The fantasy of an island getaway in the U.S. doesn’t require a passport, a customs line or the mini panic attack of remembering where you put your documents. But with more than 18,000 islands scattered across the country, your perfect escape is closer than you think.
Whether it’s dramatic sea cliffs carved by centuries of wind, bioluminescent bays glowing in the moonlit dark or the particular silence that comes with sand beneath your feet, islands in the U.S. deliver the reset your nervous system has been craving.
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From the lush tropics of Hawaii and Puerto Rico to the sun-soaked charm of Key West and the Virgin Islands, and all the way to the misty, whale-watching coasts of the Pacific Northwest, the variety is staggering.
Some islands are tailor-made for adventure, while others are for wellness and relaxation. Yet they all share one thing: true escape without the rigmarole of international travel. No jet lag, no currency conversion, and yes, cell service that actually works.
Six Island Getaways in the U.S.
Here are six of our favorite island getaways in the U.S., where you can trade your routine for sand between the toes, sea salt in your hair and “out of office” turned ON. We also share recommendations on where to stay while you’re there.
1. Kauai, Hawaii
Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is what happens when nature doesn’t bother with subtlety. The Na Pali Coast lifts straight out of the ocean in near-vertical cliffs, waterfalls thread down emerald mountainsides and Hanalei Bay nestles between sculpted ridges like a dream you only remember when you’re standing there.
If it’s drama you’re after, this is where it finds you. The Kalalau Trail threads through dense jungle and spills onto beaches most people will never see. Hidden coves reveal themselves only to those willing to go on foot, and the North Shore exists in its own effortless beauty.
Where to Stay: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Above Hanalei Bay, the eco‑luxury 1 Hotel feels like nature got an upgraded room service. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows frame the Pacific, mountain ridges and gardens. You get private access to Pu‘u Poa Beach (great for snorkel or tide‑pool dips) and an expansive “Anatomy” fitness studio with everything from breathwork to HIIT.
Bamford Wellness takes care of the spa side, offering holistic treatments infused with an easy island rhythm. With native plants and recycled materials woven into the experience, your relaxation feels grounded in something meaningful.
2. Key West, Florida
At the southernmost tip of the continental United States, Key West runs on its own logic. Pastel houses glow in the heat, sunsets at Mallory Square pause conversations mid-sentence and a contagious lack of urgency softens the edges of the day.
You can snorkel in crystalline water, wander through the Ernest Hemingway Home to meet the famous six-toed cats, or bike along streets framed with tropical plants and cafés where no one seems in a hurry to check their phone. It’s quirky, but never in a way that tries too hard.
Where to Stay: Ocean Key Resort & Spa
This waterfront property nails island efficiency: vibrant art, tropical textiles, balconies overlooking the Gulf or historic Duval Street. In-room whirlpools, coconut and volcanic clay spa treatments, and Japanese soaking tubs provide the kind of rejuvenation your muscles didn’t know they needed. After snorkeling or wandering, your body will say “thank you” and your brain will say “ahhh.”
3. San Juan Island, Washington
This corner of the San Juan archipelago appeals to people who want wildlife more than nightlife. The big draw? Whale watching. Summer brings orcas close enough to see from shore—particularly from Lime Kiln Point State Park, one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world.
Beyond the marine life, you can kayak in pristine waters, hike rugged coastal trails, explore Friday Harbor’s charming boutiques and cafés, or visit the island’s historic sites.
Where to Stay: Earthbox Inn & Spa
Just four blocks from the ferry, Earthbox strikes the perfect balance, complete with modern rooms, bright, sunny energy and a heated indoor pool that’s welcome on cooler days. The spa offers thoughtful, effective bodywork in a quiet, restorative setting.
You can stroll to downtown restaurants and shops while still feeling cocooned in retreat mode. Dog-friendly rooms mean your furry companion can join the adventure, and after a full day of exploring, the heated pool and sauna feel less like perks and more like necessities.
4. Puerto Rico
Here’s the thing about Puerto Rico. You get Caribbean magic—turquoise water, lush rainforest, bioluminescent bays—without the international travel hassles. U.S. dollars work. Your phone works.
Explore the colorful colonial streets of Old San Juan and hike through El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Beaches range from calm turquoise to serious surf. And the food is worth the trip alone.
Where to Stay: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
This Spanish Colonial Revival landmark anchors San Juan’s upscale Condado district with actual presence. Ocean-front access, a serious spa focused on wellness, a fitness facility with sea views, and restaurants that understand both relaxation and ambition. It’s an intelligent launch point for exploring the island while maintaining the option to do absolutely nothing.
5. U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands market themselves as “America’s Caribbean Paradise” and don’t oversell it. These islands offer everything you could want in a tropical escape: crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning coral reefs for snorkeling, pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe. You can easily island-hop between St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix to experience each island’s unique character.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
Perched on a hillside above Magens Bay, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas commands the view while asking nothing more of you. The spa spans multiple treatment rooms with Caribbean-inspired wellness offerings.
Guest rooms and suites feature private balconies with water views, and the restaurants navigate casual and refined without pretension. You get the Ritz infrastructure—service, detail work—minus the stuffiness that sometimes comes with the name.
6. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States for good reason. This barrier island offers 12 miles of pristine beaches, world-class golf courses and family-friendly attractions, all wrapped in a low-key atmosphere.
Bike along scenic trails that wind through maritime forests, explore local shops and galleries or relax on the calm, sandy shores and watch dolphins play in the surf.
Where to Stay: Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
With 340 guest rooms and suites, many boasting ocean or garden views, Sonesta offers full beach access, a lagoon-style pool, revitalizing spa services, a 24-hour fitness center and restaurants serving up local coastal ingredients. After golf (117 holes across four courses if you’re feeling ambitious), the salty air and serene surroundings feel like luxury.
Snapshot Summary
Discover six island getaways in the U.S. that deliver genuine escape without a passport. From Kauai’s dramatic cliffs to Key West’s quirky charm, the San Juan Islands’ whale watching, Puerto Rico’s Caribbean magic, the U.S. Virgin Islands’ turquoise waters and Hilton Head’s coastal calm—each destination offers unique experiences. Explore pristine beaches, lush rainforests, coral reefs and wellness retreats. These U.S. islands combine accessibility with resort amenities: no jet lag, no currency conversion, full cell service. Find your perfect island retreat with curated hotel recommendations.
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