If you’ve been dreaming of a Caribbean escape but flying out of the country isn’t something you want (or are able) to do right now, I’ve got great news! There are some lovely and amazing islands right here in the U.S. that are perfect for your next vacation. Let’s explore five of them today.
Orcas Island, Washington – Part of the San Juan Islands off the coast of the state of Washington, Orcas Island is called the “the gem of the San Juans” by the locals. With charming villages that feature restaurants, art galleries and quaint cafes, to its green and lush forests, crystal clear lakes, and 38 miles of hiking trails, Orcas Island offers a wealth of activities for visitors to see and do. Take a drive through the rural and hilly countryside, or to the top of Mount Constitution, the islands’ highest point, for a spectacular view. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to cycle, hike, horseback ride, go fishing, or kayaking. And time your visit right, and you may be rewarded with a sighting of the island’s namesake, orca whales!
Mackinac Island, Michigan – No cars. No chain hotels. And no worries on this peaceful and charming island located in Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. While only 3 square miles, visitors will find a lot to do on Mackinac Island. Visit Fort Mackinac, located on a bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac or explore the unique shopping and dining (try the Mackinac Island Fudge!). If you’re feeling more active, rent a bike, or explore by kayak. Or explore on a carriage ride. Considered one of the top 10 U.S. islands, for anyone looking for a “different” kind of island adventure, Mackinac Island is a great option for an unforgettable vacation.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina – An oasis of untouched natural beauty Kiawah Island in South Carolina is the perfect vacation destination for anyone who really wants to “get away from it all”. This is a gated community that offers private beaches to its residents, but tourists can enjoy all the island has to offer, when staying in one of the two hotels or a villa rental. So, in addition to beautiful beaches, what else will you find at Kiawah Island? Only some perfectly preserved maritime forests, sand dunes, marshes as well as wooded uplands where visitors will find all kinds of wildlife – turtles, whitetail deer, bobcats, gray foxes, raccoons, river otters, and ospreys are just a few of the many animals that can be found here. If you’re looking for a public beach, you can find one at Beachwalker County Park, on the west end of the island, where you’ll find a boardwalk, picnic areas and seasonal amenities like lifeguards and a snack bar.
Golden Isles, Georgia – Just off the Georgia coast, midway between Savannah, GA, and Jacksonville, FL, lie four beautiful barrier islands that make up the Golden Isles in Georgia – Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island and St. Simons Island. Each island has its own ‘personality’ and historic appeal. Jekyll Island is the southernmost and is where you’ll find the iconic Driftwood Beach, featuring a dramatic landscape of driftwood and trees. If you want to visit Little St. Simons Island on the north end, you’ll need a boat as that is the only way to get to this tiny (11,000 square acres) island where there are just six cottages visitors can rent. Sea Island is an exclusive and upscale resort property while St. Simons Island, the largest of the Golden Isles, is where you’ll want to visit if you’re looking for outdoor adventure. With beautiful marshlands and beaches that stretch on for miles the Golden Isles are a beach lover’s paradise. But beyond the sun, sand, and sea, visitors can also find world-class golf, historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries. No matter what you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it in the Golden Isles.
Amelia Island, Florida – Just off the coast of northeast Florida and part of the Sea Islands chain of barrier islands, Amelia Island is known as the enchanted island. With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, along with native wildlife and pristine waters, this is another lovely island that offers a perfect vacation getaway. Beyond the beaches, visitors will also find a charming, historic downtown in Fernandina Beach which is home to all kinds of independently run shops along with a variety of restaurants featuring fresh, local ingredients. One of the things that makes this island especially interesting is its history of Spanish, French, British and American rule, which can be explored in a 50-block national historic district.
Five lovely (and different!) islands, right here in the USA, that all offer wonderful vacation options – and no passport is needed. The only question now is, which one will you choose?
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