Best Islands in Iran for Tourism

In Iran, there are 427 large and small islands, each with its own unique attractions. In this article, we will explore some of the well-known islands in our beloved country and introduce their distinctive features. If you plan to travel to this region of Iran, keep the names of these areas in mind and be sure to visit them during your trip.

Which are the most beautiful islands in Iran?

The following islands are among the most beautiful in Iran and offer unique amenities and recreational opportunities, making them ideal for a multi-day stay:

Qeshm Island

Qeshm is one of the most popular islands in the Persian Gulf, covering an area of nearly 150 square kilometers. To reach the island, you need to travel to Bandar Abbas and then take a boat or dhow to Qeshm. The island’s beaches vary from rocky to sandy and muddy, and you can spot dolphins, gazelles, native and migratory birds, reptiles, and other mammals nearby. Notable beaches include Zeyton Beach, Simin Beach, Naz Beach, and Rigo Beach.

In addition, there are other natural attractions such as the largest salt cave, the Crocodile Park, the Khorbas Cave, the Chahkooh Gorge, the Portuguese Castle, the Star Valley, and the Qeshm Bazaar, all of which are worth visiting. During your trip to Qeshm, don’t miss out on local and seafood dishes, especially Tamshe bread, which is a famous delicacy of the island.

Our list begins with an island that might be somewhat overshadowed by other islands in Iran, but a visit to this island will reveal that Qeshm is no less impressive than any other Iranian island. Qeshm is an island with sunny weather, shining like a gem in the Persian Gulf. Although it is completely separate from mainland Iran, its proximity to Bandar Abbas and Bandar Khamir makes it easily accessible for those traveling by road.

Qeshm is the largest island in Iran and is one of the districts in Hormozgan Province. The island has played a significant role in Iranian history. During the Sassanid era, the island was known as “Abrakavan,” meaning “descendant of Kaveh.” Historical references to this island highlight its geographical importance. Numerous empires have benefited from the trade and cultural exchanges facilitated by this island. It served as a navigation center between Persia, China, and Africa, contributing to the island’s prosperity.

Qeshm is also considered one of Iran’s best commercial centers for buying goods at reasonable prices. Therefore, you can enjoy affordable shopping alongside the island’s stunning beauty during your visit. The features of Qeshm extend beyond its economic and commercial significance; its historical sites and natural attractions annually captivate many tourists.

As mentioned, Qeshm is a major destination for Iranian tourists, and the reason is quite clear: easy and convenient maritime transportation. When you reach Bandar Abbas or Bandar Pol (a town in Bandar Khamir County), a small boat can take you and your vehicle to the island. Although the boat ride is short, it is very enjoyable. We recommend exploring the island in your own vehicle or renting one on the island. This will make it easier to reach Qeshm’s tourist attractions and save you time and money.

Once you arrive in Qeshm, you’ll find numerous recreational places designed for your enjoyment. The island features 8,000 hectares of natural resources, including the Hara Forests, the historic port of Laft near the forest, countless caves such as the Namakdan Cave, which is the longest salt cave in the world, and the abandoned Portuguese fort.

The Star Valley, with its mysterious stories, is also a fascinating site for your visit. According to local legends, falling stars created the intricate caves and unusual terrain of this scenic spot. Stargazing in this area is so captivating that even astronomy groups hold their annual educational tours here.

Qeshm GeoPark, the first geopark in the Middle East, will amaze you with its beautiful plant and animal species, as well as its natural sculptures and mountain folds.

Numerous springs are scattered throughout Qeshm Island. Among the most famous are the Kargah Spring, Gori Spring, and the springs at the base of the Namakdan Mountain. However, it’s worth noting that most of Qeshm’s springs have salty water, so you might want to skip the idea of drinking from them.

The Qeshm Crocodile Park is also a notable attraction. It is the first and largest crocodile park in the Middle East, housing around 200 crocodiles and several other types of animals. You can reach this fascinating location via the Qeshm-Dargahan Highway.

