tourism st croix

Explore St. Croix

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Essential St. Croix

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St. Croix Is Great For

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Must-see attractions in St Croix

Christiansted National Historic Site

This historic site includes several structures. The most impressive is Fort Christiansvaern (1749), a four-point citadel occupying the deep-yellow…

This secluded beach off Rte 82 offers no shade or facilities, and you'll have to hike about 20 minutes through scrub to reach it, but you'd be hard…

Cruzan Rum Distillery

To find out how the islands’ popular elixir gets made, stop by the historic distillery for a tour. The journey through the oak-barrel-stacked warehouses…

Buck Island Reef National Monument

For such a small landmass – 1 mile long by half a mile wide – Buck Island draws big crowds. It’s not so much what’s on top but what’s underneath that…

Salt River Bay National Historic Park

About 4 miles west of Christiansted, Salt River Bay holds prehistoric archaeological ruins and is the only documented place where Christopher Columbus…

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

Created to protect nesting areas of the vulnerable leatherback sea turtle, this sporadically open wildlife refuge at the southern edge of Frederiksted,…

A long, thin strand along Rte 80 about 9 miles west of Christiansted, Cane Bay is deservedly venerated. It provides easy access to some of the island’s…

Protestant Cay

This small oval cay, located less than 200yd from Kings Wharf, is a little oasis. It’s the site of a mellow resort with a sandy beach and bar-restaurant…

Point Udall

Point Udall is the easternmost geographic point in US territory. As you face into a 25-knot trade wind, the vista from the promontory high above the surf…

Estate Whim Plantation Museum

Only 11 of Whim Plantation’s original 150 acres survive at the museum, but the grounds thoroughly evoke the colonial days when sugarcane ruled St Croix…

Frederiksted Pier & Waterfront

The palm-lined seafront has benches where you can sit and watch the cruise-ship scene. During quiet times (ie when cruise ships aren’t here), snorkelers…

Hibiscus Beach

Sand seekers hit palm-fringed Hibiscus Beach, 2 miles west of Christiansted off Rte 75/Northside Rd. There's good snorkeling at the beach's western end…

Fort Frederik

The deep-red color of this fort at the foot of the pier is what most visitors remember about the little citadel. It’s also where the island’s enslaved…

Captain Morgan Rum Distillery

Captain Morgan opened its shiny distillery on St Croix in 2010. The visitor center offers 30-minute tours. Expect multimedia films, self-guided…

St George Village Botanical Garden

This serene 16-acre park is built over a colonial sugar plantation. More than 1000 native and exotic species grow on the grounds. Orchid lovers in…

Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse

This three-story neoclassical building began life in 1749 as the headquarters and warehouse for the Danish West India and Guinea Company. The central…

Steeple Building

The white building with the Georgian steeple was St Croix' first house of worship. Lutherans erected the edifice between 1750 and 1753, adding the steeple…

More destinations you need to see

Explore St. Croix

Plan your trip to st. croix: best of st. croix tourism.

Essential St. Croix

Trending in the forums

St. Croix Is Great For

Sand & surf.

Eat & drink

• Carambola Beach Resort St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
• Villa Madeleine Resort Condominium
• The Reef Golf and Beach Resort
• Southgate Courtyard Villas
• Play @ Cane Bay
• Ama At Cane Bay
• La Reine Chicken Shack
• Blues' Backyard BBQ & Grill
• The Deep End Bar and Grill
• Buck Island Reef National Monument
• Carambola Tide Pools
• Point Udall
• Buck Island Cove
• Live Music Sunset Sail
• Horseback Riding Experience
• St Croix Island Tour
• A Evening Cultural Experience Through Food Cooking Class St. Croix
• 1 Hour Private Jetcar Experience in Virgin Islands

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This Caribbean Island Has Beautiful Beaches, Charming Hotels, and Incredible Scuba Diving

The perfect combination of cosmopolitan and rugged, St. Croix appeals to a broad range of adventurous and culturally curious travelers.

Getting to St. Croix

St. croix history and culture, best st. croix beaches, hikes, shops, restaurants, and more, best st. croix resorts.

