The 23 Best Islands to Visit for Solo Female Travelers

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There’s something special about islands. They’re like little worlds unto themselves, with their own ecosystems and cultures. And there’s nothing quite like exploring an island on your own. If you’re looking for some solo female travel inspiration, below we are listing some of the best islands to visit.

Disclaimer: Below may contain affiliate links, where I make a small commission. I only recommend products that I use and love at no cost to you.

Paros, Greece

Paros, Greece is a wonderful island to explore as a solo traveler because it’s really safe and you can find quiet villages, beaches to relax at, and wonderful food to indulge in on your own! 

The most popular villages to stay in are Naousa and Parikia. These are the liveliest areas of Paros and you will find a nice going out scene in the evening as well as picturesque walkways and amazing shopping! If you opt to see some of the less touristic areas, visit the quaint and quiet villages of Lefkes, Marpissa, and Marmara. Here no agenda is required, just stroll the streets filled with white-washed buildings and colorful doorways. You may also want to have some beach days and the best ones to visit include Kolymbithres Beach, Santa Maria Beach, and Golden Beach but there are many more to choose from.

For foodies, the food scene is great in Paros. Start your morning off with a breakfast at the magnificent bakery, Ragoussis Bakery. Have dinner at Mira in Parikia. Don’t miss the Mousakka for your main and the amazing orange cake, both are Greek specialties. Dining solo isn’t super tricky in Paros as you have many places with outdoor seating and people aren’t too bothered to pay attention. The sunsets are definitely something to admire while here too. So grab a drink at Oasis and soak in that orangey red sky.

To get to Paros, you can fly into Athens or Mykonos and take a ferry to Paros. You will most likely need a car to explore the island as it’s quite large but if you opt to explore by foot there are many buses that will take you around.

I recommend this popular tour from Viator HERE.

Wrriten By Jackie of Jou Jou Travels

Curacao

Wedged between Aruba and Bonaire and just a few dozen miles off the northern coast of South America, Curacao is a fantastic and extremely safe destination for solo female travel in the Caribbean. With a unique landscape, gorgeous and historic capital city, and some of the best beaches and diving in the Caribbean, you’ll never be bored while visiting.

Curacao is also home to one of the world’s best digital nomad visa programs, offering six months to one year of residency and tax-free work status on the island after a straightforward and quick application. This program has attracted digital nomads from around the world, meaning that even if you’re traveling to Curacao for a short time, you’ll find a welcoming and well-engaged community to connect with while you’re here.

While visiting Curacao, explore historic Willemstad and marvel at the brightly-colored facades reminiscent of Amsterdam and Holland from the Dutch influence on the island. However, you won’t want to spend all your time in the city: Curacao has incredible beaches, particularly on the island’s western end. Playa Lagun and Playa Jeremi are favorites, and both feature cliffs perfect for diving and stunning coral reefs home to schools of colorful fish. Don’t miss the Tugboat wreck, sitting in just 15 feet of water and ideal for snorkelers, located a few meters off of Caracas Bay – it’s one of the fascinating snorkeling spots on the island and easy for even beginners. 

Written by Carley from Home to Havana

Bali, Indonesia

“If you’re looking for an island that is perfect for solo travelers then look no further than Bali, Indonesia. 

After all, it is a vibrant jungle oasis that is brimming over with incredible beaches, stunning rice fields, amazing cafes, and exquisite hotels. 

Plus, everything here is super affordable, making it an ideal destination for anyone traveling alone. 

In fact, you can book a premium room inside a boutique hotel in Ubud, complete with a private pool, for just $20.00 per night. 

Then, enjoy a wide array of activities like surf lessons at Echo Beach, a hike along the Campuhan Ridge Walk to the Tegallalang Rice Fields for incredible photo ops, and a ride on the famous Bali swing. 

Next, treat yourself to some premium spa treatments and a flower bath at Jaens Spa Ubud before embarking on an incredible sunrise hike to Mount Batur as you solo travel Bali. 

