Escape to Paradise: 22 Stunning Islands Scattered Across America

Whether you're from the middle of the Midwest or the Pacific Northwest, Upstate New York, or the South, there's something undeniably alluring about escaping to an island with sandy shores, turquoise waters, beach chairs, and umbrella-topped drinks.

Happily, our country offers all sorts of beautiful escapes; there are dreamy islands in the U.S. where you can experience a real-life slice of paradise. Which one of these islands will you add to your bucket list?

Island Vacation Destinations in the U.S.

1. San Juan Islands - Washington

• Address: San Juan Islands, Washington
• What It’s Known For: Whale watching
• Where to Stay Nearby: Haro Sunset House, Friday Harbor

When it comes to island getaways, we tend to think of tropical locales rather than the Pacific Northwest, but the uppermost corner of Washington State is hiding an island escape that's a true magic. The San Juan Islands offer a slower pace of life—it's impossible not to feel relaxed when surrounded by the quaint shops, waterfront views, and beautiful natural scenery.

2. Mackinac Island - Michigan

• Address: Mackinac Island, Michigan
• What It’s Known For: Car-free
• Where to Stay Nearby: A Beach House in St. Ignace

Mackinac Island is a postcard-perfect Michigan island. Since 1988, it's been car-free; the best way to get around is on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn carriage. After a day of exploring, the Grand Hotel is a luxurious and cozy place to stay, featuring a swimming pool, golf course, and on-site dining options. It's one of the best islands in the U.S.

3. Hilton Head Island - South Carolina

• Address: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• What It’s Known For: Golf courses
• Where to Stay Nearby: Luxury Oceanfront Condo

Hilton Head is perhaps the most iconic and beloved island in the U.S. From the moment you drive over the James F. Byrnes Bridge into the town, you'll get on island time. The island boasts 12 miles of beachfront and a vibrant restaurant, shopping, and recreation scene. Nothing feels touristy here—you'll feel like a local in no time.

4. Nantucket - Massachusetts

• Address: Nantucket, Massachusetts
• What It’s Known For: Lighthouses
• Where to Stay Nearby: Samtucket Cottage in Town

When it comes to iconic New England islands, Nantucket is in a league of its own. This entire island feels like a postcard, with weathered grey inns framed in white trim, scenic waterfront restaurants, charming shops, and pebble-topped streets. A tiny island just 14 miles long, Nantucket is a beloved vacation destination for busy New Englanders, and once you visit, you'll undoubtedly understand why.

Tropical Islands in the U.S.

5. Florida Keys - Florida

• Address: Florida Keys, Florida
• What It’s Known For: Boating
• Where to Stay Nearby: Surf Shack Houseboat

The Florida Keys are a top vacation destination in the U.S., proving you don’t have to leave the country to enjoy a tropical paradise. When you visit the Keys, you'll have a chance to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime adventures, like flying on seaplanes, scuba diving, and visiting the southernmost part of the nation. We're major fans of taking the Overseas Highway to get there, starting in Homestead and ending in Key West.

6. Sanibel Island - Florida

• Address: Sanibel Island, Florida
• What It’s Known For: Beachcombing
• Where to Stay Nearby: Breakers West Beachside Condo

Hailed as one of the most beautiful places in the entire world, Sanibel Island is extraordinary in every way. This island is best-known for its white sand beaches dotted with a kaleidoscope of vibrant seashells. The sunsets here are incredibly colorful, too. With a drink in hand and toes in the sand, Sanibel Island is the Platonic ideal of paradise.

7. Oahu - Hawaii

• Address: Oahu, Hawaii
• What It’s Known For: Pearl Harbor
• Where to Stay Nearby: The Puka Vista of Waikiki

Hawaii is a quintessential tropical paradise. The whole collection of islands is stunning, but Oahu is an especially spectacular place. It's home to about two-thirds of Hawaii's population, and has must-see spots like Kailua Beach, Hanauma Bay, Lanikai, and Waimanalo beaches. Plus, the city of Waikiki has some great shopping and food. While you're there, book a stay at the incomparable Iolani Palace.

