The world’s oceans harbor countless islands, but some bear names that capture the imagination and tell remarkable stories.
From Disappointment Island in New Zealand to Devil’s Island in French Guiana, these peculiar names often reflect historical events, natural phenomena, or human experiences.
Some islands earned their names through tragic circumstances, like Skull Island and Smuttynose Island, while others, like Coffee Club Island and Fairy Island, evoke whimsy and wonder.
Naming islands provides fascinating insights into maritime history, colonial exploration, and local folklore.
These distinctive appellations sometimes hint at the islands’ unique features, resident wildlife, or significant events.
Whether the aptly named Desolation Island in the Subantarctic or the mysterious Ghost Island, these unconventional names transform simple geographical locations into portals of intrigue and adventure.
Unusual and Mysterious Island Names From Around the World
1. Admiralty Island
Meaning: Naval historical significance, strategic location.
Origin: Named by George Vancouver, Alaska.
2. Ailsa Craig
Meaning: Fairy rock, sailor’s landmark.
Origin: Gaelic name, Scotland, United Kingdom.
3. Amchitka Island
Meaning: Nuclear testing site, Cold War.
Origin: Aleutian Islands, Alaska, United States.
4. Anagram Islands
Meaning: Named for wordplay and unique geography.
Origin: Antarctic Peninsula, discovered by explorers.
5. Antipodes Island
Meaning: Opposite side of the world.
Origin: Located south of New Zealand.
6. Ascension Island
Meaning: Discovered on Ascension Day.
Origin: South Atlantic Ocean, British territory.
7. Atafu
Meaning: Small atoll, traditional Polynesian settlement.
Origin: Tokelau, South Pacific Ocean.
8. Auckland Islands
Meaning: Named after Lord Auckland.
Origin: Subantarctic islands, New Zealand territory.
9. Baffin Island
Meaning: Named after William Baffin, explorer.
Origin: Arctic Canada, Nunavut province, Canada.
10. Ball’s Pyramid
Meaning: Tallest sea stack, rugged formation.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, near Lord Howe.
11. Banaba Island
Meaning: Phosphate-rich, mined for resources.
Origin: Kiribati, Central Pacific Ocean.
12. Barren Island
Meaning: Active volcano, uninhabited land.
Origin: Andaman Islands, Indian Ocean.
13. Bass Rock
Meaning: Seabird colony, volcanic plug.
Origin: Scotland, North Sea coastline.
14. Bear Island
Meaning: Named for Arctic bears.
Origin: Norway, Barents Sea region.
15. Bearskin Island
Meaning: Shaped like a bear’s skin.
Origin: Ontario, Canada, Great Lakes.
16. Bell Island
Meaning: Iron ore, mining history.
Origin: Newfoundland, Canada, Atlantic Ocean.
17. Bikini Atoll
Meaning: Nuclear testing, famous swimsuit name.
Origin: Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean.
18. Bird Island
Meaning: Habitat for diverse seabirds.
Origin: Several locations, including Seychelles.
19. Bishop Rock
Meaning: World’s smallest lighthouse island.
Origin: Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom.
20. Black Rock
Meaning: Dark volcanic formation, isolated.
Origin: Found in various global locations.
21. Booby Island
Meaning: Named after booby seabirds.
Origin: Torres Strait, Queensland, Australia.
22. Bouvet Island
Meaning: Remote, uninhabited Norwegian territory.
Origin: South Atlantic Ocean, Norwegian dependency.
23. Bramble Cay
Meaning: Tiny cay, rodent extinction site.
Origin: Northernmost island of Australia.
24. Brecqhou
Meaning: Private island, fortress-like appearance.
Origin: Part of Sark, Channel Islands.
25. Buck Island
Meaning: Protected marine reef sanctuary.
Origin: Caribbean, near St. Croix.
26. Butaritari
Meaning: Rich lagoon, historic battleground.
Origin: Kiribati, Pacific Ocean atoll.
27. Cabbage Island
Meaning: Named for wild cabbage plants.
Origin: Coastal Maine, United States.
28. Calf of Man
Meaning: Small islet near Isle.
Origin: Irish Sea, near Isle of Man.
29. Campbell Island
Meaning: Subantarctic nature reserve, remote.
Origin: Southern Ocean, New Zealand territory.
30. Caroline Island
Meaning: Pristine atoll, rare wildlife.
Origin: Line Islands, Kiribati, Pacific.
31. Cat Island
Meaning: Named for wild feline population.
Origin: Bahamas, Caribbean Sea region.
32. Christmas Island
Meaning: Discovered on Christmas Day.