Not only are the views incredible, but this is a great way to connect with travelers from around the world since many different groups converge here to summit Mount Batur. 

However, the crowds of Ubud, Seminyak, and Kuta can be a bit intense. 

So, if you want to get away from it all, head to northern Bali and go for a relaxing swim at the base of Sekumpul Waterfall. 

Just meet with your local guide upon arrival and they will take you on a wonderful walk through the quiet jungles of the north as you try local pandanus pancakes with coconut and marvel and authentic local villages. 

Whatever you do though, don’t forget to visit incredible Hindu temples like Tanah Lot, Taman Ayun, Ulundanu Braton, and Jatiluwih. 

Finally, head to Uluwatu and explore the incredible temple here as you watch the sunset and take in an amazing cultural show.

Awesome Tours to Book in Bali

Written by Kelly of Girl with the Passport 

Samana, Dominican Republic

Samana, a small village located along the northeastern shores of the Dominican Republic, is the perfect island destination for female solo travelers, chocked full of outdoor adventures, nature, culture, history, waterfalls, rain forests, friendly people….and WHALES. What you won’t find here are an over-abundance of tourists.

While Samana has every adventure that you can think of, whale watching is what brings most people to this remote part of the Dominican Republic and it is by far the largest attraction. The Samana Bay is a designated whale sanctuary with over 2,500 whales migrating to this area every year throughout the months of November to March. A whale-watching tour is an absolute “must do” when visiting Samana.

Many of the tours offered in this part of the Dominican Republic depart from Samana Bay, taking you to National Parks and remote islands with world-class beaches that can only be reached by boat. Keep your eyes peeled as you will likely see at least one whale. I highly recommend spending at least one day on the water when visiting Samana as there is so much more to see.

A solo female traveler visiting Samana will find accommodations at a reasonable cost, with no solo supplements. As an added bonus, Samana is a safe island destination and as a female solo traveler, you will feel completely safe as you explore the quaint, colorful shops, while stopping to chat with, and getting to know the locals.

For solo travelers seeking an island destination away from the masses of tourists, and one that also offers beauty at every turn and never-ending adventures, Samana is where you want to be.

Written by Kelly from Just One Passport

Cyprus

Cyprus is one of the safest islands in Europe and it is a perfect choice for solo female travel. One of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean offers incredible views and sunny weather throughout the whole year. The island is also the birthplace of the beautiful ancient Greek goddess – Aphrodite.

One of the best things to do in Cyprus includes visiting Aphrodite’s Rock beach. According to legend, swimming around the Petra Tou Romiou ensures eternal beauty. Which solo female traveler wouldn’t want to take a dip in the most stunning place on the island?

Cyprus is well known for its fantastic beaches. The crystal clear waters are home for Caretta Caretta turtles. Whether, it is snorkeling, exploring coastal towns, or trying delicious food, there are many amazing attractions in Cyprus.

Paphos airport is less than 30 minutes drive to archeological sites or Aphrodite’s Rock beach. The Greek part of the island is easy to explore by car so driving solo should not be a problem. It takes no longer than 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive from the western tip of Cyprus to the far eastern end of the island.

Roads between Paphos and Ayia Napa are great for any female solo driver. A6 highway connects Paphos with Limassol – one of the largest cities on the island. If you want to visit the capital of the island, there is an A1 motorway to Nicosia. After exploring the city, you can admire beautiful Sea Caves, just a 1-hour drive from the capital.

When it comes to booking affordable flights, I love using the Skyscanner App!

Written By Paulina from the UK Every Day

Borneo

Borneo is one of the most underrated and yet mind-boggling places that travelers can visit. Though it isn’t a popular destination on most bucket lists, you can be sure that it won’t disappoint!

The first thing that you should know about Borneo is that the island is divided across three countries namely Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. The whole country of Brunei is situated here and it is a really offbeat place to visit with its varied cuisine and its beautiful mosque. 

