The USA has a number of different, distinctive islands that are absolutely stunning. Whether it’s a popular tropical locale, a charming seaside resort, or even a lesser-known gem, you can find it in America. Here then, without further ado, are 30 spectacular American islands you should explore.

30 Spectacular American Islands You Should Explore

1.  Prince Of Wales Island, Alaska

This remote, rugged place is the fourth largest US island. It covers an area of over 2,230 square miles. This natural landscape features fish-filled streams, rocky mountains, and old-growth forests. It also includes 900 miles of meandering coastline, with a plethora of beautiful bays and quiet coves perfect for canoeing and kayaking.

2.  Kodiak Island, Alaska

Kodiak Island is nicknamed “the Emerald Isle” in recognition of its lush, verdant landscape. The second largest in the USA, it’s 100 miles long and spans an area of 3,670 square miles. The sheltered bays and green mountains were once the home to Russian settlers. One of the most popular activities here is to find and watch the huge Kodiak bears fishing for their meals in the halibut- and salmon-rich streams and rivers here.

3.  Santa Catalina, California

As regular readers already know, this picture-perfect paradise is a great place for a romantic getaway. Also known as simply Catalina, this dreamy destination is known for its beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, sumptuous seafood, and lovely luxury hotels. It also offers an assortment of athletic activities such as hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, and swimming. Take the zip-lining eco-tour and go flying 600 feet above sea level.

4.  Key West, Florida

This isle is arguably the most famous of the Florida Keys.  Key West is perhaps best known for its colorful Caribbean-style, conch-like homes, coral reefs ripe for both scuba diving and snorkeling, and its interesting inhabitants. Be sure to see the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Learn about the author’s life and even see the furry descendants of Snow White, his famous six-toed cat.

5.  Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island is another worthy Floridian island destination. The largest of the state’s Ten Thousand Islands area, some claim it’s the most enchanting as well. Complete with frolicking dolphins, sun-bleached sand, and luxurious resorts, it’s also a great place for water sports such as boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Visit the Marco Island Historical Museum and the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

6.  Anna Maria Island, Florida

Many residents used to keep this nigh tropical spot to themselves. Once you see its seven miles of postcard-perfect crystal-blue water and sugar-white sand you’ll understand their moment of selfishness. While the secret’s long been out, the overall atmosphere here is preserved via regulations regarding the construction of new buildings and businesses. Explore the art galleries, boutiques, and assorted eateries along Pine Avenue.

7.  Sanibel Island, Florida 

Nestled near Florida’s mainland, in the Gulf of Mexico, the award-winning beaches come complete with azure blue water and sugar-white sand. This family-friendly, low-key locale is the perfect place for shell collecting too. Here you can enjoy a sub-tropical climate, a historic lighthouse, stunning sunsets, and luxurious resorts. Be sure to visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge as well.

8.  Cumberland Island, Georgia

You’ll find Georgia’s largest barrier island just off the state’s southeast coast. This 10,000-acre area of unspoiled wilderness is also one of the Northern Hemisphere’s natural habitats. Here amidst wide marshes, salt-sprayed forests, stunning beaches, and wild wetlands you may see loggerhead turtles nesting and wild horses roaming free, gracefully grazing on dune grass.  

9.  Jekyll Island, Georgia

This isle is another natural haven and also the very most southerly of the state’s Golden Isles. Veteran visitors recommend the renowned Jekyll Island Club Resort which harkens back to the late 1800s. If you’re in need of a scenic expanse of sand, the peaceful place known as Driftwood Beach wins hands down. It has been called one of America’s most romantic beaches.

10.  Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawaii, a.k.a. The Big Island covers a space of 4,028 square miles. This popular, awesome island is nearly twice as large as the state’s other islands. Here you will find many examples of natural beauty including (but not limited to) black sand beaches, breathtaking blue water, lush, verdant valleys, and, of course, massive volcanoes.

11.  Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is the birthplace of pop singer Cheesa Laureta, and your rovin’ writer too! Also known as “the Gathering Place”, it has a diverse community and a busy capital city too. It is the third largest of the state’s islands and has a lovely landscape that is highlighted by enchanting tropical scenery, luxury resorts, massive mountains, and towering skyscrapers. It’s also an exciting center of nightlife and culture. 

