15 Best Islands to Visit in July

There’s something special about the best islands to visit in July, with beautiful shorelines to explore and cultures to discover.

In July, you’ll have a vast choice of islands to visit. Europe is enjoying the height of the summer season, with warm seas, perfect beach weather, and celebrations. The Caribbean is in its lower season, which means you have more space to yourself.

Almost on the Equator, the Galapagos Islands enjoy cool, dry weather in July, with newly-hatched birds starting to leave their nests. So it’s a wonderful time to enjoy these most special of islands, too. But whatever your interests, there’s an island vacation for you.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas bask in warm weather year-round; in July, expect a daily average high of 85ºF. Yes, this is the rainy season throughout the region, but July is one of the most popular times to visit as sea temperatures are at their warmest.

Beaches such as Honeymoon Harbor Beach on tiny Gun Cay are ideal for swimming with stingrays snorkeling over the reefs.

There’s more water fun at CocoCay, a private island that’s a paradise for anyone who loves watersports. From waterslides and infinity pools to a floating bar and luxurious overwater cabanas, there are plenty of activities, or options to relax, for everyone.

Another private island experience is found at Blue Lagoon Island, one of the best places to visit in the Bahamas. Snorkel on the reef, swim in the lagoon with clear blue water, or walk amid the lush vegetation to watch for interesting birds.

In Nassau, the historic downtown area with its colorful colonial-style buildings is always a draw. The Nassau Straw Market, or boat cruises to nearby cays are also options.

Curaçao

Curaçao’s capital of Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site enriched by colorful Dutch-style buildings. Take a walking tour of the Punda and Otrobanda neighborhoods to learn about its history.

One of the best things to do in Curaçao is to visit Shete Boka National Park, where you can discover the island’s natural beauty. The rugged coastline breaks into rock pools and pretty inlets.

In July, the calm water makes coves such as Knip Beach even more idyllic. Jump in to go swimming and snorkeling in Curaçao, or experience the diving for which the island is justly famous.

At Curaçao Sea Aquarium Park, the island’s underwater wonders can be seen without even getting wet. Sharks, lobster, and other coral species swim freely through their natural surroundings.

Cozumel

Cozumel is one of the best islands in the Caribbean, known for its fantastic scuba diving. You can walk off many beaches right into world-class diving or snorkeling spots.

Go snorkeling at the Cozumel National Marine Park, which has some of the most breathtaking coral reefs in the Caribbean. In July, waters are warm and visibility is usually good (except after showers).

The east side of the island, protected from westerly winds, is lined with lovely white sand beaches such as Playa Mia. This has amenities ranging from paddle-boarding to water slides, as well as plentiful Mexican food and drink.

On the southern tip of Cozumel, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park offers a more natural, quieter experience. Walk ecological trails, visit the Mayan ruins of El Caracol, or just lie back in a hammock.

Cayman Islands

There’s anything you might want from a Caribbean beach on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman. You’ll find a wide choice ranging from beach bars to fine dining in luxury resorts.

With no rivers producing silt run-off, Cayman is home to some of the clearest water in the Caribbean. Snorkeling or diving are a delight at Seven Mile Beach, or anywhere else around the coast, making Grand Cayman one of the best islands to visit in July if you want to explore the underwater world.

A popular snorkeling spot in Grand Cayman is Stingray City, where you swim with gentle southern stingrays. You can stand in the water while they glide around you or go underwater for a closer look.

Back on land, Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park showcases native plant life in particular. With a lake and shady walking trails, there are themed gardens dedicated to cacti, bromeliads, and butterflies.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island offers all the cultural delights of South Korea, especially its food. To those, it adds its own beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.

Visiting Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak is one of the best things to do on Jeju Island to take in the panoramic landscapes. It’s very popular at sunrise or sunset, but the views of Udo Island and Hallasan Mountain are photogenic at any time.

Among the many beaches, Hamdeok Seoubong stands out for its beauty and calm blue water. Sheltered by pretty headlands, the sandy bay offers everything from snorkeling to banana boat rides.

Jusangjeolli Cliffs are formed of spectacular hexagonal basalt columns, shaped by ancient volcanic activity. They stretch for more than a mile along the coast, with observation decks offering ever-changing vistas.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is the poster child for Greek tourism. Photos taken here of a white-walled Orthodox church contrasting with blue seas are a staple of travel magazines.

You’ll find the most famous blue-domed church atop the narrow streets of Oia. Standing high on the rim of Santorini’s long-extinct volcano, this pretty town has incredible views of the Aegean Sea.

Santorini’s capital, Fira, offers even more options for art galleries, shopping, and eating. Choose a taverna to enjoy the best in Greek cuisine, or join a tasting tour of the crisp local white wines.

Back down at the coast, July’s sunny days and warm temperatures make the beach an attractive option. Perivolos Beach is among the most popular, offering miles of dark volcanic sand and transparently clear water.

Malta

The massive fortifications of Valleta, the capital of Malta, will awe anyone who lands in its Grand Harbour.

Its historic architecture, museums, and characterful port-side streets have made Valletta a notable UNESCO World Heritage Site. Any visit must take in the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where the harbor views are unsurpassed.

Other essential sights include the Grand Master’s Palace and St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The cathedral holds Caravaggio’s dramatic Beheading of St. John the Baptist.

Malta’s coast has its own dramatic side, with epic cliffs, hidden sea caves, and pretty beaches. Soak up the July sunshine at popular spots such as Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Ghajn Tuffieha Bay.

Aruba

Visitors to Aruba in July can expect warm weather and the occasional shower. However, it’s a perfect time to enjoy beautiful beaches such as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.

