These America Islands You Must Visit
The well known island getaways across the U.S. get all the glory, but there are plenty of hidden gem islands which offer an equally stunning escape but with a little more peace and quiet. If you’re wanting a secluded and intimate getaway, look no further than these lesser known U.S. islands. Let find out These America Islands You Must Visit below.
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These America Islands You Must Visit
Sanibel Island
Visitors to Sanibel Island off the coast of Florida will find themselves surrounded by pristine, uncrowded beaches and lush tropical foliage. Sanibel is known as one of the most bike-friendly islands in America, where guests can pedal along 25 miles of trails for an active explorative experience, hitting a number of local nature preserves and historic landmarks. It’s the seashell capital of the world due to its unique geography, which means locals and visitors alike will be seen shelling along the shores day and night. After embarking on a seaside adventure, wind down at the quaint Castaways Cottages, which sits on the tranquil strip of land that separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Pine Island Sound and hosts guests in one, two, and three bedroom cottages.
Mackinac Island
Visiting Mackinac Island off the coast of Michigan feels like taking a trip back in time. This car free island runs on old fashioned horsepower and bicycles in fact, hundreds of horse drawn carriages fill the streets each day alongside the zooming bikes, which are available for rental at a variety of shops in town. A local favorite is a ride around the entire island, an eight mile trip with scenic views of Lake Huron, Arch Rock, forests, and historical landmarks. Off road, discover the sites of the Botanical Trail in Mackinac Island State Park. After a day of activity, indulge in the favorite local culinary creation, homemade Fudge. Finally, retire for the evening to Grand Hotel, which recently underwent a renovation that increased the outdoor space on site. A few standout amenities on site include the water jet play area and water slide, as well as a private adults only pool area featuring an infinity edge with magnificent views of the island.
North Haven
North Haven, Maine, is one of the only islands on the coast of Maine that hosts year-round residents. It’s located approximately 12 miles off the coast of Rockland and is accessible via ferry. Must stop shops on the island include North Haven Brewing Co., which was launched by three locals in 2016 and serves small batch beers at the brewery’s own small tasting room, as well as Calderwood Hall, a food hall that hosts a small farmers market and a bakery where visitors can grab a coffee, fresh made pastries, and sandwiches. After a day of adventure, visitors can spend the night at Nebo Lodge, a recognized landmark filled with history and memories. In fact, each room is named after an individual island off the coast of Maine.
Catalina Island
Southern California’s Catalina Island is accessible by boat, plane, and helicopter for those who are feeling especially fancy. The two towns to visit on the island include Avalon and Two Harbors. Travelers who are feeling adventurous can embark on a diving trip with Catalina Divers Supply and those who prefer to stick to land can explore with Catalina Backcountry on a naturalist led hike. Want to try to do it all.
Catalina Tours is a one stop reservation service to book all activities in one place. Finally, Catalina Taxi and Tours offers private tours in the island’s remote interior, as well as a taxi service in Avalon to see the village from a different point of view. After a day of adventure, retire to Avalon’s Aurora Hotel, a relaxing retreat with an ocean view rooftop deck ideal for soaking in the island ambiance while enjoying a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, of course.
Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island off the coast of Georgia is a coastal nature haven hosting many beautiful, oceanfront lodging amenities including the famous Jekyll Island Club Resort, which dates back to the late 1800s. The internationally acclaimed Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a must see for visitors wanting to learn all about the local ecosystems and the animals that call the island home. Visitors can get up close and personal with sea turtles undergoing the rehabilitation process, or take a beach walk to get a look at these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. There are five distinct beaches on the island to check out. On Driftwood Beach, explorers will encounter ancient fallen trees which create a scenic, romantic backdrop. Visitors craving an active adventure can explore miles of bike paths, kayaking and paddleboarding tours, playgrounds, or the Summer Waves Waterpark. That is once of These America Islands You Must Visit.