12.  Kauai, Hawaii

 While the state is undoubtedly familiar, Kauai, a.k.a. The “Garden Island” may not be. Some travelers say this island is one of the world’s most beautiful places. More than 90 percent of it remains undeveloped, and can’t even be accessed by road. Thus, it is an unspoiled paradise perfect for nature walks and hikes. Stroll the beaches or hike through the rugged canyons, lush jungles, and majestic mountain scenery. It’s all good.

13.  Mount Desert Island, Maine

A lot of America’s official “second busiest national park”, Acadia National Park, is here on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Visit Cadillac Mountain. At a height of 1,530 feet, it’s the highest place along the entire North Atlantic Seaboard. The best time to visit is between October 7th through March 6th in the early hours of the morning. During this time the mountain is the first place in the country to see the sunrise. Watch as the sun paints both sky and land an awesome shade of orange.

14.  Assateague Island, Virginia And Maryland

Two herds of wild horses freely roam this unspoiled barrier island. Its diverse landscape spans the border between Virginia and Maryland. This is a national park that includes sand dunes, salt marshes, maritime forests, and pastel-tinted beaches sprinkled with seashells. Interestingly, the horses here are the descendants of domestic horses. Look for red foxes and white-tailed deer too.

15.  Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Longtime readers might recall this as being one of the best honeymoon destinations in the nation. Also known as “Hollywood East”, Martha’s Vineyard is found off the coastline of Massachusetts. Only accessible by boat or plane, this has been a preferred summer hideaway for rich celebrities for years. Such celebs as Jackie Kennedy, former president Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey have enjoyed its peaceful pristine beaches, relaxing small-town vibe, and noteworthy scenery.

16.  Nantucket, Massachusetts

I once wrote a piece on Nantucket/If you missed it then you can just . . . Nantucket is nicknamed the “Faraway Land” because it’ll make you feel as if you’re somewhere else. Highlights here include 82 miles of scenic coastline, the highest number of pre-Civil War buildings, the whaling museum, historic lighthouses, and the White Elephant restaurant.

17.  Mackinac, Michigan

Mackinac Island is situated off the coast on lovely Lake Huron. The island is car-free. Here on this three-square-mile isle, you travel on foot, bicycle, or by horse-drawn carriage. The Victorian architecture, and Fort Mackinac, built in 1780, add to its vintage vibe. Visit Mackinac Island State Park, and sample some local homemade fudge too. Stay at the Grand Hotel.  

18.  Fire Island, New York

Hop on a ferry from Long Island’s mainland and explore the unspoiled, isolated landscape on famous Fire Island. Some travel writers say this is a “standout spot.” Here you can escape the city traffic and the absence of streets actually allows nature to thrive. Enjoy the picture-perfect protected beaches, scenic sunken beaches, and wildlife here.

19.  Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

Only accessible by boat, Ocracoke Island is protected by the National Park Service. It has many miles of undeveloped coastline and an overall feel that makes this little island different from the other Outer Banks islands. Here you’ll find but one small village and tranquil, crowd-free beaches that might make you think you’re on your own private isle.

20.  Block Island, Rhode Island

This unassuming locale off Rhode Island’s coast comes complete with New England charm, freshwater ponds, high bluffs, pristine beaches, and pretty hills carpeted with wildflowers. In town, you will find several art galleries and colorful boutiques. See the Mohegan Bluffs, the Block Island Wildlife Refuge, and the North Light. Take a kayak or bicycle tour too.

21.  Hilton Head, South Carolina

This barrier island and resort town is a showcase for some of the state’s best elements. It features 12 miles of beaches, almost 100 miles of bicycle trails, and great places to go fishing, hiking, kayaking, and dolphin-watching. It’s also known for its golf courses and comes with a pirate ship too. Don’t forget to sample the seafood!    

22.  South Padre Island, Texas

This is the world’s longest barrier island and one of the state’s best beach destinations to boot. The best time to visit this island is almost any time! After all, on average, it gets over 300 days of sunshine every single year. Here you can enjoy sand dune-backed beaches complete with emerald Gulf water and sugar-white sand.    

23.  Galveston, Texas

Originally a European settlement, the island of Galveston is an hour’s drive out of Houston just off the gleaming Gulf Coast. History buffs will love the architecture here, The island features one of the largest well-preserved examples of Victorian architecture in the USA. If you love sand, sun, and sea there are 32 miles of shoreline. Hit South Beach’s Pleasure Pier too!

