Cheap Islands To Visit In The World | A Guide For Budget Travelers
India just had its Islands Tourism Festival (ITF) 2024 on 26th December. This event was hosted by the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism, Directorate of Art & Culture, and various departments of the A & N Administration and highlighted the cultural heritage of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands on the Indian Ocean.
Further, with the popularity of Andaman & Nicobar for affordable island vacations, the Indian Government is now planning to capitalize on the “One Island, One Resort” concept to promote tourism in the unexplored islands.
So, this concept, initially for the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N), Lakshadweep, Daman, and Diu, will be helpful for the cheap islands to visit in India.
| “With the collaboration of private entities, an ecosystem will be developed to open uninhabited islands to tourists and simultaneously for maintaining and preserving the natural ecosystem and rich bio-diversity there. The work is going on. On a small island, only one resort will be developed similar to existing arrangements in Maldives.” Government Officials In Charge Of The “One Island, One Resort” Concept |
While India is taking a step forward in island tourism and trying to push footfalls in the 1300 identified off-shore islands, other islands in the world await with unique ecosystems and aboriginal cultures.
Do you want to explore them?
Cheap Islands To Visit In The World | Did You Know About These?
Island tourism is important to boost the local economy and preserve their cultural heritage. Further, they are great for infrastructural growth.
Moreover, with a little push from the government (for example, Lakshadweep on the Arabian Ocean), they can emerge as important destinations for community tourism and eco-tourism.
| “Tourism is one of the few areas in Lakshadweep which can play a vital role ingenerating income, employment and overall development of islands. Due to itsisolation and scenic appeal, Lakshadweep was already known as a touristattraction for Indians since 1974. This brings in significant revenue, which is likelyto increase.” The Tourism Survey For Lakshadweep, Final Report, 2017-18 |
Also, as tourists and tourism enthusiasts, we think that an island can be a melting pot for so many things. You get to experience unique cultures there, historic landmarks, and of course nature at its best.
However, many tourists feel that budget is a constraint when it comes to making a trip to these islands. So, here, I have curated the cheapest islands to visit across the world.
1. Cheap Caribbean Islands To Visit
Caribbean Island is famous for its sunny beaches, Calypso music, limestone caverns, historic plantation homes, and the quintessential joie de vivre.
So, here are the cheap islands to visit in the Caribbean if you are traveling on a low budget.
‣ Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Best Time to Visit: January to April
- Punta Cana Package: $200-500
All-inclusive resorts make Punta Cana more budget-friendly than many other islands in the Dominican Republic. Further, the stretches of white sand and turquoise water make Punta Cana one of the best places to beach in the world.
Further, beyond the beaches, the lush greenery of the island makes it a sheer delight for nature enthusiasts. Moreover, it is a great place for adrenaline junkies as you get to do the following things here.
- Visit the Monkey Island And Meet The Adorable Locals
- Ziplining Through The Caves, Mountains, And Jungle
- Wild Tiger Buggy Rides On The Rocky Island Terrains
- Sailing To The Saona Island And Meeting
- Taking A Marinarium Snorkeling Cruise To Meet Stringrays And Nurse Sharks
Some all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are Barceló Bávaro Palace (Calle Principal Hotel Barceló 1, Punta Cana, Contact Number: +1 809-686-5797) and Punta Cana Princess (Higüey 23000, Dominican Republic, Contact Number: +1 809-687-5000).
‣ Jamaica
- Best Time to Visit: November to mid-December
- Tourism Package: $100-350
Jamaica comes on the list of the cheap islands to visit in the world because it has many budget-friendly lodging options.
Moreover, Jamaica has many free things to do apart from exploring Seven Mile Beach, Bloody Bay, and Negril Cliffs. Kingston, the Jamaican Capital, has the Emancipation Park with the Redemption Song Statues.
Further, you can visit Kingston’s Waterfront Rennaissance Art, Murals on Fleet Street, the National Gallery of Jamaica (The Last Sunday of the Month), and the Hope Gardens.
Moreover, some budget-friendly accommodation options in Jamaica are:
- Leslie’s Home (Bridgeport P.O, Andrea Cresent -Sector (F, Portmore, Jamaica, Contact Number: +1 876-531-6280)
- Toga Guest House (A4 Coastal Road Boston Top, Boston Bay, Jamaica, +1 876-290-8345)
Along with Kingston, Montego Bay (St. James Parish in Jamaica) also has many free things to do. With free places to visit, like the Old Fort Craft Market, Montego Bay Cultural Centre, and Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay is the best place to learn about Jamaican history and culture.
2. Budget-Friendly Southeast Asian Islands
Each island in Southeast Asia is different. Also, Southeast Asia is home to Bali, Indonesia. Moreover, it has recently bagged the laurel of the “Most Romantic Destination In The World” at the World Travel Awards.
However, Lakshadweep is another island destination in Southeast Asia, gaining prominence in the tourism landscape of the Indian Subcontinent and the entire Southeast Asian region.