At just 84 square miles, you'd think St. Croix would fly right under the radar. But in the U.S. Virgin Islands , those miles stack up to make it the largest island in the archipelago. And every square inch is brimming with something special for visitors. So, bookmark this page for your next trip to St. Croix to remember everything you should see, do, and explore on the island paradise.

St. Croix is relatively accessible to U.S.-based travelers. Several leading air carriers (American, JetBlue, Spirit, and Delta) operate nonstop flights from major gateways like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Charlotte, and Atlanta. Perhaps most convenient for this set of travelers is the fact Americans do not need a passport to enter, as the island is an unincorporated U.S. territory.

However, Americans will notice one major difference upon landing: The local population drives on the left. But the transition is easy, thanks to "Keep Left" road signs and stickers prominently displayed in rental cars and road signs providing helpful reminders along the way.

While on the island, visitors may catch a glimpse of several different flags swaying in the breeze, including the Dannebrog, the national flag of Denmark. This is a holdover from the island's colonial-era past, prior to the purchase by the U.S. and its transition of power in 1917.

The culture on the island is a deep combination of African, European, Caribbean, native Carib and Taino, and American heritages. It's a place where storytelling and music can be found on every corner and town square, and it's a good idea to stop, learn, and appreciate what makes this destination and its locals so special.

St. Croix appeals to a broad range of adventurous and culturally curious travelers. The island's twin towns, Christiansted in the east and Frederiksted in the west, offer a wealth of shopping, fine dining, art, and historical attractions.

Fort Frederik in Frederiksted is historically significant from an Afro-conscious perspective. It was here, in 1848, that the proclamation freeing all enslaved Africans throughout the Danish West Indies was made. A bust commemorating General Buddhoe , a formerly enslaved person who led the insurrection that proved pivotal in earning emancipation, sits just outside the fort's weathered red walls. Additional historical attractions in Frederiksted include the Estate Whim Great House and Museum (the only sugar plantation museum in the Virgin Islands) and the Lawaetz Museum.

Christiansted is also home to several centuries-old attractions. Fort Christiansvaern forms the centerpiece of the Christiansted National Historic Site , a collection of carefully restored Danish colonial structures dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Arguably, the bigger draws in Christiansted, however, are the shopping and dining venues. Here, exciting foodie adventures and one-of-a-kind buys await in cafes, restaurants, and boutiques housed in distinctive structures pulled right from the past.

Top restaurants in the neighborhood include Savant , Café Christine , Galangal , and Rum and Wine Bar Restaurant . Meanwhile, savvy shoppers keen on collecting unique mementos won't want to miss Sonya's , home of the original St. Croix hook bracelet. Crucian Gold and ib Designs are also big on producing fine, handmade jewelry born and bred on the island.

Away from the twin towns, St. Croix's beaches, hiking, championship golf courses, snorkeling, and scuba diving options fill days with thrills that keep travelers coming back for more.

For a stunning view, put in the work with a hike up Goat Hill , where you'll enjoy the full expanse of the island extending westward and the easternmost point of the U.S., Point Udall, to the east.

The Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve below Goat Hill allows travelers to combine hiking and beachcombing in one rewarding adventure. Low-impact trails lead to the remote, unspoiled beaches lined with sugar-white sand, lush trees, and blessedly nothing else.

Additional hiking trails are also available at Buck Island, a small, uninhabited island just off St. Croix's northeast shore. Buck Island and its surrounding reef and waters lie within the Buck Island Reef National Monument , a protected natural environment managed by the U.S. National Park Service. Hiking adventures here are a boon for bird-watchers or anyone seeking to commune with nature in peace and tranquility. An undersea snorkeling trail along the Buck Island Reef makes it easy for visitors to familiarize themselves with the coral and sea creatures that call these protected waters home.

Several tour operators offer half-and full-day excursions to Buck Island. Chief among them is Captain Carl of Buck Island Charters . The family-owned charter company provides a nonmotorized full-sail Buck Island experience aboard trimaran sailing vessels.

For scuba divers, nothing beats the fun at The Wall at Cane Bay . One of the world's renowned dive sites, The Wall drops to depths in excess of 13,000 feet. The deep waters here teem with out-of-this-world wildlife and coral formations.

