Iran’s Islands: Where to Go and What to See

Iran’s southern islands offer different trips. Choose Qeshm for geology and mangroves, Kish for a beach-based stay, or Hormuz for a short route between mineral-colored landscapes and the old fort.

Iran’s main islands

Most islands in this guide lie in the Persian Gulf or near the Strait of Hormuz. Ashuradeh is the exception, at the eastern end of the Miankaleh Peninsula beside Gorgan Bay on the Caspian coast.

Treat wildlife islands separately from established visitor destinations. A boat route nearby does not establish permission to land.

Qeshm Island

On Qeshm, visit Chahkuh Gorge or the Valley of Stars for erosion features, and Laft for windcatchers and wooden boatbuilding. The Hara mangroves occupy tidal waters near the Strait of Khuran.

Plan the island in sections. Laft and the mangroves make a different outing from the salt formations at Namakdan, so allow time for road transfers between sites.

To find out more about the island and the many reasons to visit it, read our article about Qeshm Island.

Kish Island

Kish suits a stay focused on the coast. Iran’s tourism authority lists the recreational pier, the Greek Ship and the Indigenous Kish People’s House as distinct stops. Entry requirements depend on the passport and route, so establish them with the responsible consular authority before booking.

Other famous islands to visit in Iran

Hormuz, Hengam and Larak are separate islands. Decide what you want to see before planning the crossing, and establish the departure and return points for that specific route.

Hormuz Island

Hormuz is known for its red beach and colored rock. Pair a visit to the Portuguese fort with a stop at the Rainbow Valley. Leave sand and rock where you find them.

Read more about this beautiful island on our travel guide to Hormuz Island.

Hengam Island

Hengam lies south of Qeshm. Its waters are known for dolphins, but sightings vary. Choose an operator that gives animals room to move away and avoids chasing or crowding them.

Larak Island

Larak lies southeast of Qeshm in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s tourism authority describes conical volcanic hills and a fishing community. Establish whether a return crossing fits your dates before treating it as a day trip.

Lavan Island

Lavan lies in western Hormozgan. It is a distinct destination from neighboring Shidvar, whose protected shore should be planned separately.

Maroo (Shidvar) Island

Shidvar, also called Maroo, is a Ramsar wetland near Lavan. Its shores support breeding terns and nesting turtles. Ask the conservation authority about access, and keep clear of colonies and nesting areas.

Ashura Deh Island

Ashuradeh lies at the eastern end of the Miankaleh Peninsula near Gorgan Bay. The wider wetland is a Ramsar site important for migratory waterbirds. Treat access as a conservation question and use permitted observation points.

The protected islands of South of Iran

Several small southern islands are important for breeding birds and turtles. Observe wildlife at a distance and leave eggs, shells and other natural material in place.

At protected sites, ask the reserve authority which areas may be approached and whether landing is allowed. If access is restricted, use an approved viewing point.

The islands you won’t be able to visit

Plan around the islands with established visitor facilities. Verify landing permissions and the return crossing before arranging transport to a smaller island.