24.  Antelope Island, Utah

This nearly 44-square-mile island is off the mainland in Utah. It’s also the largest isle in the Great Salt Lake. Here you can discover a surprising variety of both wildlife and natural wonders. Its well-known namesake antelope, bison, coyote, and mule deer roam a lovely landscape of beautiful beaches and craggy mountains. This is also an official International Dark Sky Park.

25.  San Juan Island, Washington

Off the US northern coast in the Salish Sea, this scenic island is part of Washington state’s popular archipelago of the same name. This island is rich in maritime history. Here you can explore its well-known lighthouses, watch for the local orcas, explore the shops and enjoy the fresh, local seafood in the charming seaport of Friday Harbor. 

26.  St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Finally, we travel to the first of some beautiful US territories. St. Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands and reportedly one of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation spots as well. Enjoy the grassy hills, lush rainforests, and sandy coves. If you like scuba diving or snorkeling, you must see the Buck Island Reef National Monument.  

27.  St. John Island, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. John Island is only nine miles in length and is the smallest isle in the archipelago. Here you’ll find a unique combination of crowd-free Caribbean beaches, historical ruins such as tribal petroglyphs from former inhabitants, and colorful coral reefs teeming with such sea life as spiny lobsters, queen triggerfish, and blue tang.

28.  Culebra, Puerto Rico

Roughly 20 miles off Fajardo’s coast, Culebra is an underrated gem in a US territory. It features clear, tropical water, diamond-dust sand, and an exceptional abundance of wildlife. UNtil 1975, it was a US Naval base. (Notice the abandoned tank on favored Flamenco Beach.) Culebra is surrounded by over 20 cays so it’s the perfect place for scuba diving and snorkeling.

29.  Vieques, Puerto Rico

Another US territory, Vieques is a sparkling spot located six miles off the east coast of Puerto Rico. Yes, it features lush tropical flora, Instagramable beaches, and semi-wild horses. Its most famous attraction, however, is Mosquito Bay. Organisms called “dinos” make it the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay. Animal lovers will also want to see the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. 

30.  Tutuila, American Samoa

Last but certainly not least, is the US territory of American Samoa in Polynesia. There are several places to see here. Highlights include Mount Alava, and the noteworthy capital city and natural harbor, Pago Pago which features pretty yellow sand beaches, small shops specializing in handicrafts, and assorted eateries.

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If you’ve spotted an island on Instagram, then no doubt it’s on this new list. Each island has its own identity. Some of these beauteous isles feature rainforests, reefs, rum, and ruins. Some include cliffs, coves, and caves.

Others offer bays, beaches, blowholes, and boulders. However you define your personal paradise, the 20 eye-candy islands included here have something for everyone. There’s the elevated, unforgettable vista and natural beauty of Capri. How about Thailand where famous James Bond films were shot.

Into island culture? Go to Samoa where you can immerse yourself in the “Fa’a Samoa” life. There’s also the Greek isle of Paxos where you can discover the true Greek life and culture. Things change from time to time, and islands are no exception. From Bali to Bora Bora, these are the latest, most beautiful islands on the planet to visit.

1. Capri, Italy

Some veteran visitors refer to the Blue Grotto in Capri as “electric.” This gorgeous sea cave is often called spellbinding and reportedly impresses even experienced globetrotters. Nevertheless, this is simply the beginning of this beautiful island. Hike to the rugged ruins of famous Emperor Tiberius’ impressive Villa Jovis which harkens back to 27 CE. Take in the sight of the ash-white limestone cliffs, hidden little beaches, and the towering natural arch there too. See why this place has been a center of tourism since the days of the ancient Romans.

2. Whitsundays, Australia

The well-known Great Barrier Reef is one of the planet’s most extensive (albeit fragile) coral-reef systems. It is home to over 1,600 different species of dolphins, fish, octopuses, rays, whales, and more. Deep in the heart of this part of the world, you’ll find the Whitsunday Islands.

All but four of the 74 isles are officially-protected national parklands. Book a helicopter or seaplane and see the sights of the silica sands of the popular Whitehaven Beach’s Hill Inlet and Heart Reef. Stay in the luxurious, high-end Hamilton Island resort.

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3. Bali, Indonesia

There are many reasons for going to Bali. There are stunning beaches like Jimbaran Bay, Nusa Dua, and Seminyak. There’s Ubud’s ancient monuments, sacred forest, and terraced rice fields.

Bali also has 10,000 temples, such as the Uluwatu sea temple, and Pura Empul (where you can bathe). See the famous Land of the Gods. Here you’ll discover an environment rich with spirituality and a warm, welcoming population.

