Photo courtesy of Maui Visitors and Convention Bureau.
Top 10 Islands in the U.S
With so many of us looking forward to some heat after a frigid and icy winter, there's nothing wrong with getting ready for summer. If the seemingly endless parade of polar vortices has planning your next island escape, rest assured you can leave your passport at home. There are plenty of warm-weather sandy beaches right here in the U.S. offering up that sand-between-your-toes experience, plus historic attractions, exotic cuisine and world-class adventures. Your domestic adventure awaits at...
Amelia Island, Florida
A rich history, a wealth of emblematic treasures, and of course -pleasant temperatures year-round contributes to the idyllic experiences lapped around Amelia Island.
Emerald parks grace this island's landscape and offer up a perfect opportunity to commune with nature, with a shoreline so pristine, you may think you're on a remote destination in the tropics. Beyond the dunes, the streets are an open history book, especially in the Museum of History and along the Fernandina Beach, a classic playground for the beach bum.
No matter where you are in Amelia Island, you will be inspired by the culture that encompasses its landscape, making it truly one of the U.S.' most prized possessions.
Block Island, Rhode Island
With the Atlantic Ocean nestled at its feet, Block Island is a secret treasure that's nothing short of extraordinary if you are looking for that secluded island experience.
Block Island's winding roads are an adventure in itself, where cyclist can whisk along trendy boutiques in search of the beach.
Here, its Native American history and well-kept landmarks pay homage to the past while decorating the streets with their classic décor.
One visit to this pocket-sized destination will change your state of mind and will make you see why Block Island's population drastically increases during the summer.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket, an Algonquian term meaning "far away land," is an island that will make you feel as though you have entered a time capsule.
The dazzling ebb of the ocean beckons all to dive into its blue depths, away from the perfectly lined buildings dotted along its quaint roadways.
From the tradition Daffodil Festival, a vibrant celebration of spring, and cozy lodges filled with warm accommodations ,to the island's quaint shop bursting at the seams with local handcrafts, Nantucket leaves nothing to the imagination when it comes to showering its guests with a pleasant island-flavored flair.
Galveston Island, Texas
Galveston Island is more than a beach escape, it is a Texan-style haven sitting on the Texas Gulf Coast and blessed with a dramatic Southern coastline that magnetizes even the most city-inclined traveler.
This charming destination provides an intimate ambiance where family, friends and lovers can embrace Southern hospitality, island-style, enjoy authentic Texan cuisine, stroll along the vibrant Pleasant Pier or sightsee their way through the island's historic treasures.
Whether you're a true adventurist or looking for a romantic setting, Galveston Island comes complete with many amenities to make your island wishes come true.
Maui, Hawaii
Ranked "Best Island" by readers of Conde Nast Traveler for nineteen years, Maui embodies the word paradise in every sense of the word.
Here, the ebb of the Pacific bids you hello and invites you to play in its blue depths, migratory humpback whales offer extraordinary aquatic adventures, dining is as eventful as it is exotic, and the Hawaiian culture lends its color to the island's charming streets.
Also, Maui's majestic hills, valleys and shores provide arguably some of the most spectacular backdrops draped across Hawaii's landscape, and remains the main reason why you don't need to go through extreme measures to experience tropical serenity at its best.
Santa Catalina Island, California
Santa Catalina Island, affectionately known as Catalina or Catalina Island, is a charismatic destination located in southern California.
It never rains in southern California, and definitely not in Catalina, where pleasant temperatures give way to this coastal dream, adorned by glittering waters perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing. Back on land, Catalani offers rolling hills for hikers as well as manicured emerald golf courses ideal for championship matches.
Whether strolling along its picturesque streets, enjoying an intimate dinner for two in any of its local eateries, or camping with the family, you will truly be in awe of this magificent island where land and water majestically come together to create a world-class island experience.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Dauphin Island is one of the U.S.' best kept secrets.
Situated in the state of Alabama, this island is surrounded by natural beauty where many species of birds migrate to dwell within its remote spaces. The island is accessible from a bridge three miles long, which contributes to the seclusion you will feel once you're under its spell.
A little over a thousand people calling this paradise home, so feel free to spread out, kick your shoes off and relax in the essence of tranquility as the "Sunset Capital of Alabama" welcomes you with open arms.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
Bainbridge Island is a rare commodity that offers thrills to capture your wild side while still maintaining a small-town vibe. Its small size belies the huge attractions, including a colorful nightlife filled with music, food and spirits and captivating attractions like the Historical Museum, Bloedel Reserve and the Eagle Harbor.
Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, Bainbridge Island invtes you to unwind in one of Washington's most heavenly locations and nourish your memories along its picturesque streets until the unfamiliar feels like home.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
If you're thinking of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, you won't find either of them in this scenic location.
Jekyll Island provides complete bliss with many sites and activities speckled across its entire surroundings.
Here, you can enjoy treasure-hunting, a visit to the past while on historic tours, kayaking in sparkling water, cruising with dolphins and sunset biking.
Whether you're in need of fun or relaxation, Jekyll Island has the power to shower your escape with topnotch experiences and no small measure of Southern charm.
Key West, Florida
Key West remains one of the more popular U.S. islands draped in perfect features.
Flawlessly lined trees dance in the cool wind and do their best to shade you from the sun; sugary beaches provide ample relaxation and aquatic thrills; and narrow trails mirror the past with sites like Hemmingway's home and the African Burial Ground.
Key West is a tropical oasis whose mystique is a alluring as its beaches.
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