The world is adorned with islands of immense size and diverse landscapes, each telling a unique tale of geography, culture, and natural wonders. From the Arctic realms of Greenland to the tropical paradises of Borneo and Madagascar, these islands captivate us with their beauty and intrigue. Join us on a journey as we delve into the top 25 largest islands globally, unveiling their remarkable features and inviting you to explore the wonders they hold.
25. Hispaniola
Hispaniola, shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic, is the twenty-fifth largest island globally. It boasts a mix of Caribbean charm and colonial history.
- Amazing Fact: Hispaniola is home to the first permanent European settlement in the Americas, founded by Christopher Columbus in 1492.
- Geographical Location: Caribbean Sea.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
24. Sri Lanka
Known for its tropical landscapes and rich history, Sri Lanka is the twenty-fourth-largest island, offering a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- Amazing Fact: Sri Lanka is home to the world’s oldest human-planted tree, the sacred Bo Tree in Anuradhapura, which dates back over 2,300 years.
- Geographical Location: South Asia.
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
23. Banks Island
As the twenty-third-largest island, Banks Island is located in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. It is characterized by its remote and pristine Arctic environment.
- Amazing Fact: Banks Island is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife, including muskoxen, Arctic foxes, and various bird species.
- Geographical Location: Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
22. Sakhalin
Positioned off the eastern coast of Russia, Sakhalin is the twenty-second-largest island. Its diverse landscapes include mountains, forests, and coastal plains.
- Amazing Fact: Sakhalin has a unique mix of Russian and Japanese influences due to its history of territorial disputes.
- Geographical Location: Far East Russia.
- Best Time to Visit: July to September
21. Hokkaido
The second-largest island of Japan, Hokkaido, claims the twenty-first spot. It is famous for its winter sports, hot springs, and stunning mountainous terrain.
- Amazing Fact: Hokkaido is known for its indigenous Ainu culture, distinct from the mainland Japanese culture.
- Geographical Location: Northern Japan.
- Best Time to Visit: December to February
20. Ireland
Ireland, the twentieth-largest island, is renowned for its lush green landscapes, ancient castles, and rich folklore.
- Amazing Fact: Ireland is home to the Cliffs of Moher, some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, reaching up to 214 meters.
- Geographical Location: North Atlantic.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
19. Mindanao
The second-largest island in the Philippines, Mindanao ranks nineteenth globally. It is known for its diverse ethnic groups and stunning natural attractions.
- Amazing Fact: Mindanao is home to Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, surrounded by lush forests and unique wildlife.
- Geographical Location: Southeast Asia.
- Best Time to Visit: December to February
18. Iceland
Situated on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Iceland is the eighteenth-largest island. Its otherworldly landscapes feature geysers, glaciers, and volcanoes.
- Amazing Fact: Iceland has no forests; instead, its landscapes are dominated by moss-covered lava fields and dramatic geological features.
- Geographical Location: North Atlantic.
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
17. Cuba
Known for its vibrant culture, Cuba is the seventeenth-largest island. It has a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of Spanish and Caribbean influences.
- Amazing Fact: Cuba is home to one of the world’s best-preserved colonial cities, Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Geographical Location: Caribbean Sea.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
16. Newfoundland
The sixteenth-largest island globally, Newfoundland is part of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Its rugged landscapes and coastal beauty are unparalleled.
- Amazing Fact: Newfoundland is known for its iceberg alley, where massive icebergs drift south from the Arctic each spring.
- Geographical Location: North Atlantic.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September