White sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters for less than the cost of a dinner back home? It’s not a fantasy.
These cheap islands offer the tropical escape of your dreams without the nightmare price tag.
The 12 Cheapest Islands to Visit This Year
These cheap islands to visit offer the perfect combination of beauty and budget-friendly experiences.
1. Lombok, Indonesia
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $58 USD
Just east of Bali, Lombok delivers pristine beaches, and the towering Mount Rinjani at prices that make it one of the cheapest islands to travel to.
Unlike its famous neighbor Bali, Lombok is still an underrated Indonesian island with fewer tourists, helping you stretch your budget further.
2. Thai Islands, Thailand
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $46-85 USD
Thailand’s islands cater to every type of traveler, with Koh Tao ($46) offering the best value.
These cheap holiday islands combine affordable beach bungalows, street food markets, and world-class diving opportunities without the premium price tag.
There are many incredible islands to choose from. From the laid-back shores of Koh Lanta to the vibrant nightlife of Koh Phi Phi, budget travelers can island-hop without spending a fortune.
3. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $55 USD
Vietnam’s largest island balances development with natural beauty, making it perfect for travelers seeking cheap islands for holidays.
White sand beaches, pepper plantations, and bustling night markets offer plenty to experience at modest prices.
The seafood alone is worth the trip, often costing just a few dollars for fresh-caught dishes at local markets.
4. Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $61 USD
This East African gem delivers a mix of cultural richness and beach paradise that ranks among the cheapest islands to travel to.
Stone Town’s historic alleys and spice markets give way to powdery white beaches and turquoise waters.
Budget guesthouses and local restaurants help stretch your dollar without compromising the experience.
5. Philippine Islands, Philippines
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $33-81 USD
The Philippines stands out for incredible value, with Palawan costing just $33 daily.
Limestone cliffs, underground rivers, and world-class diving spots make these cheap holiday islands a budget traveler’s dream.
From El Nido’s dramatic landscapes to Cebu’s waterfalls, you’ll find natural beauty that rivals destinations costing three times as much.
6. Gili Islands, Indonesia
Off Lombok’s coast, these three car-free islands offer barefoot luxury at backpacker prices.
Clear waters teeming with sea turtles surround white sand beaches where beach bars serve affordable drinks at sunset.
Enjoy the simplest pleasures – here it’s snorkeling, cycling, and disconnecting from the modern world.
7. Cambodian Islands
Cambodia’s southern coast hides some of Southeast Asia’s last undeveloped islands.
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer powder-white beaches and bioluminescent waters at budget-friendly prices.
Smaller islands like Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) provide even more affordable options with minimal development.
8. Sri Lanka
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $62 USD
This teardrop-shaped island packs tremendous value with its diversity of experiences.
From palm-fringed beaches to mist-covered tea plantations and ancient ruins, Sri Lanka delivers variety.
Local transportation and street food keep costs remarkably low while you explore this compact yet diverse destination.
9. Ilha Grande, Brazil
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $75 USD
This car-free island offers a slice of Brazilian paradise without Rio’s prices.
Jungle trails lead to secluded beaches where simple accommodations and fresh seafood restaurants keep costs reasonable.
These cheap holiday islands let you experience Atlantic Forest biodiversity and clear waters perfect for snorkeling without expensive resorts.
10. Samoa
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $40 USD
Remote Samoa offers tremendous value once you arrive. Traditional fale accommodations on pristine beaches cost a fraction of typical Pacific island resorts.
Samoa offers authentic cultural experiences through village stays and ceremonies, plus natural wonders like the To Sua Ocean Trench.
11. Bali, Indonesia
- Budget: Past travelers have spent, on average for one day around $84 USD
Despite its popularity, Bali remains surprisingly affordable. From Ubud to Kuta, this island offers experiences for every budget.
Here you can easily find budget guesthouses, warungs serving delicious local food, and motorbike rentals allow you to explore without spending much.
12. Nusa Islands, Indonesia
Just a short boat ride from Bali, these three islands offer dramatic coastal landscapes and a more relaxed vibe.
Check out Nusa Penida’s cliffside viewpoints, Nusa Lembongan’s laid-back beach towns, and Nusa Ceningan’s blue lagoon.
Homestays and local warungs keep costs reasonable while delivering Instagram-worthy views.
Final Thoughts on The Best Cheap Islands to Travel To
Island paradise doesn’t require a fortune – just smart planning.
These affordable destinations prove you can enjoy white sand beaches, and unforgettable experiences without emptying your bank account.
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