An island getaway is where the beach water splashes over you, juicy cocktails fill your tummy, and an overdose of relaxation. Not every island gives you the vacation vibes. In these tiny floating lands, you might encounter hostile beasts lurking in the shadows, volcanoes that will erupt at any time, or man-made hazards filling the air. Be aware that these adventures come with potential threats! These places are forbidden to the public since the government deems them too risky to access. Consider these things before visiting them, and you still need a valid entry permit. Even if you are curious, these top 10 dangerous islands are best left unexplored!
Top 10 islands where nature strikes back:
- Ilha da Queimada/Snake Island, Brazil
- North Sentinel Island, Andaman, India
- Gruinard Island, Scotland, UK
- Bikini Atoll, Marshall Island
- K’Gari/Fraser Island, Australia
- Farallon Island, US
- Miyake-Jima Island, Japan
- Ramree Island, Myanmar
- Reunion Island, Indian Ocean
- Whakaari/White Island, New Zealand
- Bonus- Komodo Island, Indonesia
1. Ilha da Queimada/Snake Island, Brazil:
Ilha da Queimada often known as “Snake Island” is the ideal destination to overcome your Ophidiophobia. The moniker alone gives you a decent indication of what to expect from this 106-acre (43-hectare) island swarming with pit vipers. Filled with 2,000 to 4,000 Golden Lancehead Vipers, most deadliest snakes on earth, this deserted area is settled off the coast of Brazil’s state Sao Paulo. While native legend claims that pirates brought these fatal reptiles here to protect their treasure, scientific research conveys that sea levels increased 11,000 years ago, splitting the tiny island from the rest. Another legend claims that these venomous snakes killed a lighthouse guard and his family in the 1900s by entering their house through a window. This pale yellow snake’s venom has become five times more powerful than other rural snakes due to its isolation and ability to hunt birds swiftly.
Tragically, if left untreated, a bite from them will cause quick death within an hour by melting human flesh. Terrible, huh? However, with one snake for every square meter, I don’t think anyone can receive treatment unless they have their medical team! This island is the only home to this critically endangered species. Any explorer who desires to check out Ilha da Queimada Grande requires special clearance along with medical experts since the Brazilian government has forbidden entry to this island.
2. North Sentinel Island, Andaman, India:
The Sentinelese tribe calls North Sentinel Island their home, but it’s also notorious for being one of the world’s most dangerous islands. This is the sole human group that has resided on this island for almost 60,000 years. This uncontacted tribe, who live in the Andaman Islands, is fierce when defending their people and land. The tribe’s bitter past is believed to be the root of their hostility. In the 1800s, six members of this tribe were taken captive by the British and sent to Cape Blair, which is nearby. Upon their return, two of the abducted victims died, while the remaining four fell sick. However, it remains unclear whether they recovered or not. It is well known that the Sentinelese tribe is aggressive towards foreigners. Unexpectedly, the Sentinelese tribe killed John Allen Chau in 2018 when he attempted to preach Christianity, and two fishermen were killed in 2006 after being washed up on the island’s seashore.
It is warned that no one should go within three miles of their island as they have been known to throw arrows at aircraft and boats that come too close. In the end, even the government gave up trying to get in touch with these rarely photographed humans. Due to potential hazards, it is strictly prohibited to enter this appealing yet riskiest island without a special permit. Adventure awaits, but remember, some deadliest places on the earth are meant to stay untouched!
3. Gruinard Island, Scotland, UK:
Nestles off the west coast, less than a mile separates this tiny island, Gruinard, from the Scottish mainland. This island was utilized as a testing zone for biological warfare trials during World War II. When anthrax-spore-filled explosives were detonated on this island, killing a flock of sheep and poisoning the soil for fifty years, the island earned the horrifying moniker “Anthrax Island.” The fatal disease anthrax is caused by bacteria and results in blisters, chest pain, blood vomiting, and finally death. Until the 1980s, when tons of formaldehyde were used in decontamination operations, this island was considered too dangerous to stroll on. In 1990, the Ministry of Defence deemed Gruinard Island safe to visit and removed the warning displays.
However, some specialists predict it will still be infested with anthrax for an extra fifty years. You can expect a few pastures, the ruins of a shepherd’s home, and ancient stone walls there. This island is the most dangerous in the world, so if you’re interested in visiting, be cautious and aware of any potential hazards. Always prioritize safety when exploring these captivating yet risky destinations!