The leading hotels and resorts in St. Croix are a bit different than those found on other Caribbean islands . In place of large, all-inclusive properties and familiar international brand names, St. Croix hotels are generally smaller and more intimate. Often, they echo the island's rich history. And many of the newest hotels are actually updated and reimagined versions of older, historic properties.

The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort

The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort truly has it all: a stunning 18-hole championship golf course, modern tennis facilities, a full-service spa, multiple dining options, three beaches, and an array of water sports equipment. The estate was originally founded in 1653, when the Knights of Malta controlled St. Croix. Historic remnants of the old plantation, like the sugar mill that sits astride the main entrance to the hotel lobby, remain on the grounds. The property was converted into a hotel in 1947, earning The Buccaneer the distinction of being the oldest family-owned and operated property in the Caribbean. "Book a room with an ocean-view balcony and take advantage of having three beaches on property, said T+L editorial director Nina Ruggiero after a 2018 stay. "Mermaid Beach is for activites — rent snorkels, paddle boards, and kayaks — or you can relax on the quieter Grotto and Whistle Beaches."

Company House Hotel

Nestled in the heart of downtown Christiansted, the historic Company House Hotel is a cozy and freshly remodeled oasis of refinement built on simplicity. A somewhat secret grotto pool and an elegant mahogany bar in the lobby serve as the two main gathering points. There's no restaurant, though this encourages guests to seek out the many fantastic restaurants that have recently elevated Christiansted into a culinary hot spot in the area.

The most stylish hotel to open in St. Croix in a generation, The Fred sits right on the waterfront of its namesake town, Frederiksted, on the west coast of the island. Formerly a private residence, the property's structure dates back to the 18th century. The swanky pool, elevated sundeck, party-sized Jacuzzi, half-moon bar, and boardwalk above the beach are all new additions to the building.

Feather Leaf Inn

What's old is new again (and much improved) at the Feather Leaf Inn . Formerly known as Estate Butler's Bay, the property is an 18th-century Danish sugar plantation. Rather than glorifying its dark, colonial past, Feather Leaf builds on its agrarian roots, emphasizing healthy, plant-based food and sustainable tourism. Much of the grounds are devoted to developing a seaside botanical forest filled with tropical fruits and herbs. As for the accommodations, nine guest rooms are spread among three separate buildings, and each is 100% solar-powered, distinctively styled, and features jaw-dropping sunset views over a calm, secluded bay.

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Where To Stay In St. Croix

Did you know... If you want to spend your island vacation in the midst of a mile long strip of impersonal high rise franchise hotels, St. Croix may not be for you.

What St. Croix does offer is a variety of unique hotel accommodations, Villa and Condo rentals providing a rare combination of fun, tranquility and personal service - all located on one of the most beautiful pieces of real estate in the world.

The types of accommodations available here are just as refreshing as St.Croix itself so be sure to keep your mind open to new adventures and wonderful possibilities. Here you can rent or buy timeshares in gorgeous beach front resorts, spend your vacation in a lovely bungalow, or try a house exchange. Change it up for a new adventure every year.

The amenities abound within and near our island hotels and rental properties from freshwater swimming pools, golf courses, tennis, restaurants and cafe.

Did you know... Whether you prefer a Prestigious Beach front resort complete with golf course + tennis center or a quality Downtown Courtyard Hotel or a Beachfront Hotel St. Croix has just the right accommodations for you.

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• weddings / romance
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• Beach Guide

Did you know... St. Croix is ringed by beaches of all shapes and sizes, some are long white sand stretches, others are small patches shaded by low sea grape trees and towering coconut palms. Some have smooth sandy bottoms ideal for swimming, and others have rock and coral-lined entries perfect for snorkeling! Did you know... St. Croix is the only Caribbean Island where a diver can: ●Dive a wall that drops over 13,000 feet ●Dive a reef that is the largest living reef of any Caribbean Island ●Dive five wrecks that are within 100 yards of each other ●Dive a pier        

• Weddings / Romance

DID YOU KNOW THAT... Many couples are opting to save the money (not to mention the stress and hard work) of a big wedding at home by escaping to a Caribbean island for a combination wedding/honeymoon. Upon their return, they can share the event by showing the video and photographs at an informal reception. All the islands are beautiful and, on some, weddings have become a major promotional tool. So why should you choose St. Croix above others?