Both of these beaches in Aruba are famed for their soft white sands and turquoise waters. Eagle Beach is quieter, made for relaxation, while two-mile-long Palm Beach is the place for lively bars and active water sports.

See a much quieter side of Aruba at Arikok National Park, one of the best places to visit in Aruba, where the desert landscape attracts hikers and off-road tours. There’s also wildlife hidden amid this arid environment, including iguanas and rare birds.

Aruba’s capital of Oranjestad has streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, many boasting Dutch-style gables. Visit the Historical Museum in Fort Zoutman or browse the local market for Aruban crafts.

Iceland

Most first-time visitors to Iceland take in the Golden Circle Tour. This includes some of Iceland’s most beautiful places: the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the dramatic Geysir region, and Thingvellir National Park.

At Thingvellir, you can walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. In July, Iceland has long days and mild temperatures, ideal for exploring its incredible landscapes.

The capital of Reykjavik is a must-see for landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Harpa Concert Hall. Then, soak in the mineral-rich waters of the photogenic Blue Lagoon.

The charming second city of Akureyri is a center for whale watching and seeing the volcanic landscapes around  Lake Mývatn. The “bridal veil” waterfall of Dynjandi, or Fjallfoss, is one of the world’s most beautiful cascades.

Mykonos, Greece

On Mykonos, the most famous sight is the windmills that stand along the coast. Little Venice, named for the colorful houses that line the waterfront, is equally photogenic.

Mykonos also has a wide choice of classically beautiful Greek beaches with golden sand and crystal-clear water. The longest is Elia, a curving bay lined with tavernas and water sports facilities.

Mykonos Town (Chora) is a charming place of whitewashed buildings, many with flower-filled balconies. Wander its narrow alleys, lined with chic boutiques and tiny art galleries and in July, buzzing with life.

If you have time, taking a day trip to the tiny island of Delos is a popular thing to do in Mykonos for anyone who loves ruined Greek temples and theaters. The legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

Sicily, Italy

The island of Sicily is at its best in July, before the full heat of August comes. Sicilian beaches such as Isola Bella in Taormina have perfect water temperatures and relaxing warm sands.

Away from the beach, Sicily is dominated by Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano. Explore its volcanic landscape or just enjoy a wine tasting at the vineyards on its slopes.

Sicily also has its ancient history as a strategic crossroads of the Mediterranean. Ruins such as the Greek Theater in Taormina or the Roman mosaics at Piazza Armerina bear testament to civilizations that have come and gone.

A constant is the cuisine, the best in Italian food and drink, with strong Arab influences. Try local Sicilian specialties such as arancini (rice balls), caponata (eggplant relish), pasta alla Norma, and cannoli.

Galapagos Islands

If one island is not enough for your July jaunt, then the Galapagos has 13 major ones to explore. There are also another six smaller islands and other isolated rocks where you might swim amid sea life or birds.

Off Vicente Roca Point on Isabela Island, you can go deep-water snorkeling in the richness of the Bolivar Channel. This marine ecosystem attracts many colorful fish, sea turtles, and even penguins.

Rábida Island, one of the smallest Galapagos islands, is notable for its red sand beaches, the result of oxidized iron. However, it’s the sea lions, pelicans, and marine iguanas that are the main draw for visitors.

Just off the coast of San Cristóbal Island is Kicker Rock, which resembles a sleeping lion. For divers, it’s more famous for the chance to see hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and eagle rays.

At the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, you can learn about their ongoing conservation work. Its breeding program for native giant tortoises is the most high profile of its many projects.

Bonaire

Bonaire is the B in the Dutch ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. It’s most famous for its scuba diving and snorkeling.

Discover why inside Bonaire National Marine Park, which protects all the island’s waters out to 200 feet deep. This also covers the island’s reef system and the island of Klein Bonaire, which has some of the best reefs in the Caribbean, with turtles and rays among the plentiful marine life.

There’s a different sort of life at Te Amo beach, where you can watch planes arriving at the international airport. This white sand beach in Bonaire shelves gently into clear water where you snorkel among coral, sea turtles, and shoals of colorful fish.

Bermuda

With its pink sand beaches and turquoise waters, could Bermuda be any more perfect for beach lovers? The warm July weather is also ideal for those who want to tackle its many notable golf courses.

Two lovely Bermuda beaches hidden away on the southeastern coast are Clearwater Beach and Turtle Bay. They are protected within Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, notable for its walking trails and many bird species.

Cool down by plunging underground at Crystal Caves, where you’ll find remarkable limestone formations. Its underground lakes and clear pools have fascinated visitors such as writer Mark Twain since 1908.

Bermuda’s history includes sights such as the Royal Naval Dockyard, now famous for its shopping and restaurants. The tiny capital of Hamilton is another place for waterfront dining and more shopping—perhaps for a pair of Bermuda shorts.

Hydra, Greece

Once a hideaway for Leonard Cohen and Henry Miller, Hydra is a tiny island with a big reputation. With no cars, it’s still a tranquil, timeless place to enjoy and if you’re traveling in Greece, is possibly the best island to visit in July.

Hydra Town is one of the most beautiful places in Greece, which spreads out from its pretty harbor in a showcase of traditional buildings mixed with neoclassical gems. Visit the Hydra Maritime Museum to learn more about its colorful history.

The rugged interior can be explored on foot or horseback. It’s hard to get lost on such a small island and most trails lead to a scenic hilltop view.

The island beaches are among the Aegean’s loveliest, notable for their clear water, which in July is especially inviting. Sunbathe, swim or snorkel, then relax in a shaded taverna over a local speciality such as souvlaki or moussaka.

Are you tempted to find your dream island for a July vacation? Browse our July cruises to find the perfect itinerary for you and your loved ones.