Best Islands to Travel in September: Quiet Escapes & Endless Summer
September is one of the most underrated months for island travel. The high summer crowds begin to thin, the sea remains deliciously warm, and prices start to dip—making it the perfect time to island-hop across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re craving a quiet beach retreat, cultural immersion, or hiking trails with sea views, this is your guide to the best islands to travel in September.
And with eSIM technology like Voye Global, you can seamlessly stay connected as you roam from ferry terminals to remote coves—no physical SIM cards or shop queues involved.
Island Hop Without SIM Swaps
Use eSIM to stay online across ferry ports and hidden beaches.
1. Naxos, Greece – All the Charm, None of the Crowds
September is when Naxos truly shines. The sea is still warm, the winds calmer, and the summer rush gives way to a more relaxed pace. You’ll find empty stretches of golden beach, fewer lines at tavernas, and ideal conditions for both windsurfing and hiking.
Don’t Miss:
- Portara (Temple of Apollo ruins at sunset)
- Halki village’s citrus distillery
- The hike from Filoti to Mount Zas (the highest point in the Cyclades)
Why September?
The weather is hot but not scorching, and the island’s landscapes are greener post-August.
Stay Connected: Voye’s Greece eSIM lets you book last-minute ferry tickets and trail guides without ever searching for Wi-Fi.
2. Madeira, Portugal – Volcanic Trails & Endless Blooms
Nicknamed the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira is ideal in September. The subtropical climate means mild temperatures year-round, but early autumn offers the best of both worlds—lush nature and fewer tourists.
Don’t Miss:
- Levada walks and Laurisilva forest treks
- Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo sunrise hike
- Natural pools at Porto Moniz
Why September?
Wine festivals, fresh figs, and spectacular views with less mist on the mountain peaks.
Smart Tip: Enable GPS and weather tracking on your phone through Portugal eSIM from Voye to avoid trail mishaps in sudden fog.
3. Corsica, France – Wild, Rugged, and Blissfully Quiet
France’s Mediterranean gem, Corsica, has its own language, fierce independence, and terrain that ranges from mountains to hidden beaches. September sees fewer French holidaymakers but retains all the charm.
Don’t Miss:
- Calanques de Piana and Scandola Nature Reserve
- Bonifacio’s dramatic white cliffs
- Swimming at Saleccia Beach
Why September?
It’s warm enough for beach days, but cool enough to hike the island’s famed GR20 trail segments.
Connectivity Tip: Use Voye’s France eSIM for navigation on Corsica’s backroads and regional hiking apps like Visorando.
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Use code VOYE15 for a discounted eSIM plan for your September trip.
4. Hvar, Croatia – Party Eases, Beauty Remains
Hvar’s reputation as a party island fades a little in September—and that’s a good thing. You’ll enjoy warm Adriatic waters, fresh seafood without reservation battles, and a gentler pace in the old town.
Don’t Miss:
- Kayaking to the Pakleni Islands
- Sunset drinks at Hula Hula Beach Bar
- The ancient fortress overlooking Hvar Town
Why September?
The weather is superb, and the pace is ideal for couples and solo travelers seeking serenity over nightlife.
Use Case: Stay online with Voye’s Croatia eSIM to share high-res photos from your secluded coves or livestream from your drone camera.
5. Gozo, Malta – Authentic Island Life Without the Rush
Malta’s sister island, Gozo, is less developed but far more relaxing. September is perfect for swimming in the crystal-blue waters and exploring ancient ruins with a fraction of the crowds.
Don’t Miss:
- Ġgantija Temples (older than the pyramids!)
- Dwejra Bay and the Inland Sea
- Local goat cheese and honey at Xewkija market
Why September?
Mild sea temperatures, harvest-season wines, and local events like village festas.
Pro Tip: Avoid roaming charges by switching to Voye’s Malta eSIM while hopping between Malta and Gozo—no SIM card juggling required.
