17 Magical Island Getaways in the United State

1. Sanibel Island, Florida

If only every day could be a hot stone massage day. Or water lily facial day. Or walk on a (seashell-studded) beach day! 

2. Nantucket, Massachusett

Access this sweet spit of land—which sits about 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod—by ferry, but don't book a ride for your car. 

3. Whidbey Island, Washington

Get ready for a whale of a good time on Whidbey (sorry, we couldn't resist).  

4. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Dolphins are regularly spotted in the channel at Wrightsville Beach. We repeat: frequent dolphin sightings. 

5. Mount Desert Island, Maine

The sixth largest island in the contiguous United States, we're absolutely over the moon for the oh-so-New England town of Bar Harbor.  

6. Anna Maria Island, Florida

Thanks to strict regulations that have kept Anna Maria's growth in check, this barrier island on the Gulf has a throwback vibe. 

7. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Ah, it's hard to capture the summertime glow that casts a friendly halo on all people, places, and things that inhabit this beloved Michigan treasure. 

8. Prince of Wales Island, Alaska

Recount the day's adventures back at Lagoon Saloon with a stiff drink and a round of pool or ping pong before sinking your teeth.

9. Block Island, Rhode Island

Few American islands do drama like Block Island with its clay cliffs that plunge into craggy rocks far below.  

10. Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Ride the simple high on this restorative, laid-back island on Virginia's majestic Eastern shore.  

11. Catalina Island, California

We're not quite sure how this dreamy island is only 25 miles away from California's mainland, but we'll go with it.  

12. Seabrook Island, South Carolina

Scope out available rentals here and line up a spa day at Synergy Day Spa, and horseback riding on the beach or on the trails with the equestrian center.  

13. Fire Island, New York

Plan to leave your ride behind when you ferry over to this car-free paradise off the southern coast of Long Island. 

14. Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island might be best defined by what it doesn't have than what it does: No grocery store or gas station or stop light. 

15. Amelia Island, Florida

Feeling rejuvenated, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island awaits with kayaking, beach horseback riding, and nightly tasting menus. 

16. Brunswick Islands, North Carolina  

Before you dive into the world-class seafood, pump up your adrenaline at Shallotte River Swamp Park.

17. Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

You'll also have a hard time prying yourself out of the two-level infinity pool with built-in lounge chairs.  

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