The Indonesian side of Borneo has some amazing diving spots there should you choose to visit that part of the country. One amazing spot on the island is in Sabah and if you are headed that way, then you should plan a trip to Kota Kinabalu. The city is a foodies paradise and it is a great base for all the activities in the area. 

From hiking up Mount Kinabalu to diving in the UNESCO sites, this city will be the base point for all your activities. Plus it is cheap! Luxury is available too and at prices that will not break the bank.

The city is really safe and is highly recommended for solo travel.

Madeira

Madeira is a stunning Portuguese island in the north Atlantic ocean, often described as “the Hawaii of Europe”. It boasts lush greenery, gorgeous waters, volcanic black sand beaches, and sweeping mountains. In fact, you’ll be amazed at how dramatically the landscape changes as you travel around the island. 

It’s a great destination for solo travelers for a number of reasons. When you’re traveling solo, safety is your number one concern. Madeira is one of the safest destinations to travel to in Europe since it experiences very low crime rates – even pickpocketing rates are much lower than most tourist destinations! 

As it’s a European island, it’s an easy place to travel to, since the currency used is Euros and it’s widely English speaking. You’ll find it very easy to converse with locals, who are extremely friendly and welcoming! The friendliness doesn’t stop with the locals. You’ll find yourself making friends, regardless of whether you decide to stay in hotels or hostels. Plenty of group tours operate across the island for a variety of activities, making great opportunities to meet fellow travelers. 

If you prefer to go it alone for the duration of your trip, there are plenty of things to do in Madeira no matter what your preferences. The abundance of nature across the island is incredibly grounding and calming, and offers plenty of great solo activities such as hiking, surfing, and diving. You can also relax at one of the islands spas, explore the local way of life and head out to the water on amazing whale and dolphin watching tours!

Madeira is very easy to navigate and travel around locally, which is another reason why it is perfect for solo travelers. You can hire a car and drive yourself around the island, or rely on the island’s bus network to get you around. If you choose the self-drive option, the roads are well maintained, well lit, and easy to follow around the island! 

Written by Laura from In Travel

Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam

Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam is one of the best islands for solo female travelers. As a visa-free destination, it’s the perfect place to visit for those looking for a spontaneous and easy trip.

Plus, it’s considered relatively safe compared to bigger cities in Vietnam. Crimes are rare and there are plenty of emergency facilities on the island, such as the Vinmec International Hospital – one of Vietnam’s biggest private hospital chains. In addition, although it may seem remote, Phu Quoc is only a 1-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City, so you can easily access the mainland if needed.

The island has a robust tourism infrastructure, making it easy to get around and find things to do. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes catering to international travelers, as well as beautiful beachfront hotels and resorts such as the Vinpearl Resort & Golf, JW Marriott Emerald Bay, Intercontinental Long Beach, and so on. 

What can a solo female traveler do on Phu Quoc Island? A bunch! Phu Quoc is home to a number of mesmerizing beaches, including Bai Sao Beach, which is renowned for its clear water and powdery white sand. And if you’re looking for a little bit of adventure, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy too. From exploring the jungle to scuba diving in the clear blue waters, there’s something for everyone here.

The locals on Phu Quoc Island are incredibly friendly, so it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind, safe in the knowledge that you’re completely surrounded by natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled trip, Phu Quoc Island is the ideal destination for solo female travelers like you.

Written by Fiona from Fiona Travels From Asia

Exuma

The Bahamas is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, and if you’re really looking to get away and spend some quality alone time, head over to Exuma.

Exuma is made up of two islands in the Bahamas and is the perfect destination if you’re looking for gorgeous beaches, fun activities, and great food, with less tourists. Aside from being the ideal place for some major rest & relaxation, Exuma is also one of the safest islands in all of the Bahamas.

The crime in Exuma is so low that there isn’t even jail on the island! The locals are warm, inviting, and treat you like family. You can catch a direct flight to Exuma from Miami and once you arrive, schedule an airport pickup with Dee’s Tour Services to take you to your hotel.

