Explore the Best Islands in USA

Planning to explore the beautiful islands in USA but unsure where to start? From volcanic wonders in Hawaii to car-free historic havens in the Great Lakes, the United States offers island experiences for every type of traveler and preference.

In this guide, you will get to know about the top 12 islands in USA for tourists, complete with practical details on weather, access, activities, and must-see attractions to help you plan your ideal island getaway.

1. Hawaii (Big Island), Hawaii

The Big Island lives up to its name as Hawaii’s largest island, spanning over 4,000 square miles of diverse terrain. This geological wonder houses active volcanoes, black sand beaches, tropical rainforests, and even snow-capped mountains in winter.

What makes the Big Island truly special is its incredible diversity, it contains 8 of the world’s 13 climate zones in one island. From watching molten lava flow into the ocean to stargazing atop Mauna Kea, the experiences here are both unique and unforgettable.

Weather: 70 – 85°F (21 – 29°C)

Location:Hawaii (Big Island), Hawaii, USA

Timings: 24 hours (National Parks: 8 AM – 8 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: $30 per vehicle)

What to do:

• Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness active Kilauea volcano and walk through ancient lava tubes.
• Dive with manta rays in Kona’s waters at night, where powerful lights attract plankton.
• Explore Waipi’o Valley’s dramatic 2,000-foot cliffs and black sand beaches, once home to ancient Hawaiian kings.
• Stargaze atop Mauna Kea, home to the world’s largest astronomical observatory with unparalleled cosmic views.

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2. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, the second-largest Hawaiian island, perfectly balances luxury resorts with natural wonders. Known as the “Valley Isle” for the isthmus between its volcanoes, it offers everything from pristine beaches to the otherworldly Haleakalā crater.

The island’s varied landscapes include lush rainforests, bamboo groves, waterfalls, and golden beaches. Maui consistently ranks among America’s top vacation destinations for its perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Hawaiian culture.

Weather: 75 – 85°F (24 – 29°C)

Location:Maui, Hawaii, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Haleakalā National Park: 24 hours)

Entry Fee: Free (Haleakalā National Park: $30 per vehicle)

What to do:

• Drive the legendary Road to Hana with its 620 curves and 59 bridges, stopping at waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
• Watch the sunrise from Haleakalā National Park’s 10,023-foot summit, where views create an awe-inspiring spectacle.
• Dive at Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera with crystal-clear waters and tropical fish.
• Explore historic Lahaina town with its 19th-century architecture and attend a traditional luau with authentic performances.

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3. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu, home to Hawaii’s capital Honolulu, offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. This island balances cosmopolitan city experiences with tropical beaches and significant cultural and historical sites.

Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu hosts nearly 70% of Hawaii’s population yet maintains breathtaking natural areas. From the solemn memorials at Pearl Harbor to the legendary surf breaks of the North Shore, Oahu delivers diverse experiences in a relatively compact area.

Weather: 70 – 85°F (21 – 29°C)

Location:Oahu, Hawaii, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Pearl Harbor: 7 AM – 5 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Pearl Harbor Memorial: Free, but reservation required)

What to do:

• Surf or relax at Waikiki Beach, where gentle waves are perfect for beginners learning to surf.
• Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial to learn about the 1941 attack, including the USS Arizona Memorial.
• Hike Diamond Head crater for spectacular 360-degree views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the Pacific Ocean.
• Experience vibrant nightlife in downtown Honolulu with rooftop bars, Hawaiian music, and cultural dinner shows.

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4. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, the oldest Hawaiian island at 5 to 6 million years, is known as the “Garden Isle” for its lush landscapes. This tropical paradise features dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and one of the wettest spots on Earth at Mount Waialeale.

With 97% of the island not developed for commercial use, Kauai offers an authentic Hawaiian experience away from large resorts. Its laid-back atmosphere, stunning scenery, and focus on eco-tourism have made it a favorite for nature lovers and adventurers.

Weather: 70 – 85°F (21 – 29°C)

Location:Kauai, Hawaii, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Waimea Canyon: sunrise to sunset)

Entry Fee: Free (Kōkeʻe State Park: $5 per persona and $10 for vehicle parking)

What to do:

• Take a helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast with its 4,000-foot emerald cliffs plunging into azure waters.
• Explore Waimea Canyon, a 14-mile-long, 3,600-foot-deep geological marvel known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
• Kayak the Wailua River to secret waterfalls through lush rainforest to reach hidden swimming holes.
• Visit Poipu Beach Park for swimming and you may spot endangered Hawaiian monk seals.

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5. Key West, Florida

Key West, the southernmost point in the continental United States, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and tropical island living. This 4-mile by 1-mile island has a colorful character with its pastel conch houses, free-roaming chickens, and bohemian atmosphere.

