Are These 8 Unknown Russian Islands More Stunning Than the Maldives? Spoiler Alert: Probably Yes! 🇷🇺🏝️

Let’s be honest—when someone says “island getaway,” you probably picture sipping overpriced coconuts in the Maldives, trying not to get sunburnt or accidentally photobomb a honeymoon shoot. But what if I told you there are jaw-droppingly beautiful islands in Russia that don’t involve bankrupting your wallet or rubbing shoulders with overly enthusiastic influencers?

Yes, Russia. Land of vodka, bears (mostly in memes), and… tropical-ish island dreams you’ve never heard of. These aren’t your average beachy clichés—these are offbeat places to travel, perfect for your next bucket list vacation. So grab your wool socks, pack your curiosity, and let’s go explore the hidden gems to visit that might just dethrone your Maldives fantasies.

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1. Iturup Island – “The Place Where Mist Feels Amazing” 🌫️

Located in the Kuril Islands, Iturup is like if Iceland and Japan had a Russian baby—volcanoes, waterfalls, and misty hot springs included. I hiked through steamy sulfur clouds and felt like a Slavic dragon hunter (minus the dragon, sadly).

Pro Traveler Tip: Don’t wear white near the sulfur springs unless you’re into tie-dye vibes.

Best time to visit: June to August, when it’s warm-ish and volcanoes are only slightly moody.

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2. Kiy Island – “The Monastery by the Sea That Made Me Reevaluate My Snack Choices” 🙏🍞

This White Sea island has a 17th-century monastery, fresh-baked bread from the monks, and more serenity than a yoga retreat with no Wi-Fi. I once tried to smuggle a loaf of their rye bread into my backpack. Worth it.

Pro Traveler Tip: Bring snacks. And maybe confess if you steal monk-made carbs.

Best time to visit: Late spring when the sea’s blue, the air is crisp, and the monks are extra smiley.

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3. Shantar Islands – “Where Whales Photobombed My Selfie” 🐋📸

Hidden in the Sea of Okhotsk, the Shantar archipelago is like Jurassic Park—but with whales instead of dinos (thankfully). It’s a true wanderlust spot where you’ll kayak next to whales, seals, and the occasional floating log that looks suspiciously like a crocodile.

Pro Traveler Tip: Always double-check that your kayak isn’t tied to anything. I spent 20 minutes paddling in place before realizing I was tethered to a rock.

Best time to visit: July–September. Whale watching is prime, and so is your chance to feel epic.

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4. Solovetsky Islands – “Where History Slaps You in the Face (in a good way)” 📚💀

These islands are soaked in stories—from ancient labyrinths to Soviet gulags. Walking here feels like flipping through a haunted, poetic history book. I cried. Then I ate pickled herring and cried again.

Pro Traveler Tip: Skip the guided tours and wander solo—you’ll find the good ghosts.

Best time to visit: Summer, unless you’re into snow trekking through sorrow.

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5. Olkhon Island – “Siberia’s Surprisingly Sassy Soul” 🌲✨

Right in Lake Baikal, Olkhon’s got shamanic energy, insane cliffs, and a vibe that says “wear linen and talk to the trees.” I didn’t see any shamans, but I did misplace my left sock here. Twice.

Pro Traveler Tip: Stay in a local homestay—they cook better fish soup than any 5-star resort.

Best time to visit: July–August, unless you like ice and existential dread.

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6. Russky Island – “Russia’s Ibiza, But With Parkas” 🕺❄️

Just off Vladivostok, this spot is perfect for beach chills, old forts, and making questionable dance moves on cold sand. I joined a spontaneous beach rave with three locals and one confused seagull.

Pro Traveler Tip: Bring layers. It’s Russia. Even summer feels like spring had second thoughts.

Best time to visit: June–September for beach-adjacent vibes.

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7. Valaam Island – “Where Silence is Louder Than Your Thoughts” 🛶📿

Located on Lake Ladoga, Valaam is an introvert’s dream. Monasteries, forests, and a soundscape of complete aaah. I literally heard my stomach growl echo.

Pro Traveler Tip: Respect the monks. Don’t be that person blasting Spotify while monks are mid-prayer.

Best time to visit: Summer to avoid ice-induced regrets.

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8. Kunashir Island – “Where Volcanoes Are Hot and So Is the Borscht” 🌋🔥

Another Kuril Island stunner, Kunashir is wild, rugged, and smoking—literally. Volcanic craters, steaming coastlines, and thick forests make it one of the best travel destinations you’ve never Googled.

Pro Traveler Tip: Always check if that “hot spring” is actually boiling. Learn from my slightly toasted toes.

Best time to visit: July to September, when nature isn’t trying to eat you.

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✈️ Final Thoughts: Maldives, Who?

Sure, the Maldives has hammocks and turquoise seas, but do they have steaming volcanoes, whale selfies, ancient monasteries, and suspiciously spiritual forests? Didn’t think so.

These 8 unknown Russian islands are a travel tips treasure chest for adventurous souls tired of the same old beach-and-mimosa combo. They’re raw, real, and ridiculously beautiful—plus, you won’t have to share them with 10,000 other tourists.

So what are you waiting for? ✨Pack your boots, your camera, and a flexible mindset. Let Russia surprise you.

And hey—if you do end up losing a sock, maybe you’ll find your soul instead. 💙
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