitude and a deep connection with nature.

Best Time to Discover La Palma’s Trails

The best months to hike La Palma are from April to October, when the island enjoys warm, dry weather. The winter months can bring occasional rain, but the trails remain open year-round. However, visiting during the dry season ensures better hiking conditions.

Top 3 Hikes in La Palma

• Ruta de los Volcanes
  This 17-kilometer trail along the Cumbre Vieja ridge takes hikers through a volcanic landscape, offering dramatic views of the island’s craters, pine forests, and sweeping ocean vistas. It’s a moderately challenging hike, perfect for those looking to experience La Palma’s volcanic terrain.
• Caldera de Taburiente
  This 16-kilometer trail takes you deep into the heart of one of the world’s largest erosion craters, now a national park. The hike offers stunning views of waterfalls, gorges, and pine forests, and is a must-do for nature lovers.
• Roque de los Muchachos
  One of La Palma’s most famous hikes, this 5-kilometer round-trip trek leads to the highest point on the island, Roque de los Muchachos, at 2,426 meters. From the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of the entire island and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean, and on clear days, you can even see the neighboring Canary Islands.

These ten islands offer some of the most diverse and breathtaking hiking experiences in the world. Whether you're navigating volcanic landscapes, trekking through lush rainforests, or climbing dramatic coastal cliffs, each island provides unique challenges and unforgettable scenery for adventurers of all skill levels. From short, leisurely trails to multi-day treks, these islands guarantee a hiking adventure you’ll never forget.