The 2017 World's Best Islands in the Continental U.S.

The top island in the U.S. is so spectacular, it also ranks second among the Top 10 Islands in the world this year — and you need not go farther than South Carolina to experience the joys of Hilton Head. As one reader described its many charms: “Relaxing, historic, with beautiful scenery, awesome accommodations, fantastic variety of restaurants, and friendly people.” Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. South Carolina also boasts another favorite, Kiawah, while Florida lays claim to a further two: family-favorite Sanibel and the Florida Keys, a string of islands that extend south from the mainland and are connected by an oversea highway. Each of the Keys offers something different — Key West is known for its nightlife, while Key Largo is a magnet for fishermen. The diversity of these destinations speaks to the fact that for some, beaches are the top priority, while for others, it’s scenery, food, or even a cooler climate. In the Massachusetts havens of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, as well as on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, joy comes from days spent picking berries and boating while the approaching evening brings in a fog. Mist settles even more regularly over the San Juan Islands in Washington, where orcas, sea otters, and dolphins delight those lucky enough to take off from the rocky shores in kayaks. Back on land, cedar trees rise to shelter hiking trails whose rewards are views of the sea. “I recently spent time bicycling and kayaking here, and absolutely love this place,” said one reader. “Not the typical island vacation when compared to Florida,” added another. “Beautiful in a rugged, outdoorsy way.” When packing for each of these islands, all that is necessary is a pair of binoculars, wonderful books, and a willingness to forget time. In other words: all offer a perfect vacation, no matter which coast you choose.

01 of 10

10. Sanibel Island, Florida

Score: 82.43

02 of 10

9. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Score: 83.22

03 of 10

8. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Score: 83.34

04 of 10

7. Florida Keys, Florida

Florida Keys, Overseas Highway — Andrew Hetherington

Score: 83.49

05 of 10

6. San Juan Islands, Washington

Score: 83.86

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5. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Score: 85.45

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

Golden Isles, Saint Simons — Getty Images/iStockphoto

Score: 85.60

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3. Mount Desert Island, Maine

Score: 86.69

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2. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Score: 87.26

10 of 10

1. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Score: 90.83

Generations of families have made an annual visit to this South Carolina outpost a tradition, and little wonder. Here, there is something for everyone who wants to be outside — and all activities can be reached by bicycle. Golf lovers dream of courses like those offered here, while wildlife fans can observe the loggerhead sea turtles, dolphins, and birds who have the good sense to call Hilton Head home. Wrote one fan, “Whether for a weekend, week, or month, the island has so much to do for all ages, on and off the beach.” Added another, “It’s truly a fantastic and unique place to visit.”

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