Which Is The Best Spanish Island For You? (With Hotel Recommendations)

The Spanish Islands are gorgeous, and an incredibly popular destination to visit, especially in the summer months.

Spain’s sun-drenched islands have their own personality - some are perfect for off-the-radar escapes, while others thrive on energy and adventure. Whether you’re drawn to secluded coves, volcanic landscapes, or stylish beach clubs, there’s an island just waiting to be explored, with your name on it. 

Choosing the perfect Spanish Island for you can make all the difference to your trip. So, where should you go? Let’s find out.

Menorca

Menorca is the quiet, understated sibling of the Balearics, perfect for those in search of peace, nature, and unspoiled beaches. With its UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, hidden coves, and charming whitewashed villages, it’s a dream for walkers, couples, and anyone looking to escape the crowds. With equally as beautiful spots as its neighbour Mallorca, but with fewer crowds it’s ideal to escape some of the chaos that Mallorca brings whilst still experiencing island life at its finest.

Days here are best spent hopping between beaches like Cala Macarella or Cala Mitjana before settling in for a relaxed evening in Ciutadella’s harbourfront restaurants.

Why you'll love Menorca:

• Unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters
• Rich history and ancient monuments
• Peaceful, crowd-free escape
  
  

Best hotels in Menorca:

Barceló Nura

Tucked away on Menorca’s relaxing southern coast, Barceló Nura is a gorgeous, design-led retreat made for slow, sun-drenched days. With its minimalist aesthetic, private pools, and a focus on effortless relaxation, this five-star hideaway is all about unwinding in style.

Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Mediterranean, spend your afternoon drifting between the infinity pool and hidden coves, and round off the evening with fresh seafood and sunset cocktails.

White Sands Beach Club

Just opposite the beautiful white sand beach of Arenal d’en Castell, White Sands Beach Club is a wonderful escape where the Mediterranean is always in view. With its whitewashed architecture, infinity pool, and direct beach access, this coastal retreat is made for slow sun-soaked days. 

Mornings start with coffee on your private terrace, afternoons are spent dipping between the turquoise sea and the palm-fringed pool, and evenings bring alfresco dining with a backdrop of golden sunsets.

Ibiza

There’s more to Ibiza than its legendary nightlife. By day, the island is packed with wellness retreats, artisan markets, and secluded bays just waiting to be explored making it one of the most beautiful Spanish islands.

The north offers a slower pace with boutique stays and cliffside yoga spots, while the south is home to world-famous beach clubs. Whether it’s dancing till dawn or unwinding at Es Vedrà, Ibiza does it in style.

Why you'll love Ibiza:

• Legendary nightlife
• Beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters
• Bohemian markets and historic sites
  
  

Best hotels in Ibiza:

Club Cala San Miguel Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

This adults-only hotel in Puerto de San Miguel is the perfect spot if you’re searching for a peaceful place to relax around the pool, swim in the sea or watch the sunset - cocktail in hand.

There’s no shortage of amenities to keep you entertained. With a variety of restaurants and bars, enjoy casual bites from the on-site food truck or enjoy local seafood at La Savina Gastrobar. The hotel offers Yoga and Pilates classes plus, state-of-the-art gym facilities so you’ll be able to keep up with your fitness routine (or not, we’re not here to judge).

Barceló Portinatx - Adults Only

Tucked away in the quiet cove of Portinatx, this adults-only spot is perfect for laid-back days by the pool, scenic swims in crystal-clear waters, or sunset drinks with a view.

The hotel’s two pools, rooftop bar, and beachfront access set the scene for the ultimate spot to relax - plus, the hotel is located in one of Ibiza’s quietest corners. If you’re after a bit of wellness relaxation then opt to unwind with a massage or morning yoga session. When hunger strikes, savour Mediterranean flavours at the à la carte restaurant or grab a light bite from the poolside bar.

Whether you're here to explore or simply switch off, this Ibiza hideaway will have you covered.