• Moving Here

DID YOU KNOW... In addition to it's long and rich multicultural history, friendly people, open spaces, the blue sea and near perfect year-round weather, there are a number of reasons to consider relocating to St Croix. Most importantly, the U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St Croix, operate under U.S. law which is important in both business and personal matters. 

This means mainland US companies do business here including retail stores such as K-Mart, Radio Shack, Office Max, McDonald's and Wendy's. Also U.S. financial services including a variety of U.S. mortgage, insurance and banking companies offer local service.  U.S. cellular phone companies including AT&T and Sprint, both operate here.

Arriving By Cruise Ship

The Ann E. Abramson Pier is named in honor of the Virgin Islands Public Works Commissioner who was responsible for much of the rejuvenation of the Frederiksted area. This is the pier where most of the large cruise ships dock, as well as military ships, submarines, and other naval vessels. From time to time, tall-ships especially from Denmark, can be seen here.

The dock itself has been a favorite diving place especially for viewing bright coral, sponges, and a multitude of fish life. A night dive should reveal the sea-horses unique to this pier. Visitors arriving at the pier often walk through the small town of Frederiksted and walk to the nearby beaches and beach club     

Planning A Trip

Planning a trip to the St. Croix is exciting, fun and so easy…..

St. Croix Food Tours

Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour On St. Croix More Info

• Events & Festivals

So many wonderful events and things to do in St. Croix

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Come join us in our exploration of the unique underwater world.

Discover America's Paradise

Everything for staying & playing in st. croix in the u.s. virgin islands.

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Experience the Culture

The 21st Legislature of the Virgin Islands created the Department of Tourism on May 8, 1995. The Department is primarily responsible for the economic development of the Territory through the promotion of tourism and related activities. Other responsibilities include the formulation, implementation, administration and coordination of programs and policies pertaining to all aspects of tourism. The Department is under the supervision of the Commissioner of Tourism.

Enjoy our beautiful beaches, inspiring dining experiences, historic towns, and cultural events. Discover your real nice experience in the US Virgin Islands.

• Our Colorful History

U.S. Virgin Islands: Three Distinct Islands In One Destination

Culturalst. croix.

The United States Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. The three principal islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas – are magnificent tropical environments, each distinguished by its own personality.

Latest News

U.S. Virgin Islands Embraces Innovation As Tourism Engine Restarts

For Immediate Release Source: United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism Contacts: Alani Henneman-Todman, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism +1 340 774-8784 [email protected] Bevan

U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Asks Florida Counterpart To Consider Vaccination Checks For Cruise Passengers

For Immediate Release Source: Government of the United States Virgin Islands Contacts: Richard Motta Jr. Office of Governor Albert Bryan Jr. + 1 340 773-1404

U.S. Virgin Islands, Jamaica Explore Caribbean Tourism “Coopetition”

For Immediate Release Source: United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism   Contacts: Alani Henneman-Todman, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism +1 340 774-8784 [email protected]

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Budget Rent A Car

Discover the beauty of St. Croix at your own pace

QE IV Ferry

Offering ferry service six days a week between St. Thomas and St. Croix

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Shipping excellence for the Virgin Islands

Centerline Car Rentals

The largest selection of late-model rentals on St. Croix from three convenient locations!

Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty

Your St. Croix real estate experts

STX Weddings

Seamless Tailored Extraordinary Weddings on St. Croix

Travel Tips

Life here in the Caribbean is very laid back and relaxed. But, the local culture is still relatively reserved, so common courtesy and respect are important (which is why people find St. Croix to be such a friendly place). Please take a minute to look over these helpful travel tips for planning your trip to St. Croix, including information about local etiquette, tipping, what to pack, and more.