Lavan Island

Lavan Island was once known as the pearl fishing hub in southern Iran. Although the island’s amenities are limited, the oil company is working to improve them and make the island more attractive to tourists. The total population of Lavan is around 1,200 people. To get there, you first need to travel to Qeshm and then take a dhow to the island. In recent years, Lavan Island, located in the southern part of Iran, was once renowned for its abundant pearl fisheries. The amount of pearls harvested was so significant that the island earned the nickname “The Hidden Pearl of the Persian Gulf.” However, the pearl fishing industry is no longer active, as the island’s oil resources have led to the establishment of oil company operations there.

During your stay on this large island, you’ll notice that its amenities are limited. Nevertheless, the oil company is working to improve these facilities to offer better services to visitors. The island’s population is around 1,200 people. To visit Lavan, you first need to travel to Qeshm and then take a boat to reach Lavan Island.

Kish Island

Kish is a beautiful and popular island in Hormozgan Province, bordered by Hormuz, the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. With an area of four square kilometers, Kish offers numerous recreational and tourism facilities, attracting a large number of visitors.

To reach Kish, you can use either a plane or your private car. If you choose to drive, you need to go to Bandar Aftab and then use a landing craft to transport yourself and your vehicle to the island.

Among the attractions of Kish are walking along streets lined with Lor and palm trees. Additionally, you can visit many sights, such as the historic city of Harireh, the Khatam Mosque, the Kharizeh Underground City, the Green Tree, the Lushen Water Park, the Art Park, the Bird Garden, and the Greek Ship. Beach and water sports are also popular activities in this region.

Kish Island has become so popular among Iranians that it is no longer possible to say that any part of it remains undiscovered. Kish can be described as: “Sun, sea, and sand: A dream island in Iran.” Kish once had great glory and beauty but experienced a period of neglect. For nearly a decade, the government has been working to restore the island’s past splendor, and it must be said that they have largely succeeded.

Kish is a free trade zone, and its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz has led to significant investment in the area. Every year, many tourists from across Iran and the world visit the island, attracted by its greater social freedoms, entertaining public shows, and countless recreational activities. Don’t worry about costs because nearly everyone can enjoy these activities regardless of their budget.

Kish is an island meant for celebration. Anyone visiting this stunning location will truly enjoy themselves. Swimming in the clear waters or engaging in exciting water sports are just a small part of what you can do on Kish. We recommend setting aside a budget for shopping on this island, as Kish is a major hub for commercial ships. The goods and clothing available here are always among the latest global trends.

In addition to its breathtaking natural scenery, Kish is full of beautiful places designed for the convenience of tourists. One prominent feature in pictures of Kish is the Greek Ship. This ship is a remarkable spot for romantic couples. Watching the sunset as the sun reluctantly disappears behind this ship creates a romantic evening for visitors.

The Underground City of Khariz, with a history of 2,500 years, is another tourist attraction on the island. This qanat, 16 meters deep with a ceiling covered in shells and corals, is captivating for anyone. The underground city, spanning 10,000 square meters, was built to collect, purify, and store drinking water for the residents.

Kish Island welcomes nearly 2 million tourists from around the world every year. The best time to visit the island in terms of weather is from early December to late April. However, if your goal is to attend cultural events, you should be in Kish from July 6th to September 6th.

During your visit to Kish, be sure to check out Harireh, Payab, Tam Pak Ocean Blue, Art Park, the Green Tree Complex, Coral Beach, and the Dolphin Park. The shopping centers in Kish include Damon Mall, Maryam Bazaar, Sarina 1 Shopping Center, Marjan Bazaar, Pardis 1 and 2 Shopping Centers, Pearl Bazaar, Paniz Mall, and Venus Shopping Center, where you can buy high-quality items at the best prices.

For seafood lovers, the Mir Mahna Restaurant on Atisami Street is an excellent choice. Other notable dining options include Koh-e Noor Restaurant at Amir Kabir Square, Poursina Traditional Restaurant near Parmis Hotel, Royal Star Restaurant on Sadaf Boulevard, Padideh Kish Restaurant at Ghorub Square, Foodland Restaurant in the western line of Marjan Bazaar, Tutti Frutti at the end of Darya Boulevard, and Lavazza Café in the Kourosh Complex, where you can enjoy delicious meals.

