Discover some of the most stunning and diverse islands on earth, each with its unique ecosystem, culture, and history that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, what sets some of these islands apart is the lack of cars. An island without cars provides visitors with the opportunity to experience a more relaxed, peaceful way of life, where the natural environment takes center stage, and the rhythms of nature dictate the pace of daily life. Discover some of the world’s intriguing beautiful islands without cars.
Sark, Channel Islands
Sark Island, Channel Islands: Nestled in the English Channel, Sark is an idyllic island without cars located between England and France. Spanning 3.5 miles in length and 1.5 miles in width, the island is home to around 600 people. Visitors and locals alike explore the island by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage.
This car-free island also means that there are no streetlights, creating a peaceful and serene ambiance. Boasting a rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and a quaint village, Sark Island provides a perfect escape from the chaos of modern life and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Hydra, Greece
Hydra Island, Greece, is a one-of-a-kind destination located in the Aegean Sea, nestled between the Myrtoan Sea and the Argolic Gulf. It boasts a stunning rocky coastline, charming harbors, and a unique feature – no cars! Unlike most places, Hydra Island has no roads, no vehicles, and not even any bicycles. Hydra is a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful escape from the chaos of city life. Visitors can explore the island on foot or by water taxis, providing a great opportunity to experience all that Hydra has to offer while taking in its magnificent scenery.
Gili Islands, Indonesia
The Gili Islands, situated off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, are a tropical paradise for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation. Comprised of three small islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, each island is as beautiful as the last. What sets the Gili Islands apart is that they are car-free, creating a blissful silence that allows visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of the white sandy beaches, colorful coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters.
Visitors can explore on foot or rent bicycles from locals to discover the islands further. There is no shortage of activities to enjoy, from snorkeling and diving to spotting sea turtles, while boutique hotels and resorts offer guests a luxurious stay. Come and experience the natural tranquility of these islands without cars.
Ile de Porquerolles, France
Ile de Porquerolles, a small island in the Hyeres Archipelago off the coast of Provence, is a paradise that radiates charm and beauty. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine forests, and five small ranges of hills, it’s no wonder why it has been a favorite of historical figures like Edith Wharton, Charlie Chaplin, and Marc Chagall.
Located just 20 minutes by boat from the Cote d’Azur’s French Riviera, visitors can take a 15-minute ferry ride from the coast near Giens and Hyères to explore this stunning island without cars. Visitors can explore the island on foot or by bike. From its spectacular coastline to its wonderful gastronomy and abundance of activities, Ile de Porquerolles is undoubtedly a perfect destination for a peaceful escape from everyday life.
Lamu Island, Kenya
Lamu Island, located off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean, is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic experience of Swahili culture. With settlement ruins dating back to the 15th century, sandy beaches, and boutique hotels, this island without cars exudes a unique charm. Locals utilize motorbikes, bikes, and dhows to travel around the island. The blend of Swahili, Arab, Chinese, and Indian cultures makes Lamu Island a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa.
Tresco, Isles of Scilly
Tresco, located in the Isles of Scilly, is an idyllic island escape without cars just off the coast of Cornwall. This family-owned island spans about two and a half miles in length by a mile wide at its widest point, offering visitors unspoiled sandy beaches and the chance to simply relax in the most serene setting. Tresco is the perfect place to leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in some laid-back island living. While St. Mary’s is the main island, Tresco is renowned for its gardens, which feature a collection of exotic plants from around the world.
Inis Mor, Aran Islands
Inis Mor, one of the Aran Islands, is located off the coast of Galway in Ireland. This island without cars is the largest of the three Aran Islands and is home to a vibrant Gaelic culture, a rich archaeological heritage, and some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Ireland. Its stark remoteness has inspired famous writers such as Yeats, Joyce, and Synge. The population of Inis Mor is only around 800, and visitors can explore the island’s sights and sounds on foot, bicycle, or pony-drawn carriage.
Comino, Malta
Comino is a small island nestled between Malta and sister island Gozo, renowned for its crystal-clear seas, stunning Blue Lagoon, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Without any tarred roads on the island, visitors and locals alike travel on foot, allowing them to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the island.
With only one hotel operated by a Maltese family as the sole permanent residents on the island, Comino is essentially desolate, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a peaceful island getaway. The Blue Lagoon, known as one of the best beaches in Malta, is the major attraction of Comino, allowing visitors to soak up the sun and experience the natural beauty of the island without the noise and crowds of traffic. This island without cars is where the tranquil rhythms of nature rule.
La Digue, Seychelles
La Digue, a small island located in the Seychelles archipelago, is a shining example of eco-friendly practices. With bicycles outnumbering cars on the island, La Digue has taken bold steps to preserve its environment and wildlife. Accessible from other parts of the Seychelles, this island without cars is becoming increasingly popular with tourists seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Its commitment to sustainability offers a unique opportunity to explore an island that prioritizes the environment while still providing unforgettable experiences. Discover the magic of La Digue, where eco-friendliness and breathtaking natural landscapes converge.
Venice, Italy
Venice, an island without cars built on a series of 118 small islands in a lagoon, is a network of narrow canals and streets that wind their way through historic buildings, magnificent churches, and charming piazzas. This enchanting city is a true pedestrian paradise, allowing visitors to leisurely stroll through the labyrinthine streets and over the numerous footbridges that span the canals, taking in the sights and sounds of this ancient city.
With a variety of public and private boat options, including the vaporetto, private water taxi, gondola, and traghetto, exploring the lagoon and its beautiful islands is even more enjoyable. Experience the magic of this island without cars, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the lapping of the water against the buildings and the gentle hum of human activity.
“Take memories only, leave footprints behind.”
