Ditch the Caribbean for UK islands with white sand beaches that are just a 20-minute ‘Skybus' from the mainland
The Isles of Scilly off of the coast of Cornwall are often referred to as beautifully untouched, boasting several islands with white sand beaches and Atlantic grey seals.
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There are more than 140 isles that make up the islands and they are only 28miles from the coast of Cornwall.
Of the islands, only five are actually inhabited - St. Mary's, Tresco, St. Martin's, Bryher, and St. Agnes.
And many people who head to the isles, choose to hop between them via a 30-minute boat ride connecting them all.
But the biggest benefit of the islands making them a great alternative to the Caribbean, is that they have their own microclimate.
Caused by the North Atlantic Drift, the islands have flourishing palm trees.
This climate also means the islands rarely see cold weather, consistently staying several degrees hotter than the UK mainland - adding to the overall Caribbean feel.
The easiest way to get to the islands is via the 'Skybus', which you can do from Land's End Airport, Newquay Airport or Exeter Airport.
From Land's End Airport it takes just 20 minutes to reach St. Mary's and if you don't want to leave your furry friend out, the flight even allows dogs.
Return flights cost £65 per person, or £52 for children under 11-years-old.
Alternatively, for a cheaper option hop on the ferry from £35 per adult and from £17.50 per child.
The Spanish region undiscovered by Brits despite seaside views and ancient Roman cities
St Martin's
St Martin's measures just two miles long and a quarter of a mile wide but is home to scenic footpaths, clear waters and white beaches.
On the island, is one of two vineyards in the Scilly Isles.
At the vineyard, visitors can wander through the w oodland trail before joining one of the tours.
The tours are self-guided and guests will learn about the 'viticulture' and wine making that happens at the site.
There is no need to book and a combined tasting and tour costs just £10 per person.
St Martin's is also home to some of the "finest beaches in the British Isles", Visit Isles of Scilly states.
And just moments away from the vineyard, is Par Beach.
The beach boasts crystal clear waters and sandy dunes.
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When the tide goes out some small rockpools emerge, as does the long stretch of golden sands.
Also noticeable from the beach is the island's red and white day mark that stands 40 feet tall.
Only around 120 people live on the island, so it makes the ideal quiet spot to visit with beaches just like you are in the Caribbean.
St Agnes
Over on St Agnes, there is the second vineyard - Holy Vale Winery & Vineyard on St Mary's.
Whilst not much else to do on the island, you should make sure to head to Troytown Farm Ice Cream - the only dairy farm in Scilly.
One recent visitor said: "The taste and texture of this homemade ice cream is so good that it stays with me all year around and I miss it."
You can camp here too, just steps away from the water's edge.
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St Mary's
Over on St Mary's - the largest of the inhabited islands - you will find the Scillonian capital called Hugh Town.
This is a great spot for exploring independent shops, with art galleries and restaurants.
There are even some pubs such as The Mermaid Inn - which used to be a spot popular with smugglers.
If you fancy seeing the island in a slightly different way, head to St Mary's Horse Riding School to enjoy a day trotting and galloping along the sandy beaches.
St Mary's is also where you will find the airport and ferry dock, so if exploring all the islands it makes a great starting point or final stop.
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Tresco
Tresco is then the second largest island out of the five and is known for its dramatic, rocky landscape.
For history buffs, this might be the best island to visit as it has a whole host of castle ruins, coves, Bronze Age burial sites and Tresco Abbey Garden.
Here, visitors can wander around 17acres of gardens that were first opened in the 1830s.
The location is home to over 20,000 exotic plants from across the globe and hand-craved figurines made from the wood of shipwrecked boats.
Tresco, like St Mary's, also has a number of independent shops and spots to eat.
And if you really want to indulge, you can head to Tresco Island Spa, complete with an indoor swimming pool, gym, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna.
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Bryher
Bryher is the smallest island of the Isles of Scilly, but there are still things worth exploring there.
For many, watersports are the top attraction here.
Visitors can head to the beaches like Portcressa for swimming or enjoy a boat trip off of the island.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the island offers some great hiking options with many of the walks including views of rugged cliffs and dramatic landscapes.
At low tide, you can even stroll across the channel to the uninhabited island of Samson.
Wanting a real taste of local life? Then head to the Crab Shack for a crab dish, located near Hell Bay.
Or head to the quirky Fraggle Rock Bar, just moments from the beach.
Some of the most exotic islands near the UK
THE UK is home to a number of exotic-looking holiday islands.
The Isles of Scilly
The Islands have been compared to several amazing holiday destinations, with some even giving it the moniker "the Maldives of the UK".
Its blue waters, warm weather and secluded beaches all play a part in it drawing the comparison from visitors.
And the Royal Family are known to be fans too, with William and Kate regular visitors.
The Isle of Harris, Scotland
Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris in Scotland has been compared to the Caribbean by visitors and locals due to its secluded sandy beaches and pristine turquoise waters.
The beach was named the seventh best in Europe at the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards last year.
Jersey
The island off the south coast of the UK has been described as having a "Caribbean-like coastline" as well as a number of amazing beaches, perfect for family holidays.
St Ouen's Bay is particularly popular, with the white-sand beach spanning almost the whole of Jersey's west coast and well-loved by surfers.
The world's ten best holiday islands have been revealed – here's how to find the two in Europe.
Plus, 20 of Europe's most beautiful islands that have direct flights from the UK.
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The Independent
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The Independent
2 hours ago
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