If there’s one kind of vacation that most people want to take, it’s one that involves and island. There’s just something about being able to get away from it all, quite literally, that most people simply can’t ignore. Of course, if you’re going to take that island vacation, it oftentimes means that you’re going to have to travel something of a distance.
This doesn’t always need to be the case, though. As it turns out, there might some perfectly beautiful islands that could be right near where you live. That’s why we thought it would be fun to take a look at some of the best islands the United States of America has to offer.
These islands are all over the map. There are some on the East Coast and some on the West Coast, just the same as there are some in between. Likewise, you’re going to find islands in the far north, and those in the far south. So, if you want to take an island vacation, but would like to do so in a fraction of the travel time, then read on! These are the 20 best islands to visit in the USA!
1. Nantucket (Massachusetts)
If you haven’t had the chance to experience life on this island, then perhaps this is the summer when that should change.
2. Amelia Island (Florida)
Those who are looking for outdoor experience while taking their island vacation will love this Florida destination.
3. Block Island (Rhode Island)
Just a short ferry ride away from Connecticut or Rhode Island, there’s a reason that New Englanders spend much of their summers here.
4. Chincoteague Island (Virginia)
One of the coolest things you can catch at this Virginia island is the annual pony swim, which is pictured above.
5. Hilton Head Island (South Carolina)
It’s one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country, and there’s definitely a reason for that.
6. Mackinac Island (Missouri)
Looking for the perfect getaway for a family that loves getting outdoorsy? Then this is a good bet!
7. Mount Desert Island (Maine)
This is the second-largest island on the Atlantic Coast, and it’s a perfect exemplar of Maine’s natural beauty.
8. Orcas Island (Washington)
Without a doubt, this is some of the best natural landscape that the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
9. Sea Island (Georgia)
This is where the rich and well-to-do in Georgia choose to take their vacations. It’s absolutely breathtaking!
10. Shelter Island (New York)
There’s over 17 miles of beach to be enjoyed on this New York treasure that always attracts vacationers during the warmer months.
11. St. Simons Island (Georgia)
One of Georgia’s largest barrier islands, this place is home to a lighthouse that his stood for nearly a century and a half.
12. San Juan Islands (Washington)
Beautiful forest and small fishing villages are what make this gorgeous Washington island so special.
13. Ocracoke Island (North Carolina)
There’s 16 miles of absolutely breathtaking beach to be enjoyed on this quaint island off the coast of North Carolina.
14. Martha’s Vineyard (Massachusetts)
Those who find the lifestyle on Nantucket a little too stuffy might like to check out this still luxurious but a little less snooty island.
15. Key West (Florida)
There’s only one way to understand the unique appeal of Key West; you actually have to visit it!
16. Galveston Island (Texas)
One doesn’t typically associate Texas with beautiful beaches, but Galveston Island just might change that impression for you.
17. Santa Catalina Island (California)
Just off the shore from the urban sprawl of Los Angeles is where you’ll find this gorgeous California treasure.
18. Anna Maria Island (Florida)
There’s plenty of unspoiled beauty in between the three cities that call this wonderful Florida island home.
19. Marco Island (Florida)
Part of the Ten Thousand Islands, there’s plenty of beautiful beach here for everyone who visits to enjoy.
20. Fire Island (New York)
This island is always a hot spot for Manhattanites looking to get away from it all in the summer months.
