Often when daydreaming of an island getaway, most travelers conjure up images of far-off idyllic places and locations. But if it isn’t quite time for a trip to Bora Bora or the Maldives just yet, that’s okay. There are more than a few amazing U.S. destinations that can give you a taste of island life sans passport or the 10+ hour flight. From historic barrier islands and secluded spots full of adventure to romantic seaside paradises and charming coastal getaways, there’s something for everyone. So to help you plan one memorable vacation, here are ten magical island getaways in the U.S. to consider immediately.

10 Nantucket, Massachusetts

First up, Nantucket, Massachusetts, is a wonderful U.S. island destination for some quintessential American island living. With ample sailing, seafood, beaches, easy access to the ocean, and swanky accommodations, this sweet spit of land has all the makings of a great getaway. So if you’re all about the posh island vibes that you will find here, then what are you waiting for? Book a stay at the chic White Elephant Hotel, enjoy some coastal eats at Brant Point Grill, and head to Jetties Beach for some first-class fun in the sun.

Related: 10 Best Oceanfront Vacation Rentals In Nantucket

9 Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Yet another magical island to check out in the U.S. is Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Only 25 miles away from lively Myrtle Beach, island travelers are immediately transported back to a simpler time—hence the lack of grocery stores, gas stations, stoplights, and chain restaurants. That said, unsurprisingly, this is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to get away from it all and simply relax oceanside. In terms of lodging here, there are just two main accommodations— The Pelican and The Sea View. But, the good news is both of these historic accommodations have everything one could ever need.

8 Mount Desert Island, Maine

This expansive U.S. island is definitely for the outdoorsy types. Located not too far away from the lovely little New England town of Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island offers the best of both worlds, including incredibly delicious seafood and a variety of nearby posh accommodations. Here visitors can take a quick trip to Cadillac Mountain for some legendary views or enjoy all the recreational activities available at Acadia National Park. Of course, for those who are just here to drink, eat, and be merry, this island boasts some fantastic nearby restaurants, including Bar Harbor Inn, Terrace Grille, and many more tasty options.

Related: Visit Mount Desert Island: New England's Largest Island

7 Anna Maria Island, Florida

With over seven miles of beaches, Anna Maria Island, Florida, offers travelers amazing beach vibes and then some. This sleepy little island is also a great U.S. destination for anyone looking to kick back and take it easy at a beach resort, of course. Here island goers can also take a leisurely stroll through town, lounge out at any of this island’s incredible beaches, and partake in a whole host of exciting water sports activities and sailing/boating. As a bonus, there are fishing boat charters and beach horseback riding available as well.

  • Recommended Tour: 75 Minute Parasailing Adventure above Bradenton Beach & Anna Maria Island
  • Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
  • Cost: From $89.99 USD per adult

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6 Prince Of Wales Island, Alaska

For island lovers who prefer more of a rustic-style getaway, Prince of Wales Island, Alaska, is for you. This picturesque 140-mile-long island, located off the coast of Ketchikan, is brimming with wildlife (from bald eagles to humpback whales), forested land, waterfalls, phenomenal ocean views, rustic stays, and more. When visiting during the warmer months, island goers can take a U.S. Forest Service ranger-led tour of the absolutely stunning cave known as El Capitan or simply unwind at the Waterfall Resort. It is also worth noting that this island, even in the colder season, is still an outdoorsy paradise full of fun recreational activities.

  • Recommended Tour: Prince of Wales Island Bear-Viewing Tour By Air From Ketchikan
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Cost: From $450 USD per adult

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5 Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Just off the eastern coast of Virginia lies Chincoteague Island. This majestic barrier island has laid back vibes, wild ponies, stunning beaches, comfy accommodations, and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. So if you’re looking for a bit of Southern hospitality to go along with your one-of-a-kind U.S. island retreat, then Chincoteague Island is definitely worth considering. Known as a resort island, guests can expect to be thoroughly pampered when they’re not out enjoying all the unspoiled beauty of this place. Other notable things to see and do here include boat tours, wildlife watching, lounging at the beach, and more.

  • Recommended Tour: Grand Boat Tour around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands
  • Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes
  • Cost: From $89 USD per adult

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4 Santa Catalina Island, California

Of course, if you prefer to feel like you’ve stepped into a far-off European-style island dream, then Santa Catalina Island, California, is for you. Just 25 miles away from the mainland, this island definitely has a Mediterranean atmosphere about it. Here island goers can hang out at Descanso Beach Club, indulge in the finest spa services, marvel at the beautiful ocean and mountain views, plus stay at the renowned Pavilion Hotel, which hosts nightly wine and cheese receptions. In the way of activities, the glass-bottom boat voyage is a wonderful way to enjoy this destination with the whole family.

  • Recommended Tour: 2-hour Inside Adventure Tour on Catalina Island
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Cost: From $56 USD per adult

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3 Seabrook Island, South Carolina

For travelers looking to forgo city life for just a bit, Seabrook Island, South Carolina, is an excellent option. Not too far from Charleston and all its irresistible eats, this ocean paradise offers visitors a wealth of activities, mouthwatering cuisines, accommodations that are all about Southern tradition, and much more. So if you want an island getaway with spa treatments, horseback riding, live music/entertainment, plus delicious local seafood fanfare, then check out Seabrook Island for all this and have yourself a truly magical time.

2 Fire Island, New York

If your ideal island getaway includes boating, beach-going, biking, and hiking, then you needn’t look any further than Fire Island, New York. A quick ferry ride away from the city and the southern coast of Long Island, visitors will find a car-free paradise with pristine beaches. But that’s not all; this island has ample entertainment options, legendary piña colada-like libations, a rich maritime history, and first-rate modern accommodations. While visiting, don’t forget to check out the Fire Island Lighthouse and go adventuring in Fire Island’s Sunken Forest if you can tear yourself away from the beach.

1 Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Finally, for that classic Caribbean island getaway, a trip to Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, is definitely in order. Here visitors can truly be on island time, go for a historic or Alexander Hamilton-focused walking tour, hike Goat Hill, enjoy some bioluminescent kayaking in Salt River, and even do a little snorkeling or scuba-diving. There are also a few distilleries, first-rate restaurants with island-style drinks, shopping, spas, and live entertainment. And when you add sparkling turquoise waters to the long list of things to see, do, and enjoy here—one thing’s abundantly clear you can’t really go wrong with this magical U.S. island destination.

  • Recommended Tour: Horseback Riding Experience
  • Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Cost: From $150 USD per adult

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