There’s something undeniably enchanting about the island towns scattered along the southeastern coast of the United States. From sun-drenched beaches to rich histories and unique local cultures, these coastal gems offer an escape that’s both relaxing and invigorating. Whether you’re seeking tranquil shores, vibrant communities, or a taste of island life without leaving the country, this countdown of the top 20 island towns in the Southeast will guide you to your next adventure.
20. Family Fun on Bogue Banks, North Carolina
Nestled along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Bogue Banks is a haven for family-friendly activities. With its expansive beaches perfect for building sandcastles or catching waves, it’s a place where memories are made. Don’t miss the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, where kids and adults alike can marvel at local marine life. For a touch of adventure, explore the Fort Macon State Park, a Civil War fort offering a glimpse into the past and panoramic ocean views. The average price for a 3-4 bedroom home here ranges from $400,000 to $700,000, offering families an opportunity to establish their own seaside sanctuary.
19. Wild Shores of Cumberland Island, Georgia
Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island, is a treasure trove of untouched coastal wilderness. Accessible only by ferry, this island offers a rare opportunity to see wild horses roaming freely along the beaches. Explore the ruins of Dungeness Mansion, once a lavish estate, now a hauntingly beautiful relic overtaken by nature. With maritime forests and tranquil marshes, Cumberland Island is an escape into the wild where the pace of life slows down. A 3-4 bedroom home in this area typically costs between $326,617 and $498,400, making it an affordable choice for those seeking a serene escape.
18. Untouched Nature on Edisto Island, South Carolina
Edisto Island is a peaceful retreat where Spanish moss drapes from live oaks, and the sounds of the sea set the rhythm of life. This uncommercialized island is ideal for those looking to reconnect with nature. The Edisto Island Serpentarium offers an up-close look at native reptiles, a hidden gem for the curious visitor. For a serene experience, embark on a kayak tour through the tidal creeks, where dolphins and seabirds are frequent companions. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms on Edisto Island are priced between $400,000 and $600,000, providing a tranquil haven for nature enthusiasts.
17. Unspoiled Beauty of St. George Island, Florida
St. George Island is a 22-mile barrier island known for its uncrowded, pristine beaches and some of the best fishing in the region. The St. George Island State Park occupies the eastern nine miles and is a sanctuary for wildlife and solitude. Birdwatchers will delight in the migratory species that pass through, and the starry nights are a stargazer’s dream due to minimal light pollution—a hidden treasure for astronomy enthusiasts. A 3-4 bedroom home here comes with a price tag of $1,300,000 to $1,500,000, reflecting its exclusivity and unspoiled charm.
16. Quiet Escape to Pawleys Island, South Carolina
One of the oldest resort areas on the East Coast, Pawleys Island offers an unhurried pace and uncrowded beaches. The island is famed for its rope hammocks, invented here in the late 1800s—a perfect symbol of its commitment to relaxation. Explore the quaint shops and art galleries in the nearby mainland community, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the salt marshes and dunes that make this island a serene getaway. For those seeking a 3-4 bedroom home, prices range from $450,000 to $629,000, offering a blend of history and relaxation.
15. Adventure Awaits in the Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands, are a playground for adventure seekers and history buffs alike. Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, where aviation history was made. For the more daring, hang gliding over the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park offers an unforgettable experience. Scattered with over 3,000 shipwrecks, the area is known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” making it a fascinating destination for diving enthusiasts. A 3-4 bedroom home in this adventure-rich region costs between $400,000 and $700,000, ideal for families seeking coastal thrills.
14. Old Florida Charm on Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island embodies the essence of “Old Florida,” with its charming pastel-colored cottages and a strict ban on high-rise buildings preserving its quaint atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries where the catch of the day is a way of life. The Rod and Reel Pier is a local favorite, offering fishing opportunities and stunning views of Tampa Bay—a hidden gem for those seeking authentic coastal living. Expect to pay between $2,800,000 and $3,000,000 for a 3-4 bedroom home, a price reflective of its luxurious charm and prime location.
13. Wildlife Haven on Fripp Island, South Carolina
As a designated wildlife sanctuary, Fripp Island is a paradise for nature lovers. Deer roam freely across the island, often seen grazing on lawns and wandering the golf courses. The island’s extensive bike paths provide an eco-friendly way to explore its lush landscapes. For a special treat, take a guided turtle walk during nesting season to witness the loggerhead sea turtles, an unforgettable experience unique to this island. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms are priced between $670,000 and $849,000, offering a harmonious blend of luxury and natural beauty.
