10 Best Islands in the US

Last Updated on August 24, 2023 by Nikki Jain

People don't often think of America as having beautiful islands to vacation to unless talking about the Florida Keys or Hawaii but the truth is there are numerous locations to relax at and you don't have to head to the tropics.

In addition to the several beautiful places in Hawaii and Florida you can head to Massachusetts and see the famous island of Nantucket.

Washington is another place to visit with the island of San Juan. Hilton Head in South Carolina is a wonderful place to island hop.

For more gorgeous islands to visit in the US, read further and plan a memorable trip with your family or friends.

Best Islands to Visit in the US

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1: San Juan Island, Washington

San Juan Island, Washington
Flickr/Jeff Gunn

After a scenic ferry ride from the northwest of Washington mainland, you are going to reach an island paradise called San Juan Island. Here you can go on an exciting whale watching adventure, have a challenging kayak trip, take a bicycle and ride it around the island, or hike through an enchanting forest.

Address: San Juan Island, WA

2: Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii

Known as the "Valley Isle", Maui gives you the perfect combination of sun, sea and fun. Hike through the challenging slopes of Haleakala National Park or ignite the romance with a gorgeous sunset cruise off the coast of South Maui. Spend days on the beach relaxing on the sand with the sun on your face or take a dip in the clearest blue waters.

Address: Maui, HI

Also Read: Best Tropical Destinations in the US

3: Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, Hawaii

Invigorating, relaxing and amazingly beautiful, Hawaii's Island of Discovery will excite all your senses. Take a breathtaking helicopter tour of the Napali Coast, explore the Taro farms and the art galleries of Hanalei Town and lounge by the white sandy shores of Poipu Beach Park, which was once named "America's Best Beach".

Address: Kauai, HI

4: Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island, Florida
Flickr/Riyaz Jamani

Known as the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, this is one of the magical, mystical and alluring islands in the US that draws thousands of visitors each year. See dolphins, manatees and other exotic wildlife both in and out of the water.

Go kayaking, fishing, hiking and play several rounds of golf with your buddies. When it's time to replenish yourself from all the activities, check out some of the island's finest restaurants serving you delectable Florida cuisine like you've never tasted it before.

Address: Marco Island, FL

5: Anna Maria Island, Florida

Anna Maria Island, Florida
Flickr/Carol VanHook

Anna Maria Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the USA that offers a luxurious and relaxing vacation that you have always longed for. From upscale resorts to cozy family-run hotels, you are bound to find your perfect home away from home right here.

You can rent a fishing boat and enjoy your catch of grouper, snapper and mackerel. If you love golf, make sure to drop by the Key Royal Club for a fantastic golfing adventure. You can also just laze around by the gorgeous white sandy beaches and take a dip in the clear blue waters.

Address: Anna Maria Island, FL

6: Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Known as the youngest and the largest island in the Hawaiian chain, this place offers you nothing but spectacular views and fun-filled adventures. Go up close and take pictures of the Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes.

Discover Hawaiian culture by touring with a cultural demonstrator at the Puuhonua or Honaunau historic parks. Take your surfboard and ride the waves, walk by the black sand beaches and snorkel with manta rays.

Address: Island of Hawaii, HI

7: Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket, Massachusetts
Flickr/Lennart Tange

Nantucket is one of the best islands in the US where you can look forward to a classic all-American vacation and laze around the most pristine beaches in the world.

Enjoy some of the coziest and most comfortable accommodations and be treated like kings and queens while on vacation.

Go shopping at some of the island's exquisite shops and dine at the finest restaurants Nantucket style. Go boating, fishing, swimming and play different water sports while you are here to make the most out of your trip.

Address: Nantucket, MA

Visit Website

Also Read: Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Cape Cod and the Islands

8: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Flickr/brianna.lehman

Hilton Head Island is one of America's best islands to make wonderful new memories with your loved ones. Relax by the beach with a cool drink in hand, tee off on the green with your buddies, go on a thrilling parasailing adventure, have a romantic sunset cruise or go fishing. Have the most memorable island vacation in the company of people that matter to you the most.

Address: Hilton Head Island, SC

9: Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island, Florida
Flickr/Admitter

Northeast Florida's Amelia Island is incredibly rich in history and natural beauty. With 13 miles of pristine white sand beaches, there is no better place to relax, unwind and just let the world go by.

Visit the island's museums and historical attractions to take a step back in time, discover the island's exotic wildlife like manatees, sea turtles and dozens of bird species, or go fishing, kayaking and scuba diving. Get in touch with nature in all its glory right here at Amelia Island.

Address: Amelia Island, FL 32034

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10: Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida
Flickr/Ed Schipul

Key West is one of the best and most visited islands in the US that offers you the tropical island vacation of a lifetime. Here you can explore the astounding underwater life by diving and snorkeling.

You can also visit the island's museums for a taste of American culture, have a relaxing massage at the island's spas and wellness centers, go fishing for the day's catch and simply relax by the gorgeous, pristine beaches.

Address: Key West, FL 33040

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