Abu Musa Island

Abu Musa Island is located in southern Iran, and some neighboring countries claim ownership of it. Both Iranians and Emiratis live on the island. Due to its military nature and the presence of military forces using the beaches, the island cannot accommodate many tourists. Most visitors travel to Abu Musa for administrative missions, so despite its natural beauty, it is not recommended as a tourist destination.

Abu Musa is an island with a humid and moist climate, being situated at the southernmost point of Iran’s waters. Along with the larger and smaller Tunb Islands, Abu Musa is part of the three-island group. The majority of the island’s inhabitants are Iranian, but the United Arab Emirates also claims sovereignty over Abu Musa. In the southern part of the island, there are also Arabic-speaking communities.

Due to its military significance, the island has an airport to facilitate easier travel, with direct flights available. Visiting Abu Musa requires special permission, and it is not possible to access the island without the proper authorization.

Hengam Island

Hengam Island is located in Hormozgan Province and comprises two villages, Old and New. The island’s inhabitants are mostly family members and relatives who earn a living through handicrafts, fishing, and selling their products. Baking bread and preparing local dishes are also part of the economic activities of the island’s residents.

To get to Hengam Island, you first need to go to the beaches of Qeshm and then use speedboats to reach the island. Tourist attractions include jumping dolphins and their group movements. Additionally, the island’s silver beaches and clear waters offer a chance to enjoy nature.

Hengam Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Iran that remains relatively unknown among people. However, we aim to provide a summary of everything you need for a trip to this island. Hengam Island is located south of Qeshm Island. To reach it, you need to go to the Khandalo Pier and take a boat. After a ten-minute boat ride, you will arrive at Hengam Port. In addition to enjoying its natural beauty, there are many recreational activities you can do on Hengam Island.

One of the most enjoyable experiences is watching the dolphins of the Persian Gulf playing in the clear sea water. This is an experience you can’t find in artificial parks in Dubai or other cities; it’s a unique glimpse into the real lives of dolphins on this island. To increase your chances of seeing dolphins, it’s best to go out early in the morning during the months of Azar and Dey.

Hengam Island has no streets or roads and is home to only 600 people spread across three small villages. This means absolute tranquility for tourists who want to walk in a pollution-free paradise. The traditional Hengam Market is one of the most beautiful traditional markets in Iran. Don’t forget to buy some handicrafts and jam made with red clay (Golak) when you visit this market.

Traditional Markets of Hengam

One of the most remarkable sights on Hengam Island is its silver beach. The sand on this beach contains sparkling particles made of a glossy mineral. Additionally, the presence of marine phytoplankton adds to the beach’s brilliance. Lying on this shimmering beach and watching the sea can relieve the stresses of everyday life.

Hengam Island boasts unique wildlife. Rare animals such as the Iranian gazelle (Ghezel), hawksbill turtles, sea crabs, and Egyptian starfish live on the island. The water around the island is so clear that you can easily observe fish and marine life up close.

Another activity you can enjoy on the island is henna painting. Henna painting, a local tradition, involves drawing beautiful patterns on the hands with henna. These henna designs can serve as lasting memories of your trip to Hengam Island.

Ashk Island

Ashk Island is located south of Kabudan Island, approximately 40 kilometers from Bandar Galman Khan. This island is one of the most beautiful regions in Iran and is known for its fresh water spring. It is home to a rare species of gazelle called the Persian Gazelle. The island spans around 2,115 hectares and has vegetation similar to Kabudan Island.

Minoo Island

Minoo Island, with its palm groves and reed beds, is one of the lesser-known yet beautiful southern islands of Iran. Separated from the rest by the Arvand and Little Arvand rivers, the only access to the island is via a bridge on the southern side of the island over the Jarf River.

Minoo Island features five flowing rivers that you can visit. On this island, you’ll experience local culture, traditional cuisine, handicrafts, and other attractions of the region, making it a perfect place to enjoy its pristine and charming environment.