Origin: Indian Ocean, Australian territory.
33. Christmas Island (Kiribati)
Meaning: Largest coral atoll, remote beauty.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, part of Kiribati.
34. Clipperton Island
Meaning: Uninhabited, famous for shipwrecks.
Origin: Eastern Pacific, French possession.
35. Coffee Club Island
Meaning: Named for club meetings.
Origin: Located in Antarctica, icy terrain.
36. Coiba Island
Meaning: Largest island in Panama.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Panamanian territory.
37. Coral Island
Meaning: Formed by marine coral reefs.
Origin: Various locations worldwide, tropical.
38. Crooked Island
Meaning: Irregular shape, curved coastline.
Origin: Bahamas, Caribbean archipelago.
39. Danger Island
Meaning: Hazardous waters, risky navigation.
Origin: Indian Ocean, British territory.
40. Desolation Island
Meaning: Harsh climate, isolated location.
Origin: Subantarctic, French territory.
41. Devil’s Island
Meaning: Infamous penal colony, prisoners’ exile.
Origin: French Guiana, Atlantic Ocean.
42. Devon Island
Meaning: Largest uninhabited Arctic island.
Origin: Canada, Nunavut, Arctic Circle.
43. Disappointment Island
Meaning: Named after explorer’s failed landing.
Origin: New Zealand, Subantarctic islands.
44. Dog Island
Meaning: Named for roaming dogs.
Origin: Caribbean, near Anguilla.
45. Ebon Atoll
Meaning: Traditional Micronesian settlement, lagoon.
Origin: Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean.
46. Eigg
Meaning: Norse name, ‘notched island.’
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides region.
47. Elcho Island
Meaning: Aboriginal culture, vibrant community.
Origin: Northern Territory, Australia.
48. Elephant Island
Meaning: Elephant seals, icy landscape.
Origin: Antarctica, near South Shetlands.
49. Europa Island
Meaning: Uninhabited, French military base.
Origin: Mozambique Channel, Indian Ocean.
50. Fairy Island
Meaning: Enchanting, mystical appearance, folklore.
Origin: Found in various global locations.
51. Farallon Islands
Meaning: Rocky outcrops, seabird sanctuary.
Origin: California coast, Pacific Ocean.
52. Fernando de Noronha
Meaning: Volcanic archipelago, marine paradise.
Origin: Brazil, Atlantic Ocean territory.
53. Flinders Island
Meaning: Named after Matthew Flinders, explorer.
Origin: Bass Strait, Australia.
54. Floreana Island
Meaning: Galápagos island, historical mystery.
Origin: Ecuador, Pacific Ocean.
55. Foula
Meaning: Windswept, remote Norse settlement.
Origin: Scotland, Shetland Islands.
56. Gambier Islands
Meaning: Polynesian culture, French territory.
Origin: French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean.
57. Garbh Eilean
Meaning: Rough island, Gaelic origin.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
58. Gash Island
Meaning: Mysterious, little-documented location.
Origin: Unknown, possibly uninhabited.
59. Ghost Island
Meaning: Abandoned, eerie reputation, ruins.
Origin: Found in various locations worldwide.
60. Goat Island
Meaning: Once home to wild goats.
Origin: Found globally, including New Zealand.
61. Goodenough Island
Meaning: WWII airstrip, strategic significance.
Origin: Papua New Guinea, Pacific Ocean.
62. Gough Island
Meaning: Weather station, remote wilderness.
Origin: South Atlantic, British territory.
63. Great Blasket Island
Meaning: Gaelic heritage, abandoned village.
Origin: Ireland, Atlantic coastline.
64. Great Sitkin Island
Meaning: Volcano island, active eruptions.
Origin: Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA.
65. Groote Eylandt
Meaning: Largest island, indigenous culture.
Origin: Australia, Northern Territory.
66. Gull Island
Meaning: Named for gull colonies.
Origin: Several locations, including Canada.
67. Half Moon Island
Meaning: Crescent-shaped, Antarctic landmark.
Origin: South Shetland Islands, Antarctica.
68. Hans Island
Meaning: Disputed territory, tiny island.
Origin: Arctic, between Canada-Greenland.
69. Harakka Island
Meaning: Nature reserve, bird habitat.
Origin: Finland, Baltic Sea.
70. Heard Island
Meaning: Harsh climate, volcanic activity.
Origin: Southern Indian Ocean, Australian territory.
71. Heart Island
Meaning: Heart-shaped, romantic landmark.
Origin: Found in multiple global locations.