Dee will ensure that you get to your hotel, or any destination on the island, safely which is a huge plus when traveling solo. Once you’re settled in, spend the day soaking up the sun on secluded beaches or take a water taxi over to Stocking Island where you can snorkel with stingrays and mingle with other travelers at Chat ‘n’ Chill, and even learn how to make a fresh conch salad.

After you’ve had enough time lounging in the sun, take an ATV tour through the northern part of Great Exuma or sign up for an all-day island-hopping boat tour where you’ll swim with the pigs and nurse sharks, snorkel in a grotto, and explore a jaw-dropping sandbar! The activities are endless on Exuma, and the entire island will welcome you to their paradise and make you feel right at home. 

Written by Tess from Traveling Tessie

Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is a small Island located in the heart of the Philippines. It’s the most popular island both to local and foreign visitors. Boracay is loved for its white fine sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and fun water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing. It is also known as the #1 party island of the Philippines.

Even though you don’t like the nightlife at all, as a solo traveler, you can easily make friends and find travel buddies by signing up for guided tours and boat tours. These activities usually have 10-20 participants, many are traveling on their own. Boracay is also on the backpacker’s trail of Southeast Asia, if you are looking for a travel companion for your next destination, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding other backpackers here.

The island has lots of hostels as well, an awesome way to meet other people. While the locals are super friendly and are always happy to see foreign travelers. English is one of the main languages of the Philippines, hence, communicating with locals should not be a problem. Since Boracay is a small island, most people go to the same place for food, drinks, and other activities. If you have 2 weeks in the Philippines, you definitely should add Boracay to your itinerary.

There are three ways to get to Boracay Island. You can take a flight from Manila to Caticlan, then take a 15-minute boat to Boracay. You can fly to Kalibo as well, then take an hour’s van to Caticlan, then a boat to Boracay. Finally, you can take a bus from Manila to Batangas, then an 8-hour ferry to Caticlan, and then a short boat ride to Boracay Island.

Written by Elizabeth of Two Week Traveller

Palawan, Philippines

With crystal clear water, hundreds of small islands, and lush rain forests, it’s easy to see why Palawan in the Philippines was awarded to be “the most beautiful island in the world” in the Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2020. 

The island is located on the Western side of the country and is home to world-class beaches, astounding diving sites, impressive waterfalls, and so much more. 

One of the best things to do in Palawan is island-hopping in El Nido in the northern part of the island. Boat tours take you to four to five islands in El Nido’s bay, where you can explore breathtaking underwater worlds, swim in turquoise-blue lagoons, and walk along stunning sandbanks while enjoying the view of jagged limestone cliffs covering the surrounding islands. 

But it’s not only Palawan’s beauty that makes this island a popular tourist destination. It’s also extremely easy to travel through and a great place for solo travelers! You can use public transport to get around, the locals are friendly and respectful, and hostels throughout the island make it easy to meet fellow travelers. 

Female solo travelers will also notice that the Philippines are pretty emancipated compared to other third-world countries. In Palawan, short clothes are part of the island lifestyle, so you won’t have to worry about dressing conservatively. 

Furthermore, you can find some great nightlife on the island and have fun in local karaoke bars or fancy beach clubs. 

No matter which places you visit and what activities you choose to do, one thing is for sure: Palawan is the perfect place for a vacation that you will never forget!

Written by Lena aka Not Another Backpacker

Milos Island

Milos Island in Greece is a real highlight for female solo travelers! This Cycladic Island is one of the real insider tips for nature lovers and especially the wild-romantic beaches of Milos are a real gem of the island. The island is particularly well suited for solo travelers, it is very safe, not too big and the main attractions can be optimally explored on your own. The best way is to rent a quad bike and explore the most beautiful places on the island.

The most beautiful thing to enjoy in Milos is the breathtaking landscape, where a dreamlike coast and fascinating nature inspire. Truly unique and a must-see is Sarakiniko, a snow-white stretch of coastline that enchants with a surreal lunar landscape. The white rock together with the deep blue sea colors forms a backdrop as if from other worlds. Another highlight of the island is Kleftiko, another rocky landscape in the turquoise blue sea, which is best explored by a sailing boat in a group.

