Brits looking for a summer in paradise may be able to forget those expensive long-haul flights to the Caribbean or Indian Ocean, with an island with the ocean and beaches to match being much closer to home.

The sand dunes and crystal clear waters of the Maldives or Bora Bora have long been the dream destinations for many holidaymakers, but being on the other side of the world and with a reputation for luxury can leave you with a hefty bill at the end of the trip.

That's why a new destination has been gathering attention on social media leaving many shocked that paradise may not be a long-haul flight away and may lay at the sun-kissed shores of Fuerteventura.

The Canary Island is often forgotten about for its more popular neighbours Tenerife and Lanzarote quickly becoming more popular with its vast sand dunes and warm waters leaving it with the nickname the "mini Maldives".

With flights available from Gatwick, Luton, Manchester and a whole host of other UK airports - getting there doesn't have to be a hassle either. Several budget airlines fly to the island's main airport with Ryanair, EasyJet, Jet2 and more allowing for more spending money while you're out there.

The volcanic island is known for its sand, with 150km of pristine white beaches and coves lining its shores, wherever you're staying on the island you're not far away from some stunning sea views.

Its sudden attention has seen many videos and clips going viral across social media with hundreds of comments flooding in of holidaymakers wanting a trip.

Under one video a previous traveller said: "I was there last year twice… one of the most beautiful places on Earth," while another added: "It’s a lovely place having been so many times heading back in a few days,".

But beyond the stunning scenery, the island has picked up a reputation as a haven for all things watersports. With consistent winds blowing in from the atlantic thousands of windsurfers and kitesurfers make the trip which can provide some great entertainment while sitting on the beach with a cocktail.

When you're not at the  beach the island's towns boast some Spanish charm, with charming fishing villages serving up some top-notch local seafood.

Visitors may also want to explore the historic town of Betancuria, first founded way-back in 1404 a stroll around its century old roads can provide you a glimpse into the history of the island outside of it's tourist hotspots.

A visit to the island also provides almost guaranteed year-round weather. Being far south and just off the coast of west Africa, the island gets its fair share of sun with maximum summer temperatures around the 30C mark.

For those who find that sweltering heat understandably too hot, April and spring sees temperatures in the mid 20s with the average in September and October also hovering around a pleasant 25C.