Island Vacations in the U.S.

Looking for an island getaway? It might be closer than you think. The United States is full of stunning islands, perfect for a tropical vacation, hiking excursion or sailing cruise. Keep reading to learn about some of the best islands to visit in America, from well-known destinations to under-the-radar escapes.

Must-visit islands close to home

When most people imagine visiting an island, they might think of somewhere far away, out of the average person’s reach. But one of the great things about the U.S. is its vast diversity of environments, and many parts of the country feature spectacular island destinations. Some are excellent spots to put your feet in the sand and relax, while others might be hubs of culture, shopping or history. Domestic islands may be accessible by car, ferry or shorter flights, and you don’t need to apply for a passport or struggle with the logistics of planning an international trip. All of this adds up to excellent options for a trip any time of the year, whether you’re planning an escape from the winter cold or taking the family on an epic summer vacation.

Best islands in the U.S. to visit

Hawaii: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and the Big Island

Hawaii is the 50^th state, a tropical destination located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. With 8 major islands and a plethora of smaller ones dotting the coast, it may seem a bit overwhelming figuring out where to start. Here are some of the major destinations.

• Maui
  This island has a great mix of natural splendor and first-class accommodations. Take a spin on the famous Road to Hana and stop at spectacular rainforests and waterfalls. Just watch out for the one-lane bridges and hairpin turns!
• Kauai
  If you’re an outdoorsy type, check out Kauai. Hike in Kokee State Park or take a journey to Waimea Canyon, also known as “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
• Oahu
  The urban oasis of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is one of the more accessible islands due to the higher number of direct flights from the mainland. Honolulu is full of resorts just steps away from the stunning Waikiki Beach. Don’t forget to pay your respects at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
• Big Island
  Also known as “Hawaii,” this island features black-sand beaches and an active volcano in its southeastern Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The volcano started erupting in 1983 and continues to this day.

Washington: San Juan Islands

This island chain separates Washington State from Canada’s British Columbia and provides a fantastic getaway in the Pacific Northwest. In this chain of 172 islands and reefs, the major vacation destinations are San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island . Here, you’ll find a slower pace of life, full of hiking, fishing and whale watching. These islands can be reached via ferry from Anacortes, WA, just north of Seattle, or you can travel by seaplane from several cities in Washington.

• Enjoy the water
  The San Juan Islands are a water-lover’s paradise. Rent a kayak and paddle the island’s inlets and coves or hop on a whale watch and spend the day spotting orcas.
• Camping
  Pitch a tent and reconnect with nature at the island’s numerous campgrounds and lodges.
• Farms and food
  The islands are full of family-run farms that provide the community’s restaurants with fresh, home-grown food. Check out the Orcas Island and San Juan Island farmer’s markets every Saturday during the warmer months.

Florida: Florida Keys and barrier islands

Florida is famous for its warm temperatures and sandy beaches, and its islands are no exception. The state has more than 4,000 islands over 10 acres in size , from the Florida Keys in the south to the many barrier islands surrounding the state’s coastline. Many of these islands are world famous, but you can still find some hidden gems if you know where to look.

• Key West
  The southernmost point in the United States, Key West is the spot if you’re looking for a party atmosphere to go along with your tropical drink. At night, Duval Street turns into a wild bar-hopping district where the party goes long into the early morning. Looking for a quieter excursion? Check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the author lived in the 1930s.
• Key Largo
  This large island is the gateway to the Florida Keys and a great getaway for nature-lovers. Snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or take a cruise on the actual boat from the film “The African Queen.”
• Amelia Island
  Southern Florida doesn’t have a monopoly on island getaways. This barrier island is about half an hour from Jacksonville and offers an upscale experience, with shopping, fishing and fine dining right next to the Georgia border.

Texas: South Padre Island

This small barrier island right on the Gulf of Mexico brings a tropical vibe with a signature Texas energy. Located right next to the border with Mexico, South Padre Island is a destination for spring breakers and families alike.

• Beaches
  With over 34 miles of coastline , South Padre Island’s sandy beaches are a great spot to relax, whether you’re catching some rays or catching the surf.
• Wildlife
  Check out the island’s rich biodiversity at the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary. Looking to relax with some fishing? Charter a boat or check out Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier, the longest fishing pier in the state.
• Fireworks
  You can see spectacular fireworks almost every day of the week, with many bars and restaurants offering free shows on the beach and the bay.