4. Bikini Atoll, Marshall Island:
Because of its troubled past, Bikini Atoll, a set of 23 islands with landmass, is regarded as one of the deadliest islands in the world. It is situated in the Pacific Ocean’s Marshall Islands and has stunning turquoise seas and white sand beaches, giving it the appearance of a paradise. After World War II, the U.S. government picked this spot for nuclear testing since it was a major air and sea transportation path. More than 20 nuclear tests were carried out between 1946 and 1958, resulting in the radioactive material pollution of sand, coral reefs, and the ocean. The biggest one, “Castle Bravo,” was 1,000 times more powerful than the bombs unleashed on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which explains how effective it was. (A tragedy that shocked the entire world, right? And I do remember learning about this incident in my school textbooks).
The real-life Bikini Atoll served as the model for the Bikini Bottom location in the “SpongeBob SquarePants” animation. Despite being moved to the neighboring atolls of Rongerik and Kwajalein, the 167 residents continued to have health problems. Although radiation levels on this island are now low enough for tourists to visit, living there is still too dangerous. Be cautious when visiting Bikini Atoll; avoid eating or drinking anything. Unless you stay too long, you can soak in the water.
5. K’Gari/Fraser Island, Australia:
K’gari Island may seem like paradise, but don’t let its beauty fool you! Boasting stunning scenery off the coast of Queensland, Australia, K’Gari better known as Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island. Its main assets include exquisite sand, vibrant cliffs with incredible sights, and a vast 75 miles of beach. Here are a few things to keep in mind because this is where you will run into unfriendly creatures. Lying on the eastern side of the beach, the Maheno shipwreck is the primary attraction for most visitors—where white sharks are usually spotted. It also hosts the deadliest Irukandji jellyfish, whose venom, when stung, causes excruciating pain, and cardiac and breathing issues. Kindly note that in the year 2019, an Irukandji jellyfish sting resulted in the hospitalization of two women. There are also strong tides and rough waves in the ocean. So the Champagne Pools are a great area to dip, while the sea surrounding Fraser Island is not the best place for swimming.
The densely crowded dingoes are enjoyable to watch, but be cautious when leaving food out since they can be aggressive. A little kid and two other women suffered an attack by dingoes in 2024. Since there are no lifeguard patrols on duty, travelers are urged to obey all caution signs on the island and to “always carry vinegar with you” in case of jellyfish danger. I can understand your curiosity, but Fraser is merely one of many dangerous islands that are quite deadly. Be mindful!
6. Farallon Island, US:
Viewable from San Francisco, Farallon Island is merely 30 miles apart from the Golden Gate region. Popular for its untamed beauty and intriguing wildlife, this treacherous island is an adventure waiting to be explored. This island also goes by the names, the “Devil’s Teeth Islands” and the “Islands of the Dead” owing to the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred there, as well as the presence of sharks, orcas, gray and humpback whales circling the island in search of prey. This moniker was also triggered by the radioactive waste that was dumped into the water, where it still lies. The protected marine life of the Farallon Islands National Wildlife Region spans approximately 3,295 square miles. Even though you are not allowed to enter this forbidden island, the non-profit Oceanic Society offers guided boat tours with knowledgeable naturalists. You can book a cruise from May through November. If you intend to visit this hidden gem, make sure you’re prepared for the challenges that come with it!
7. Miyake-Jima Island, Japan:
Japan has 14,000 islands, yet only 430 of those are inhabited. While Okinawa’s white sand beaches are the most visited tourist destination, Miyake-Jima has an entirely different reputation. This island, a part of the Izu Island chain, is 112 miles from Tokyo. Mount Oyama, a major active volcano that started erupting in 2000, nestles here. Because it released an excessive amount of deadly sulfur dioxide into the air killing six people, it is deemed unsafe. Residents of the island were forced to evacuate when the situation got so bad and couldn’t come back for around 5 years. According to a 2018 study, the locals had serious health issues, excruciating headaches, and sore throats after they returned. This historic island is risky to live on or visit, with high levels of sulfur dioxide still detectable today and chances of another volcanic eruption. Both visitors and more than 2,000 surviving residents are encouraged to wear respirators at all times to prevent gas poisoning. When it’s time for individuals to put on their masks, alarms scream. If you’re up to something truly unusual, don’t miss this captivating island!
