Craving the serene beauty of the Caribbean, but not keen on the long-haul flight? The Baltic Islands offer the perfect alternative, with over 30,000 islands scattered across the Baltic Sea. These hidden gems boast pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes that rival the tropical paradise of the Caribbean.
The Baltic Islands are a group of islands in the Baltic Sea, located between northern Europe and Scandinavia, bordered by countries such as Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Russia. Some of the most famous islands include Gotland and Öland in Sweden, known for their medieval architecture and sandy beaches; Saaremaa and Hiiumaa in Estonia, celebrated for their natural beauty and historic villages; Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site shared by Lithuania and Russia, famous for its sand dunes; and Rügen in Germany, renowned for its chalk cliffs and seaside resorts.
While the Caribbean is celebrated for its soft sands and turquoise waters, the Baltic islands offer similar beauty with a unique, European twist and easy access for UK travellers. Though temperatures differ – the Baltic has a cooler, mild summer climate averaging 17-22°C, compared to the Caribbean’s year-round warmth of around 27-30°C – the Baltic’s picturesque coastlines, tranquil beaches, and lush scenery make it an inviting summer destination.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an island full of adventure, the Baltic Islands provide an accessible and stunning European alternative to the tropics.
Here are seven Baltic islands that offer the same tropical charm as the Caribbean, for a fraction of the price.
1. Åland Islands (Finland): A Paradise of Hidden Coves
The Åland Islands are often referred to as the Caribbean of the Baltic, and for good reason.
With crystal-clear waters, secluded coves, and pristine beaches, this archipelago is a paradise for nature lovers.
The islands are perfect for canoeing or sailing, with turquoise waters that glisten under the sun, offering an idyllic setting for a peaceful retreat.
2. Saaremaa (Estonia): Green landscapes and quiet shores
Estonia’s largest island, Saaremaa, is known for its lush green forests and serene, untouched beaches.
Its peaceful, unspoiled landscape and crystal-clear waters are reminiscent of the tropical havens of the Caribbean.
The island’s unique mix of beaches, rolling hills, and charming villages offers a quieter, more authentic alternative to the crowded Caribbean islands.
3. Gotland (Sweden): Golden beaches and blue waters
Gotland, Sweden’s largest island, is home to a stunning coastline with powdery sand beaches and blue waters.
Its quiet, secluded bays provide the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, or taking a leisurely boat ride, evoking the same laid-back Caribbean atmosphere.
Gotland’s charming medieval town of Visby adds a cultural touch to this island paradise.
4. Hiumaa (Estonia): Remote Beauty and Clear Waters
A lesser-known gem in the Baltic, Hiumaa is a small, tranquil island in Estonia that feels like a hidden tropical paradise.
Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests are perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the Caribbean in Europe.
Hiumaa’s remote, peaceful vibe makes it an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
5. Vormsi (Estonia): Unspoiled Shores and Crystal Waters
Vormsi, a small island off the coast of Estonia, offers pristine beaches and clear, turquoise waters that make it a hidden gem in the Baltic Sea.
With only a handful of residents, the island offers an exclusive and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its natural beauty, untouched beaches, and forests evoke the charm of the Caribbean.
6. Öland (Sweden): Coastal Beauty and Sandy Shores
Öland, a Swedish island in the Baltic Sea, is renowned for its wide sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
The island’s gentle climate and picturesque landscapes offer a laid-back escape similar to the Caribbean, with quiet shores and scenic views.
Öland’s unique nature reserves and lush fields further enhance its tropical feel, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure.
7. Kihnu (Estonia): A Unique Island Paradise
Kihnu Island is a hidden gem in the Baltic, offering stunning beaches and vibrant cultural traditions.
With its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Kihnu feels like a Caribbean paradise, but with a unique Estonian twist.
The island is also known for its rich folklore and history, giving visitors the chance to explore both natural beauty and local culture.
Flights to Stockholm start at £70 return. Ferries are a popular way to travel around the Stockholm archipelago, known as the ‘skärgården’ by locals. You can book trips with the Cinderella and Waxholmsbolaget ferry services, with boats departing from central Stockholm multiple times a day. Ferries can also be used to travel between cities like Klaipeda and Karlshamn. For a scenic journey, the Göta Canal in Sweden connects the central Baltic Sea to Skagerrak and Kattegat.
