Portugal has claimed one of the most exciting spots in Expedia’s Island Hot List 2026—and it is not one of the country’s usual headline-making destinations.
In the travel platform’s annual round-up of fast-rising islands, this peaceful Portuguese escape ranks second globally, ahead of a series of sought-after destinations known for their beaches, nature and far-flung appeal.
Its calling card? Golden sand, dependable warmth and a slower, switch-off-from-everything rhythm that feels increasingly rare in Europe’s busiest beach regions.
Portugal’s no. 2 island on Expedia’s hot list
The answer is Porto Santo, the smaller island neighbour of Madeira, located in Portugal’s Madeira archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean.
Expedia placed Porto Santo at number two in its ranking, naming it “Best for Wellness & Relaxation”. According to Expedia, the island is gaining momentum as travellers look beyond Europe’s classic beach destinations for holidays that feel calmer, less hurried and more restorative.
While Madeira is celebrated for its dramatic mountains, levada walks and lush landscapes, Porto Santo offers a markedly different kind of Portuguese island break. Think broad sweeps of golden beach, a gentler landscape and a pace that makes doing very little feel like the entire point.
For holidaymakers dreaming of sunshine without the crowds and intensity of a major Mediterranean resort, this under-the-radar Portuguese island is a very tempting prospect.
Why is Porto Santo becoming so popular in 2026?
Expedia highlights three core reasons behind Porto Santo’s growing appeal: golden sand, reliable warmth and a slower pace of life.
Its long sandy beach is particularly distinctive within the Madeira archipelago, which is better known for volcanic cliffs and pebbly shorelines. That makes Porto Santo an appealing choice for travellers who want a traditional beach holiday while still experiencing the culture, cuisine and island character of Portugal.
The wellness angle is just as important. Rather than building an itinerary around ticking off landmarks, Porto Santo lends itself to long beach walks, unhurried lunches, sea views and time away from over-scheduled routines.
The findings behind Portugal’s recognition
Now in its second year, the Expedia Island Hot List 2026 spotlights 10 island destinations gaining attention among travellers worldwide.
The list is based on global flight-search data from Expedia points of sale. It compares searches for travel during 2026 with searches made during the equivalent period a year earlier for 2025 travel.
“Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away, they can also be one of the smartest holiday values,” said Melanie Fish, Head of Expedia Group Brands Public Relations.
What to expect from a holiday on Porto Santo
A Porto Santo holiday is best suited to travellers who want to slow down rather than squeeze every hour from their itinerary.
The island is often associated with beach time and relaxation, but it is not solely for sun-lounger holidays. Visitors can explore coastal viewpoints, spend time in the main town of Vila Baleira, try local restaurants and take in the island’s dry, open landscapes.
Its smaller scale makes it especially appealing for couples, solo travellers, wellness-minded holidaymakers and anyone looking for a quieter alternative to Europe’s better-known beach islands.
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