Who says you need a plane ticket to escape to an island paradise? The United States is dotted with amazing islands that are just a car or ferry ride away. From coastal gems to lake retreats, these 25 drivable islands offer a perfect blend of convenience and adventure.
Get ready to pack your bags, hit the road, and discover some of America’s most accessible island getaways!
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head is like a playground for beach lovers and golf enthusiasts. With 12 miles of pristine beaches and more golf courses than you can shake a club at, it’s no wonder this island is a favorite for family vacations and romantic getaways alike.
Galveston Island, Texas
Galveston brings a taste of the tropics to the Lone Star State. From lounging on sun-soaked Gulf Coast beaches to riding roller coasters at the Pleasure Pier, this island knows how to show visitors a good time.
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Mount Desert Island, Maine
Home to Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island is a nature lover’s dream come true. Hike up Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views, or explore the rugged coastline – just keep an eye out for moose!
Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island is where Southern charm meets Florida sunshine. With 13 miles of quartz sand beaches and a historic district that looks like it’s straight out of a movie set, it’s the perfect spot for those who like their beach vacation with a side of culture.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is like stepping into a time machine – but with better fudge. Cars are out, horse-drawn carriages are in, and the charm dial is turned up to eleven.
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Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Famous for its wild ponies, Chincoteague Island is straight out of a storybook. Between spotting ponies on the beach and digging into fresh seafood, visitors might forget they’re still in Virginia.
Coronado Island, California
Coronado Island is the crown jewel of San Diego Bay. With the iconic Hotel del Coronado presiding over sparkling beaches, it’s easy to see why this island has been a favorite of Hollywood stars for decades.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Dauphin Island is the Gulf Coast’s hidden gem. Bird watchers flock to the Audubon sanctuary, while history buffs can explore Fort Gaines – it’s like a two-for-one deal on island adventures.
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Key West, Florida
Key West is where quirky meets tropical at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. From Ernest Hemingway’s six-toed cats to the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square, there’s never a dull moment on this colorful island.
Padre Island, Texas
Padre Island is Texas-sized fun in the sun. The northern part is perfect for a quick getaway, while the southern part – a national seashore – is where things get wild (literally, it’s teeming with wildlife).
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Once a playground for America’s wealthiest families, Jekyll Island is now a state park open to all. It’s like getting a VIP pass to nature, complete with pristine beaches and historic mansions.
Whidbey Island, Washington
Whidbey Island is the Pacific Northwest in miniature. From charming small towns to misty forests and dramatic coastal views, it’s got a little bit of everything that makes this corner of the country special.
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Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is a shell collector’s version of hitting the jackpot. Its east-west orientation makes it a shell magnet, and its laid-back vibe makes it hard for visitors to leave.
Kelleys Island, Ohio
Kelleys Island is Lake Erie’s best-kept secret. With its glacial grooves and quaint village vibes, it’s the perfect escape for those who like their island time with a dash of geological wonder.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Savannah, Tybee Island is where beach time and Southern hospitality collide. Between the lighthouse, the laid-back beaches, and the fresh seafood, it’s hard not to fall in love with this little slice of coastal Georgia.
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South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island is Texas’s answer to the Caribbean. With its endless water activities and sea turtle rescue center, it’s a place where you can work on your tan and your good karma at the same time.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is like a perfectly preserved postcard from the 19th century, but with better restaurants. From its cobblestone streets to its sweeping beaches, every inch of this island is picture-perfect.
Camano Island, Washington
Camano Island is an easy-breezy member of the Puget Sound island family. No ferries and no bridges – just a laid-back vibe and plenty of nature to explore.
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Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island is a golfer’s paradise, and a beach lover’s dream rolled into one. With world-class golf courses and miles of pristine beaches, it’s like hitting a hole-in-one on your vacation.
Longboat Key, Florida
Longboat Key is where to go when you want your beach vacation with a side of sophistication. It’s got all the natural beauty of the Florida coast, plus enough culture and fine dining to keep things interesting.
Hatteras Island, North Carolina
Hatteras Island is the Outer Banks’ wild child. With its famous lighthouse and prime kiteboarding conditions, it’s a favorite for those who like their beach time with a dash of adventure.
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Avalon, Santa Catalina Island, California
Avalon brings Mediterranean vibes to Southern California. A quick ferry ride from the mainland transports visitors to an island that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.
Grand Isle, Louisiana
Grand Isle is Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island, and boy, does it make the most of it. Between the fishing, the birding, and the beaches, it’s a nature lover’s playground with a Cajun twist.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island feels like it’s a world away. With its wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and stunning views of the Seattle skyline, it’s the perfect day trip escape.
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Shelter Island, New York
Nestled between the North and South Forks of Long Island, Shelter Island is the laid-back cousin of the Hamptons. It’s got all the charm and none of the pretense, making it the perfect spot for a low-key getaway.
An Unforgettable Vacation Awaits
From coast to coast, these 25 islands prove that some of the best getaways are just a drive away. Whether you’re looking for beach time, outdoor adventures, or a bit of island history, there’s a drivable U.S. island for you.
So gas up the car and get ready to experience the best of America’s accessible islands – no passport required!
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