72. Henderson Island
Meaning: UNESCO site, pristine environment.
Origin: South Pacific, British territory.
73. Hog Island
Meaning: Once farmed pigs, uninhabited.
Origin: Various locations worldwide.
74. Howland Island
Meaning: Amelia Earhart’s last stop.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, U.S. territory.
75. Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai
Meaning: Formed by volcanic eruption.
Origin: Tonga, South Pacific Ocean.
76. Hydra Island
Meaning: Mythological serpent, artistic hub.
Origin: Greece, Aegean Sea.
77. Ichaboe Island
Meaning: Seabird sanctuary, guano deposits.
Origin: Namibia, Atlantic Ocean.
78. Île Amsterdam
Meaning: Remote, research station location.
Origin: French Southern and Antarctic Lands.
79. Île aux Cochons
Meaning: Named for wild pigs.
Origin: Subantarctic, French territory.
80. Île aux Oiseaux
Meaning: “Bird Island,” seabird nesting site.
Origin: Multiple locations, including France.
81. Île aux Serpents
Meaning: “Snake Island,” reptile habitat.
Origin: Found in various global locations.
82. Île aux Vaches
Meaning: “Cow Island,” livestock grazing.
Origin: Named in multiple French territories.
83. Île de la Possession
Meaning: French Antarctic research station.
Origin: Crozet Islands, Indian Ocean.
84. Île de Ré
Meaning: Historical fortress, salt marshes.
Origin: France, Atlantic coastline.
85. Île du Diable
Meaning: “Devil’s Island,” notorious prison.
Origin: French Guiana, Atlantic Ocean.
86. Île Saint-Paul
Meaning: Small volcanic, abandoned island.
Origin: Indian Ocean, French territory.
87. Ilha de Queimada Grande (Snake Island)
Meaning: Home to deadly golden vipers.
Origin: Brazil, Atlantic Ocean.
88. Inaccessible Island
Meaning: Remote, nearly impossible landing.
Origin: Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic.
89. Isabela Island
Meaning: Largest Galápagos island, biodiversity.
Origin: Ecuador, Pacific Ocean.
90. Ishigaki Island
Meaning: Coral reefs, subtropical paradise.
Origin: Japan, Okinawa Prefecture.
91. Isle au Haut
Meaning: High island, scenic views.
Origin: Maine, United States.
92. Isle of Arran
Meaning: “Scotland in miniature,” diverse landscapes.
Origin: Scotland, Firth of Clyde.
93. Isle of Barra
Meaning: Gaelic culture, scenic beaches.
Origin: Scotland, Outer Hebrides.
94. Isle of Dogs
Meaning: Former dockyard, maritime history.
Origin: London, United Kingdom.
95. Isle of Eigg
Meaning: “Notched Island,” volcanic history.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
96. Isle of Jura
Meaning: Whisky distilleries, rugged landscape.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
97. Isle of Lewis and Harris
Meaning: Largest Scottish island, Gaelic heritage.
Origin: Scotland, Outer Hebrides.
98. Isle of Man
Meaning: Self-governing, TT motorcycle race.
Origin: Irish Sea, British Crown dependency.
99. Isle of Mull
Meaning: Castles, colorful Tobermory village.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
100. Isle of Rum
Meaning: Nature reserve, red deer.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
101. Isle of Sheppey
Meaning: Aviation history, early airfields.
Origin: England, Thames Estuary.
102. Isle of Skye
Meaning: Dramatic landscapes, fairy pools.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
103. Isle of Wight
Meaning: Coastal cliffs, music festivals.
Origin: England, English Channel.
104. Isle Royale
Meaning: Remote wilderness, moose-wolf ecosystem.
Origin: Michigan, United States.
105. Jan Mayen
Meaning: Arctic island, meteorological station.
Origin: Norway, North Atlantic.
106. Janitzio Island
Meaning: Day of Dead celebrations.
Origin: Mexico, Lake Pátzcuaro.
107. Jekyll Island
Meaning: Gilded Age mansions, preserved nature.
Origin: Georgia, United States.
108. Johnston Atoll
Meaning: Former nuclear test site.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, U.S. territory.
109. Kangaroo Island
Meaning: Wildlife sanctuary, stunning coastlines.
Origin: South Australia, Great Australian Bight.
110. Kasatochi Island
Meaning: Active volcano, wildlife refuge.
Origin: Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA.
111. Keeling Islands
Meaning: Coral atolls, coconut plantations.
Origin: Indian Ocean, Australian territory.
112. Kerguelen Islands
Meaning: “Desolation Islands,” remote research station.