Crucian Etiquette

Courtesy and basic decency are important on St. Croix, and we ask our visitors to respect the local culture.  What does that mean to you? The most important things for you to note are:

• Greetings matter.  You will find most people will greet you with a “good morning”, “good afternoon”, or “goodnight” – so you should do the same. Read more in our Crucian Courtesy: Give a Proper Greeting blog.
• Cover up.  While the island is pretty laid back, be sure to wear a shirt (or bathing suit cover-up) and shoes while walking around town or in restaurants and shops. Island dress may be casual, but bathing suits, short shorts, no shirt and/or shirts that are unbuttoned are frowned upon while walking around town or in stores.
• Drink Responsibly. Yes, we are world-famous for our rum, but please drink responsibly. Our road conditions coupled with driving in the left lane make it challenging for visitors to drive on a good day, so please do not endanger yourself and others by drinking and driving.

What To Wear and How To Wear It

Cotton or linen clothes are preferred to avoid overheating. Of course, you are going to want to bring your swimsuits, but please bring something to wear over it when in public. Men usually do not wear ties or jackets, and nobody bothers with rain coats. ‘Resort casual’ is usually as dressy as it gets on St. Croix for men and women, so a sundress for ladies or linen slacks and a polo shirt for men is all you need for a ‘nice’ dinner. Hats and sunscreen are a must to protect you from the sun. Even if you tan easily, the sun will burn you if you’re not prepared, ruining what could be your best vacation. You may also want to bring insect repellent to fight off mosquitoes and no-see-ums, especially in the morning or evening and in areas where there are mangroves, standing water, or ponds. If you feel that you can not live with out your blow dryers, curling irons or electric razors, you’ll be happy to know that an adapter is not necessary.

Courteous Driving

Here on St. Croix we drive in the left lane, at a slower pace. First and foremost, please don’t rush!  Traffic travels at a slow to moderate pace due to the condition of the roads and numerous curves, so most often people are not in a hurry. Local drivers are generally courteous, so please return the courtesy as you make your way around the island. The honk of a horn on St. Croix is almost always a ‘hello’ or an ‘I am giving you the right-of-way to pull out’. Also, do NOT use your cellphone while driving. Not only is this a punishable offense, but you endanger yourself and others by texting or talking while driving. Read more in our Life in the Left Lane blog.

Cell Phone Service

If you can’t pull yourself away from the hustle and bustle of stateside life, St. Croix can accommodate you. Our local area code is 340. AT&T (now Liberty in the USVI) and T-Mobile are the only major cell phone service providers, as well as a few regional carriers such as Viya. If you are a Verizon customer, you may find that your signal and service are limited unless you are in the main areas of Christiansted. You may want to check with your cell service provider before traveling to ensure your network coverage and because you will incur additional charges.

Internet Service and Wifi

Wifi internet access has become much more common as many coffee shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels have installed wireless networks as a courtesy for paying customers. So, bring that smart phone, tablet, or laptop, and find your favorite spot to check in with “the real world”. Get your work done, turn on the auto-reply, and then unplug so you can enjoy your time on St. Croix.

U.S. Postal Service

We are part of the U.S. Postal System with first class mail, priority and express mail being your best bet. On St. Croix we have six post offices to serve you. There are two in Christiansted, Gallows Bay, Kingshill, Sunny Isle, and Frederiksted. While it is possible to use UPS, FedEx and other courier services for your important packages (overnight and second day), it is HIGHLY recommended that you instead send to or from St. Croix using the U.S. Postal Service’s Express Mail service. As a U.S. Territory, the USPS considers us a zone in the USA system. UPS and FedEx will charge international shipping rates that may be 4 times higher than USPS. You can send first class mail and postcards using the same postage you would use in the mainland U.S.

