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Top 10 Best Islands in the US in 2025

Top 10 Best Islands in the US in 2025

The United States is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world. From sun-soaked beaches to lush forests and unique wildlife, each island has something special to offer.

In this article, we count down the top 10 islands in the US, starting from number 10 and moving to number 1, as reported by CN Traveler in its Readers’ Choice Awards.

Top 10 Best Islands in the US in 2025
Photo: Thierry Caro | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Plage-Hilton-Head-Island-1.JPG

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island is a popular vacation spot known for its beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy biking along scenic trails, exploring local shops, or relaxing on the calm, sandy shores.

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The island’s mix of nature and leisure activities makes it a top destination in the Southeast.

FeatureDetails
StateSouth Carolina
Main AttractionsBeaches, Golf, Wildlife Reserves
Best Time to VisitSpring and Fall
Average Score96.39
Top 10 Best Islands in the US in 2025
Photo: OzarksRazorback | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kiawah_Island.jpg

9. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Island is famous for its luxury resorts and pristine natural areas. Golf enthusiasts will find world-class courses, while nature lovers can explore marshlands and watch for native birds. It’s a peaceful getaway with an emphasis on relaxation and outdoor experiences.

FeatureDetails
StateSouth Carolina
Main AttractionsGolf Courses, Beaches, Wildlife
Best Time to VisitSpring and Fall
Average Score95.52
Haleakalā Crater, Maui, Hawaii; Photo- Wikipedia

8. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is a Hawaiian favorite, known for its stunning beaches, scenic drives, and volcanic landscapes. Popular activities include snorkeling, whale watching, and exploring Haleakalā National Park. Maui combines adventure, natural beauty, and luxury for a complete island experience.

FeatureDetails
StateHawaii
Main AttractionsBeaches, Volcanoes, Snorkeling
Best Time to VisitApril to May, September to November
Average Score93.35
Photo: Skdb | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Starr-090730-3445-Ficus_microcarpa-habit_in_garden-Honolulu_Airport-Oahu_(24852771262).jpg

7. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu offers a mix of city life and nature. Honolulu, the state capital, sits on the island with historic sites, shopping, and nightlife. Beyond the city, visitors can hike trails, enjoy famous beaches like Waikiki, and immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture.

FeatureDetails
StateHawaii
Main AttractionsHonolulu, Waikiki Beach, Hiking
Best Time to VisitMarch to May, September to November
Average Score93.04
Top 10 Best Islands in the US in 2025
Photo: Halibut Thyme | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lanai_city_houses.jpg

6. Lanai, Hawaii

Lanai is smaller and more secluded than other Hawaiian islands. It’s perfect for travelers looking for quiet beaches, luxury resorts, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. The island has unique landscapes, including volcanic rock formations and botanical gardens.

FeatureDetails
StateHawaii
Main AttractionsLuxury Resorts, Beaches, Hiking
Best Time to VisitYear-round
Average Score92.45
Photo: Matthew T Rader | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:An_aerial_photo_of_a_residential_neighborhood_on_Padre_Island.jpg

5. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is a top choice for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can swim, kiteboard, or go dolphin watching. The island also hosts spring break events, making it a lively destination for young travelers.

FeatureDetails
StateTexas
Main AttractionsBeaches, Water Sports, Wildlife
Best Time to VisitSpring and Summer
Average Score91.51
Photo: Bobak | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nantucket-08-2004.jpg

4. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket is famous for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and lighthouses. It’s a peaceful island with beautiful beaches, local seafood, and boutique shopping. Visitors often enjoy biking, exploring museums, or taking boat tours.

FeatureDetails
StateMassachusetts
Main AttractionsBeaches, Historic Sites, Lighthouses
Best Time to VisitJune to September
Average Score91.43
Photo: IIP Photo Archive | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hanalei_Pier,_Kauai,_Hawaii,_U.S.A.jpg

3. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is lush and full of natural beauty. Visitors can hike the Napali Coast, visit waterfalls, and explore botanical gardens. Kauai offers a more relaxed Hawaiian experience with plenty of outdoor adventures.

FeatureDetails
StateHawaii
Main AttractionsHiking, Beaches, Waterfalls
Best Time to VisitApril to June, September to November
Average Score91.40
Photo: Jack Kennard | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Amelia_Island_Shrimp_Boat.jpg

2. Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island is a quiet destination with pristine beaches, historic sites, and nature preserves. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, kayaking, or exploring the charming downtown area. It’s a family-friendly spot with a mix of relaxation and activities.

FeatureDetails
StateFlorida
Main AttractionsBeaches, Historic Downtown, Nature Preserves
Best Time to VisitSpring and Fall
Average Score90.64
Photo: George | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kohala_coast_at_the_Big_Island_of_Hawaii_from_the_air_levels.jpg

1. Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island is the largest Hawaiian island, offering diverse landscapes from volcanic craters to lush rainforests. Popular activities include visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, snorkeling with manta rays, and exploring black sand beaches. Its diversity makes it the top island in the US.

FeatureDetails
StateHawaii
Main AttractionsVolcanoes, Beaches, Snorkeling
Best Time to VisitApril to June, September to November
Average Score90.54
Photo:Tashmetova808| Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Golf_club,_Yas_island,_Abu_Dhabi_city,_UAE.jpg

Ranking

RankIslandStateScore
10Hilton Head IslandSouth Carolina96.39
9Kiawah IslandSouth Carolina95.52
8MauiHawaii93.35
7OahuHawaii93.04
6LanaiHawaii92.45
5South Padre IslandTexas91.51
4NantucketMassachusetts91.43
3KauaiHawaii91.40
2Amelia IslandFlorida90.64
1Big IslandHawaii90.54
Fort Lauderdale sunset views from a deck
Photo: Sharon Hahn / Wikimedia

Bottom Line

From the tropical beauty of Hawaii to the historic charm of Massachusetts, these islands offer something for every traveler.

Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or culture, the US has islands that fit every type of vacation.

Visiting any of these top 10 islands guarantees memorable experiences and breathtaking scenery.

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