Origin: Southern Indian Ocean, French territory.
113. King Island
Meaning: Dairy farming, shipwreck coast.
Origin: Bass Strait, Tasmania, Australia.
114. Kodiak Island
Meaning: Brown bear habitat, fishing hub.
Origin: Alaska, United States.
115. Komodo Island
Meaning: Home to Komodo dragons.
Origin: Indonesia, Lesser Sunda Islands.
116. Koro Island
Meaning: Lush forests, Fijian culture.
Origin: Fiji, South Pacific Ocean.
117. Kosrae
Meaning: “Island of the Sleeping Lady.”
Origin: Micronesia, western Pacific Ocean.
118. Krk Island
Meaning: Largest Croatian island, historic.
Origin: Adriatic Sea, Croatia.
119. Kunashir Island
Meaning: Disputed island, active volcanoes.
Origin: Russia-Japan, Kuril Islands.
120. Kusu Island
Meaning: Tortoise-shaped, pilgrimage site.
Origin: Singapore, South China Sea.
121. Lampedusa
Meaning: Mediterranean migration, rugged beauty.
Origin: Italy, near North Africa.
122. Langeoog
Meaning: Car-free island, sandy dunes.
Origin: Germany, North Sea.
123. Laysan Island
Meaning: Seabird sanctuary, isolated paradise.
Origin: Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, USA.
124. Lizard Island
Meaning: Marine research, pristine reefs.
Origin: Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
125. Lord Howe Island
Meaning: UNESCO site, volcanic origin.
Origin: Tasman Sea, Australia.
126. Louisiade Archipelago
Meaning: Coral reefs, indigenous communities.
Origin: Papua New Guinea, Pacific Ocean.
127. Lundy Island
Meaning: Puffin colony, pirate history.
Origin: Bristol Channel, United Kingdom.
128. Macquarie Island
Meaning: Penguin colony, volcanic geology.
Origin: Southern Ocean, Australian territory.
129. Mahe Island
Meaning: Seychelles’ largest, capital city.
Origin: Indian Ocean, Seychelles.
130. Majuro
Meaning: Atoll, Marshall Islands’ capital.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Marshall Islands.
131. Malpelo Island
Meaning: Shark sanctuary, rugged cliffs.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Colombia.
132. Manam Island
Meaning: Active volcano, periodic eruptions.
Origin: Papua New Guinea, Pacific Ocean.
133. Mandø
Meaning: Tidal island, birdwatching destination.
Origin: Denmark, North Sea.
134. Margarita Island
Meaning: Caribbean beaches, pearl farming.
Origin: Venezuela, South America.
135. Maria Island
Meaning: Historic ruins, wildlife haven.
Origin: Tasmania, Australia.
136. Marie Byrd Land (Ice Island)
Meaning: Unclaimed territory, icy expanse.
Origin: Antarctica, West Antarctic region.
137. Marquesas Islands
Meaning: Remote Polynesian culture, rugged landscapes.
Origin: French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean.
138. Mataking Island
Meaning: Diving paradise, sandbar connection.
Origin: Malaysia, Celebes Sea.
139. Matema Island
Meaning: Scenic beaches, remote tranquility.
Origin: Tanzania, Lake Nyasa.
140. McDonald Islands
Meaning: Volcanic, uninhabited wildlife reserve.
Origin: Southern Indian Ocean, Australian territory.
141. Mejit Island
Meaning: Traditional village, freshwater lake.
Origin: Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean.
142. Midway Atoll
Meaning: WWII battle site, seabird refuge.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, U.S. territory.
143. Minami-Tori-shima
Meaning: Remote weather station, uninhabited.
Origin: Japan, Pacific Ocean.
144. Monuriki
Meaning: Filming location, “Cast Away.”
Origin: Fiji, South Pacific Ocean.
145. Moreton Island
Meaning: Sand dunes, shipwreck diving.
Origin: Queensland, Australia.
146. Moskenesøya
Meaning: Dramatic fjords, Arctic beauty.
Origin: Norway, Lofoten Islands.
147. Muckle Flugga
Meaning: Northernmost UK lighthouse island.
Origin: Scotland, Shetland Islands.
148. Mykines
Meaning: Puffin habitat, wind-swept cliffs.
Origin: Faroe Islands, North Atlantic.
149. Nancowry Island
Meaning: Ancient Nicobarese tribal culture.
Origin: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.
150. Napuka
Meaning: Remote Polynesian atoll, peaceful.
Origin: French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean.
151. Nauru
Meaning: Smallest island nation, phosphate-rich.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Micronesia region.
