Best Islands in the United States: iBestTravel Readers’ Favorites

When it comes to the best islands in the United States, readers gave the East Coast a near-clean sweep on this year’s list. Only one entry on this list isn’t located on the Atlantic seaboard, and that exception sits in a lake in the middle of the country.

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.

What all of the destinations on this year’s list have in common is a decidedly laid-back vibe. Georgia’s Cumberland Island (No. 3) is accessible only by ferry and limited to 300 visitors at a time. There are no cars or stores, a single hotel (the charming 15-room Greyfield Inn, a former home of the Carnegie family set on 200 acres), and some 100 feral horses that roam the nearly 18 miles of coast. “The undeveloped nature is so seductive and lovely,” wrote one reader. “What a rare and precious gift!”

Cars are also prohibited on Michigan’s Mackinac Island (No. 5) in Lake Huron. With biking and walking trails along its roughly 8-mile circumference, quaint inns, and plenty of restaurants, Mackinac is popular for day trips as well as longer visits. “An amazing time-warp destination that retains a lot of Victorian traditions,” wrote one reader, while another enthused, “Absolutely beautiful.”

Still, it’s hard to deny the charm of the southern United States, where seven of the top ten islands can be found, including the one that has retained a firm hold on the No. 1 spot for four years in a row.

10. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Score: 80.80

• Cost: The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, skylark.com, rates $305/night
• Includes daily breakfast, $100 resort credit

9. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Score: 81.44

8. Amelia Island, Florida

Score: 81.49

• Cost: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, skylark.com, rates from $408/night
• Includes daily breakfast, $100 spa credit

7. Florida Keys, Florida

Score: 81.72

• Cost: Sunset Key Cottages, skylark.com, rates from $685/night
• Includes daily breakfast, $100 resort credit

6. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Score: 82.22

• Cost: The Wauwinet in Nantucket, skylark.com, rates from $218/night
• Includes room upgrade upon arrival, adults-only hotel

5. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Score: 82.26

4. Golden Isles (Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, St. Simons Island), Georgia

Score: 84.00

• Cost: The Lodge at Sea Island, skylark.com, rates from $455/night
• Includes daily breakfast, $100 resort credit

3. Cumberland Island, Georgia

Score: 84.83

2. Mount Desert Island, Maine

Score: 85.53

1. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Score: 85.83

This verdant island continues to draw a faithful fanbase, thanks to its idyllic shores (think: frolicking dolphins, nesting turtles, near-empty beaches) and air of sophisticated luxury (consider its prize-winning golf courses and lauded restaurants). Moreover, visitors can move from one to the other within minutes on a bicycle, and “everyone is aware of and respectful of cyclists,” as one reader observed. Consequently, it’s easy to understand why Hilton Head is beloved by travelers craving an effortless getaway. “Love this island! Easy access to a wonderful slice of paradise,” wrote another fan. “People are extremely friendly, and the food is to die for!”