The best islands in the US that you should visit

Stef Zisovska

Is there anything better than spending some time on an island? If you are a person that admires the tranquil vibe and the isolation of islands, then maybe you will think about visiting some of the examples in the US that we’ve listed below. Having a vacation on an island can be so different than having a vacation in any other place. The US is a country that has numerous islands, all with distinct geology, climate, and size. The good thing is there are a variety of islands that you can choose from, and of course, we don’t include Hawaii in this list.

Check the best islands in the US that you might want to visit one day.

Fire Island, New York

Fire Island Lighthouse – Author: Paul Costello.
Fire Island Lighthouse – Author: Paul Costello.

Fire Island is a barrier island that runs parallel to Long Island, NY. It can be reached by shuttle ferry, water taxi, and private boats, while on the island motor vehicles are not allowed. Most of the people that visit Fire Island move around with bikes or by foot. In high season, Fire Island is a popular destination for surfing and sailing, while in off-season visitors come to the island to explore the national seashore, the Fire Island Lighthouse, Sailors Haven and the Sunken Forest.

Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island is the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands of Florida. The unspoiled beaches and the tropical surroundings of the island attract visitors all year round to relax and have a laid-back vacation. If you get tired of the white sands, then go on a boat tour to spot some playful dolphins and manatees.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Crescent Beach on Block Island – Author: Timothy J. Quill – CC BY-SA 4.0
Crescent Beach on Block Island – Author: Timothy J. Quill – CC BY-SA 4.0

Off the coast of Rhode Island, there is a small island that represents serenity for locals as well for the visitors. If you’re looking for a peaceful weekend and a good-quality sleep, then Block Island is what you need. Pristine beaches, natural reserves, wildlife, lighthouses, and hiking trails are only some of the Block Island’s attraction. If what you’re looking for is a tranquil spot to relax, then visit this tiny island.

Santa Catalina Island, California

Little Harbor on the backside of Catalina – Author: Don Ramey Logan – CC BY-SA 4.0
Little Harbor on the backside of Catalina – Author: Don Ramey Logan – CC BY-SA 4.0

Santa Catalina is a one-hour ferry ride from southern California and represents a true west coast getaway spot. Catalina is a beautiful island that offers an escape even for a day for couples and families. There are plenty of outdoor activities that you can do here, including parasailing to see the island from a different perspective, zip 1100 feet over the island, enjoy the beautiful beaches or sleep under the stars at one of the designated campgrounds. Also, there are a range of accommodation that can suit anyone’s budget.

Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Misty of Chincoteague statue on Main Street – Author: Leonard J. DeFrancisci – CC BY-SA 3.0
Misty of Chincoteague statue on Main Street – Author: Leonard J. DeFrancisci – CC BY-SA 3.0

Three and a half hours from Richmond there is a seven-mile-long island called Chincoteague that you must visit, especially if you have kids. Going to Chincoteague in July is a beautiful experience that will make any animal lover happy. Every July, a herd of 150 wild ponies swims from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island in the annual Pony Swim. The event is an amazingly powerful and unforgettable experience, so if you think ponies are adorable, then don’t miss this island-to-island migration.

Key West, Florida

Sign in Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, Key West – Florida – Author: Cristo Vlahos – CC BY-SA 4.0
Sign in Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, Key West – Florida – Author: Cristo Vlahos – CC BY-SA 4.0

If you want to experience the culture, history, and charm of a true small island paradise, then you must visit Key West in Florida. The island is a part of the Florida Keys and it’s the southernmost point of the US, only 90 miles away from Cuba. Go for an exploration of the old town and visit the former home of the great author Ernest Hemingway. If you need more action, then hit the water on a jet ski and make a tour around the island. Watching the sunset from Mallory Square is another cool thing you can do while visiting Key West.

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stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival