1. Saba, Caribbean Netherlands

Known as the “Unspoiled Queen” of the Caribbean, Saba boasts a rugged beauty that sets it apart from its more developed neighbors. This tiny volcanic island is accessible only by a short flight to Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, famed for having one of the world’s shortest commercial runways.

Unlike bustling Caribbean hotspots, Saba offers tranquil villages, lush rainforests, and some of the region’s most pristine dive sites teeming with marine life. Adventurers flock here for the island’s untouched charm and exceptional underwater experiences. Learn more about visiting Saba at the official Saba Tourism website.

2. Lukla, Nepal

Lukla serves as the legendary gateway for trekkers heading to Mount Everest, and it can only be reached by a dramatic flight from Kathmandu. Tenzing-Hillary Airport’s short, sloped runway—perched on a mountainside—offers an adrenaline-pumping arrival, earning it a reputation as one of the world’s most thrilling airstrips.

Unlike other Himalayan entry points that require grueling overland journeys, Lukla’s air access saves days of travel, making it the main launch pad for Everest expeditions. The experience of landing here is unmatched, as described in BBC Travel.

3. Barra, Scotland

Barra Airport stands out as the only airport in the world where scheduled flights land on a tidal beach runway. Located on the windswept Isle of Barra in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, this unique airstrip is submerged at high tide, so flight schedules depend on the sea.

Unlike other Scottish islands accessible by ferry or causeway, Barra’s remote location and distinctive landing make it a true aviation adventure. The approach offers spectacular views of turquoise waters and white sand shores, creating a memorable introduction to the island’s rugged charm. Discover more at VisitScotland.

4. Supai, Arizona, USA

Hidden deep within the Grand Canyon, Supai Village is one of the most isolated communities in the United States. With no roads leading in or out, access is limited to hiking, mule rides, or helicopter flights—making air travel the most convenient route.

Unlike other remote US towns that at least have rugged roads, Supai’s unique location ensures true seclusion. Visitors are rewarded with breathtaking waterfalls and vibrant blue-green streams. The village is home to the Havasupai Tribe, whose culture and hospitality add to the experience. Learn more from the National Park Service.

5. Paro, Bhutan

Nestled in a deep valley surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, Paro International Airport is renowned for its breathtaking and challenging approach. Only a handful of specially trained pilots are certified to land here, navigating sharp turns and mountain winds before touching down on the single runway.

Unlike other airports with easier access, Paro’s unique geography and high altitude make each arrival an adventure in itself. The exclusivity of flying into Paro adds to Bhutan’s mystique and limited tourism appeal. Discover why it’s often listed among the world’s most difficult airports at CNN Travel.

6. Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

Tetiaroa epitomizes exclusivity in the South Pacific, famously known as Marlon Brando’s private island retreat. Unlike the more accessible and touristic Bora Bora, Tetiaroa is reachable only by private plane, preserving its pristine beauty and secluded ambiance.

The island is home to The Brando, an eco-luxury resort that blends sustainable design with barefoot elegance. With turquoise lagoons, untouched beaches, and a sanctuary for rare wildlife, Tetiaroa offers a serene escape far from the crowds. To experience this unique paradise and learn more about its conservation efforts, visit The Brando Resort.

7. Lord Howe Island, Australia

Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed paradise, celebrated for its emerald mountains, crystal lagoons, and unique wildlife. Strict visitor limits—just 400 guests at a time—ensure the island remains unspoiled. The only way to reach Lord Howe is by air, with flights from Sydney and Brisbane landing on its small runway.

Unlike larger, more accessible Australian islands such as Tasmania or Fraser Island, Lord Howe’s remoteness and exclusivity make it a true escape for nature lovers and adventurers. Plan your visit and discover more at the official Lord Howe Island tourism website.

8. St. Helena, South Atlantic

St. Helena, a remote British territory in the South Atlantic, was long known as one of the world’s most isolated inhabited islands. For centuries, it was only reachable by sea, but the opening of its new airport in 2017 finally connected St. Helena to the outside world with regular flights.

This dramatic transformation set it apart from other Atlantic islands, making it far more accessible while still preserving its untouched landscapes and unique culture. Travelers can now experience its dramatic cliffs, Napoleonic history, and rich biodiversity. Read more about the island’s remarkable journey at BBC News.

9. Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland

Ittoqqortoormiit is one of the most remote towns in Greenland, tucked between vast fjords and the edge of the world’s largest national park. For most of the year, the only way to reach this Arctic outpost is by air; sea access is possible only during a brief summer window when the pack ice retreats.

Unlike other Arctic settlements with limited overland routes, Ittoqqortoormiit’s isolation heightens its allure for adventurers seeking true wilderness and traditional Inuit culture. The town offers unrivaled access to polar bears, northern lights, and dramatic landscapes. Learn more about visiting at Visit Greenland.

10. Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, lies isolated in the vast Pacific Ocean, making its Mataveri International Airport the island’s only gateway. Located over 2,000 miles from mainland Chile and even farther from other Polynesian islands, Easter Island is renowned for its iconic moai statues and mysterious history.

Unlike more accessible Polynesian destinations like Tahiti or Hawaii, getting to Easter Island requires a dedicated flight, underscoring its remoteness and cultural intrigue. The entire island is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its unique archaeological treasures. Explore more about this remarkable destination at UNESCO World Heritage.

11. Coober Pedy, Australia

Coober Pedy, renowned as the opal capital of the world, sits deep in the South Australian Outback, surrounded by arid desert landscapes. The town’s remote location means it is most conveniently accessed via its small airport, which connects it to the rest of Australia.

Unlike other Outback towns such as Alice Springs that are reachable by long road journeys, Coober Pedy’s isolation and intense climate make air travel the preferred choice for visitors. The town is famous for its underground homes and unique mining heritage. Discover more about this extraordinary destination at Australia.com.

12. Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway

Longyearbyen, nestled on the Svalbard archipelago, boasts the world’s northernmost commercial airport, serving as the only year-round connection to this remote Arctic community. Regular flights from Oslo and Tromsø bring visitors to a landscape of glaciers, polar bears, and perpetual daylight or darkness, depending on the season.

In contrast to other Arctic airstrips, Longyearbyen’s airport operates in extreme polar conditions and is a vital lifeline for residents and explorers alike. Its unique setting and accessibility set it apart from even the most isolated northern settlements. Learn more about visiting this Arctic outpost at Visit Svalbard.

13. Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, Sint Eustatius

Sint Eustatius, a tranquil Dutch Caribbean island, is served by Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, known for its short runway and dramatic landings. While its neighbor Saba’s airstrip is even shorter, Sint Eustatius offers an equally exhilarating arrival experience, with planes skimming the coastline before touching down.

Unlike larger Caribbean destinations, the island maintains a laid-back atmosphere and is rarely crowded, making for a unique and peaceful escape. The airport is the primary link to the outside world, underscoring the island’s exclusivity. Find more travel details at the Sint Eustatius Tourism website.

14. Kulusuk, Greenland

Kulusuk, perched on a small island off Greenland’s rugged east coast, is one of the most remote settlements in the country. With no road connections and limited sea access, the village relies almost entirely on its small airport for year-round travel and supplies.

Unlike larger Greenlandic towns such as Nuuk or Ilulissat, which have more developed infrastructure, Kulusuk remains isolated, offering visitors dramatic ice-filled fjords and a glimpse into traditional Greenlandic life. The journey itself is an adventure, with flights providing breathtaking views of glaciers and Arctic wilderness. For travel information, visit Air Greenland.

15. Socotra, Yemen

Socotra, often described as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean,” is renowned for its surreal landscapes, unique dragon’s blood trees, and exceptional biodiversity. The island’s extreme isolation means its small airport is the only practical access point for most travelers, as sea journeys are rare and lengthy.

Unlike more frequented Indian Ocean islands like the Seychelles or Maldives, Socotra remains largely untouched and mysterious. Its remoteness preserves both its ecological wonders and cultural heritage. To learn more about Socotra’s remarkable natural significance, visit the UNESCO World Heritage information page.

Conclusion

Journeying to destinations accessible only by air offers a rare sense of discovery, rewarding travelers with unforgettable landscapes, cultures, and stories far from the beaten path. These remote paradises ignite a spirit of adventure and wonder, turning the very act of arrival into a memorable experience. Whether touching down on a beach in Scotland or amidst Himalayan peaks, each flight promises more than just a destination—it’s an entry to a world apart. For more inspiration on extraordinary travel, explore Lonely Planet’s guide to remote places.