Mino, an island in southern Iran, was formerly known as Salbukh. The island is home to five rivers, and alongside these abundant rivers are towering date palm groves. On this island, you can immerse yourself in the local culture of Khuzestan and enjoy traditional regional dishes. If you want to bring back a souvenir, Mino’s handicrafts are a great choice. Notable attractions on Mino Island include:

• War Museum
• Shadgan Lagoon

Marou Island

Marou Island, also known as Shidour, is an uninhabited island that can be reached by renting a boat from Lavan Island. It was named due to the presence of many snakes, although they are generally hidden under the sand and do not draw much attention.

Marou Island boasts a diverse range of birds and mammals. Given the island’s limited facilities, it is advisable to limit your visit to sunrise and sunset. The local cuisine mainly features grilled fish. Additionally, you can enjoy boat rides, walking on the sand, and visiting the lighthouses.Marou or Shidour, one of the southern islands of Iran, is known for its large population of snakes, making it uninhabitable. Additionally, the island is home to hawksbill turtles, which nest there. To protect the turtle eggs, access to the island is restricted during certain months. To reach Shidour by sea, you must first go to Bandar Mahram; however, Lavan Airport is the nearest airport for a flight. Exercise caution when visiting this island.

Lark Island

Lark Island is located south of Qeshm and the Hormuz Strait. Covering an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers, it is one of the busiest islands in the Persian Gulf. To reach Lark, you first need to travel to Hormuz and then use local boats to get to the island.

While visiting Lark Island, you can observe the local inhabitants engaged in fishing and diving. The island also features cone-shaped volcanic mountains and beautiful beaches that are worth seeing.

Lark Island is located 16 kilometers from Qeshm. The majority of the island’s residents, numbering around 250 households, live in a historic fort. It was once believed that this fort was built on the orders of Nader Shah, but it is now known that it was constructed during the Safavid era by the Portuguese.

Historical attractions on Lark Island include military forts, the East India Company’s telegraph house in an area known as “Marne,” and houses that are 800 years old nestled within the island’s mountains. One of the most unusual sights on the island is its historic cemetery. Small clay fire pits resembling tiny vases are placed on the graves, and the burning of frankincense and spikenard on the hot coals creates a pleasant aroma in the area.

The presence of plankton in the island’s waters creates a striking blue glow at night when the waves hit the shore. We recommend visiting the beach in the evening, taking a walk along the shore, and resting in the beach huts. As night falls, you can capture stunning photos of this beautiful beach. One of these photos, taken by Pouyan Shadpour, was featured in National Geographic in 2015.

Fishing is abundant on the island, and the catch is regularly transported to Bandar Abbas and other islands. However, enjoying grilled fish by the shore is a pleasure you might not soon forget. Another delicious local treat is date halva. If you ask the island’s hospitable locals, they will certainly teach you how to prepare it. The people on Lark Island are so kind that you can even spend the night at their homes. The best time to visit Lark is in the second half of the year, as the island’s weather is mild and pleasant during this period.

Hormuz Island

Hormuz Island is oval-shaped and covers an area of about 42 square kilometers. Located near Bandar Abbas, its main attraction is its red soil. Upon arrival, you can stay in local houses, and to get there, you need to travel to either Bandar Abbas or Qeshm.

On Hormuz Island, you can enjoy the white, yellow, and red mountains. The island also offers attractions such as the Rainbow Valley, Salt Goddess Mountain, Statue Valley, Dr. Nadi’alian Museum, the Portuguese Castle, Snow Mountain, the Carpet Beach, and the Red Soil Mine.

Hormuz Island, often referred to as the “Rainbow Island” due to its unique geographical location, is known as the key to the Persian Gulf. The island has earned the nickname “Geological Paradise” because of its diverse soil colors. Hormuz Island has a tumultuous history; in 912 AD, Portuguese forces occupied it and built a fort. However, the island’s inhabitants eventually succeeded in driving the Portuguese out in 1031. Today, the remains of this fort near current settlements are popular tourist attractions on Hormuz Island.