You will find that people in the service industry on St. Croix are very friendly and will go out of their way to ensure your time on St. Croix is memorable. A big tip is a way to thank someone for their outstanding service. Not giving a tip is a very strong way to let someone know they did not provide good service. However, people in the service industry make their money mostly from tips as their hourly wage is usually low. We have put together some guidelines for tipping on your vacation- from the airport shuttle to housekeeping and everything in between. Remember this is just a guide. If you feel like giving more, please do, our service people certainly work hard and deserve to know that you appreciate their good service. Here are the basics:

• Shuttle Van or Bus Driver: $2
• Taxi or Limo Driver: 10-15% of total fare
• Valet or Parking Attendant: $2
• Skycap at Airport: $2 for one bag, plus $1 for each additional bag carried
• Airport Terminal-to-Terminal Shuttle Drivers: $2-$3
• Bellhop: $2-3 for carrying your bags to and from your room
• Housekeeping: $2 per day. Some hotels will proved an envelope for you to leave a tip in each day. Place envelope on a dresser or pillow each day.
• Deliveries to Room: $2
• Doorman: $1-$2 for hailing a cab (more if it is raining or other bad weather)
• Concierge : $5-$20 for acquiring next to impossible dining reservations, tours or entertainment
• Pool/Beach Attendant: $2-3 dollars for helping with water activity equipment/towels
• For table service : 15% to 20% of the total bill. If you have used a discount or received any free items, you should tip on the amount that your bill would have come to if you would have paid full price. Also, if you’re with a large party or placing many special requests, you should increase your tip appropriately.
• For bar service: 10%-15% of check is standard. However, if the bartender gives you any complimentary drinks you should tip about half the value of that round.
• For buffet dining in a restaurant: 10% is generally standard
• Personal service from the wine sommelier: 15%-20% of the wine bill
• Maitre d’: $5-10 for special service provided (getting you that perfect view or beach side table!).
• Dive Service: If you decide to tip based on the price of the dive, a tip of 10-15% of the price. If you decide to tip on a per dive basis, the general consensus seems to be $5-$10 per tank per diver. However, both of these are just guidelines, use discretion based on the type of service provided.
• Fishing Charters: It’s the captain and crews job to find the fish and help you reel them in. If they do a good job, a nice tip says a job well done. If they filet your catch for you to take home, even better! A base tip to start from is usually 15% of the charter cost.
• Sailing Charters : Generally 15%-20% of charter cost.
• Island Tours: Generally 15% of tour cost is average. Remember, you can use discretion based on how good the tour and your tour guide were. If you had a really good time and your guide did an awesome job, feel free to tip them more than the average.
• Additional Tips :  If you stay at a table for more than two hours, add an extra 5%-10% to your tip. If you are there for that long, it means the waitperson has lost an opportunity to seat more people at that table and can loose up to 30% of their tips. Please be considerate when traveling with children or pets. You will require special services that will be added to your room bill upon check out. Additionally, for sitters or dog walkers, a tip of $3-5 is appropriate. Most restaurants have a policy of ‘No Separate Checks’. If it is absolutely necessary for separate checks, add an extra 5%-10% for the service person to divide the bill for you.

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18 Amazing US Islands to Add to Your Travel Bucket List in 2024

Posted: January 11, 2024 | Last updated: January 11, 2024

Is an island paradise calling your name? If so, consider sticking close to home with a number of exciting U.S. islands scattered across the country and beyond. 

You won’t have to travel far to visit these destinations, but you could offset your travel costs by using the best travel credit cards .

If quick flights and a dream trip sound good to you, here are 18 U.S. islands to use for travel inspiration to either add to your bucket list or to put on your radar for your next vacation.

Earn Points and Miles: Find the best travel credit card for nearly free travel

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Croix is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean and is the type of place most people would typically imagine when thinking about where to have a laid-back island experience. 

The island has white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and plenty of sun for anyone dreaming about heaven on Earth. Visiting will make you want to go on more vacations !

Buck Island Reef National Monument, one of three underwater national monuments in the U.S., is located here and offers visitors the chance to explore this protected area.

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Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head is a large island located close to the Georgia border in southern South Carolina, less than an hour’s drive from Savannah, Georgia. 

The area is perfect for family vacations or couples getaways because you have loads of activities to choose from. This includes visiting beaches, golfing, biking, and participating in plenty of water activities.

Apart from your typical beach island experiences, you also have the opportunity to golf, have a spa day, or enjoy the local nightlife. At Hilton Head, there’s truly something for everyone.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Just a few hours south of Tampa lies Sanibel Island. This island along the Gulf of Mexico is famous for shelling, or searching the sandy beaches for different kinds of shells. 