4. James Bond Island, Southern Thailand

The name is Bond, James Bond. James Bond Island that is. If you have No Time To Die because you’re busy traveling, this is the place for you.

Essentially a limestone spike jutting dramatically from out of the emerald water of Phang Nga Bay, it’s also known as Nail Island (Koh Tapu in Thai). It earned the Bond moniker as a set in the 007 films: 1974’s The Man with the Golden Gun and 1997’s Tomorrow Never Dies.

Tour the area on a long-tail boat. See Khao Lak, Krabi, and Phuket. See sea caves, secret lagoons, and the floating village too. Take time to see this place, After all, you can always Die Another Day.

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5. Kauai, Hawaii, USA

Also known as the Garden Island, Kauai features the Napali Cliffs that rise 4000 feet into the sky, and the 3600-foot deep vermillion Waimea Canyon. There’s also Poipu Beach complete with napping monk seals made famous by Dr. Beach and his list of America’s Best Beaches. Enjoy the rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls of this pretty island as well.

Oh! Don’t forget to take a selfie at the well-known Wailua Falls. It became famous when it was included in the opening credits of the TV show “Fantasy Island.” “Welcome to Fantasy Island!”

6. Bora Bora, Islands of Tahiti

Also known as the Jewel of the South Seas, the lagoon here is said to have any shade of blue one could ever imagine. Look for the coral motus that surrounds the main island. See if you can spot dolphins, fish, sharks, rays, and turtles too.

Other highlights of this exotic locale include the ever-timeless gals in grass skirts, nice over-the-water bungalows and classic popular volcanic peak known as Mount Otemanu. According to the locals, this is where God Himself came to the isle on an incredible rainbow.

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7. Seychelles

Favored Seychelles have trademark towering boulders that can probably be seen on your computer desktop. While they have a certain aesthetic, they are also important to scientists. Geologists have discovered that these are “the only mid-ocean” isles made of granite.

Additionally, this exceptional archipelago is also the oldest in the world. It also is said to have the cleanest air on the planet. Unsurprisingly, numerous celebrities are said to visit here regularly. In fact, Kate Middleton and Prince William spent their honeymoon on North island back in 2011.

8. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is thought by some to be where the island of Atlantis was once located. You will often spot pictures of this place on wall calendars and screensavers. Visit Caldera Lake, one of the world’s largest, and enjoy the various black, white and red-sand beaches.

Don’t forget the signature whitewashed buildings all over the hillside that overlook the glistening Aegean Sea. There are also ancient ruins, the centuries-old windmills, and beautiful blue-domed churches and brightly-colored wooden fishing boats. You can even stay in a boutique cave hotel if you enjoy spelunking.

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9. St. Lucia, Caribbean

St. Lucia is also known as “The Helen of the West.” It is meant to be a comparison to Helen of Troy’s legendary beauty. Here you will find the world-famous UNESCO-listed twin Pitons.

These impressive volcanic spires rise to a height of nearly 2,500 feet. Other attractions on this island include the mineral-rich natural mud bath, stunning silver-sand beaches, sugar-estate ruins, and think verdant jungles. Jade Mountain is said by those in the know to be “an architectural gem” and the most well-known resort on the isle.

10. Fiji

Fiji is not only beautiful it is am moviemaker’s dream come true. The natural beauty of the Mamanuca island chain can be seen in scenes from Cast Away and the TV show “Survivor.” The Yasawa archipelago is featured in the 1980 remake of Blue Lagoon.

See mangroves, mountains, reefs, and rivers that swath all 333 islands of Fiji. You might even spot some of the local wildlife such as dolphins, parrots, turtles, and whales. Stay in a luxurious, private villa or “bure” at one of the many private-island resorts.

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11. Big Island, Hawaii, USA

Also known as the Big Island, the island of Hawaii actually has 10 out of 14 of the planet’s climate zones. This is the only location in the world with that many in such a small area. The windward side of the isle is full of verdant, moist, tropical terrain and includes Waianuenue/Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls.

If you enjoy arid beauty check out Hapuna Beach Park. Visit the summit of the impressive Mauna Kea volcano for yet another climate. Stop by one of America’s highest lakes, Lake Waiau, too.

12. The Maldives

The Maldives has over 75 overwater bungalow resorts. It’s the highest number in the world. The residents there know full well that the abundant, gin-clear water of the Indian Ocean is one of their best assets.