In the evenings you definitely visit the lively harbor of Milos, or you can stroll through the beautiful Chora and enjoy the wonderful Greek ambiance. This is where solo travelers from all over the world meet, perfect if you like to socialize with new people.

The island of Milos is best reached by ferry from Athens. Alternatively, there are also connections to other Cyclades islands, such as Santorini or Mykonos. On site you can rent either a small car or a quad, so you are flexible and can explore the most beautiful spots of the island comfortably on your own.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily is the most southern region of Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean. The island is famous for its cathedrals, architecture, gorgeous beaches, vineyards, and its capital city, Palermo. Sicily can be reached by flying into  Catania Fontanarossa International Airport, Palermo Airport., or taking the train from cities north of the island.

Sicily is a great solo travel destination because it is safe, and easy to get around by train, bus, or rental car. There are hostels, hotels, and apartment rentals all over the island, which means lots of options for choosing a stay that’s social, or more independent. What’s especially great about visiting Sicily is that the island has a bit of everything.

If you enjoy exploring cities, you can take in the architecture, cathedrals, markets, and food of Palermo. If you prefer a relaxed vibe, head to Cefalu. This coastal beach town is small but has plenty to do, including seeing its Norman cathedral, Duomo di Cefalù, and visiting the Mandralisca Museum to see archaeological exhibits. Other Sicilian beach towns include Taormino, Catania, and Syracuse. 

For some adventure, take a boat to the Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie). This is an archipelago of seven UNESCO-protected islands which were formed by volcanic activity over the course of millions of years. For an exciting experience in the islands, book an evening boat tour to watch Sicily’s Stromboli Volcano actively erupting. 

Written by Erin from Pina Travels

K’gari (Fraser Island), Australia

K’gari is also known as Fraser Island, but its original Aboriginal name K’gari sounds so much better as it means Paradise and is a good description of how you will feel on this island on Australia’s East Coast. It’s a fantastic island for solo female travelers as you can experience wilderness and adventure in a very safe way. 

K’gari is the world’s largest sand island, so you can only go there with a 4WD vehicle. Leaving the bitumen to drive on sand can be intimidating, and it’s not always easy to design an itinerary on K’gari for your first visit, so many travelers choose to join a tour. 

You will find buses going there for the day, but they’re not the best to truly experience the island. It’s better to take your time and join “tag-along” tours where they provide the vehicles – that participants can drive if they have a license – and all the equipment needed to stay on the island for a few days. You will follow a guide who’s happy to give you tips, maximize your itinerary and share their knowledge and passion about the island. 

It’s a great way to visit the most famous spots, from the stunning freshwater lakes to the beautiful dunes and from the impressive rainforest that grows on the sand to the breathtaking headlands to spot marine life. It’s also an excellent opportunity to make new friends and have fun during your visits, but also back at the camp at the end of the day. Often, everybody participates in cooking and dining together before playing games or chilling on the beach to watch the stars. If camping on the beach is not your thing, you can also find glamping tents.

A stay on K’gari is a highlight for many nature lovers and solo travelers visiting Australia.

Written by Eloise from My Favourite Escapes

Yasawa Islands in Fiji

When you think of Fiji, you think of a honeymoon or retiree paradise vacation destination. Yes, Fiji draws these types of people. But there is also a small but fantastic backpacker trail – especially for solo travelers – such as in the northern chain of islands, the Yasawa islands.

This cluster of 20 volcanic islands offers fantastic opportunities for island hopping. You’ll either get the opportunity to meet people in the launching pad of Nadi before you set off, on the ferry, or at your accommodation. Any resorts with dorm rooms (whether you stay in them or not) are the best bet for meeting others and avoiding couple-only options.