8. Anna Maria Island - Florida

• Address: Anna Maria Island, Florida
• What It’s Known For: Gulf beaches
• Where to Stay Nearby: Bradenton Beach Sunsets

Located off Florida's Gulf coast, Anna Maria Island is a barrier island known for its gorgeous beaches. Throughout its seven miles, you'll find plenty of dining options, shops, vacation rentals, camping options, and, of course, beaches. It's a quaint little town where the locals are friendly, and the sun's always shining through.

9. Moloka'i - Hawaii

• Address: Moloka'i, Hawaii
• What It’s Known For: Cliffs
• Where to Stay Nearby: Beachfront Cottage in Maunaloa

The fifth-largest of the Hawaiian islands, Moloka'i is known for its tall cliffs, some of which are among the tallest in the world. This tropical oasis is 38 miles long and 10 miles wide and offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes of all the islands in the U.S. It's a secluded, island-lover's paradise.

Small Town Islands in the U.S.

10. Catalina Island - California

• Address: Santa Catalina Island, California
• What It’s Known For: Its historic town of Avalon
• Where to Stay Nearby: Villa in Avalon

Catalina Island is pure California sunshine, radiating warmth and love from its very core. This dazzling island feels straight from a movie, filled with all sorts of beauty and adventure. Catch a boat in Long Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro to get there, then explore the island on foot or by golf cart. It's a gem for Californians and visitors alike.

11. Tybee Island - Georgia

• Address: Tybee Island, Georgia
• What It’s Known For: Beaches
• Where to Stay Nearby: Cute & Quirky Tybee Bungalow

While Georgia is perhaps best-known for its overhanging oak trees, immense history, and Southern flair, it also has some stunning beaches. Tybee Island is a perfect example: its wide, sandy beaches and clear-blue waters are a perfect getaway destination. The island offers guests the quintessential "beach" experience, complete with waterfront restaurants, luxurious resorts, bucket-list-worthy adventures, iconic attractions, and charming shops.

12. St. Simons Island - Georgia

• Address: St. Simons Island, Georgia
• What It’s Known For: Salt marshes and beaches
• Where to Stay Nearby: Private Cottage Treehouse

The Golden Isles of Georgia include some of the most pristine islands in the country—Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and St. Simons Island. The latter's where you'll find one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the country, an attraction worthy of planning an entire trip around. The rest of St. Simons is also stunning, with abundant foliage, pristine beaches, and beach town charm. Walk around using St. Simon's Trail System.

13. Kiawah Island - South Carolina

• Address: Kiawah Island, South Carolina
• What It’s Known For: Luxury resorts
• Where to Stay Nearby: Renovated Villa Steps From the Beach

Hilton Head isn't the only island in South Carolina: Kiawah Island is a lesser-known spot worth visiting. It's got the whitest sand on the South Carolina shores, with clear-blue waters that rival any Caribbean coastline. The untouched natural beauty offers guests a scenic and luxurious island escape, complete with a big dose of Southern charm and hospitality. Plus, if you're into golfing, Kiawah has some of the best courses in the country.

14. Block Island - Rhode Island

• Address: New Shoreham, Rhode Island
• What It’s Known For: The historic Block Island North Light, biking, beaches
• Where to Stay Nearby: A Vineyard Studio in New Shoreham

Off the shores of Rhode Island, Block Island is 17 miles of pristine beaches, protected by lighthouses and extraordinary bluffs, and surrounded by rolling roads and winding paths. It's a picture-perfect island that's peak New England vibes, offering an experience that's wholly unique to this region. It's an immensely beautiful place that's a dream to explore.

Little-Known Islands in the U.S.

15. South Padre Island - Texas

• Address: South Padre Island, Texas
• What It’s Known For: 300 Days Of Sunshine Each Year
• Where to Stay Nearby: The Happy-Heron Oceanfront

Known for Hill Country, cowboys, and larger-than-life attractions, many forget that Texas is also a coastal state. It even has its own tropical island: South Padre. The charming little oasis is filled with wonderful beachfronts, calming cerulean waters, and is accessible by car via Route 100. Meaning, it's easy for those who want to drive in and stay at the Isla Grand Beach Resort for a weekend.

