The Top 10 Islands in the Continental U.S. in 2017
By Rebecca Ascher-Walsh July 11, 2017
Hilton Head, South Carolina
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
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.
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.
1 of 10
10. Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island, Florida
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Score: 82.43
1 of 10
Advertisement
Advertisement
2 of 10
9. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island, South Carolin
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Score: 83.22
2 of 10
3 of 10
8. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
Credit: Gabriela Herman
Score: 83.34
3 of 10
Advertisement
4 of 10
7. Florida Keys, Florida
Florida Keys, Overseas Highway
Credit: Andrew Hetherington
Score: 83.49
4 of 10
5 of 10
6. San Juan Islands, Washington
San Juan Islands
Credit: Ian Allen
Score: 83.86
5 of 10
6 of 10
5. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Credit: Getty Images/RooM RF
Score: 85.45
6 of 10
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
7 of 10
4. Golden Isles (Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, St. Simons Island), Georgia
Golden Isles, Saint Simons
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Score: 85.60
7 of 10
8 of 10
3. Mount Desert Island, Maine
Mount Desert Island
Credit: LightRocket via Getty Images
Score: 86.69
8 of 10
9 of 10
2. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Credit: Roland Bello
Score: 87.26
9 of 10
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
10 of 10
1. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head, South Carolina
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
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.”