152. Navassa Island
Meaning: Disputed territory, bird sanctuary.
Origin: Caribbean Sea, U.S. possession.
153. Nendo Island
Meaning: Traditional Solomon Islands culture.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Santa Cruz Islands.
154. Norfolk Island
Meaning: Penal colony, tall pine trees.
Origin: South Pacific, Australian territory.
155. Nowhere Island
Meaning: Floating artwork, temporary location.
Origin: Created for the London 2012 Olympics.
156. Nunivak Island
Meaning: Inuit culture, reindeer reserve.
Origin: Bering Sea, Alaska, USA.
157. Oceanic Island
Meaning: Isolated, formed by volcanic activity.
Origin: Found worldwide, ocean-bound formations.
158. Oeno Island
Meaning: Pristine reef, tiny uninhabited atoll.
Origin: Pitcairn Islands, South Pacific.
159. Onekotan
Meaning: Volcanic island, crater lake.
Origin: Kuril Islands, Russia.
160. Ontong Java Atoll
Meaning: One of the world’s largest atolls.
Origin: Solomon Islands, Pacific Ocean.
161. Orchid Island
Meaning: Indigenous Tao culture, scenic.
Origin: Taiwan, western Pacific Ocean.
162. Orona Island
Meaning: Uninhabited, former coconut plantation.
Origin: Phoenix Islands, Kiribati.
163. Pabbay
Meaning: Once inhabited, abandoned crofting settlement.
Origin: Scotland, Outer Hebrides.
164. Pagan Island
Meaning: Active volcano, WWII relics.
Origin: Northern Mariana Islands, Pacific Ocean.
165. Pakatoa Island
Meaning: Former resort, private island.
Origin: New Zealand, Hauraki Gulf.
166. Palm Island
Meaning: Luxury resorts, artificial landmass.
Origin: Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
167. Palmyra Atoll
Meaning: Remote nature preserve, U.S. territory.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Line Islands.
168. Paramushir
Meaning: Cold climate, Russian military presence.
Origin: Kuril Islands, Russia.
169. Pellestrina
Meaning: Narrow, fishing village island.
Origin: Italy, Venetian Lagoon.
170. Pelorus Island
Meaning: Diving site, untouched paradise.
Origin: Queensland, Australia.
171. Peñasco Island
Meaning: Rugged terrain, isolated habitat.
Origin: Unknown, potentially uncharted region.
172. Pepys Island
Meaning: Phantom Island, never confirmed.
Origin: Allegedly near the Falkland Islands.
173. Perejil Island
Meaning: Disputed, strategic military importance.
Origin: Morocco-Spain, Mediterranean Sea.
174. Peter I Island
Meaning: Antarctica’s volcanic, rarely visited.
Origin: Southern Ocean, Norwegian territory.
175. Petropavlovsk Island
Meaning: Russian naval history, harsh climate.
Origin: Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia.
176. Phangan Island
Meaning: Full Moon Party, tourist hotspot.
Origin: Thailand, Gulf of Thailand.
177. Phoenix Islands
Meaning: Uninhabited, marine protected area.
Origin: Kiribati, central Pacific Ocean.
178. Pingelap
Meaning: High colorblindness, genetic anomaly.
Origin: Micronesia, western Pacific Ocean.
179. Pitcairn Island
Meaning: Mutiny on the Bounty settlement.
Origin: British Overseas Territory, Pacific Ocean.
180. Pohnpei
Meaning: Ancient ruins, lush rainforest.
Origin: Micronesia, western Pacific Ocean.
181. Pratas Island
Meaning: Military outpost, coral reefs.
Origin: South China Sea, Taiwan territory.
182. Pukapuka
Meaning: Remote, culturally unique Polynesian atoll.
Origin: Cook Islands, South Pacific.
183. Quail Island
Meaning: Quarantine station, small sanctuary.
Origin: New Zealand, near Christchurch.
184. Quirimbas Islands
Meaning: Coral reefs, historic trade route.
Origin: Mozambique, Indian Ocean.
185. Rangiroa
Meaning: Huge atoll, blue lagoon.
Origin: French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean.
186. Raoul Island
Meaning: Volcanic, uninhabited research station.
Origin: New Zealand, Kermadec Islands.
187. Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
Meaning: Moai statues, Polynesian culture.
Origin: Chile, southeastern Pacific Ocean.
188. Redonda
Meaning: Tiny, steep, uninhabited island.
Origin: Caribbean, part of Antigua.
189. Reef Island
Meaning: Coral reef, pristine environment.