‣ Bali, Indonesia
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Tourism Package: $450
Bali is probably most famous as the home to the Angkor Wat temple complex. Moreover, this UNESCO World Heritage, bearing Hindu-Buddhist traditions, is the largest religious structure in the world. A one-day pass to this important archaeological site will cost you $37.
Further, it has important religious and historic sites like Taman Ayun Temple, Lempuyang Temple, and Gunung Kawi Temple. Entry fees to all of these sites are less than $2.
Moreover, Bingin Beach, Sunset Beach, Green Bowl, and Jimbaran Beach are some important beach vacation destinations in Bali. Most of these are free to visit, while some will charge you a small parking fee.
Also, places like Parthi Puri Ubud Bed & Breakfast (Br. Silungan, Lodtunduh, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Contact No: +62 819-9949-2317) are the best for a budget-friendly stay in Bali.
‣ Lakshadweep
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Tourism Package: $350
Are you from the Indian Subcontinent and looking for the cheapest island to visit? Lakshadweep, on the Arabian Sea, is the best destination for island tourism.
Recently, Lakshadweep has been under the spotlight, with PM Modi visiting this beautiful destination and promoting local tourism.
| Tourist Places in Lakshadweep ‣ Bangaram Island ‣ Agatti ‣ Kadmath ‣ Kalpeni ‣ Minicoy |
Lakshadweep is kaleidoscopic with its coral reef and rich marine life. Further, it is more pristine than most islands in India. So, don’t miss scuba diving in Lakshadweep.
Also, I feel that staying in the Thinnakara Island tents is the best for those who want to soak in the beauty and unadulterated charm of Lakshadweep.
‣ Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Tourism Package: $250-400
Andaman and Nicobar are cheap islands to visit without a passport from the mainland of India and Nepal.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the home to the notorious Cellular Jail and an important place in the history of India’s freedom movement, is great for all types of tourists. Scuba diving and sailing are quite popular here.
| Heritage Tourism | Exploring The Beaches And Islands | Enjoy Nature & Wildlife (Animals) | Great for Bird-Watching |
| ‣ Cellular Jail ‣ Viper Island ‣ Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island ‣ Balidan Vedi – The State Martyrs Memorial, Humfraygunj ‣ Netaji Flag Hoisting Memorial | ‣ Swaraj Dweep ‣ Shaheed Dweep ‣ Little Andaman Island ‣ Great Nicobar (Only for Indian Tourists) ‣ Barren Island (It has the only active volcano in India.) | ‣ Dugong (Seacow) ‣ Palm Civet ‣ Chital ‣ Sperm Whale ‣ Andaman Wild Pig ‣ Andaman Spiny Shrew ‣ Barking Deer | ‣ Andaman wood pigeon ‣ Andaman serpent eagle ‣ Endemic Species of Parrots |
Further, Andaman & Nicobar Islands have some affordable accommodations like The Lagoon Shade (Lamba Line, Sri Vijaya Puram, Contact No: 095319 00209) and Malar Inn (Garacharama, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands).
3. European Islands You Must Explore
If you want to explore various civilizations and learn about diverse food traditions, art, and culture, the European Islands will be surely on your bucket list.
So, here we will talk about the Isle of Skye, Scotland, and Crete, Greece, which are the cheapest islands to visit in Europe.
‣ Isle of Skye, Scotland
- Best Time to Visit: April-September
- Tourism Package: $550
The Isle of Skye is the largest among the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The Skye Bridge keeps it connected to the mainland.
Further, the geology of the Isle of Skye is dramatic, with Cuillin Hills, The Quiraing, and Old Man of Storr. Hiking is the best way to explore the unique geology and landscape of this island.
Portree Youth Hostel (Lisigarry Ct, Portree, Contact No: +44 1478 612231) and Isle of Skye Guest House (Kyleakin, Isle of Skye, Contact No: +44 1599 263102) are the best budget-friendly accommodations in the Isle of Skye.
‣ Crete, Greece
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
- Tourism Pacakage: $450-500
So, you need a lot of money to have a good time in Crete! ❌
Crete has some of the cheapest bars and taverns, and exploring the beaches here is free. ✅
Being one of the cheapest islands to visit in the world, Crete is a place where you must live like a local. Moreover, you can explore the Old Venetian Harbor, Lake Kournas, Seitan Limania Beach, and Stalis Beach when you visit Crete.
Also, don’t forget to visit the Palace of Knossos, an archaeological site with remains from the Bronze Age.
Are you looking for budget-friendly places to stay in Crete? Choose Intra Muros Boutique Hostel (Monis Kardiotissis 30, Iraklio, Contact Number: +30 697 585 2889).
4. Visiting Central American Islands On A Low Budget
The Central American Islands are great for versatile geological features like beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and waterbodies. Further, they are known for biodiversity and being home to many endangered birds and animals.
However, if you are looking for cheap islands to visit, Roatán and Bocas del Toro are the two best options in this region.
‣ Roatán, Honduras
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
- Tourism Package: $300-600
Roatán is home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. It is the largest coral reef in the Northern Hemisphere and the second-largest in the world.