The most famous tourist attraction on Hormuz Island is the Rainbow Valley. The diverse colors of the soil and rocks here create a stunning visual experience. Another notable site on the island is the Dr. Nadi’alian Museum. Ahmad Nadi’alian is renowned for his river rock carvings and his work in sculpture, arrangement, and net art in international circles.

The salt island of Hormuz appears to float like a shell on the blue waters of the Persian Gulf. A beautiful coastal road surrounds the island, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Hormuz by walking or cycling. Camping on Hormuz Island is a popular activity among tourists. Alternatively, you can stay in local residents’ homes and enjoy traditional Hormuzi bread or visit the Eco Beach to watch the sunrise from purpose-built cabins for travelers.

Hormuz Island remains one of Iran’s most pristine islands, so there are no luxury hotels or restaurants. There is only one sandwich shop on the island, but we recommend trying local dishes. For this, you should order from the locals who will cook for you. Fish stew (Ghelyeh Mahi) is a dish that many locals excel at preparing, so don’t miss this healthy seafood option.

To view the Hormuz Strait, first head to the Seven-Colored Mountains. After visiting the Statue Valley and passing through narrow corridors, you will reach a cliff. From this point, you can see the Hormuz Strait and the traffic of ships. Reaching Hormuz Island is straightforward: first, travel to Bandar Abbas, and then take a dhow for a 40-minute journey to Hormuz.

When traveling to this island, be sure to include the following attractions in your list of must-see places in Hormuz:

• – The Land of Colors(فرش خاکی): A vibrant, multi-colored landscape that provides stunning natural vistas.
• – The Goddess of Salt Cave (غار الهه نمک): A fascinating cave known for its salt formations and mystical atmosphere.
• – The Valley of Statues(دره مجسمه‌ها): A unique valley filled with natural rock formations resembling sculptures.
• – The Rainbow Valley (دره رنگین‌کمانی): A spectacular area with colorful rock formations creating a rainbow-like effect.
• – The Several Trees Beach (ساحل چند درخت): A picturesque beach featuring a few scattered trees amidst its sandy shores.

Naz Island

Naz is the smallest island on this list and is an excellent spot for enjoying beautiful ocean views. It features rocky cliffs approximately 10 meters high. The shallow waters around the island offer opportunities for surfing. Camel rides and carriage rides are unique activities you can enjoy in this area.One of the small and unique islands in the Persian Gulf is Naz, which offers a distinctive beauty you won’t find elsewhere. When the tide recedes, three tall rocks and a narrow path emerge, allowing you to walk to the island. During this time, Naz is connected to Qeshm Island, from where you can enjoy views of Lark Island and the Hormuz Strait.

Hendorabi Island

Hendorabi Island is an attractive destination for those seeking tranquility. The island has a very small population, with residents earning their livelihood through fishing and diving.

To reach Hendorabi, you need to first travel to Kish and then proceed to the island by sea or air. Attractions on the island include marine caves, the Green Tree of Temples, the Portuguese Military Fort, the old cemetery, and the historic village of Aldourat.

Hendorabi is an island where the landscape is uniformly flat, without the ups and downs of mountains and valleys. Only about 200 people live on this island, with their income coming from fishing and diving. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and find tranquility in an untouched and secluded spot, Hendorabi is the perfect destination for you.

To get there by land, you first need to travel to Kish Island and then take a boat to this quiet retreat. However, the island also has an airport. With a flight, you can arrive at Hendorabi in the shortest time possible and decide which of the island’s attractions to visit first. Some of the notable sights on Hendorabi include:

• – Sea Caves
• – Green Tree Temples
• – Portuguese Military Fort
• – Old Island Cemetery
• – Old Village of Aldourat

In this article, we introduced the most beautiful islands in Iran, providing detailed information about their characteristics, amenities, and various features. Considering all these aspects, you can easily choose an island for your trip that best fits your needs.

Mir Meina

One of the southern islands where settlement is not possible is Mir Meina, known for its delicious and famous grapes and figs. During the period when the southern region of Iran was under European colonial rule, a local leader named Mir Meina rose up against these invaders. He managed to drive the foreigners out of Iran and stop their plundering of the country’s resources. As a tribute to this great man, the island was named after him.

