14 Dazzling Spanish Islands Certain to Encourage, From Barefoot-Stylish Ibiza to Off-Grid El Hierro

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Too many of the best Spanish islands have slipped under the radar for too long. Granted, that’s how many in-the-know travelers may want it to stay—but who’re we to gate keep? Greece’s abundance of island idylls is no secret, while swanky hotels and chic beach clubs aplenty have popped up along our favorite Croatian escapes for more than a decade. However, while we’ve been grooving through the night on Ibiza’s dance floors and digging our toes into the sand on Mallorca’s spellbinding beaches, there are plenty of gems yet to claim their time in the spotlight. Here, the Conde Nast Traveller editors from Spain and the UK—all self-acclaimed Hispanophiles—share the must-visit spots on the aforementioned greats, while introducing us to the charm of Spain’s lesser-known islands.

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MenorcaHead of editorial content for Condé Nast Traveler Spain David Moralejo’s favorite Spanish island for: biological treasuresMenorca has the largest marine Biosphere Reserve in the Mediterranean, protected by UNESCO and extending more than 12 miles offshore. Its Posidonia oceanica seagrass is a biological treasure, the same that makes the sea appear turquoise. The calm of the sea is carried inland because it is unbeatable: Menorca is famous for its tranquillity and peace, which even the voracity of overtourism cannot break.But where can you get lost to find calm? In Cala Algaiarens, located in the north of the island and very close to the beautiful city of Ciutadella. Also on the Camí de Cavalls, to the north, is Cala Morell, with its imposing rocky landscape and the only Talayotic necropolis in the Balearic Islands, with up to 14 caves carved into the rock.In the S’Albufera Natural Park, a 70-hectare nature reserve, you will find some of the most impressive and hidden beaches on the island, such as Cala Morella Nou, very close to Cape Favàritx.Mahón, the capital, is worth a stroll through its English-style streets, art galleries, and lively bars. And if you want to keep walking, you can even climb Monte Toro, the island’s highest point. From here, you can almost embrace the beauty of Menorca and—weather permitting—even Mallorca.Where to stay. We wouldn’t know which one to choose. Villa le Blanc, a Gran Meliá Hotel, to experience the warmth of a small but grand resort; Torralbenc, the perfect example of Menorcan lifestyle; Son Ermità & Binidufà because Vestige Collection has reinvented luxury on the island; Amagatay and Morvedra, with the freshness of the Annua Hotels brand; Cristine Bedfor, a charming house in the center of Mahón.

inigoarzaIbizaCondé Nast Traveller UK commerce editor Sarah Bannerman’s favorite Spanish island for: shoulder season escapismIt’s true what they say about Ibiza being famed for its nightlife—every summer, the world’s most lauded DJs gather to stake their claim on residency at superclubs, and between May and October, the island comes alive. No matter the time of day or night, there’s a party to be found. But there’s a quieter side to Ibiza, one I think deserves to be celebrated. As with all the Balearics, Ibiza’s coast, sea, and sand are rich in a blaze of gold and turquoise color and are undeniably beautiful. Orange clay cliffs border the sea, and soft green pines dot the land. When it comes to places to eat, there’s a booming farm-to-fork offering here that rivals its beach clubs—don’t miss Juntos Farm and La Paloma in the center of the island, or Cala Gracioneta if you’re by the sea. Wellbeing is also a focus, and those seeking connection to nature—and disconnection from hectic city life—retreat here en masse year-round. Perhaps it’s the fabled pull of Es Vedra—the most magnetic point on earth—that deems it so alluring in the wellness space?Where to stay: Ibiza’s hotel scene spans the boujee to the boutique, and both are done really, really well. In 2025, I stayed in what might just have been my favorite hotel on the island, Hacienda Na Xamena—its spot near Santa Gertrudius, not far from the new Soho Farmhouse, is remote and resplendent, with a handful of rooms and suites that all overlook the water. Elsewhere, there are Six Senses near Portinatx and Nobu Ibiza Bay near the water’s edge in Talamanca.

Westend61MallorcaCondé Nast Traveller UK digital writer Connor Sturges’ favorite Spanish island for: leisurely explorationDespite Ibiza’s efforts to shake off its party-hard reputation and Menorca’s attractiveness as an outdoor haven, Mallorca has long been the year-round Balearic. Balmy summer afternoons are spent on the island’s dazzling beaches, whether paddling in the shallow waters off Port d’Alcúdia or finding a pine-fringed cove on either side of Cala d’Or’s buzzy scene. Travelers come for the powdery sand and crystalline waters, but return for what they discover once they’ve uncovered the island’s secrets. Inland, farm stays and vineyards lure in foodies and oenophiles, with cherry-hued reds swirled and local cheese savored under the dappled shade of warped vines. Summers in Palma see bars and restaurants spill onto the streets and into squares, animated chatter ricocheting off of storied church exteriors and the doors of family-owned restaurants. Mild winters are an increasing draw for many travelers, who shelter from the occasional shower in independent galleries, chic boutiques, and the big-hitting cultural attractions that are accessible in minutes thanks to fewer crowds.Where to stay: Hotel Son Xotano is the hottest stay for a countryside, away-from-it-all escape. Cap Rocat is Mallorca’s undisputed coastal jewel, a glittering property set across 74 acres over a mile of protected coastline.
La PalmaCondé Nast Traveler Spain editor Cynthia Martín’s favorite Spanish island for: a foray into natureThey call it the Beautiful Island, and it’s no coincidence. La Palma, the Canary Island farthest from the mainland, captivates with its lush greenery. Here, nature reigns supreme, with pure air and abundant flora and fauna. In fact, since 2002, the island has been a Biosphere Reserve. Undoubtedly, its mountains astonish, flooding a rugged landscape with green, where volcanoes and the sea complete a scene that invites you to simply let yourself be carried away by the calm and energy that radiates from the place.Active tourism is a must here, thanks to numerous hiking trails, with the Volcano Route among the most sought-after. Of course, it’s impossible not to wander through the Los Tilos Forest, photographing hundreds of centuries-old ferns. Don’t miss the Fuencaliente Salt Pans, where you can also enjoy a meal bursting with local flavors and stunning views. And save a night to marvel at the stars—the skies here are among the best in the world, as the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory demonstrates.Where to stay: Book into the 18th-century lighthouse, Faro Punta Cumplida, or in the iconic Hacienda de Abajo, located in historic sugar plantation estates.