Origin: Solomon Islands, South Pacific.
190. Rennell Island
Meaning: UNESCO-listed, raised coral atoll.
Origin: Solomon Islands, Pacific Ocean.
191. Rishiri Island
Meaning: Mountainous, hiking destination.
Origin: Japan, near Hokkaido.
192. Rockall
Meaning: Smallest uninhabitable rock, disputed.
Origin: North Atlantic, claimed by UK.
193. Rodrigues Island
Meaning: Secluded beaches, volcanic origin.
Origin: Indian Ocean, Mauritius territory.
194. Rooster Island
Meaning: Shaped like a rooster’s head.
Origin: Found in various global locations.
195. Rottenest Island
Meaning: Named after quokka population.
Origin: Western Australia, near Perth.
196. Rottnest Island
Meaning: Quokkas, beautiful turquoise beaches.
Origin: Western Australia, Indian Ocean.
197. Round Island
Meaning: Circular shape, wildlife sanctuary.
Origin: Found in multiple locations globally.
198. Runit Island
Meaning: Radioactive waste, nuclear history.
Origin: Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean.
199. Sable Island
Meaning: Wild horses, shipwreck graveyard.
Origin: Atlantic Ocean, Canada.
200. Saint Brandon
Meaning: Coral atoll, fishing haven.
Origin: Indian Ocean, Mauritius territory.
201. Saint Kilda
Meaning: Abandoned village, remote archipelago.
Origin: Scotland, Outer Hebrides.
202. Saint Matthew Island
Meaning: Arctic wilderness, abandoned reindeer.
Origin: Alaska, Bering Sea.
203. Saint Paul Island (Alaska)
Meaning: Fur seals, remote fishing community.
Origin: Bering Sea, Alaska, USA.
204. Saint Pierre Island
Meaning: French culture, fishing heritage.
Origin: Saint Pierre and Miquelon, North Atlantic.
205. Samal Island
Meaning: White beaches, diving paradise.
Origin: Philippines, Davao Gulf.
206. San Andrés
Meaning: Tropical paradise, Colombian tourism.
Origin: Caribbean Sea, Colombia.
207. San Benedicto Island
Meaning: Volcanic, seabird nesting site.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, Revillagigedo Islands, Mexico.
208. San Nicolas Island
Meaning: Navy base, “Lone Woman” inspiration.
Origin: California, United States.
209. Sand Island
Meaning: Multiple islands, sandy formations.
Origin: Found globally in various locations.
210. Santa Cruz Island
Meaning: Largest Galápagos island, biodiversity hotspot.
Origin: Ecuador, Pacific Ocean.
211. Santiago Island
Meaning: Galápagos wildlife, volcanic terrain.
Origin: Ecuador, Pacific Ocean.
212. Savage Islands
Meaning: Harsh winds, uninhabited nature reserve.
Origin: Portugal, North Atlantic Ocean.
213. Scilly Isles
Meaning: Subtropical flowers, maritime history.
Origin: England, United Kingdom.
214. Screeching Owl Island
Meaning: Named after eerie owl calls.
Origin: Location unknown, possibly fictional.
215. Sentinel Island
Meaning: Isolated, indigenous uncontacted tribe.
Origin: Andaman Islands, Indian Ocean.
216. Serrana Bank
Meaning: Coral reef, marine biodiversity.
Origin: Caribbean Sea, Colombia.
217. Shemya Island
Meaning: Military base, strategic airstrip.
Origin: Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA.
218. Shikotan
Meaning: Disputed island, Soviet-Japanese conflict.
Origin: Kuril Islands, Russia.
219. Shingle Island
Meaning: Pebble-covered, coastal erosion study.
Origin: Various locations, globally found.
220. Shoal Bay Island
Meaning: Shallow waters, pristine beach.
Origin: Various locations, often tropical.
221. Sikaiana
Meaning: Traditional Polynesian community, small atoll.
Origin: Solomon Islands, Pacific Ocean.
222. Simushir
Meaning: Volcanic island, abandoned settlement.
Origin: Kuril Islands, Russia.
223. Skellig Michael
Meaning: Monastery ruins, Star Wars filming.
Origin: Ireland, Atlantic Ocean.
224. Skull Island
Meaning: Fictional, King Kong location.
Origin: Created for movies and stories.
225. Smuttynose Island
Meaning: Site of famous 19th-century murders.
Origin: Isles of Shoals, United States.
226. Socotra Archipelago
Meaning: Unique biodiversity, alien-like flora.
Origin: Yemen, Arabian Sea.
