7 Paradise Islands To Visit In The US

You might not be able to travel to any far flung places for the near future, but the good news (if you live in America, anyway!) is that there’s some incredible islands within the USA itself. From Caribbean, pastel-coloured vibes in the Florida Keys to lush landscapes and ecosystems on the West Coast, the United States has so many islands to explore…

Who says a staycation is boring? Adventure – and pure relaxation – await on these pretty isles…

Paradise Islands to Visit in the US

1. Lummi Island, Washington

Lummi Island yet feels lightyears away from the bustle of Seattle. It’s a sleepy, scenic island with a thriving artist community, local and organic dining, and stunning vistas of the Salish Sea.

Coming here is like going back into the past where life is a little bit slower and a lot more meaningful. It’s an ideal place to get off the grid and enjoy seaside strolls.

2. Golden Isles, Georgia (Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, St. Simons Island)

Located along the southern stretch of Georgia’s scenic coastline, four barrier islands and the adjoining mainland combine for an amazing destination. The Golden Isles – St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island and Brunswick – is one of the most beautiful places in the US.

3. Catalina Island, California

Take a boat cruise from the mainland to this sunny isle and its romantic city hub, Avalon. Catalina Island is a favourite spot for those in love with the outdoors and water sports. As well as all the usual island vibes, you can discover some surprises, including a star-studded history—Marilyn Monroe lived here—exotic gardens, and even a wine estate.

4. Florida Keys, Florida

Hop around the islands of the Florida Keys for unique opportunities available upon each. Head to Key Largo for the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Marathon for the Dolphin Research Center. Don’t forget Key West for some Key lime pie!

5. Nantucket, Massachusetts

This former whaling village sings of the old days with its crooked cobblestone streets and sleepy harbours. While widely known as a tourist destination, Cape Cod has done an excellent job of ensuring that it doesn’t turn into a tacky vacay-town. Eat your heart out with their world-famous seafood and then take in the golden beaches.

6. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks are personified mostly by the 1870 Cape Hatteras Lighthouse that stands out against the horizon. Wild horses, quaint villages, scenic lighthouses, windswept beaches and scruffy crab shacks provide the backdrop for these four sleepy barrier islands. Though just off the coast of North Carolina, they feel like they’re a million miles away from the “real” world.

7. Maui, Hawaii

Maui has sun, sea and surf. Head to Kaanapali Beach, where one of the island’s most famous attractions is the daily cliff diving ceremony off Puu Kekaa, or Black Rock. Held every evening at sunset, a cliff diver lights the torches along the cliff, and soars into the water.