8. Ramree Island, Myanmar:
Ramree Island is notorious for its huge deadly predator — saltwater crocodiles. This 1350 square kilometers island is located in the Myanmar part of Burma. Ramree, also called Yanbye Island in Burmese, is a perilous place where hundreds of lives have been lost. These untamed crocodiles can reach a weight of 997 kg (2,200 pounds) and an overall height of almost 23 feet. They hunt and kill humans covertly in marshes. When thousands of Japanese soldiers sought refuge in the Ramree wetlands during World War II, these merciless reptiles tore their bodies to pieces. Surprisingly, this beastly island holds the Guinness World Record for the worst and most human fatalities caused by crocodiles. It’s even riskier to navigate around the island because of the mangroves. Although this is undoubtedly a haven for thrill-seekers, this island is not recommended!
9. Reunion Island, Indian Ocean:
Reunion Island is a French-governed island in the Indian Ocean that covers 2,512 square kilometers. Situated 109 miles southwest of Mauritius Island, it is well recognized as one of the world’s most dangerous locations because of its powerful currents and rough surfing. This island is home to an array of deadly shark species, including blue sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and others. As a result, this island has plenty of fatal shark attacks. Tragically, between 1988 and 2017, 50 shark attacks have been reported in which 11 tourists lost their lives and others suffered lifetime injuries. In addition, Piton de la Fournaise, among the most active volcanoes, is found on Reunion Island. With a population of around 9,00,000, it is a safe place for tourists to visit and go hiking along the 1,000 km of designated trails. However, swimming and surfing are strictly forbidden to prevent such tragedies. Memorable adventures are just around the corner!
10. Whakaari/White Island, New Zealand:
Next up on our list of dangerous islands to visit is Whakaari, which is located in the Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s east coast. With a total area of 803 acres (325 hectares), this island is covered with craggy cliffs. Known by many as “White Island,” it is located 1000 feet above sea level and frequently produces wisps of smoke that travel to the skies. This spectacular stratovolcano, Whakaari means “Exposed to View”. Te Puia o Whakaari, its Māori name, translates as “The Dramatic Volcano,” implying it is still active today. On December 9, 2019, 47 tourists strolled this picturesque island to explore the trails encircling the crater. Sadly, a huge eruption took place that permanently changed everyone’s lives. 22 individuals died, while numerous more were severely injured. Although entry to the island is currently restricted, you can still see it through boat or air tours. Seeing Whakaari Island from the Whakatāne viewing point (30 miles away) will be the best way to prevent the volcano’s explosion. Don’t pass up this incredible journey!
11. Bonus- Komodo Island, Indonesia:
Komodo Island, which is part of Indonesia’s Komodo National Park, is home to the largest lizards on the planet. Over 5,000 giant Komodo dragons live in this untamed environment, making the island one of the riskiest places to explore. These dragons feature a maximum height of 10 feet and a weight of 166 kg (366 pounds). They have razor-sharp teeth, poisonous saliva, and forked tongues that they use to sniff out prey. They usually eat deer, monkeys, and wild boar, but over the years, many people have been dragged into the jaws of dragons. Ranger patrols the islands to ensure tourists’ safety, and guided boat cruises departing from Labuan Bajo provide glimpses of these nimble lizards. Avoid venturing alone and always abide by the safety instructions. It’s advisable to keep yourself far away from the dragons. The magnificent coral reefs, abundant marine life, and thrilling adventures like trekking and snorkeling will astound you despite its dangers. Make lifelong experiences by embracing Indonesia’s wild side!
To wrap it up:
So far, we have created this list based on factors such as perilous wildlife, volcanic activity, harsh climates, chemical waste dumping, and restricted entry. Danger lurks where you least expect it, even in beautiful spots. So be cautious if you ever decide to visit one of these 10 dangerous spots that challenge your limits.
Are you ready to add a little risk to your travel bucket list? Comment on your favorite adventure and share this post with fellow thrill-seekers. Keep tuned for more wild travel stories!
Speaking of thrilling experiences, if you are a person who loves adventure driving, then buckle up for a wild ride on India’s perilous roads!