227. Socotra Island
Meaning: Dragon’s blood trees, endemic species.
Origin: Yemen, Arabian Sea.
228. Sombrero Island
Meaning: Hat-shaped, former guano mine.
Origin: Anguilla, Caribbean Sea.
229. South Georgia Island
Meaning: Glaciers, whaling station ruins.
Origin: South Atlantic Ocean, British territory.
230. South Sentinel Island
Meaning: Remote, no human habitation.
Origin: Andaman Islands, Indian Ocean.
231. Spencer Island
Meaning: Disputed existence, possibly fictional.
Origin: Location uncertain, maritime myths.
232. Spratly Islands
Meaning: Disputed territory, resource-rich waters.
Origin: South China Sea, contested claims.
233. Starbuck Island
Meaning: Deserted, named after whaling captain.
Origin: Kiribati, Central Pacific Ocean.
234. Staten Island (Argentina)
Meaning: Harsh climate, seal population.
Origin: Argentina, South Atlantic Ocean.
235. Stewart Island
Meaning: Māori heritage, rugged wilderness.
Origin: New Zealand, South Pacific.
236. Stinking Bay Island
Meaning: Strong sulfur smell, geothermal activity.
Origin: Various locations, volcanic regions.
237. Storm Island
Meaning: Harsh weather, few inhabitants.
Origin: Found in multiple global locations.
238. Stradbroke Island
Meaning: Surf beaches, indigenous culture.
Origin: Queensland, Australia.
239. Suduroy
Meaning: Southernmost, steep cliffs.
Origin: Faroe Islands, North Atlantic.
240. Suwarrow
Meaning: Uninhabited, pirate legend associations.
Origin: Cook Islands, South Pacific.
241. Sweetheart Island
Meaning: Romantic destination, small haven.
Origin: Found in multiple locations.
242. Takapoto
Meaning: Atoll, pearl farming hub.
Origin: French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean.
243. Tanna Island
Meaning: Volcano tours, traditional tribes.
Origin: Vanuatu, South Pacific.
244. Tarakan Island
Meaning: WWII battle site, oil reserves.
Origin: Indonesia, Borneo region.
245. Tashirojima (Cat Island)
Meaning: Large cat population, fishing culture.
Origin: Japan, Pacific Ocean.
246. Terschelling
Meaning: Sand dunes, maritime heritage.
Origin: Netherlands, North Sea.
247. Three Kings Islands
Meaning: Isolated, rare endemic species.
Origin: New Zealand, South Pacific.
248. Thule Island
Meaning: Remote, British Antarctic territory.
Origin: South Sandwich Islands, Atlantic.
249. Tikopia
Meaning: Polynesian traditions, sustainable practices.
Origin: Solomon Islands, Pacific Ocean.
250. Tinakula
Meaning: Active volcano, tiny population.
Origin: Solomon Islands, Pacific Ocean.
251. Tinian
Meaning: WWII airbase, historic significance.
Origin: Northern Mariana Islands, Pacific Ocean.
252. Tiree
Meaning: Sunniest Scottish island, windy climate.
Origin: Scotland, Inner Hebrides.
253. Tokelau
Meaning: Smallest Polynesian territory, atolls.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, New Zealand dependency.
254. Tonga Island
Meaning: Part of larger archipelago, cultural heritage.
Origin: South Pacific Ocean, Kingdom of Tonga.
255. Tristan da Cunha
Meaning: Most remote inhabited island, volcanic.
Origin: South Atlantic Ocean, British territory.
256. Trobriand Islands
Meaning: Unique matrilineal society, yam festivals.
Origin: Papua New Guinea, Pacific Ocean.
257. Tromelin Island
Meaning: Shipwreck survivors, uninhabited history.
Origin: Indian Ocean, French territory.
258. Tromsøya
Meaning: Arctic city, northern lights viewing.
Origin: Norway, Scandinavian Peninsula.
259. Tsushima Island
Meaning: Samurai history, maritime trade.
Origin: Japan, Sea of Japan.
260. Turtle Island
Meaning: Named for turtle nesting grounds.
Origin: Found in various locations worldwide.
261. Ulleungdo
Meaning: Volcanic island, dense forests.
Origin: South Korea, Sea of Japan.
262. Unalaska Island
Meaning: Russian heritage, fishing industry.
Origin: Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA.
263. Union Island
Meaning: Wind sports, tourism hub.
Origin: Caribbean, St. Vincent and Grenadines.
264. Upolu
Meaning: Largest population, cultural center.
Origin: Samoa, South Pacific Ocean.
