9 Best Spanish Islands To Live In

Most of the best Spanish islands to live in are located in the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean. However, you can find more awesome islands in the Basque Country, Cantabria and Andalusia too. Most of them attract visitors from the rest of Europe and the world thanks to their spectacular sun-drenched beaches and immense natural beauty.

Experience the Mediterranean dream with a trip to any of the fascinating Spanish islands off the east coast of Iberia! Marvel at Gibraltar and marvel even more at its sister Balearic Islands across the Strait. You’ll be astonished by what each island in this idyllic location offers–from UNESCO World Heritage Sites in The Canaries, bobbing on Atlantic waters, to our carefully curated list below. Take advantage of your opportunity for an unforgettable getaway in the Atlantic Islands or the Balearic Islands, each of which offers up unspoiled scenery and private beaches for you to explore.

Top 9 Spanish Islands to live in

The best islands in Spain depend on what you are looking for in a getaway. Take a look at the list of the best islands in Spain!

1. Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is the 3rd largest Canary Island. It is often referred to as a mini continent due to its vast range of natural sights. You can ascend Pico de las Nieves in the center of Gran Canaria and travel through luscious laurel forests before descending into a desert-like environment at Maspalomas Dunes an hour later. The beaches on this gorgeous island are incredibly diverse; you could bask in the sun or surf along Playa del Inglés’ golden shoreline, while others opt for dolphin watching off Puerto Rico Beach. It is one of the Spanish islands to visit for those who want to experience the vibrant nightlife and ample nature trails.

2. Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is one of the best islands in Spain for a beach holiday. It is the second largest island of the Canary Islands and boasts some of the world’s best beaches, thanks to its remarkable strong winds that have sculpted its stunning landscapes since immemorial. Besides sunbathing or playing beach volleyball on these coasts, one can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as surfing, windsurfing, canoeing, and even diving, with great visibility nearly all year round! This makes Fuerteventura an ideal destination for both leisurely days at sea and thrill-seeking adventure enthusiasts.

3. Tenerife

Boasting its temperate climate, Tenerife is the largest among the seven main Canary Islands and known as the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’. You can revel in year-round pleasant warmth here amid rugged volcanic landscapes.

Even during the winter months, you can bask in Tenerife’s blissful sunshine on its beaches and pristine coves, while trekking through the snow-dusted trails of Teide National Park.

4. Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic islands, is a well-known Mediterranean paradise. Photographers flock to its picturesque beaches and coves that sparkle in glimmering shades of blue beneath sunny skies. Meanwhile, hilly villages decorate the lush sides of mountains like emerald jewels set against a canvas of vibrant green.

Whether you stay in the vibrant resort city of Palma or the northern beach town of Alcúdia, Mallorca offers a variety of picturesque, sandy bays just outside your doorstep. Plus, great nightlife options are always nearby should you want to explore. No matter what budget range you fall under, delicious food and drinks are abundant for everyone’s enjoyment.

5. La Palma

The nicest of the Spanish islands is definitely La Palma, which lies off the western coast of Africa in the Canary Islands. This tiny island is known for its unspoiled scenery, with dense pine forests and wildflowers clinging to its steep mountainsides. The island also has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue waters in Spain, making it a paradise for beach lovers. With its unspoiled natural beauty, the island’s capital; La Palma is the ideal spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life and relax in a quiet corner of paradise.

6. Ibiza

Ibiza is renowned worldwide as a party island, but it is so much more than that. During daytime hours, marvel at its stunning sandy beaches and crystal clear waters while exploring ancient 16th-century Phoenician ruins. Choose from some of the best beach resorts in Ibiza to complete your ultimate dream vacation.

Ibiza’s stunning seafloor is home to an intricate ecosystem of rare endemic seagrass that houses the endangered monk seal. During the day, bask in its beauty; by night, dance beneath starry skies or explore Ibiza’s all-night clubbing scene for a truly unforgettable and thrilling experience.

7. Formentera

This Spanish island is known for its gorgeous white sand beaches lined by picturesque blue lagoons and encircled by tall cliffs. Its spectacular shorelines like Cala Saona, Es Pujols, and Migjorn provide a peaceful respite in the still waters of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

It’s understandable why Ibiza-goers head to Formentera whenever they need a reprieve from all the partying. In just 30 minutes, ferry services can transport you back and forth between both islands. So get started and your escape today!

8. Menorca

Menorca is one of the best islands in Spain and the least urbanized of the Balearic Islands. It is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and untouched beauty. The island is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, from idyllic coves surrounded by stunning rock outcroppings to sun-kissed sandy shores. Delve into Menorca’s rich legacy with charming 13th-century villages and megalithic structures that have stood for centuries, some of which trace back to the very earliest Bronze Age.

The Balearic island is also rife with history and there are plenty of options for watersports enthusiasts.

9. Lanzarote

Home to Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote is a UNESCO biosphere that captivates its visitors with otherworldly landscapes. Majestic fire-red sand dunes and frozen lava fields make the park a breathtakingly surreal experience – especially when contrasted against the island’s black sand beaches. Visiting this volcanic wasteland can be an awe-inspiring journey of discovery.

You can relax in the picturesque landscape of Playa Blanca, explore the hidden coves at Papagayo, or enjoy a thrilling surf session on Famara Beach’s 5 kilometers of coastline. There is something for everyone here. Furthermore, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and accommodations nearby each destination.

A word from SpainDesk

There are many wonderful Spanish islands to live in, each with its own charms. We hope this list has helped you narrow down your choices and decide which beautiful island is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil island escape, a thrilling nightlife scene, or a breathtaking view of unspoiled nature, Spain’s beautiful islands have something to offer everyone. Do you have any other favorite Spanish islands that didn’t make our list? In the comments below, let us know your list of the most popular Spanish islands.