16. Washington Island - Wisconsin

• Address: Washington, Wisconsin
• What It’s Known For: Home to the Midwest's largest lavender farm, parks, and beaches
• Where to Stay Nearby: Water's Edge Cottage

Washington Island in Wisconsin is home to Schoolhouse Beach—an island oasis that will take your breath away. Its white shoreline is not made out of sand, but a layer of white limestone rocks that have been there for thousands of years. They're so treasured, in fact, that there's a federal law prohibiting their removal from this beautiful beach. You'll have to get there by ferry, but it's worth the trip.

17. Land Between the Lakes - Kentucky and Tennessee

• Address: 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211
• What It’s Known For: The largest inland peninsula in the U.S.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Murray Cabin w/ Hot Tub

Land Between the Lakes is a natural paradise in the South, stretching from the western part of Kentucky and into Tennessee, and offering 170,000 glorious acres of outdoor beauty and adventure. This land is filled with hiking trails (even some that cross the water), opportunities for water-bound recreation, and one-of-a-kind experiences you can only have at this inland island. Bonus: the stargazing is particularly phenomenal here.

18. Mount Desert Island - Maine

• Address: Mt Desert Island, Maine
• What It’s Known For: Acadia National Park
• Where to Stay Nearby: Tiny House in the Tall Pines

Blissfully tucked away in Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island might just be America’s best-kept secret. This island—the largest off the coast of Maine—is peak Pine Tree State beauty, its landscape one of rocky coves, pristine Atlantic beaches, and endless lush green forests. For visitors, there are countless ways to enjoy the simplicity and fresh, untamed beauty of the island. Come watch the sunrise from this lovely isle and take in this beautiful national treasure.

Unique Islands in the U.S.

19. The Outer Banks - North Carolina

• Address: The Outer Banks, North Carolina
• What It’s Known For: Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• Where to Stay Nearby: Waterfront Home in Kitty Hawk

If you close your eyes and imagine an island with soft dunes, an expansive beach, and wild horses, you're pretty much thinking of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. It's a bucket-list-worthy island retreat within reach. Explore the plethora of lighthouses, marshes, charming downtown areas, and beach homes lining the shore. You won't regret a trip here to this U.S. island.

20. Assateague Island - Maryland

• Address: Assateague Island, Maryland
• What It’s Known For: Wild horses, Assateague Lighthouse
• Where to Stay Nearby: Colorful Home in Chincoteague, Virginia

For an island experience that's straight out of a fairy tale, venture out to Assateague Island. A beautiful, 37-mile island off the coast of Maryland, this island is an enchanting place where wild horses roam free, and rumors of buried treasure abound. Whether or not the stories hold, the wild horses are wholly real, with two handsome herds roaming free on the isle. It's a place sure to satisfy and stoke even the most insatiable wanderlust.

21. Aleutian Islands - Alaska

• Address: Aleutian Islands, Alaska
• What It’s Known For: Seabird nesting habitat
• Where to Stay Nearby: Grand Aleutian Hotel

Alaska might be the last place that comes to mind when conjuring up visions of an island escape, but the Last Frontier is home to what's perhaps the country's most unspoiled island paradise: the Aleutian Islands. Challenging the very definition of an "island getaway," these archipelagos are a place of gorgeous grandeur. They're split between the U.S. and Russia and marked by volcanoes, stormy seas, lush forests, and much, much more.

22. Amelia Island - Florida

• Address: Amelia Island, Florida
• What It’s Known For: Luxury resorts, beautiful beaches
• Where to Stay Nearby: Omni Amelia Island Resort

The word "paradise" is nearly synonymous with Amelia Island. Known for world-class island resorts in the U.S. as well as pristine beaches, golf courses, and wildlife galore, it's easy to see why this is one of the most breathtaking American islands. Spend a weekend getaway exploring this charming and historic Florida town.

Which of these U.S. islands are you visiting first? If you're already dreaming (and planning) your island vacation, consider using Only In Your State's itinerary planner for personalized lodging, dining, and sightseeing recommendations.