In fact, the practice has become so popular here that people call the act of leaning over to pick up shells the “Sanibel Stoop.”

Between Sanibel Island and nearby Captiva Island on the Gulf Coast, you have over 15 miles of Florida beaches to explore, whether you’re shelling or simply enjoying a sun-soaked vacation.

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Cumberland Island, Georgia

Many U.S. islands can be reached by road or bridge, but Cumberland Island, along the borders of Georgia and Florida, is accessed by ferry. 

Add in the fact that the island is part of the National Park Service (NPS) as the Cumberland Island National Seashore, and you’ve got a unique destination on your hands.

Cumberland Island is a prime spot for camping and exploring, with plenty of NPS campsites and miles of beaches and marshes waiting for a visit. Bikes are a good and recommended option for exploring the island and looking for glimpses of wildlife, which could include wild horses.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Why choose one U.S. island for your travels when you can experience multiple on the same trip? 

The Outer Banks, often shortened to OBX, are a string of barrier islands in North Carolina that can be the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.

The sandy beaches are ideal for any ocean-goers, though you might be interested in visiting Jockey’s Ridge State Park as well. It’s a 426-acre park with the East Coast's largest natural living sand dune on the East Coast. Visitors can enjoy the dunes, take hang-gliding lessons, and hike through the park.

Amelia Island, Florida

Located in Northeastern Florida, Amelia Island is a 13-mile-long island that’s known for its sandy beaches and year-round mild temperatures, perfect for a summer road trip. 

It’s away from the hustle and bustle of popular South Florida destinations, but you’re still only 30 miles from Jacksonville if you’re interested in city activities.

Visitors to Amelia Island can enjoy a horseback ride along the beach or picturesque views from one of the many bed and breakfasts in the area. Amelia Island has been ranked as one of the best islands in the U.S. by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.

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Santa Catalina Island, California

The Los Angeles area is known for Hollywood, theme parks, and plenty of beachfront property. But if you want a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of this west coast city, head out to sea and visit Santa Catalina Island.

This island is located about 22 miles off the Los Angeles coast, and it’s a popular destination among California’s Channel Islands. It’s accessible by ferry, private boat, or private plane, with the ferry being the most common option.

Santa Catalina is full of adventures, from ocean excursions to zip-lining tours. Other activities include playing the Catalina Island Golf Course or visiting the Catalina Casino historic landmark.

Assateague Island, Virginia and Maryland

Assateague Island is located in both Virginia and Maryland, stretching 37 miles between the two states along the Atlantic Coast. 

Parts of the island are split into the Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park, so you have the opportunity to visit two states, a national seashore, and a state park all during the same trip.

If you’re a fan of wildlife viewing, don’t miss out on the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is also on Assateague Island. 

Mount Desert Island, Maine

You may have heard of Acadia National Park in Maine, but have you heard of Mount Desert Island? This island in Maine is where most of Acadia National Park is located and the town of Bar Harbor.

The island is a prime destination for many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and camping. 

The best time to visit would typically be during the summer because it gets so cold during winter in Maine. But if you’re up for an adventure, winter activities, such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, are also available.

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Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

To the south of Cape Cod and a short 45-minute ferry ride away from the mainland lies the island of Martha’s Vineyard. 

This island has everything you might want in a charming New England destination. But it’s also an island. That means you get sandy beaches and ocean views all around, plus historic lighthouses and other landmarks.

The activities on Martha’s Vineyard are plentiful and largely revolve around the outdoor environment. They include biking, hiking, birding, fishing, sailing, and kayaking. However, the real treat of staying on the island may be the unique New England seafood you get to eat. 

Goat Island, New York

If you’ve ever seen an aerial view of Niagara Falls, you may have noticed an island sitting in the middle of the Niagara River along the U.S. and Canadian border. That’s Goat Island, and it’s likely a stop along your travels if Niagara Falls is on your bucket list.

This island, which is where Niagara Falls State Park is located, is accessible only by car from the U.S. side of the falls. The main attraction here is Niagara Falls, which you can spot from different viewpoints around the island. 

