21 amazing US island destinations to visit

Long a favorite among Michiganders, Mackinac Island is a year-round vacation spot. However, visitors should plan trips between May and October for the best experience (weather and activity-wise). Mackinac is located just a short ferry ride from either Mackinaw City on the Lower Peninsula or St. Ignace on the Upper Peninsula.

Most people have at least heard of Nantucket, a compact islet off of Cape Cod. It’s smaller than Martha’s Vineyard, with a bit less to do, but great if you want a quieter holiday. Nantucket is accessible by an hour ferry ride from Hyannis on the mainland.

Washingtonians have long loved the San Juans as an easy escape. The three main islands for visitors are San Juan, Orcas, and Lopez. San Juan is the largest of the islands and home to the adorable Friday Harbor. It has the most accommodation and amenities options. Orcas is smaller but has many activities, and tranquil Lopez is great for those looking to relax. A passenger and car ferry runs from Anacortes.

Home to the adorable Chincoteague ponies, make sure to visit during the summer to witness the annual “pony swim.” Cowboys round up the ponies and swim them from Assateague Island to Chincoteague for foal auctions.

Georgia’s “Golden Isles” is the ideal place to escape the heat and humidity of Atlanta and the rest of the mainland South. St. Simons, Little St. Simons, and Jekyll have pristine beaches great for sunbathing and miles of trails for hiking, horse riding, and biking. 

It is also known as the home of Tabasco because the sauce has been grown and produced there for generations. Beyond a tour of the headquarters, explore the numerous beaches to cool off after all that hot sauce!

A 20-minute ferry ride from Mukilteo on mainland Washington or a quick drive via the Deception Pass Bridge, Whidbey is an easy weekend escape. Go hiking at Ebey’s Landing, relax on one of the many beaches, or explore quaint towns like Langley and Coupeville.

In the middle of scenic Crater Lake, Wizard Island is an uninhabited island for a great day trip. Book a boat tour and spend the day hiking and picnicking on the volcanic island.

There are over a hundred of these barrier islands off the coast of South Carolina, but Edisto, Hilton Head, and Hunting Island are some of the best spots for fun. Edisto has an old beach community full of historic homes. Hilton Head is home to a famous golf course of the same name, and Hunting Island has a massive state park.

Not far from Brooklyn or Manhattan, Governors Island is a nature playground close to the city. Visit for the day or stay the night for a little escape from the noise and city lights.

Located just north of downtown Portland, Chebeague makes an easy day trip. You can take a nap on the beach, bike ride, or play tennis or golf. Check out the lovely Chebeague Island Inn if you wish to stay overnight. The ferry journey varies from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the boat.

This protected island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a step back in time. The beaches, marshes, and waves are pristine. Well-preserved lighthouses and villages make the area unique.

A couple of hours from Manhattan, this New Yorker favorite has many of the Hamptons' benefits without the uber-rich feel. The sandy shores are perfect for surfing, picnicking, combing for shellfish, or just enjoying a drink with a view of the Atlantic.

Squirrel Island has served as a summer getaway for generations, and it’s an amazing place to escape the heat of the season elsewhere. It’s mostly full of private residences, many of which apparently love to walk and have made numerous paths all around the island. It’s car-free, and even bikes are discouraged. You can reach it by taking a ferry from Boothbay Harbor.

One of the most famous islands in the country, Martha’s Vineyard has something for everyone. You can go for a swim or walk the cliffs, then marvel at the gingerbread houses in the Oak Bluffs community. Additionally, make sure to take the time to explore the numerous lighthouses and ride the 19th-century flying horses carousel.

This small island is home to just over a hundred residents in picturesque Narragansett Bay. It has an amazing cliff walk with a double view of the ocean and ornate mansions. Additionally, make sure to check out the Green Animals carved bushes at the Topiary Gardens and climb the 40 Steps down to the sea!

The Champlain Islands are an easy drive from Burlington but feel a world away. Numerous dunes, forests, and beaches await you. If you fancy an overnight trip, try one of the farm-stay Bed and Breakfasts.

The Channel Islands National Park comprises five different islands, each with special appeal. Located 20 miles off the Californian coast from Santa Barbara, the islands are full of wonderful things to do. There's never a dull day, from hiking, wildlife spotting, and camping to scuba diving and boat tours.

The Apostle Islands in Lake Superior host visitors every summer. Madeleine is the largest and has the most activities and amenities. You can reach the island via ferry from Chequamegon Bay.

Separated from the rest of South Florida by a turquoise lagoon, Palm Beach definitely feels like a year-round vacation. However, the secluded location doesn’t mean a lack of things to do. You’ll find plenty of amazing dining and resorts here!

Yes, the famous wine-mixer island! All jokes aside, if you’re looking for a fun time in SoCal, Catalina is a fantastic option. Go hiking in the mountains, dive in the ocean, or relax in either Avalon or Two Harbors. Ferries depart Long Beach daily.