Islands without cars offer the simple pleasure of unhurried adventures. For a refreshing escape from the vehicle-dominated world we live in and the freedom to immerse yourself in gorgeous natural surroundings at your own pace, visit one of these car-free islands.
1. Lopud, Croatia
In a country that has grown immensely in popularity in recent years (thanks a lot, Game of Thrones…) you can still find a few quiet corners of Croatia. Lopud is one such place, and it’s car-free. Reachable only by boat from major cities like Dubrovnik, Lopud is one of the three Elaphiti Islands located off the breathtaking Dalmatian coast. Fun fact: Lopud is also home to Europe’s tallest palm trees–perfect for providing a bit of shade in this sun-soaked paradise.
2. Rottnest Island, Australia
Rottnest Island, nestled off the coast of Western Australia near Perth, boasts pristine beaches and ample opportunities to connect with nature. However, the island also has a difficult history involving the mistreatment of Aboriginal peoples. Also known as Wadjemup, the island served as a penal colony for Indigenous prisoners during the colonial era. Despite its dark past, efforts to acknowledge and honor the island’s true custodians, the Whadjuk Noongar people, are ongoing. When you visit, come prepared to respect and recognize the brutal history and cultural significance of the island.
3. Lamu Island, Kenya
Kenya may conjure up dreams of safaris and desert nights under the stars, but the port of Lamu Island offers a refreshing contrast to the typical African experience. Lamu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa. Transportation on Lamu is generally limited to donkeys and dhows, a traditional boat. On the island, admire striking architecture and entryways adorned with artfully carved doors.
4. Caye Caulker, Belize
Caye Caulker is your one-stop-shop for car-free Caribbean adventures. It’s the smaller, less-crowded, and more affordable option to its big sister island, Ambergris Caye. Snorkel mangroves, catch a wave kitesurfing, or simply enjoy an ice cold beverage at one of the island bars. Caye Caulker is a true beach bum destination and lots of happy island-hoppers pedaling around from beach-to-beach on bikes. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world!
5. The Gili Islands, Indonesia
The Gili Islands are an archipelago in Indonesia where three pristine islands each represent three distinct personalities. Gili Trawangan is a bustling paradise playground favored by partygoers while Gili Meno offers secluded intimacy for those who wish to be far from prying eyes. Gili Air floats somewhere between the two, for that just-right fit of activity mixed with tranquility. On any of these islands, you can walk anywhere in about 20 minutes or less, which is helpful since not even scooters or golf carts are permitted.
6. La Digue, Seychelles
Holidaymakers from around the world flock to the paradise islands of Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. Don’t mistake the popularity for masses of people, though. In Seychelles, there are plenty of clandestine areas to retreat to, including the car-free island of La Digue. While cars are available on some of the larger islands of the Seychelles, La Digue is where you can explore exclusively by bike. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s home to one of the world’s most photographed beaches. While in the water, clear-bottom kayaks are the preferred mode of transportation and exploration.
7. Hiddensee, Germany
Germany might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of islands, so you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover Hiddensee. Situated off northern Germany’s Baltic coast, the island’s largest town of Vitte has developed into a cultural epicenter of museums and events. Much of the island, however, is unspoilt landscape showcasing rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. While the winter days are stark, summer days are lovely. Explore on foot, by bike, or on horseback when you visit this car-free island.
8. Spetses, Greece
Full disclosure: Yes, Spetses has cars. However, they’re limited to resident use while visitors can choose from motorbikes, bicycles, and donkey-pulled carts for transportation. The quintessential Mediterranean island experience, explore on foot so you can get properly lost down winding white-washed alleyways while let your skin is kissed by sunny Greek skies. This island was a cultural hub in the 18th century, and many of the handsome captains’ mansions still keep watch over the island in their original grandeur. Laskarina Bouboulina, the only woman to hold the rank of naval admiral in world history, once called one of these mansions home. It’s now a museum where visitors can learn more about this extraordinary female leader of the Greek War of Independence.
9. Easdale, Scotland
The isles off the west coast of the Scotland are renowned for their craggy beauty, unrelenting weather patterns and peaty whisky production. Many islands can be driven onto either by bridge or ferry connection, but Easdale is one of the few islands without cars or even roads. The island used to have several Scottish slate quarries, but the tiny village is now home to a charming town center, a folk museum, and a pub. Some of the old quarries are now filled with water and used as wild swimming spots, so pack your swimsuit and your wits–that water is bracing!
10. Porquerolles, France
The Côte D’Azur can be overwhelmed with visitors in the high season, so head off the beaten path to the Ile de Porquerolles. Here, authentic French Mediterranean living endures. Visitors can explore vineyards, beaches, and a charming village without the typical pomp of the French Riviera. As part of Port-Cros National Park, motorized vehicles except for emergency services are banned on Ile de Porquerolles, so you can enbrace true peace and quiet in the South of France.
11. Veierland, Norway
Get ready to ramble, wander, and sauna until you can’t see straight on the Norwegian island of Veierland. Here, visitors welcome the juxtaposition of modern activities such as golfing and contemporary architecture set against a backdrop of ancient history dating back to the Iron Age. With miles of wilderness to explore, your imagination will spring to life in the fairytale landscape found on Veierland. Daily ferries transport visitors back and forth Tenvik and Engø. The lengthy summer days are perfect for foraging, while winter is reserved for tru adventurer seekers when services are limited but chances are higher to spot the Northern Lights.
12. Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA
The last stop on our list of islands without cars is Mackinac Island, Michigan. In the car-centric culture of the United States and North America, Mackinac Island is a true hidden gem of pedestrian-friendly living. Spring through fall, days are filled with bike rides, leisurely strolls and epic sunsets, and mid-summer the island teems with Americana pride.
