The most stunning U.S. islands for a beach vacation

Located off the coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket Island offers a charming glimpse into New England’s rich maritime history. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of downtown or spend the day relaxing on one of the pristine beaches. The Nantucket Resort Collection offers a variety of accommodations all within walking distance of the shops and restaurants in town. For dinner, head to Cru for oysters and Champagne, or the newish restaurant Billie's for steak and martinis. If you’re looking to have an adventure on the island, book a harbor sail with Endeavor, Nantucket’s oldest sailing charter. Access the island by ferry or by plane, and you can even bring your car over on the slow ferry if you’re planning to stay awhile.

Best time to visit: Late May through early October

Time Out tip: Learn about the island's rich maritime history at the Nantucket Whaling Museum, where you can get up close to a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton.

Just a short ferry ride from Long Beach, California, to Santa Catalina Island, will make you feel like you have been transported to the Mediterranean coast. Renowned for stunning coastal landscapes, with dramatic cliffs dropping into crystal-blue waters brimming with marine life. Santa Catalina Island is close enough for a day trip, but there is plenty to do on the island if you are planning a longer getaway. Stay in the town of Avalon, the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel is a historic landmark that has been transformed into a hotel offering all the modern-day amenities you need along with stunning harbor view and an outdoor pool. Tour the Catalina Casino, relax at Descanso Beach Club, or go on an inland adventure with the Catalina Island Conservancy and try and spot the famed Catalina Bison. After a day of exploring, stop by Luau Larry’s for one of their famed Wiki Wacker cocktails (it even comes with a tiki hat!)

Best time to visit: Shoulder season of April through May and September through October for milder temperatures and fewer crowds

Time Out tip: Take advantage of the crystal-clear water by snorkeling or scuba diving to see the extensive marine life, including sea lions.

Enjoy car-free streets and Victorian architecture just off the coast of Michigan in Lake Huron on Mackinac Island. Rent a bike to explore the island, play a round of golf or go on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic streets. Most visitors access the small island by ferry. There is a small airport on the island, or you can take your own private boat and dock in the harbor. Built in 2013, the Bicycle Street Inn & Suites is a great place to stay for easy access to the waterfront and all the updated modern comforts travelers need and want. For a true Mackinac Island experience, you must have dinner in the Main Dining Room of the Grand Hotel, where after 6:30pm, they require finer attire to keep with the old-world charm and tradition of the hotel atmosphere. For something more casual, head to The Pink Pony for a relaxed outdoor dining experience. Take in the beauty of Lake Huron by boat, book a fishing charter or go on a guided kayaking tour.

Best time to visit: May through October

Time Out tip: Those looking to let loose might opt for a Sip n' Sail cruise. The sunset cruise (our favorite) features live music performances, cold beverages and beautiful views.

Settled by colonists in 1642, Martha’s Vineyard sits just 7 miles off the coast of Massachusetts. In downtown Edgartown, visitors can see the famed Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse, enjoy shopping, dining and experiencing a vibrant art scene, and then head to Oak Bluff Village and see the iconic Gingerbread Cottages. Embrace Martha’s Vineyard’s fishing village roots, go on a Cottage City Oyster Farm Tour, learn where your food comes from as you boat out to the oyster farm, and then enjoy the freshest oysters you can imagine as the team shucks them for you onboard. For dinner, grab the sunset special from Menemsha Fish Market, bring a blanket and some drinks, and enjoy dinner while you watch the sunset on Menemsha Beach. 

Best time to visit: June through September

Time Out tip: For easy access to everything in Edgartown, stay at Faraway Martha’s Vineyard, which includes the historic Kelley House.

Just off the coast of Long Island, New York, Fire Island is said to be named for the fires the pirates living on the island would start to lure vessels to shore. Today, Fire Island is a chic beach getaway favorite among artists, actors and musicians. A stark contrast to the city, Fire Island is car-free and offers sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Fire Island has long been a haven for the LGBTQ+ community; the island is home to Cherry Grove, “America's First Gay and Lesbian Town.” Stay at the Palms Hotel for a luxurious and relaxing getaway, or opt for the Grove Hotel if you want to be right in the thick of the social scene and nightlife. 

Best time to visit: Memorial Day through Labor Day 

Time Out tip: A must-see is the Sunken Forest, a rare, centuries-old maritime holly forest uniquely situated behind dunes, which creates a distinctive and beautiful canopy of tangled flora.

For a true escape in nature, plan your next getaway to San Juan Island, located in the northwest corner of Washington state. It is a picturesque destination for whale watching, kayaking, and hiking, and an ideal vacation for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. There are lots of pet-friendly accommodations on the island, including the Friday Harbor Suites and the Tucker House Inn, so you can bring your four-legged family members along for hiking. Visit the San Juan Island National Historic Park or the Whale Museum to experience the rich cultural heritage of San Juan Island.

Best time to visit: June through August

Time Out tip: This is a whale-watching hotspot with five different types of whales frequently spotted. If you don't see any whales on a tour, most operators offer a free or discounted ticket to go another time.

A barrier island off the coast of Texas, South Padre Island is a bustling resort town known for beautiful beaches and abundant outdoor activities and water sports. Connect with nature by spending a day at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, where you can see a variety or birds and the alligator sanctuary. Stay at the Margaritaville Beach Resort to really get into the island state of mind. For a great meal, visit Café on the Beach, which has a fantastic outdoor patio for al fresco dining.

Best time to visit: Fall or late spring

Time Out tip: Visitors beware: South Padre transforms into a rowdy spring break destination in March, so consider that when planning your trip. 

The small rustic island in Lake Erie off the coast of Ohio, South Bass Island, is the perfect Midwest island getaway. In the charming village of Put-In-Bay, travelers will find shopping at upscale boutiques, family-friendly attractions, a variety of great restaurants and one of Ohio’s oldest wineries, Heineman’s Winery. Stay at the Put-In-Bay Resort for easy access to everything in town. Or if you’re looking for a quiet, nature-focused getaway, opt for South Bass Island State Park—a 33-acre, ferry-accessible retreat filled with beaches, wooded areas, and camping sites.

Best time to visit: Summer or early fall

Time Out tip: Perhaps the best way to explore the island is by golf cart. Rent one and cruise through Put-In-Bay for an easy way to discover the town.

Experience the rich blend of cultures, stunning Caribbean beaches, and exciting nightlife without a passport in Puerto Rico, which is just a short flight from Miami. Explore the historic streets of San Juan with its colorful colonial architecture, or head for the lush El Yunque National Forest and take in all the waterfalls. Stay at the Fairmont El San Juan for a lively city atmosphere and a peaceful ocean retreat all in one. 

Best time to visit: December through April

Time Out tip: If you’re seeking a unique adventure during this trip, tour one of Puerto Rico's three bioluminescent bays. You can only see this phenomenon in two other places in the world.

Another Caribbean getaway Americans can enjoy without a passport, the U.S. Virgin Islands are composed of approximately 50 islands and cays. The three main islands are St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. On St. Thomas, travelers will find historic sites and vibrant nightlife. St. John is most well-known for its natural beauty, from pristine beaches to hiking trails (two-thirds of the island is designated as Virgin Islands National Park). St. Croix is the largest of the islands and home to historic towns Christiansted and Frederiksted, and attractions like Buck Island Reef National Monument and the Cruzan Rum Distillery. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, you will find luxurious stays like The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, as well as boutique stays and an abundance of vacation rentals to choose from.

Best time to visit: April through June

Time Out tip: Although it's a U.S. territory, cars drive on the left side of the road here (thanks to Danish and British influences), so if you plan on renting a car, be prepared to adjust.