Here you can go diving, snorkeling or study the marine life up close and personal. . . or you can simply watch others do that through the special floor windows of your personal villa. You can watch the marine life while you dine at the popular 5.8 Undersea Restaurant or while enjoying the numerous services offered by Huvafen Fushi’s great submerged spa.

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13. Palawan, Philippines

Some travelers call Palawan “the Philippines’ last frontier.” It includes not one but two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park (known for its guided canoe tours) and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (perfect for divers). But wait, there’s more!

Other highlights include the impressive attractions as Karst Mountain Elephant Cave and Ugong Rock. They are a striking contrast to the rice fields found in the interior. Stay at one of the El Nido Resort’s overwater bungalows located on the nearby outlying islands.

14. Hvar, Croatia

Croatia’s Hvar has a history that harkens back to the Stone Age. It is both beautiful and fascinating. Indeed, the walls that surround the red-tiled roofed buildings in Hvar Town were erected in the 1200s.

In 2008 the olden stone ruins that mark the Stari Grad Plain was officially named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travel inland and explore the wonderfully fragrant lavender fields, the lush, rich vineyards, and the impressive mountains. Here you can stroll along secret beaches, see seaside hamlets, swim in the sea caves, go snorkeling in the Adriatic or take a boat trip.

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15. Martinique, Caribbean

Nicknamed the Isle of Flowers, Martinique is the home of Mount Pelee which rises 4,583 feet into the sky. Comparatively unknown, it is said by some travel writers to be “the Caribbean’s best-kept secret.” There are several often unvisited attractions to explore here. They include the Anse Cafard Slave Memorial, the Saint-Pierre’s impressive 18th-century theater ruins and the stunning Balata Gardens’ Treetop Trail of suspension bridges.

16. Cocos Keeling Islands, Australia

The Cocos Keeling Islands is made up of 27 individual coral islands. They form a pair of atolls in the shining Indian Ocean. The Cocos Keeling Islands were pretty much unknown until a couple of beach activists named Andrew Short and Brad Farmer crowned the now popular Cossies Beach “the best in Australia for 2017.”

This remote island destination has also been called Australia’s “last unspoiled paradise.” It is free of chain restaurants, traffic, crowds of tourists and multiple high-rise resorts. It also has beaches of pristine white sand and even a turquoise lagoon that serves as a home for at least 30,000 sea turtles.

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17. Paxos, Greece

Some travel experts say the little Ionian isle of Paxos could very well be “everything you want Greece to be.” Here you will discover brilliant bougainvillea, cypress trees, olive groves, stone villas, tavernas, and bakers and fishermen leading quiet, simple village lives. Visit the western coast which includes 40 sea caves, rock arches, and sheer, rugged cliffs. You can even sign on for a day trip to the nearby isle of Antipaxos complete with powder white sand and water so blue it rivals that of the Caribbean Sea.

18. Samoa

Some sources refer to Samoa as “the Cradle of Polynesia” and praise it for the “Fa’a Samoa” lifestyle. More specifically, it revolves around a 3,000+-year-old societal code that focuses on the environment, family and traditions. Visitors will enjoy not only the local culture but the lovely landscape as well.

Stop off at the main island, Upolu, and dive into the popular To Sua Ocean Trench swimming grotto. Samoa’s largest isle, Savaii, features blowholes, rugged caves, wondrous waterfalls, and the memorable Saleaula lava field. The field was created by a volcanic eruption that destroyed five villages in 1905.

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19. The Cook Islands

The Cook Islands is made up of 15 islands in the South Pacific. Veteran visitors recommend staying in a private overwater bungalow on Aitutaki. Enjoy listening to ukulele music played by the locals dressed in their native outfits known as pareus. Sign up for a special mountain safari on Rarotonga, the main island. Other highlights include class-bottom boat trips through the lagoons, verdant, rugged mountains, and palm trees that rise higher than the roofs of the buildings.

20. Guadeloupe, Caribbean

The butterfly-shaped archipelago known as Guadeloupe is sometimes called the pearl of the French Caribbean. It consists of five main islands. These islands feature several noteworthy attractions.

They feature towering volcanoes and more than 200 beaches with black, pink, red, or white sand. Visit the Bay of Grand-Cul-de-Sac Marin and the tropical forest of Basse-Terre which makes up a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Go island-hopping too. See the 900-foot plateau at La Desirade, Marie-Galante’s rum estates, and the popular Grande-Anse Beach located on Les Saintes too.

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