Naturally, diving is a popular activity here, allowing you to meet the stunning marine life, including the coral reef. Further, in Roatán, you will meet many indigenous people of Honduras. So, it will be a culturally fulfilling experience for you.
Moreover, Roatan Backpackers Hostel (Side road by Solgas, Honduras, Contact No: +504 9714-0413) and Roatan Onat Caribe Hostel (34101 West End, Roatan, Contact No: +504 9325-5658) are some of the most affordable accommodation options here.
‣ Bocas del Toro, Panama
- Best Time to Visit: May to November
- Tourism Package: $600-700
Bocas del Toro is your go-to destination if you want to explore coral and marine diversity. Further, it is the home of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and is identified as the coral reef restoration Hope Spot by Mission Blue.
Snorkeling and diving are the two most popular activities here.
Moreover, you can plan your stay at affordable places like The Bocas Corner (Avebids H y G Norte, Bocas del Toro, Panama, Contact No: +507 6351-9890) and Koko Acqua Lodge (Saigon Bay, Bocas del Toro, Panama, Contact No: +507 6131-2420).
5. Don’t Miss These Budget-Friendly Pacific Islands
Tourism is a juggernaut or probably the most powerful force to drive the economy of the Pacific Islands. The climate in these islands is consistent.
Further, beaches and other natural habitats and the cultural diversity of the islands make them a tourist’s dream destination.
| “Many Pacific Island countries and territories have very limited natural resources that can significantly contribute towards GDP. Tourism is one of the industries that can continually contribute, due to an abundance of natural habitats, such as sandy beaches and a relatively consistent climate. Tourism is also likely to grow due to an increase in international flight routes to the region.” Ian Campbell, WWF Pacific’s Shark Heritage Programme Manager (Excerpts from A 2016 World Bank Report, Pacific Possible: Tourism) |
Moreover, the lower cost of living in Pacific Islands like Fiji and Cook Islands and inexpensive tourism attractions make them some of the cheap islands to visit in the world.
‣ Cook Islands
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
- Tourism Package: Around $600
The Cook Islands, in the South Pacific Ocean, is a country with 15 islands. The abundance of unspoiled natural beauty here is way beyond the pocket pinch you need to bear.
Further, the absence of branded resorts and a lot of inexpensive activities like beaching and hiking make the Cook Islands one of the cheap islands to visit in the world.
The top beaches to explore here are Muri Beach, Rarotonga, Titikaveka, Rarotonga, One Foot Island, Aitutaki, and Honeymoon Island/Motu Tavake.
Moreover, the Cross Island Trek and Raemaru Trek in Rarotonga are great ways to reconnect with nature without much expense.
Also, the budget-friendly accommodations and reasonable places to eat, like The Lucky Rooster Eatery and Kai & Co., make Cook Islands the ideal choice for traveling on a budget.
Furthermore, no building in the Cook Islands is taller than a coconut tree. Some affordable accommodation options here are Aitutaki Beach Villas, Muri Beach Club Hotel, etc.
‣ Fiji
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Tourism Package: $500-600
The beaches in the Oceania Country are breathtaking. It is truly a place where “happiness comes naturally.” Along with being home to beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and tranquil waterbodies, Fiji offers an immersive cultural experience.
| Fiji Waterfalls | Fiji Beaches |
| ‣ Savulelele Waterfall, Sun Coast ‣ Wainabi and Wainuta Waterfall, Pacific Harbor ‣ Vuadomo Waterfall, Savusavu ‣ Tavoro and Wainibau Waterfalls, Taveuni | ‣ Tavarua ‣ Nadi ‣ Mamanuca Islands ‣ Denarau Island |
The Fiji Culture Village near Nadi Town helps you learn about the Fijian Culture in the ancient days. Furthermore, the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi stands as an example of a wonderful fusion of Indian and Fijian Culture.
Moreover, Fiji has some affordable accommodation options, like Smugglers Cove Beach Resort (13 Wasawasa Road, Nadi, Fiji, Contact +679 672 6578) and Fiji Beachouse (Queens Road, Korolevu, Fiji, Contact Number: +679 992 9500).
6. Budget-Friendly Island to Visit On The Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean has fewer islands compared to others. However, it has Amelia Island, one of the cheapest islands to visit in the world. Let’s know about it.
‣ Amelia Island, Florida
- Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to October
- Tourism Package: $400-500
Popular opinions may not agree with Amelia Island featured on the list of cheap islands to visit in the USA. However, despite being home to many luxury resorts, Amelia also has affordable accommodation options.
Further, the museums (Amelia Island Museum of History), Fort Clinch State Park, and Main Beach Park are some top tourist attractions in Amelia Island that you can visit for free or very meager charges.
Moreover, some most affordable accommodation options here are: Ocean Coast Hotel at the Beach (2707 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL, Contact Number: +1 904-277-2300) and Noble Suites Jacksonville (10885 Harts Road, Jacksonville, FL, Contact No: +1 904-456-1101).