265. Ushant
Meaning: Lighthouses, strong maritime traditions.
Origin: France, Atlantic Ocean.
266. Ustica
Meaning: Marine reserve, volcanic origin.
Origin: Italy, Mediterranean Sea.
267. Vanuatu Island
Meaning: Volcanic activity, adventure tourism.
Origin: South Pacific, Republic of Vanuatu.
268. Vega Island
Meaning: UNESCO site, birdwatching paradise.
Origin: Norway, Arctic region.
269. Velikiy Island
Meaning: Large size, Russian territory.
Origin: Arctic Ocean, Russia.
270. Vigur Island
Meaning: Puffin sanctuary, traditional farming.
Origin: Iceland, North Atlantic.
271. Vostok Island
Meaning: Uninhabited, dense vegetation.
Origin: Kiribati, Pacific Ocean.
272. Vulcan Point
Meaning: Island inside a lake.
Origin: Philippines, Taal Volcano.
273. Vulcano Island
Meaning: Roman mythology, geothermal activity.
Origin: Italy, Mediterranean Sea.
274. Wager Island
Meaning: 18th-century shipwreck history, remote.
Origin: Southern Chile, Pacific Ocean.
275. Wake Island
Meaning: WWII battle site, airstrip.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, U.S. territory.
276. Walrus Island
Meaning: Marine mammals, Arctic habitat.
Origin: Alaska, Bering Sea.
277. Warir Island
Meaning: Remote, little-documented location.
Origin: Indonesia, Pacific Ocean.
278. Whale Island
Meaning: Former naval training base.
Origin: United Kingdom, Portsmouth Harbor.
279. White Island
Meaning: Active volcano, steam vents.
Origin: New Zealand, Bay of Plenty.
280. Whyte Island
Meaning: Small, research-focused landmass.
Origin: Canada, Atlantic Ocean.
281. Wilkes Island
Meaning: Military site, strategic importance.
Origin: Pacific Ocean, U.S. territory.
282. Willis Island
Meaning: Weather station, cyclone monitoring.
Origin: Coral Sea, Australian territory.
283. Windward Island
Meaning: Name used for several islands.
Origin: Found in different Caribbean regions.
284. Wizard Island
Meaning: Cone-shaped, within crater lake.
Origin: Oregon, United States.
285. Wrangel Island
Meaning: Arctic tundra, polar bear haven.
Origin: Russia, Arctic Ocean.
286. Xisha Island
Meaning: Disputed archipelago, reef system.
Origin: South China Sea, contested claims.
287. Xisha Islands (Paracel Islands)
Meaning: Rich marine life, military presence.
Origin: South China Sea, disputed region.
288. Yakushima
Meaning: Ancient cedar forests, mystical atmosphere.
Origin: Japan, Kyushu region.
289. Yap
Meaning: Stone money, traditional culture.
Origin: Micronesia, Pacific Ocean.
290. Yaya Island
Meaning: Ice-covered, Russian Arctic.
Origin: Russia, East Siberian Sea.
291. Yell Island
Meaning: Seals, Norse Viking history.
Origin: Scotland, Shetland Islands.
292. Yonaguni
Meaning: Underwater ruins, diving mystery.
Origin: Japan, East China Sea.
293. Yonge Island
Meaning: Icy terrain, remote station.
Origin: Antarctica, South Shetland Islands.
294. Yttygran Island
Meaning: Whale bone alley, archaeological significance.
Origin: Russia, Bering Sea.
295. Zanzibar
Meaning: Spices, Swahili cultural heritage.
Origin: Tanzania, Indian Ocean.
296. Zavodovski Island
Meaning: Penguin colony, volcanic eruptions.
Origin: South Sandwich Islands, Atlantic.
297. Zhenbao Island
Meaning: Cold War border dispute.
Origin: China-Russia, Ussuri River.
Conclusion
The eclectic collection of unusually named islands scattered across our globe is a testament to humanity’s creative spirit and our complex relationship with isolated landmasses.
Each peculiar name weaves a narrative that connects us to different eras, cultures, and natural phenomena.
From the remote Gash Island to the foreboding Storm Island, these names reflect our ancestors’ experiences, fears, and aspirations.
They remind us that islands are not merely dots on a map but hold human stories, scientific discoveries, and cultural heritage.
As we continue to explore and understand our world, these distinctive island names stand as linguistic time capsules, preserving tales of shipwrecks, volcanic eruptions, wildlife encounters, and human settlements.
They demonstrate how naming places can change geographical features into enduring symbols of human knowledge and creativity.
