U.S. Islands to Visit for Relaxation & Adventure

America’s islands are perfect if you’re craving that sweet balance of peace and play—and I say that as someone who’s been writing about travel for 25 years. I’ve wandered into turquoise coves, hiked volcanoes, biked through sleepy towns, and watched sunsets that felt too perfect to be real. You’ll find it’s the kind of place where you might snorkel with sea turtles in the morning, nap in a hammock by noon, and end your day stargazing without a single care.

Right now, I’m sipping iced coffee on a breezy porch in the San Juan Islands. You’d love it here—bald eagles circle overhead, sea lions bark somewhere in the distance, and everything slows down just enough. This is island time, American-style, and I promise you’ll never want to rush it.

Best U.S. Islands to Visit for Relaxation & Adventure