The Yasawa islands offer amazing group adventure activities for solo travelers to join for a full or half-day tour. Highlights include snorkeling with wild manta rays, swimming in the ethereal Sawa-I-Lau caves, and diving into world-class reef. If you’re brave there’s even a famous shark dive!

With a laid-back, gentle, and hospitality-orientated culture, Fiji is especially safe for solo female travel. Females need not feel nervous about being intimidated or harassed as the culture of Fiji is very respectful. Solo female travelers should simply exercise the normal level of caution as a female in an unknown and foreign place. 

Many women even choose Fiji as their first ever solo travel destination due to the close proximity to Australia and New Zealand, widely spoken English, and good infrastructure. This island nation of over 300 islands is simply a fantastic option for any beach-loving solo female adventurer.

Written by Tammy from Travelling Tam

Ischia

Ischia is the largest island in the Bay of Naples, Italy. You may not have heard of it as it is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Capri. However, Ischia is a unique place to visit and an excellent choice for solo travelers. The island is quiet, charming, and much better value for money compared to nearby Capri and the Amalfi coast. It is also very safe and has a very laidback vibe, making it perfect for female solo travelers. 

There is a lot to do on the island of Ischia. Visit the incredible Castello Aragonese, this fortress set on its own craggy islet is Italy’s answer to Mont Saint Micheal and dates all the way back to 474 BC. Make your way to the top of the fort and stop for a glass of local wine while you admire the stunning views of the island from up there. 

Ischia is also famous for its thermal spas. Solo travelers can spend a day soaking in the thermal waters to melt their stresses away. The best and most luxurious spas can be found in Forio and Lacco Ameno. Those on a budget can also visit a small natural spa for free, Baia di Sorgeto is a small cove consisting of several thermal pools of differing temperatures. Here you can spend the day soaking without spending a penny!

 However, if you are looking for something more energetic to do then you can hike to the peak of Monte Epomeo, Ischia’s dormant volcano.

Written by JJ from Travel Across the Border Lines

Anguilla

Anguilla is truly a hidden gem for solo travelers. The small Caribbean island near Sint Maarten is known for being very safe and is a wonderful destination for solo travelers looking to truly unwind. Anguilla is the perfect destination for practicing some travel self care, since you’ll have the opportunity to take life at a much slower pace. The locals are kind and laid back, reflecting the pace of the island. 

You won’t find many people in Anguilla, as its main attraction is its collection of stunning and tranquil beaches. It’s not hard to find a sizable patch of beach that you can have to yourself, and there are very few people who interrupt beachgoers. Rendezvous Bay is a perfect place to set up your towel and read a book, take a nap, or otherwise just relax for hours at a time. 

The water is remarkably calm on most parts of the island, with the notable exception of Captain’s Bay where you can watch the larger waves roll in. If you’re in the mood to explore, make your way to Little Bay, where you’ll be able to climb a large ladder down to a hidden cove. You can also snorkel on many parts of the island.

Anguilla is a great place for solitude and retreat, so you won’t find many parties on the island. If you need to get out for an evening, make your way to Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve. It’s the perfect place to catch a sunset and sip a rum punch, the most popular drink in Anguilla.

Written by Amber from Amber Everywhere

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Situated just off the coast of Cancun, Mexico, Isla Mujeres is a small island that is the perfect destination for solo female travelers looking for a relaxing beach retreat. In fact, the name Isla Mujeres translates to “Island of Women” as many images of Mayan goddesses were found on the island when it was first discovered by the Spanish. 

Nowadays, the island is a popular tourist destination in Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and incredibly clear turquoise waters. Solo female travelers will find Isla Mujeres to be a safe and fun place to visit, with plenty of things to do and see.

There are many places to stay in Isla Mujeres, from boutique hotels and all-inclusive resorts to more budget-friendly options like hostels and Airbnbs. Solo female travelers can feel confident choosing any of these accommodations, as they will all be safe and comfortable, and there are options available for any budget.

