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You want an island escape without juggling rental cars or deciphering mystery timetables. The good news is that some islands make it easy: buses that actually show up, ferries that double as scenic cruises, and metro systems that take you from airport to waterfront in minutes. These nine spots prove you can lean on public transport and still have time for markets, viewpoints, and slow evenings by the water. Pack light, tap your card, and trust the system.
Singapore
Singapore is an island that runs on efficiency, and you feel it from the moment you land at Changi. The MRT takes you downtown in under 40 minutes, with trains every few minutes and signs in English at every station. Buses connect seamlessly, and one tap on an EZ-Link card or your contactless bank card covers the whole network. Even at night the system feels safe, and stations are air-conditioned, so travel is as comfortable as it is reliable.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a cluster of islands stitched together by one of the world’s most dependable transit systems. The MTR runs like clockwork, linking Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, and beyond, while trams and buses fill in the gaps with character and charm. The iconic Star Ferry is not just transport but a view-filled ride across Victoria Harbour. With an Octopus card, you glide between modes effortlessly, from airport express trains to hilltop buses, without fumbling for change.
Oahu, Hawaii
On Oahu, you can ditch the rental car and still get around with ease. TheBus network reaches beaches, shopping districts, and hiking trails, while the Skyline rail now speeds across Honolulu, linking neighborhoods without traffic headaches. A single HOLO card works for both, with transfers built in, so it’s simple to plan day trips. Sit back and let someone else drive the winding roads while you watch palm trees and ocean views roll past your window.
Malta
Malta’s compact size makes its bus network a lifesaver for travelers. Routes fan out from Valletta’s central terminal, taking you to fishing villages, sandy beaches, and medieval Mdina without a hitch. Buses run frequently, and the Tallinja card gives you unlimited rides at a fair price. Add in ferries to Sliema or Gozo, and you have the makings of an easy, car-free trip. Keep water handy in summer, and let the network carry you across centuries of history.
Taiwan
Taiwan makes moving around an island feel effortless. High-speed rail zips you from Taipei to Kaohsiung in under two hours, while local TRA trains hug the coastline and open windows to mountain and sea views. Cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung have clean, intuitive metros where English signage is everywhere. Grab an EasyCard or iPASS and you can tap into buses, trains, and even ferries. With timetables running on the minute, day trips are simple and stress-free.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife’s bright green TITSA buses connect both airports, beaches, and mountain towns with clockwork regularity. They run 24/7 on key routes, so you can catch an early flight or a late festival without worry. Add in the tram linking Santa Cruz and La Laguna, and exploring becomes straightforward. Tickets are cheap, reloadable cards cut out cash, and real-time updates keep you on track. Even Teide National Park feels accessible when the buses line up just right.
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca offers more than resort shuttles; its public system is surprisingly complete. Intercity TIB buses run from Palma to coastal towns, and SFM trains branch inland toward villages and vineyards. Within Palma, the metro makes hopping between neighborhoods a breeze. Payments are contactless, schedules are consistent, and stops are easy to find. You can sip coffee in Palma in the morning, take a train to Sóller by lunch, and be back at the harbor in time for sunset.
Penang, Malaysia
Penang rewards you with options that are both practical and charming. Rapid Penang buses reach beaches, George Town murals, and the airport, while the ferry to Butterworth adds harbor views to your commute. In the UNESCO-listed core, a free shuttle loops past markets and temples, making short hops simple when the heat sets in. Services are frequent, air-conditioned, and affordable. With a stored-value card or small change, you can see the island without breaking rhythm.
Bermuda
Bermuda’s buses and ferries make getting around not only easy but scenic. Pink buses run along both coasts, connecting beaches and forts to the capital, while blue ferries cross the harbor in breezy shortcuts. A multi-day pass covers everything, so you can switch from land to sea without hesitation. Routes are straightforward, schedules are dependable, and drivers are quick with directions. You’ll spend less time navigating and more time soaking in the island’s turquoise views.