Six US Islands to Visit (That Aren’t Hawaii)
If you have island life on your mind but can’t make the long trip to Hawaii in 2022, there are countless other islands in the states, many of which you have possibly never heard of! Relax and enjoy the laid back feel of these six unforgettable island retreats.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, between Washington State and Vancouver Island, British Columbia, the San Juan Islands are an archipelago of 172 named islands and reefs. The most popular islands to visit are San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw, all which are accessible by water taxi or the Washington State Ferry.
The Inter-island Ferry makes it easy to “island hop” and see what makes each of the main islands of San Juan special: visit the bustling Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, explore outdoor adventure at Moran State Park on Orcas Island, and take in staggering, scenic views on Lopez Island. Wildlife watching is a must when there: there is a possibility of spotting orca, humpbacks, or gray whales, all which can be seen regularly on the islands.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Block Island, Rhode Island
Only 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast, Block Island is surprisingly easy (and fun!) to get to: take a 15-minute plane ride from Westerly, Rhode Island, a half hour high speed ferry ride from Point Judith, Rhode Island; or an hour long leisurely ferry ride from New London, Connecticut.
The island is quiet and quaint, void of traffic lights and big chain restaurants and businesses. The natural landscape displays rolling hills, staggering bluffs, and breathtaking beaches. While serene, though, there is still plenty to do: the downtown area is host to 40 privately owned restaurants and pubs, and there are many historic inns and B&B’s to choose from when planning your stay.
Block Island, Road Island
Santa Catalina Island, California
Approximately 22 miles to the south/southwest of Los Angeles, Santa Catalina Island is the southernmost of California’s Channel Islands. Two towns bookend the island: the more populous city of Avalon on the east and the quieter village of Two Harbors on the west. While visiting, make sure to take in both ends of the unique island; the restaurant, shopping, and adventure opportunities in larger Avalon as well as serene Two Harbors, which only hosts a single restaurant, bar, and general store. The island is only 22 miles long and 8 miles across, and the area between the two cities is essentially wilderness, rugged and uninhibited.
The beaches on Santa Catalina are truly spectacular with white sand and clear water, similar to ones you would find in the South Pacific. Most of the island is walkable, but golf carts are also a popular way to get around, as cars and other vehicles are not prohibited but are few and far between.
Santa Catalina Island, California
Mackinac Island, Michigan
If Pure Michigan is on your mind, there is no better place to retreat than Mackinac Island. You will find no chain hotels or restaurants, and the island is even void of cars, with visitors seemingly transported back in time with traffic only on foot, bicycle, or by horse drawn carriage.
If shopping is high on your itinterary, you will find many options on Mackinac: the Artists Market of Mackinac, Balsam Shop at Surray Hill, and Benjamins of Mackinac are all popular options. If you want to get off island and take in the views by water, there are many Sip N’ Sail cruises available, or you can charter the “Wild Honey Sailboat” for an unforgettable experience.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Captiva Island, Florida
Captiva Island, located near Fort Myers off Florida's Gulf Coast is often associated with the neighboring island of Sanibel to the south. Both offer many outdoor activities, but Captiva has a more eclectic feel, with unique bars and restaurants and great people watching. There are hundreds of vacation rentals to choose from, ranging from small beach bungalows painted in pastel colors to modern, fresh mansions that straddle both coasts of the narrow island. While on the island, must do’s are visiting Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grill to view the sunset and grabbing a hand crafted cocktail and appetizer at The Bubble Room to end a leisurely day.
If a resort feel is what you are searching for, the Family Friendly South Seas Island Resort on the tip of Captiva Island boasts 2.5 miles of beaches (perfect for shelling!) and multiple pools and restaurants. Hang around the beach during lunch hour to buy a perfectly grilled hot dog from Joey’s Hot Dog Barge, a pontoon that docks on the popular beaches along the coastline.
Captiva Island, Florida
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Located off the southwest of Charleston, South Carolina, Kiawah island has the hospitality and charm you expect in the south. Known for its world renowned golf resorts, this luxury island is a perfect getaway for those who want to work on their short game.
Among the five golf courses is the Ocean Course, which was host to the 2021 PGA championship tournament. If you are traveling with a golf enthusiast and you’re not as into the game, not to worry: the island also has both beautiful lounging beaches and pristinely preserved forests, sand dunes and marshes perfect to observe wildlife.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Each with their own distinct vibe, these islands off the coasts of mainland United States provide the island experience without having to show a passport or spend all day on a plane. Have you traveled to any of these, or did any pique your interest?