In addition, don’t miss out on the Cave of the Winds experience, which allows you to view the waterfalls from close up along wooden walkways. Just be warned: You’ll likely get wet.

Block Island, Rhode Island

This island off the coast of Rhode Island, and not too far from Long Island, is accessible by ferries from both Rhode Island and Connecticut. Block Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you want to engage in activities or simply enjoy ocean breezes anywhere you go.

Activities include hiking, biking, kayaking, sailing, fishing, and more. For a truly unique experience, don’t miss out on visiting Mohegan Bluffs. 

At this historic site of a 16th-century battle between Native American tribes, a set of 141 steps leads to a beautiful beach overshadowed by 200-foot cliffs. Whether you enjoy history or lovely scenery, it’s worth a visit.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan is a popular destination if you’re interested in getting away, but not too far away. It’s about a four-hour drive from Detroit and over three hours from Grand Rapids, so you aren’t necessarily close to any major cities. 

In addition, the border of Canada is just an hour’s drive to the north, which makes this a unique spot to visit. 

Camping isn’t allowed on the island, but you have your choice of hotels, inns, or bed and breakfasts to choose from for lodging.

Madeline Island, Wisconsin

Welcome to Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior in Wisconsin. 

Lake Superior may not be an ocean, but it’s one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. This gives you plenty of space for boating and other water-based activities, such as canoeing, swimming, and kayaking.

And even though Wisconsin isn’t seen as a big beach destination, you still get sandy beaches on Madeline Island for relaxing and having fun in the sun. When you’re not sunbathing, consider a hike through Big Bay State Park, located on the island, or check out a local restaurant for some delicious fare.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juans, or San Juan Islands, are a grouping of 172 islands and reefs in San Juan County of Western Washington. The three most well-known and largest islands of the bunch are Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and San Juan Island.

Each island has its own unique activities and options for entertainment, so it’s hard to go wrong with selecting an island to visit. Kayaking, hiking, and fishing are fun pastimes on the islands, but it might be worth your time to book a whale-watching tour if you’ve never had this type of unique experience before.

Orcas, or killer whales, are year-round inhabitants of the San Juan Islands, but it’s possible to see other types of whales and wildlife as well, such as humpback whales or Steller sea lions.

Maui, Hawaii

Visiting Hawaii is a travel bucket list destination for many travel enthusiasts, but you have to decide which island(s) to visit before you go. For some, a stop on Maui is a no-brainer.

Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island and is sometimes called, “The Valley Isle.” When you think of island paradises, Maui could easily fit anyone’s imagination because of its sandy beaches and pristine waters. 

For a change of pace, go hiking or horseback riding through the countryside and enjoy the dense, green forests in the area.

Whidbey Island, Washington

Whidbey Island is located north of Seattle in Puget Sound and offers picturesque scenery for anyone visiting the area. 

A few main highways, 20 and 525, cut across the island from north to south, which makes it easy to visit different parts of the island. This includes crossing the Deception Pass Bridge to Pass Island and Fidalgo Island in the north or ending up at the Clinton Ferry in the south.

The most prominent attraction on the island for many people is the outdoors. You have windswept cliffs, beaches, and six different state parks to explore. 

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

For a more fast-paced island lifestyle compared with St. Croix, consider another U.S. Virgin Island with St. Thomas. This island offers loads of dining options, a golf course, a water park, and plenty of shopping selections.

If you don’t like to be disconnected from entertainment options but still want to be on a beautiful island, St. Thomas is likely the U.S. Virgin Island for you. 

You get to enjoy shopping and dining one day and relaxing at the beach the next. It’s the perfect combination of entertainment and nature.

Bottom line

If you want an island getaway but want a vacation within driving distance, the U.S. has plenty of beautiful destinations to choose from.

Whether it’s the U.S. Virgin Islands or an island off the coast of Washington, the locations are varied, interesting, and filled with things to do.

Remember to research different ways, such as using the best travel credit cards , if you want to help take the debt out of paying for a dream island vacation. 

There are so many great island destinations available just in the U.S. that the vacation of your dreams might be closer than you think. 

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