Abbasak

If you’re near Bandar Bushehr, it’s worth spending an hour to visit Abbasak Island. Previously known as Shah Zangi, Abbasak is uninhabited, with only tourists visiting to explore the island. However, there is an ongoing project to build the Grand Persian Gulf Museum, which aims to attract more tourists and make Abbasak a notable sightseeing spot in Bushehr. The island is a clay flatland located in the Bushehr Gulf.

Great Tunb Island

Great Tunb is one of the southern islands of Iran with a very small native population, mainly engaged in fishing and pearl diving. Most of the residents are military and government personnel who have come to the island for work. The locals in Hormozgan refer to it as Tunb Gap, while Arabs claim the island as their own. The island features salt-tolerant plants such as tamarisk and shrub, and when relaxing on the beach, you might see birds like flamingos and sea eagles in the sky.

In addition to Great Tunb, there’s also Small Tunb Island nearby, which is not a tourist destination and is primarily used for military purposes. Frequent oil tankers pass through the area, and the island is nicknamed “Snake Island” due to its numerous snakes. It has a dock and an airport for the convenience of those working on the island. If you plan to visit for leisure, be aware that the island is mainly used for military purposes and lacks tourist facilities.

Sirri

Sirri, also known as Suri, is the Arabic name for an island called Raz. When exploring Sirri, you might see native gazelles (Gibier) and plants that can store substantial amounts of water. Some might mistakenly believe that women are not allowed on this island, but this is not true. Sirri is primarily inhabited by men working on the island, which might lead to this misconception. Sirri has its own airport, and you can fly directly to the island. There are also maritime routes from Abu Musa Island and Bandar Lengeh to Sirri by boat or ship.

Kharq Island

For tourism, Kharq Island is worth a visit. The island is home to many active petrochemical companies that account for a significant portion of the country’s oil exports, making it the most important island for crude oil export. Located in Bushehr Province, it is close to Bandar Genaveh. Kharq, a small island, has a smaller section in the north called Khargo. Additionally, two small islands named Dara and Ghabr-e-Nakhoda are located near Kharq and are worth visiting. Notable sites on Kharq Island include:

• Palmiran Temple
• Dutch Fort
• Achaemenid Inscription
• Nestorian Church
• Imamzadeh Mir Mohammad Khalifa

Buneh

The introduction to the southern islands of Iran isn’t complete yet. Another small island in the northern part of the Persian Gulf is Buneh, formerly known as Benneh. If you visit this island, you’re likely to see a bird called the Crab-Plover. Seabirds also come to Buneh for nesting.

Best Time to Visit the Islands of Southern Iran

To ensure your visit to the islands of southern Iran is among the best travel experiences, paying attention to the weather is crucial. The ideal time to visit these small and large islands in the Persian Gulf is from mid-autumn to mid-spring. During this period, you’ll avoid the extreme heat and humidity, and the cooler nights will make your exploration more enjoyable. In contrast, the hotter months from mid-spring to early autumn offer lower travel costs. If you don’t mind the heat, this period can also be a good choice.

Exploring the Recreational Islands of Southern Iran

Now it’s time to choose the right island for your travel. This guide has introduced you to all the notable islands in the Persian Gulf, allowing you to select the one that intrigues you the most. If you’re unsure where to start, you might begin with the more well-known islands and then explore the lesser-known ones with local Southern and even Arabic cultures. Have you previously visited any of the tourist spots in southern Iran? If you plan to return to these islands in the future, what considerations will you keep in mind to enhance your experience?

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Southern Iranian Islands

How many islands are there in southern Iran?

The Persian Gulf contains many small and large islands, with at least 45 being notable, though some are uninhabitable.

Which provinces are the southern islands of Iran part of?

The islands are part of three provinces: Khuzestan, Bushehr, and Hormozgan.

Are all the southern Iranian islands inhabited?

No; some islands are used exclusively for security, industrial, and oil extraction purposes. To visit these islands, you need special permits, and they are not open for tourism or recreational activities.