Looking to have a nice island adventure but you lost your passport and have to wait for a new one? Not to worry, one of the benefits of being a US citizen is access to amazing natural diversity.
There are canyons, forests, beaches, lakes, mountains, and many many islands. It doesn’t matter what sort of island you’re looking for, the US has islands for everyone’s taste.
1. Santa Catalina Island
A little piece of European beach life can be found in California. Only 20 miles from Los Angeles, this makes a perfect day trip to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the busy City of Angels.
It’s a surprisingly exotic location, not something you’d expect to find on the West Coast of the United States.
2. Maui
One of the most famous islands in the US, Maui is a popular destination that never disappoints. Maui has some of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific.
Besides lounging on the beach there are a host of other activities to do including hiking active volcanoes, the popular nightlife scene, and various adventure sports.
2. Mt. Desert Island
Not as tropical as some of the other destinations listed here, this is for those seeking a more rustic and cottage-style getaway.
The beautiful rocky coasts are a great view to take in after a long hike through the woods. After a long hike, be sure to head to a nearby town to take in Maine’s famous lobster.
3. Sanibel and Captiva
A not so well known destination are Sanibel and Captiva, two secret islands off Florida’s coast that many have never heard of. The islands have a very Caribbean vibe to them and the gorgeous sunsets will have you never wanting to leave.
4. Mackinac Island
At the very tip of Michigan on the divide between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron is Mackinac island, an island and resort area that has a lot of history behind it, which can be seen from the Victorian-style buildings.
Cars aren’t allowed on the island, but you can rent a bike so you can see the quaint little town and impressive architecture.
5. South Padre Island
The famous springbreak getaway in Texas and resort town is also famous for its watersports and fishing activities.
If you do plan on going, make sure it’s between June and August and you will see the amazing site of turtles hatching from their eggs and making their way into the ocean.
6. St. Simons Island
On this little island, you will find an example of the best that Georgia has to offer. Lots of cute shops line the streets in Pier Village, and many people come here for hiking, horseback riding, and golfing.
7. Amelia Island
Here you will find a little taste of the tropics near the Florida-Georgia border. The historic towns are a side of Florida that you’re probably not used to, the scenery of the surrounding area including Amelia Island State Park will surely inspire you and surprise you.
8. Martha’s Vineyard
The infamous island in Massachusetts has a quintessentially American vibe. On this unique island, you will find sand dunes and very wide beaches that stretch on into the distance.
You will also find sailboats dotted along Martha’s Vineyard harbor.
9. Kauai
Yet another beautiful gem from the Hawaiian islands, Kauai is the perfect place for those travelers who love both rainforest trekking and relaxing on the beach.
The rainforests have some of the most unique flora and fauna not found anywhere else. This is a great alternative to relax compared to the business of Maui.
10. Chincoteague Island
11. Fire Island
Go back in time on this quaint little island just off of Long Island in New York state. You won’t find any roads or cars here, just a simple place that’ll transport you to a time long ago, being so close to a big city makes it all the more interesting.
12. Kiawah Island
Some of the most beautiful sunsets on the east coast can be seen here. Just off the coast of South Carolina, there is much to do on this simple island including hiking or biking along 30 miles of paved trails, playing some golf, or relaxing on some ten miles of uncrowded beach.
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