The islands in the North Atlantic ocean offer some amazing tourist attractions, ranging from active volcanoes, unspoiled nature, beautiful beaches, and dramatic landscapes to numerous recreational opportunities. If you’re looking for your next holiday destination, this article has 10 Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean you should definitely explore!
Azores Island
The Azores Islands of Portugal comprise nine major volcanic islands in the Macaronesia region of the North Atlantic Ocean, each with a distinct landscape that makes them unique. Occupying a surface area of 906 square miles, the archipelago of the Azores has an amazing wildlife community, with many species of plants and animals inhabiting the region. The island is the best place for tourists to enjoy breathtaking views, relaxation, and other recreational activities such as hiking, golf courses, fishing, etc.
Barbados Island
Crystal clear waters, fine sandy beaches, and lush green scenery are just a few of the amazing features that describe the Caribbean island of Barbados. It is located between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean sea. Barbados has a total land area of approximately 166.0 square miles and a coastline of 60 miles in length. It takes the physical shape of a pear or leg of mutton when viewed from above. The island of Barbados is marked by lowlands, terraced plains, and separated by rolling hills that naturally parallel the coasts.
Bermuda
Many are familiar with the legend of the Bermuda Triangle, a region of the sea where aircraft and boats are rumored to disappear under unexplained or mysterious circumstances. No one can verify for sure if the rumors are true. But the fact remains that Bermuda Island is an archipelago consisting of 181 islands and a group of low-forming volcanoes in the North Atlantic Ocean. The island of Bermuda has pink sand beaches and clear, blue ocean waters, making it a popular destination for tourists. In addition to its beautiful sandy beaches, there are several sightseeing attractions. The island is also known for its national bird, the Bermuda petrel or canoe, and the Bermuda rock lizard. Four major species of bats are found in Bermuda, which are the only indigenous mammals on the island.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, located in the Spanish region, are an archipelago consisting of eight islands and several small inlets in the Macaronesia region of the North Atlantic Ocean. Altogether, the islands have a population of about 2.15 million people. The Canary Islands boasts outstanding natural attractions, an ideal climate, and beautiful beaches, making the islands a major tourist destination receiving about 12 million tourists per year. Four of Spain’s thirteen national parks are located in the Canary Islands; one of which is the Teide National Park in Tenerife, where you’ll find the highest mountain in Spain and the third largest volcano in the world. Contrary to what its name may suggest, canaries are not the only animal species found here. The Canary Islands exhibit a wide range of habitats, harboring different animal and plant species.
Cape Verde Islands
The Cape Verde Islands is a popular travel destination, described by many as “a beach lover’s paradise.” If you’re looking for the best beaches to visit for a relaxing getaway, consider adding Cape Verde to your list. Home to some of the best attractions, including volcanic scenes, golden sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters, dramatic landscapes, and stunning views you can admire, there’s so much more to Cape Verde than many other islands. It is an archipelago and island country in the Atlantic Ocean, consisting of ten volcanic islands and eight islets, each offering a unique experience. The entire island is a horseshoe-shaped cluster that constitutes a combined land area of about 1,557 square miles (4,033 square kilometers).
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands encompasses a North Atlantic island country in Denmark, with a total area of about 1,400 square kilometers (540 sq mi) and a population of 53,882 (as of April 2022 records). There are 17 inhabited islands in the Faroe Islands and many islets and reefs. It’s not surprising that many hikers and bird-watchers are drawn to the islands’ mountains, valleys, and steep coastal cliffs that serve as home to thousands of seabirds.
Greenland
Greenland is the world’s largest island and the third-largest area in North America, only after Canada and the United States. The entire area of Greenland is 836,330 square miles – of which the ice sheet covers about 81%. Therefore, all towns and settlements are situated along the ice-free shores. Despite its large size, it is surprisingly the least populated territory globally, with only a population of about 56,081 people. Greenland island contains the world’s largest national park, Northeast Greenland National Park. In addition to this, Greenland is home to a vast wildlife community, including approximately 700 known species of insects. The island has a thriving fish population, which Greenland’s economy relies heavily on.
Iceland
The Nordic island of Iceland is located in the North Atlantic Ocean and is the most sparsely populated country in Europe. Covering over 39,315 square miles, it is the world’s 18th-largest island, and the second-largest island in Europe, after Great Britain. Iceland is a famous island characterized by many geysers, sand and lava fields, mountains, and glaciers, giving the island the nickname “Land of Fire and Ice.” It is also well-known for natural wonders such as black beaches, an active volcano, and the spectacular Northern Lights, bringing thousands of tourists to the island yearly.
Newfoundland
With 108,860 square kilometers (42,031 sq mi), Newfoundland is the world’s 16th-largest island and the fourth-largest island in Canada. The island has many tourism opportunities, ranging from skiing, sea kayaking, camping, fishing, and hunting to hiking. The island of Newfoundland also has two national parks on its rugged landscape, namely, Gros Morne National Park and Terra Nova National Park. It is an island with plenty of historical and archaeological sites, often piquing the interest of historians. Several entertainment opportunities exist in the island’s cities and towns, especially during summer festivals.
Madeira
Madeira Island in Portugal is also an archipelago situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, just less than 250 miles to the north of the Canary Islands. As of 2021, it has a recorded total population of about 251,060 individuals. The island is a popular destination spot, visited every year by about 1.4 million tourists – that is almost six times its normal population. Madeira boasts dramatic natural scenery, towering mountains, tropical forests, and a hospitable atmosphere. The region is well-known for its Madeira wine, as well as its history and cultural value. In addition, Madeira island is home to several endemic plant and animal species, notable reptiles such as the Madeiran wall lizard, and birds such as the Trocaz pigeon and the Madeira firecrest.