Isla Mujeres is also home to world-renowned white sand beaches, most notably Playa Norte (North Beach), which is considered to be one of the best beaches in the world. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and catamaran sails are some of the island’s most popular activities, which can easily be arranged for a solo day trip out on the water. 

In addition to its beaches, Isla Mujeres also offers a variety of other attractions and activities. There are numerous restaurants and bars, as well as shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. There is also an abundance of natural beauty to explore with its rugged beaches, Mayan remains, and cliffs with stunning ocean views. Whether you’re looking to relax on a beautiful beach or explore a new place, Isla Mujeres is the perfect destination for solo female travelers.

Written by Allison from Viva la Travelista

Barbados

One of the best islands for solo female travel is Barbados. Located in the southeastern Caribbean, this slice of paradise is perfect for those who want to enjoy some sun, sand, and sea.

When it comes to solo female travel, Barbados is definitely a top destination. The island has a lot to offer in terms of both relaxation and adventure, making it the perfect place to enjoy a vacation on your own.

Barbados has less crime than its neighbors due to its active police force. You can find them patrolling the streets and the beaches, making sure that everyone is safe. Plus, hotels are staffed with security personnel 24/7, so you can always feel safe and secure. This makes it a great place to travel solo as a woman, as you can feel confident in your safety.

One of the best parts about taking a vacation to Barbados is the beautiful beaches. With around 60 0 miles of coastline, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Whether you want to relax on the sand or take part in some water sports, you’ll be able to find the perfect spot. Some of the best beaches include Crane Beach, Carlisle Bay, Pebbles Beach, Bathsheba Beach, and Miami Beach.

Aside from the beaches, you can also go on a rum tour at St. Nicholas Abbey. This historic plantation is one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere and produces its own rum. You can tour the grounds, learn about the history of rum production on the island, and even sample some of the delicious rum made here.

If you’re looking for a little more adventure on your trip, consider going on a hike up to the top of Mount Hillaby. This is the highest point on the island and offers stunning views of the entire island.

Other fun things to do in Barbados include grabbing a drink in St. Lawrence Gap, going on a sunset catamaran cruise, sampling some delicious Bajan food, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more.

Written by Disha from Disha Discovers

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Located in the Krabi province, Koh Lanta is one of the most laid-back Thai islands. Blessed with phenomenal beaches, mangroves, snorkeling and diving opportunities, and its own national park – the island presents the best of Thai scenery. 

Koh Lanta is a place to slow the pace and, due to its record for safety, is one of the best islands for solo female travel. Accommodation consists of budget-friendly bungalows where you can appreciate solitude or hostels if you want to make new friends.

One of the best things to do on Koh Lanta is volunteer as a dog walker at Lanta Animal Welfare. This center rehabilitates and rehomes stray dogs and cats. You can turn up in the morning or late afternoon, collect a dog, and take it for a stroll along the beach. There’s no charge. Afterward, grab a coconut and hang out with the cats in “Kitty City.”

Furthermore, the global initiative Trash Hero is active on Koh Lanta. It’s a great way to give back while traveling and meet people. 

Wellness-minded travelers will appreciate Koh Lanta’s thriving vegetarian scene and yoga places, such as Oasis Yoga.

While it’s not a party island, Koh Lanta’s beaches are lined with bars where you can grab a beer and watch the sunset. Stay close to Long Beach (Pra-Ae Beach) if you want to be close to the nightlife. 

One important consideration is that public transport is limited in Koh Lanta. You will need to rent a scooter to get around. Fortunately, the roads are quiet and bike rental or hostel staff will be able to show you the ropes and explain how to drive. 

Visit Koh Lanta during the “green” season (June-September) for a quieter experience and reduced accommodation costs or head there in the high season for a more sociable stay. 

Written by Hannah from All About The Après

The British Virgin Islands

Sip on the island-famous Painkiller cocktail while sunbathing by the white sand and turquoise waters of the Caribbean in the British Virgin Islands, one of the best islands for solo female travel for a quiet getaway. One of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, island hop to secluded coves, incredible snorkeling spots, beautiful beaches, and make friends with the outgoing locals.