6. Sardinia, Italy – Beaches, Bronze Age Sites & Boating Bliss
Italy’s second-largest island is all about dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, and ancient Nuragic ruins. In September, temperatures are still perfect for the beach but without the chaos of the Italian summer holiday.
Don’t Miss:
- La Pelosa Beach (go early!)
- Hiking the Su Gorropu Gorge
- Archaeological sites like Nuraghe Santu Antine
Why September?
It’s grape harvest time, and local festivals return to small villages.
Stay Smart: Use Voye’s eSIM for Italy to access ferry schedules or food delivery apps in more remote areas.
7. São Miguel, Azores – Green Craters & Black Sand Beaches
If you’re looking for a destination that’s off the typical radar, São Miguel in the Azores is perfect in September. The largest of the islands, it offers volcanoes, crater lakes, and geothermal baths.
Don’t Miss:
- Sete Cidades twin lakes
- Whale watching and dolphin tours
- Thermal hot springs in Furnas
Why September?
It’s still whale season, and weather conditions are optimal for hiking and photography.
8. Elafiti Islands, Croatia – Secret Beaches Near Dubrovnik
Just a short ferry from Dubrovnik, the Elafiti Islands (Šipan, Koločep, and Lopud) are a tranquil retreat after the busy mainland. With no cars on some islands and minimal tourist infrastructure, September is your window to enjoy them quietly.
Don’t Miss:
- Swimming in Blue Cave (Koločep)
- Walking trails in Lopud’s pine forests
- Šipan’s olive groves and sleepy harbors
Why September?
Dubrovnik crowds thin out, ferry lines are shorter, and the sea is still warm.
Quick Access: Stay online to check ferry updates or call your local guesthouse with Voye’s eSIM Croatia plan.
Why September Is the Ideal Month for Island Travel?
- Sea temperatures remain high – perfect for swimming without the tourist crush.
- Prices drop – flights, hotels, and rentals are more affordable.
- Nature recovers – greener trails, less heat stress on landscapes.
- Local events return – wine harvests, music festivals, and religious celebrations.
Stay Connected with Voye Global
Island travel often means unpredictable signal and limited access to SIM kiosks—especially on ferries or small villages. Voye Global’s eSIM is the smart way to stay connected across multiple islands and countries without ever swapping SIM cards.
Why Travelers Choose Voye:
- No contracts or hidden roaming fees
- Coverage in over 130 countries
- Instant QR-based activation
- Works across multiple networks for stronger signal
- 100MB free trial in your home country before departure
- Compatible with all major eSIM-ready phones
Explore more, queue less. With Voye Global, your phone is ready before you even land.
The September Island Advantage
September offers a sweet spot for island lovers—warm waters, peaceful villages, and local experiences that feel more personal once the crowds have gone. Whether you’re walking volcanic trails in the Azores, kayaking along Croatia’s coast, or enjoying a farm-to-table meal in Gozo, this is a month that rewards the curious, the spontaneous, and the slow traveler. And with Voye Global’s eSIM at your side, staying connected is effortless—letting you focus on finding the next hidden cove, not a SIM kiosk. So pack light, travel smart, and let the islands work their late-summer magic.
Try Before You Fly
Test 100MB of free data in your home country before travelling.
FAQs – About Voye Global
1. How do I activate Voye’s eSIM before my trip?
Choose your destination, purchase your plan, scan the QR code, and activate it whenever you’re ready to connect.
2. Does Voye work on multiple islands or countries?
Yes, Voye plans cover entire countries or regions—ideal for island hopping.
3. Can I keep my regular phone number?
Yes. Your existing SIM stays in place for calls, while Voye handles data via eSIM.
4. What if I need more data mid-trip?
You can top up instantly through your account dashboard—no local kiosk needed.
5. What phones are compatible with Voye?
Most modern phones like iPhones (XR and later), Samsung Galaxy (S20+), and Google Pixel 4+ support eSIM.
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