Overtourism Backlash: Islands Reject Hordes of Holidaymakers

In the summer of 2025, a growing backlash against overtourism has seen several island destinations take drastic measures to limit the influx of visitors. Locals in Spain and Italy have complained of being priced out of their own sun-drenched beaches, while the Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini have introduced a cruise tax to cap the number of day-trippers.

Amidst this trend, travelers are being encouraged to look beyond the crowded tourist hotspots and explore the world's lesser-known island gems. One such destination is Sumba, an Indonesian island twice the size of neighboring Bali but with a fraction of the population. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty, including herds of wild horses galloping along the pristine white sands.

Elsewhere, the Kerama Islands off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in Asia, with crystalline aquamarine waters. And just a short ferry ride from the party island of Mykonos lies the uninhabited Delos, a Unesco World Heritage site where visitors can explore ancient ruins in near-solitude.

With an estimated 670,000 islands worldwide, the opportunities for uncrowded, authentic island experiences are endless. As overtourism continues to plague popular destinations, savvy travelers are discovering the joys of exploring the world's hidden island gems.