Famous for its spectacular sunsets, lively Duval Street, and historical connection to Ernest Hemingway, Key West maintains a carefree “island time” vibe. The city’s inclusive motto, “One Human Family,” reflects its welcoming nature and diverse population.

Weather: 70 – 90°F (21 – 32°C)

Location:Key West, Florida, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Most attractions: 9 AM – 5 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Various attractions have individual entry fees)

What to do:

• Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum where the famous author lived with 60+ six-toed cats.
• Watch the sunset celebration at Mallory Square where performers and vendors gather as the sun sets.
• Dive in the only living coral reef in continental USA with over 6,000 marine species.
• Take a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy marker, just 90 miles from Cuba.

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6. San Juan Island, Washington

San Juan Island, part of an archipelago in Washington State’s Salish Sea, offers a peaceful retreat with pastoral landscapes, orca watching, and coastal charm. The island combines rural beauty with artistic communities and outdoor adventures in the scenic Pacific Northwest.

Known for its lavender farms, whale watching, and the historic “Pig War” site, San Juan Island provides a distinct island experience. The main hub, Friday Harbor, offers small-town charm with galleries, restaurants, and museums just steps from the ferry landing.

Weather: 40 – 70°F (4 – 21°C)

Location:San Juan Island, Washington, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Lime Kiln Point State Park: 8 AM – dusk)

Entry Fee: Free (San Juan Island National Historical Park: Free)

What to do:

• Watch for orcas from Lime Kiln Point State Park where resident pods pass close to shore hunting salmon.
• Tour alpaca farms and lavender fields where you can cut bouquets and taste lavender ice cream.
• Explore American and English Camps at the National Historical Park commemorating the 1859 “Pig War.”
• Kayak the coastal waters for encounters with seals, bald eagles, and porpoises amid stunning scenery.

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7. Santa Catalina Island, California

Santa Catalina Island, commonly called Catalina, sits 22 miles off the coast of Southern California. This Mediterranean-style island offers clear waters, outdoor activities, and a car-free lifestyle with golf carts as the primary transportation mode.

With 88% of the island protected as a conservancy, Catalina preserves its natural beauty while the picturesque town of Avalon provides shops, restaurants, and accommodations. The island’s convenient proximity to Los Angeles makes it a popular weekend escape for millions of visitors.

Weather: 55 – 75°F (13 – 24°C)

Location:Santa Catalina Island, California, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Catalina Casino tours: 10 AM – 4 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Ferry cost: approximately $70-90 round trip)

What to do:

• Zip line across the canyon for stunning ocean views, soaring 600 feet above the canyon floor at speeds up to 35 mph.
• Dive in Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve with bright orange Garibaldi fish, kelp forests, and playful sea lions.
• Take a glass-bottom boat tour to view underwater life as guides explain the marine ecosystem.
• Visit the iconic Catalina Casino, an Art Deco masterpiece housing a historic ballroom and theater.

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8. Manhattan, New York

Manhattan, the most densely populated and visited of New York City’s five boroughs, stands as America’s most famous urban island. This 13.4-mile-long island houses world-class museums, iconic skyscrapers, Broadway theaters, and diverse neighborhoods.

Manhattan mixes history, art, cuisine, and entertainment unlike any other American island. From the tranquility of Central Park to the bright lights of Times Square, this urban island offers endless adventures and 24/7 energy.

Weather: 30 – 85°F (-1 – 29°C)

Location:Manhattan, New York, USA

Timings: 24 hours (Most attractions: 9 AM – 5 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Various attractions have individual entry fees)

What to do:

• Explore Central Park, an 843-acre urban oasis with lakes, meadows, and attractions like Strawberry Fields.
• Visit world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, and the American Museum of Natural History.
• Take in panoramic views from the Empire State Building or One World Observatory with unparalleled city vistas.
• Experience energetic nightlife with Broadway shows featuring talented performers in lavish productions.

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9. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, offers a charming step back in time. This car-free island relies on horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, and foot traffic for transportation, just as it has since automobiles were banned in 1898.

Famous for its Victorian architecture, fudge shops, and the historic Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island provides a unique glimpse into 19th-century life. The island’s pristine natural areas, limestone formations, and 70+ miles of trails create a peaceful atmosphere that attracts visitors seeking a nostalgic escape.

Weather: 20 – 75°F (-7 – 24°C)

Location:Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA

Timings: Seasonal (May to October)

Entry Fee: Free (Fort Mackinac: $17 per adult)

What to do:

• Bike the 8.2-mile shoreline path for spectacular views of the Straits of Mackinac and neighboring islands.
• Visit Fort Mackinac where costumed interpreters demonstrate 1880s military life with rifle firings.
• Tour the Grand Hotel with its 660-foot front porch, the world’s longest, offering Straits views and afternoon tea.
• Sample fresh fudge made on Main Street where candy makers fold creamy confections on marble slabs.

