Tiny UK island dubbed ‘Britain’s secret paradise’ with Caribbean-like waters and white sandy beaches

• The island’s beaches feature ‘dramatic rocky coves’ and ‘stunning seascapes’
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By ESTHER MARSHALL

Published: 11:42 BST, 25 April 2025 | Updated: 11:42 BST, 25 April 2025

A stunningly beautiful island off the coast of Cornwall has been described as ‘Britain’s secret paradise’. 

Saint Mary’s, a tiny 6.5km2/2.5 sq mile island, in the Isles of Scilly, has such gorgeous beaches it could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean. 

Despite is size, St Mary’s is actually the largest of Cornwall’s Isles of Scilly and has a population of 1,800. 

Visit Isles of Scilly says: ‘The coastline features large stretches of deserted white sandy beaches, dramatic rocky coves, stunning seascapes, amazing archaeological sites, beautiful walks and scenery along miles of coastal and country paths and nature trails.’ 

Porthcressa is one of the island’s most spectacular beaches and is located close to St Mary’s main town, Hugh Town. 

A short walk from the town centre, Porthmellon beach has stunning views of the nearby island of Tresco. 

While the islands’ beaches don’t enjoy Caribbean-like weather, the Isles of Scilly do generally get better weather than the rest of the UK. 

This is due to their remote location and the impact of the Gulf Stream on the islands’ weather.  

Saint Mary’s, a tiny 6.5km2/2.5 sq mile island, in the Isles of Scilly, has such gorgeous beaches it could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean

Porthcressa is one of the island’s most spectacular beaches and is located close to St Mary’s main town, Hugh Town

Despite is size, St Mary’s is actually the largest of Cornwall’s Isles of Scilly and has a population of 1,800

And wildlife-lovers will find plenty to occupy their time in St Mary’s. Tourists can hire a kayak to explore the coastline and will be in with a good chance of spotting seals. 

It’s also possible to see rare birds, including puffins, from the island. 

Although St Mary’s is hardly a destination that’s famous for its nightlife, the island does have a quirky bar that’s definitely worth a visit. 

The Dungeon Bar at the Star Castle hotel, once held some of the country’s most notorious prisoners.  

Inmates held there in the 1600s included Dr Bastwick, an English Puritan, who even had his ears removed for his controversial sermons. 

Nowadays, the Dungeon Bar is thankfully just a relaxing spot to enjoy a local ale or a cocktail. 

Interested in the Isles of Scilly? 

An expert recently shared the best places to visit on the islands with MailOnline Travel.  

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Tiny UK island dubbed ‘Britain’s secret paradise’ with Caribbean-like waters and white sandy beaches

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