With a collection of 50 small islands, stroll around Road Town on the main island of Tortola while selecting which island to visit next. Before leaving, check out the best beach on the island, Cane Garden Bay, to see the operations of the oldest rum distillery in the Caribbean.

A short ferry journey from Tortola will take you to one of the most famous sites in the British Virgin Islands: The Virgin Gorda Baths, a scenic bay strewn with huge granite boulders to wade through. Don’t leave without trying Mama Africa’s street food kiosk, filled with exotic Caribbean fare from Conch Roti to Bull Foot Soup.

Take another ferry ride to the popular island, Jost Van Dyke. There, you can explore the bubbly pools, party at an original sailor’s bar, or relax on White Bay’s powdery white sand beaches with a Painkiller in hand.

Due to its warm temperatures and constant winds, the BVIs are nicknamed the “sailing capital of the Caribbean”. If you’re up for an adventure of a lifetime, there are plenty of opportunities for solo travelers to temporarily join a crew on a BVI sailing itinerary too.

Written by Catherine from Nomadicated

Culebra, Puerto Rico

It’s a tropical paradise you’ll absolutely love to explore solo: Culebra, Puerto Rico! And best of all, as a US citizen, you won’t even need a passport to visit this gorgeous island.

Culebra, Puerto Rico is home to the incredible Flamenco Beach, which has been rated as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean time and time again. For just a few bucks you can rent an umbrella and beach chair and enjoy the ocean waves all day. With food and drink options within walking distance, it’s a great place to enjoy the gorgeous Caribbean Sea.

The island’s laid-back island feel and a small number of local residents mean it’s a quiet island and perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation as a solo traveler. Located just 18 miles off mainland Puerto Rico, you can take a ferry or plane ride to this tropical paradise. Once there, you’ll need to rent a go-kart or Jeep to get around the island. A Jeep will ensure you can drive all the roads easily, so that’s the recommended method of transportation.

Take your snorkel gear and hit the hot spot for sea turtles: Tamarindo Beach. Shop for souvenirs in downtown Culebra or find some solitude at the beautiful Zoni Beach. For the perfect accommodations for one, book a private oasis at the Aleli Cottages. You’ll get dreamy island views from one of the tallest hilltops on the island. 

Written by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Oahu

If you’re looking for a solo getaway, Oahu should definitely be on your list. 

Oahu is the most popular island for visitors and accordingly, it’s a breeze to get here, with Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, conveniently located in Honolulu. And while it’s certainly easier to explore the island if you’ve got a rental car, this is the only Hawaiian island that you could reasonably get away with not renting one (and blowing a ton of money!), thanks to public transit and the plentiful ride shares available. Plus, beyond petty crime (which unfortunately is hard to escape), Oahu feels very safe for solo female travelers.

If you’re looking to save costs and meet other travelers, there are a number of hostels sprinkled throughout Honolulu and the famed North Shore. 

Whether you want to explore the island with newfound friends or solo, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. For example, there are several incredible hikes, like the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail, that offer stunning views of the Koʻolau Mountain range, Hawaii’s white sand beaches, and beyond, the Pacific Ocean. Alternatively, there are plenty of epic beaches, like Lanikiai Beach, to do everything from simply soaking up the sun to paddle board or kayak. 

Make sure to carve out some time to hit up the North Shore of Oahu, which is known for its big wave surfing and laid-back vibes. Here, Waimea Bay Beach Park offers some of the best snorkeling in Oahu, come summer, and during the winter months, is an awesome place to sit back and watch the professionals catch up to 20-foot waves!

We recommend booking this best-selling tour HERE.

Written by Jessica from Up Rooted Traveler

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Final Thoughts

The best islands for solo female travelers offer a little bit of everything: adventure, relaxation, culture, and great food! If you’re looking for your next solo destination, consider one of these three islands. From the British Virgin Islands to Puerto Rico to Hawaii, you’re sure to find the perfect place to suit your needs.