While most people think they need to escape to a far-flung locale to get a true island experience, that simply isn’t the case. There are dozens of islands in the good ol’ USA and they’re simply stunning.
Every year, readers of Condé Nast Traveler vote on which islands are the best in the U.S. for their annual Readers’ Choice Awards ― and this year’s winners range from a luxurious Georgia island with a generous dollop of southern charm to the tropical flair of the Hawaiian isles and Florida Keys.
Below, check out which islands made the top 10 and the best thing to do on each.
10
Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island
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Best Thing To Do: You can't pass up a tour of the island's most famous mansions. The enormous, luxurious houses invoke the Gilded Age and include summer homes of the Vanderbilts, the Astors and Doris Duke.
9
Longboat Key, Sarasota, Florida
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Best Thing To Do: With year-round warm weather and beaches full of white, powdery sand, a day at the beach on Longboat Key isn't just a safe bet, it's a ticket to tropical heaven.
8
Island of Hawaii
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Best Thing To Do: Hawaii's Big Island has some of the most beautiful black volcanic sand beaches in the world. But it's even more incredible to visit the source of all that sand: the active lava flowing at Kilauea Volcano.
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7
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
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Best Thing To Do: Kiawah Island has it all -- resorts, fine dining, world-class golf courses -- but we'd suggest getting in touch with nature during a stroll or bike ride in Night Heron Park.
6
Hawaiian Island of Kauai
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Best Thing To Do: If you're an avid hiker, the 11-mile Kalalau Trail on Kauai's famously stunning Na Pali Coast is an absolute must.
5
Sea Island, Georgia
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Best Thing To Do: Sea Island is a private island in Georgia where the luxury and southern charm go unmatched. Visit the island's three luxury resorts for a day of golfing, fine dining and, if you're feeling extra fancy, a long day at the spa.
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4
Amelia Island, Florida
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Best Thing To Do: Amelia Island is the perfect place for adventurers, and some of the best experiences take place in the surrounding waters. Rent a kayak, stand-up paddle board or charter a boat for a good time out on the water.
3
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
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Best Thing To Do: This South Carolina gem is the perfect place for a family getaway, with bike tours and dolphin cruises galore. But the best time at Hilton Head Island is a simple day at the beach, perfectly quiet and serene.
2
Hawaiian Island of Oahu
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Best Thing To Do: Known as The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to bustling Waikiki Beach, where every day feels like the ultimate vacation. But if you want to experience true Oahu, escape to Waimanalo Beach -- voted the best beach in the country by the expert himself, Dr. Beach.
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1
Hawaiian island of Maui
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Best Thing To Do: While Maui has plenty of picturesque beaches and an abundance of waterfalls, one of the most memorable experiences you can have on the island is watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala 10,000 feet above sea level.
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