Spanish Sun Islands: Compare Coast, Access and Accommodation

Mallorcan mountain village in front of forested mountains Historic Mallorcan mountain village with natural stone facades, green shutters, trees and wooded mountains; used as a Mallorcan image for the variety of Spanish island trips, not presented as a Canary Islands image.

Spain's islands offer different kinds of sunshine holidays. The Balearics combine coves, villages and short transfer times, while the Canary Islands provide varied volcanic landscapes and a useful winter climate. Compare the island and the area rather than choosing by name alone.

Balearic Islands

Mallorca offers the broadest range of beaches, mountains, towns and services. Menorca suits quieter coves, walking and family-friendly coastal days. Ibiza combines beaches with nightlife but also has rural villages and quieter areas. Check the distance to the airport, beach and evening services.

Canary Islands

Tenerife and Gran Canaria provide varied landscapes and many facilities. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are known for volcanic scenery, wind sports and open beaches. La Palma and La Gomera appeal to walkers and travellers seeking a greener, quieter setting. Weather can differ between coast and higher ground.

Choose a practical base

Check air conditioning, outdoor shade, parking and the distance to shops. A car helps with beaches, viewpoints and rural areas, but resort locations may work well with buses and taxis. For winter stays, confirm heating where evenings or higher elevations are cooler.

Questions before booking

  • Which island fits your preferred beaches and activities?
  • What is the transfer time from the airport?
  • Do you need a car for the chosen area?
  • Are cooling, shade and seasonal heating available?

See our island-holiday guide for further planning help.

Photo: Alesia Belaya

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Fuerteventura-Kueste

Fuerteventura holidays

Fuerteventura is known for wide beaches, wind and open landscapes. Compare Corralejo, El Cotillo, Caleta de Fuste, Costa Calma and Jandía by bathing conditions, services, driving time and shelter.
Gran Canaria Kustenlandschaft

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria combines southern beaches, Las Palmas and cooler mountain landscapes. Choose a holiday home by region, daily travel time, mobility needs and the balance of relaxation and excursions.
Volcanic coast

Ibiza

Ibiza combines nightlife with quiet coves, villages and historic places. Compare Eivissa, Sant Antoni, Santa Eulària and the north by noise, beach access, mobility and daily travel time.
Lanzarote volcanic coast

Lanzarote

Lanzarote combines volcanic landscapes, beaches and César-Manrique architecture. Compare coastal resorts and quieter bases by wind, mobility, excursion distances and the facilities that matter to your stay.
Coastal town and mountains

Mallorca

Mallorca ranges from Palma and eastern coves to northern beaches and the Tramuntana. Choose a holiday home by region, mobility needs, hiking plans and the distance to everyday destinations.
Volcanic beach

Menorca

Menorca offers quieter coves, coastal paths and smaller towns. Compare Maó, Ciutadella and rural bases by beach access, mobility, walking plans and the practical facilities you need.
Tenerife teide

Tenerife

Tenerife combines the Teide, contrasting coasts, historic towns and varied holiday regions. Choose a holiday home by climate, mobility, walking plans, beach access and daily travel time.