There is an unexplainable excitement that wafts through the air of the Northern Hemisphere in April. After a long, bitter winter, the sun finally makes a proper appearance, shining for a little longer each day. But while the promise of warmth is there, true t-shirt weather is still slightly out of reach.
In this in-between season of early spring, there is nothing quite like visiting a sun-kissed island. April is a consistent sweet spot for travelers. It’s usually between holidays, which means there aren’t rushes of crowds, prices are reasonable, and the weather is often just right.
Whether chasing cherry blossoms in the East or craving the heat of a Caribbean island, these ten islands are some of the best to visit in the month of April:
Madeira, Portugal
Somewhere off the Atlantic coast of Africa lies a little Portuguese archipelago called Madeira. The islands are known for their rugged volcanic landscapes, facilitating the perfect conditions for botanical gardens and vineyards.
Sailors and explorers have visited the island since the 14th century when the Portuguese claimed it as their own. During April, Funchal celebrates the Flower Festival to welcome spring. The entire island turns into a colorful kaleidoscope of colorful flowers, with parades, markets, and events.
Another favorite thing to do this time of year is to hike the Levada trails before the weather gets too warm. They’re a system of aqueducts and channels that offer some of the most stunning landscape views. At this time of year, you could even spot some whales and dolphins off the coast.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA
Located along South Carolina’s esteemed Atlantic coastline, Hilton Head Island is a charming blend of pristine beaches and Southern hospitality. This island is connected to the mainland via bridges and ferries, which makes it seem less isolated than you might expect. And by this standard, most of this stretch of coastline is made up of islands.
April brings in warm weather, making it an ideal time to explore the island’s more outdoorsy side. It’s particularly famous for its golf courses and cycling trails, but there are also opportunities to kayak, surf, water ski, and birdwatch.
Be aware that U.S. spring break could coincide with the first week of April. If this is the case, booking your accommodation and restaurant reservations in advance would be a smart move!
Ko Phi Phi, Thailand
Floating in the Andaman Sea, Ko Phi Phi is a tropical island famous for its crystal clear water and dramatic limestone cliffs. April marks the end of the dry season in Thailand, which means it’s still hot, but perfect for an itinerary of snorkeling trips, diving, and beach lounging.
In addition to its striking natural landscape, Ko Phi Phi also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Full Moon parties are held throughout the year, but April welcomes an even more special event called Songkran. This festival celebrates the Thai New Year and is known for hosting water fights, cultural festivities, and beach parties.
Jeju Island, South Korea
When April falls on Jeju Island, it’s as if the fertility gods have spoken. The entire island erupts in white and pink as the annual cherry blossoms start to flower. The island, which lies just off the coast of the Korean Peninsula, is a volcanic haven just a short flight from Seoul International Airport. The best place to view these blossoms is along Noksan Road.
But cherry blossoms aren’t the only spring bloom around here. The Jeju Canola Flower Festival usually takes place in the first few weeks of April. On top of yellow flowers covering the island like a carpet, the festival brings plenty of parades, music events, and food markets.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, but there is something special about visiting the largest island in the Mediterranean in spring. The Italian island has a rich history, an incredible food scene, and exquisite beaches and landscapes to explore.
April brings mild weather. This makes it an amazing time to visit ancient ruins, like the Valley of the Temples, without the sun scorching overhead. As a catholic country, Easter celebrations are a big deal around here. Each town hosts its own traditional festivities for Holy Week. Plus, April is artichoke season, which is marked by the exciting Artichoke Festival in Niscemi.
Martinique, Caribbean
After four months of yachts and cruise ships flocking to the island, the Caribbean’s high season comes to a close in April. When the superyachts set sail for the Mediterranean, Martinique is left at its best – uncrowded, with pleasant weather and calm seas.
Martinique is a French overseas territory that brings a Franco-flair to the Caribbean. It’s one of the easier islands to reach from the mainland U.S., and there are even direct flights from Europe.
With hurricane season a few months away, the calm seas make this a great time to explore the island’s coral reef systems.
Tahiti, French Polynesia
Tahiti is one of the more isolated islands on this list. It’s located in the heart of the South Pacific and is the largest island in French Polynesia.
April is a great time to visit the island because it falls during shoulder season. This means fewer crowds, lower prices, and great weather. It’s technically the start of the dry season, which means clear skies and lower humidity levels are usually expected.
On top of its black sand beaches and colorful sea life, the island hosts various triathlons and traditional outrigger canoe races in April.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu is one of those places that will make you feel like you’ve discovered a deserted island. It’s the closest you’ll get to an untouched paradise in the South Pacific. The islands are jungle-clad, have active volcanoes, and some of the best diving spots on the planet. It’s almost like a secret the world hasn’t quite figured out.
The rainy season ends in April, leaving behind lush landscapes and fewer tourists. It’s the perfect month to take advantage of the cooler weather (cool, being relative), to hike up Mount Yasur on Tanna Island – one of the world’s last active volcanoes you can hike.
Marco Island, Florida, USA
You’ve heard of Key West and Miami. But have you heard of Marco Island? Just off the Gulf of Mexico south of Naples lies a tropical escape of white sand beaches, mangrove forests, and stunning sunsets. And the best part is that this area attracts fewer tourists than Florida’s east coast.
April is a dream here. The weather is warm, hurricane season is still months away, and the seasonal winter residents have returned north. It’s an excellent time to kayak through the Ten Thousand Islands and mangroves, where you might be able to spot dolphins, manatees, and all sorts of birds.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is a small island off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, roughly halfway between Cancun and Tulum. It’s no hidden secret, but if there ever was a time that this island wasn’t too crowded, it would be April.
The entire region is a dream come true for those with a deep appreciation for ancient history. If this is your scene, take the opportunity to visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio before the midday heat hits.
April also marks Holy Week, or Semana Santa, festivities. Since Mexico is deeply rooted in Christian traditions, this week is celebrated as a national holiday. So, while kids may be on school break, the streets are beautifully decorated and there are plenty of musical and cultural events on the schedule.
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