California: Catalina, Balboa and the Channel Islands

Keep California cool on an island getaway. Whether you’re looking to escape from it all or see and be seen, there’s an island for you off the Golden State’s coastline.

• Catalina
  This famous island sits off the coast of Los Angeles and has been a hotspot for Hollywood stars to work and play since the 1930 s. Whether you’re scuba diving, relaxing at a boutique hotel or catching sight of the island’s wild buffalo herds, you’re bound to come home with a story worthy of the movies.
• Balboa
  Looking for a luxurious getaway? Balboa Island and the surrounding Newport Beach area will let you vacation in style. Wander around the island and the mainland and take in some of the most expensive real estate in the country, with some houses going for over $60 million! Balboa is a great home base to explore the rest of California’s Orange County.
• Channel Islands
  The five islands and surrounding waters of California’s Channel Islands National Park are some of the most beautiful places on earth. Check out the visitor centers in Ventura and Santa Barbara before catching one of the regular ferries to the island. You can make reservations at the campgrounds on each island.

The Carolinas: Hilton Head Island and the Outer Banks

North and South Carolina have some of the South’s most charming islands. Kick back on the beach and soak up some of that famous southern hospitality.

• Hilton Head Island
  Consistently voted one of the top islands in the continental U.S., North Carolina’s Hilton Head offers water sports, golf, pickleball and more. Many of the island’s beaches are wheelchair accessible, too . Keep an eye out for baby sea turtles during nesting season in the warmer months!
• Outer Banks
  South Carolina’s Outer Banks features over 100 miles of shoreline . From Avon to Kitty Hawk to Roanoke Island, there’s a beach town with your name on it. At the northern and southern tips of the island chain, you’ll find herds of wild horses roaming freely.  Book a tour to see them up close. 

New England: Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket and Bar Harbor

Visiting a New England island town is a quintessential American experience. These islands still show their 17th century roots, with history and charm to spare. Grab a lobster roll and check out these classic vacation spots.

• Martha’s Vineyard
  “Jaws” fans should flock to this Massachusetts island off the coast of Cape Cod. Not only was it the filming location for the movie , but the town also boasts biking trails, lighthouses and a yearly food and wine festival. Spend a relaxing day on the beach, but if you take to the water, consider getting a bigger boat. Just in case!
• Nantucket
  Farther off the coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket devotes 50% of its land to conservation. The island features quiet beaches on the north shore and a lighthouse dating all the way back to 1746 . You can bring your car on the ferry from Hyannis, which takes a little over 2 hours.
• Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island
  If you’re a hiker, don’t miss Bar Harbor. The biggest community on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, the town shares the picturesque seascapes and small-town charm of its fellow New England fishing villages. What sets it apart, however, is the nearby Acadia National Park, preserved by John D. Rockefeller. Here, you can hike up Cadilac Mountain, the North Atlantic seaboard’s highest point.

Michigan: Mackinac Island

Did you know there’s an island that’s completely car-free in the middle of Lake Huron? Michigan’s Mackinac Island invites visitors back in time for a true getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

• Horse-drawn carriages
  Without cars on the road, horses and carriages are the preferred way to get around the island. Book a private tour or go on an unguided stroll along the water.
• Bicycles
  Horses not your thing? Consider taking a bike tour of the island. With over 70 miles of trail s, you’re bound to find an adventure anywhere on two wheels.
• Fudge
  The confection of choice on Mackinac Island is fudge. The local shops make 10,000 pounds of the sweet treat a day during the height of tourist season.

Use Citi Travel to plan your U.S. island vacation

Ready to book your island adventure? Use Citi Travel^® to score great deals on flights and hotels. Eligible cardmembers can create and manage itineraries directly through the Citi Mobile® App, and you can earn ThankYou® Points when you use an eligible Citi® card to book. Use the points you earn to help save on your next big trip. So go ahead, treat yourself to that waterfront bed and breakfast you’ve had your eye on.

Choose your next island getaway

Whether you’re working on that perfect tan, catching an epic wave or catching a fish that was definitely that big, there’s a U.S. island ready for your visit. An island vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. Your next relaxing getaway might be closer than you think, and Citi Travel can help you get there faster. So pack up those swim trunks and flip-flops and tell everyone you’re headed out on island time.

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.

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