Tenerife

Tenerife is an island of contrasts—golden beaches meet rugged volcanic landscapes, with Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, at its heart. Hike through its otherworldly national park, explore traditional towns like La Orotava, or soak up the lively atmosphere of Costa Adeje. With year-round sunshine, it’s an adventurer’s paradise that also knows how to do luxury.

Why you'll love Tenerife:

• Volcanic landscapes and Mount Teide
• Year-round sunshine
• Vibrant festivals and local culture
  
  

Best hotels in Tenerife:

Royal Hideaway Corales Villas

If you’re looking for a picturesque escape in Tenerife set to rival the villas of Bali, then we’ve found the perfect spot for you in this Spanish island.

Set along the Costa Adeje coastline, this all-villa retreat is made for indulgent escapes. Wake up to ocean views, spend lazy afternoons by your private pool, or wander down to the beach for a dip in the Atlantic.

Dining is a highlight, with Michelin-starred cuisine and fresh seafood served just steps from the shore. If relaxation is on the agenda, the spa’s hydrotherapy circuit and wellness treatments won’t disappoint.

Barceló Tenerife

If you’re after a trip to Tenerife that blends luxury with a touch of the wild, this coastal retreat is calling your name.

Set against volcanic landscapes and the Atlantic Ocean, this all-inclusive hideaway is perfect for lazy days by the lagoon-style pools, kayaking on the hotel’s private lake, or exploring the nearby nature reserve. 

With a choice of stylish bars and restaurants serving everything from Canarian flavours to fine dining, plus a spa and nightly entertainment, you can do as much - or as little - as you like. The perfect trip to the Spanish islands if you ask us!

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is a ‘mini continent’ of golden dunes, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests, making it an ideal pick for families and explorers alike. Las Palmas offers a cultural fix, while Maspalomas and Puerto Rico are home to family-friendly resorts, calm beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking, sunbathing, or indulging in Canarian cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

Why you'll love Gran Canaria:

• Incredibly diverse landscapes
• Golden sand dunes and surfing spots
• Endless outdoor activities for those seeking adventure
  
  

Best hotels in Gran Canaria:

Salobre Hotel Resort and Serenity

If you’re looking for an escape in Gran Canaria that feels a world away, this hillside hotel is the perfect place to switch off.

With panoramic views over the mountains and ocean, days here are best spent floating between the seven pools, unwinding at the rooftop sun deck, or teeing off on the championship golf course. The spa and wellness centre offer the ultimate reset, while the hotel’s restaurants serve up everything from casual bites to fine dining with a view.

Whether you're here to relax or explore, this is the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer.

Barceló Margaritas Royal Level Adults Only

If you’re after a Gran Canaria getaway with a little extra exclusivity, this adults-only retreat has you covered.

Tucked within the Barceló Margaritas resort, Royal Level guests get access to a private pool, an exclusive restaurant, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views. Spend your days lounging in the sun, hitting the gym, or exploring the buzzing nightlife of Playa del Inglés, just minutes away.

With all the perks of a larger resort but the privacy of a boutique stay, it’s the best of both worlds - just the way a holiday should be.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes and minimalist beauty make it unlike anywhere else in Spain. Timanfaya National Park feels almost lunar, while the vineyards of La Geria offer a taste of the island’s unique winemaking. Add in César Manrique’s iconic architecture and a collection of chic boutique hotels, and you’ve got an island that’s as stylish as it is striking.

Why you'll love Lanzarote:

• Otherworldly volcanic scenery
• Stunning beaches like Papagayo
• Artistic charm of César Manrique

Best hotels in Lanzarote:

Barceló Lanzarote Royal Level

This hotel really needs no introduction, boasting several pools (one of which is Olympian in size), a cycling centre and multiple bars and restaurants - you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding what to do. For family holidays, there is an action-packed kids' club, a separate dedicated kids' pool and a playground.

As for location, it’s a five-minute ride on the bus to central Costa Teguise and just a five-minute walk to the popular Playa del Ancla where you can spend your time exploring the shops, sampling local dishes and taking in the abundant views.

If you’re not sure what you’re after, but just know you’re looking for a slice of Spanish culture and sunshine then you can have a browse of all of our hotels on the Spanish islands and mainland here.