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10. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Thomas, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, offers a perfect mix of pristine beaches, vibrant shopping, and water activities. This 32-square-mile island combines natural beauty with resort amenities and a rich multicultural heritage.

Known for its duty-free shopping in Charlotte Amalie and stunning harbor views, St. Thomas appeals to beach lovers and cruise ship visitors alike. The island’s blend of American convenience and Caribbean charm makes it an accessible tropical paradise with no passport required for U.S. citizens.

Weather: 75 – 90°F (24 – 32°C)

Location:St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Timings: 24 hours (Most attractions: 9 AM – 5 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Various beaches and attractions have parking fees)

What to do:

• Relax on Magens Bay, rated among the world’s most beautiful beaches with heart-shaped shoreline and calm waters.
• Take the Skyride to Paradise Point for panoramic harbor views from 700 feet above sea level.
• Shop duty-free in historic Charlotte Amalie where former Danish warehouses hold jewelry and designer goods.
• Dive at Sapphire Beach or Coki Point to see colorful coral and fish in crystal-clear protected bays.

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11. St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. John, the smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands, is a natural paradise with two-thirds of its land protected within Virgin Islands National Park. This 20-square-mile island offers a more secluded experience than neighboring St. Thomas with less development and more pristine beaches.

The island features some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, hiking trails through tropical forests, and ancient petroglyphs. With no airport, St. John is accessible only by ferry, which helps maintain its unhurried pace and natural charm.

Weather: 75 – 88°F (24 – 31°C)

Location:St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

Timings: 24 hours (Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center: 8 AM – 4:30 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (National Park: Free)

What to do:

• Visit Trunk Bay, an iconic crescent beach with an underwater diving trail guiding swimmers through coral formations.
• Hike the Reef Bay Trail to discover ancient Taino petroglyphs, sugar plantation ruins, and a secluded beach.
• Explore the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins offering insights into colonial history with stunning British Virgin Islands views.
• Dive at Maho Bay where sea turtles and stingrays frequent the shallow seagrass beds in calm, clear waters.

12. St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers a blend of Danish colonial history, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This 84-square-mile island features rolling hills, rainforests, and pristine beaches along with historic towns and a rum distillery tradition.

Unlike its more tourism-focused sister islands, St. Croix maintains a stronger local character with working farms, art communities, and diverse cuisine. The island’s east end features arid terrain with cacti while the west end offers lush rainforests, showcasing its geological diversity.

Weather: 75 – 88°F (24 – 31°C)

Location:St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Timings: 24 hours (Buck Island Reef National Monument: Sunrise to Sunset)

Entry Fee: Free (National Park sites: Free)

What to do:

• Snorkel at Buck Island Reef National Monument, following an underwater trail to see fish, turtles, and coral formations.
• Explore historic Christiansted and Frederiksted with Danish colonial architecture and 18th-century forts.
• Tour the Cruzan Rum Distillery, operating since 1760, to learn about rum-making and sample different varieties.
• Visit Point Udall, the easternmost point of the United States, offering spectacular Caribbean Sea views from cliffs.

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FAQs

How many islands are in USA?

The United States has over 18,000 islands within its territories, including all 50 states and overseas territories. Alaska alone has about 2,670 named islands, while Hawaii consists of 137 islands, though only 7 are commonly inhabited.

What are the most famous islands in USA?

The most famous islands in USA for tourists include the Hawaiian Islands (especially Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island), Manhattan (New York), Key West (Florida), Santa Catalina (California), and the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix).

Are USA islands open to public?

Yes, most USA islands are open to public year-round, though some northern destinations like Mackinac Island have seasonal schedules. National parks and wildlife refuges on islands may have specific opening hours and entry requirements.

Are there any free islands in USA that you can visit?

Yes, many USA islands are free to visit, though transportation costs apply. Islands with national parks may charge entrance fees, but most public beaches and city areas on islands have free access. Some remote islands might require permits.

Which is the most luxurious island in USA?

Maui in Hawaii is often considered the most luxurious USA island, with high-end resorts like Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and Fairmont offering beachfront accommodations, world-class spas, and golf courses. Certain areas of the Florida Keys also offer premium experiences.

Which USA island is best for families?

Oahu, Hawaii is excellent for families with attractions like Waikiki Beach, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and family-friendly resorts. Mackinac Island is also family-friendly with its car-free environment, bicycle rentals, and educational historical sites.

What activities can you do on USA islands?

USA islands offer diverse activities including hiking, snorkeling, diving, surfing, whale watching, cultural experiences, historical tours, shopping, dining, and nightlife on USA islands. Island activities vary by location, from volcano tours in Hawaii to urban adventures in Manhattan.

How to reach World Islands USA?

Transportation to islands in USA varies by location. Hawaiian islands are accessible via commercial flights to major airports. Smaller islands like Mackinac and Catalina require ferry service, while the Florida Keys are connected by bridges. Checking a USA islands map can help plan the best routes to your destination.