12. Southern Hospitality on St. Simons Island, Georgia
St. Simons Island welcomes visitors with its majestic oak-lined streets and a rich tapestry of history and culture. Climb the 129 steps of the St. Simons Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. History enthusiasts will appreciate Fort Frederica National Monument, the remnants of a British colonial fort. The island’s village area offers boutique shopping and dining, all infused with genuine Southern charm—a true embodiment of hospitality. A 3-4 bedroom home here typically ranges from $450,000 to $600,000, perfect for enjoying a lifestyle of Southern elegance.
11. Sun-soaked Bliss on Marco Island, Florida
Marco Island is the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands and boasts luxurious resorts along its crescent-shaped shoreline. The island is famous for its stunning sunsets, best enjoyed from the pristine shores of Tigertail Beach. For those looking to explore, rent a boat or join a tour to navigate the maze of waterways among the mangroves—a hidden world teeming with wildlife including manatees and dolphins. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms are priced between $800,000 and $1,100,000, offering a slice of tropical paradise.
10. Hidden Gem of Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Accessible only by ferry, private boat, or plane, Ocracoke Island offers a secluded escape steeped in history and natural beauty. The island’s quaint village is dotted with charming shops and the Ocracoke Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina. Keep an eye out for the Ocracoke ponies, believed to be descendants of shipwrecked Spanish mustangs, roaming freely in protected areas—a delightful surprise for visitors. A 3-4 bedroom home here is priced between $695,000 and $795,000, making it an exclusive and serene retreat.
9. Coastal Simplicity on Dauphin Island, Alabama
Dauphin Island is a tranquil retreat known for its unspoiled beaches and rich birdlife, thanks to its position on a major migratory route. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary offers miles of trails through maritime forests, marshes, and dunes. History buffs can explore Fort Gaines, a key site during the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay. With its laid-back atmosphere, the island is a perfect spot for those seeking a quiet coastal experience. For $400,000 to $600,000, you can own a 3-4 bedroom home in this peaceful paradise.
8. Luxurious Retreat on Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island is synonymous with luxury and natural beauty. Home to the world-renowned Ocean Course, it’s a golfer’s paradise with sweeping views of the Atlantic. The island’s commitment to preserving its rich ecosystem is evident in the lush maritime forests and dune-lined beaches. The Night Heron Park is a hidden gem offering nature programs and adventure activities, making it a destination that balances leisure with exploration. The cost of a 3-4 bedroom home here ranges from $1,900,000 to $2,200,000, reflecting the island’s luxurious lifestyle and pristine environment.
7. Historic Grandeur of Jekyll Island, Georgia
Once the exclusive domain of America’s elite, Jekyll Island now welcomes all to enjoy its historic and natural splendors. The Jekyll Island Club Resort stands as a testament to the Gilded Age, where you can stroll among the cottages of Rockefellers and Vanderbilts. Driftwood Beach, with its weathered trees preserved in the sand, offers an otherworldly landscape—a photographer’s dream and a unique spot for quiet reflection. A 3-4 bedroom home here typically costs between $500,000 and $700,000, offering a blend of history and coastal charm.
6. Shell Collector’s Paradise on Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is famous worldwide for its shell-covered beaches, attracting collectors and casual beachcombers alike. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum offers insights into the island’s rich mollusk population. For nature enthusiasts, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden treasure, providing habitat for hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, and offering visitors an intimate look at Florida’s wildlife. A 3-4 bedroom home here is priced between $850,000 and $1,000,000, making it a sought-after haven for nature and shell lovers alike.
5. Natural Serenity on Bald Head Island, North Carolina
Leave your car behind on Bald Head Island, where transportation is limited to golf carts, bicycles, and your own two feet. This car-free environment creates an unparalleled sense of peace as you explore its 14 miles of pristine beaches and maritime forests. Climb Old Baldy, North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse, for panoramic views. The island’s conservation efforts ensure that its natural beauty remains unspoiled—a true sanctuary for relaxation. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms here range from $900,000 to $1,200,000, offering a peaceful retreat in harmony with nature.
4. Laid-back Vibes of Tybee Island, Georgia
Just a short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island offers a quirky and welcoming beach town atmosphere. Visit the historic Tybee Island Light Station, Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. The island’s pier and pavilion are perfect for fishing or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. For an offbeat adventure, explore the mysterious Tybee Bomb site where, in 1958, a nuclear weapon was lost—a little-known piece of Cold War history adding intrigue to this charming island. A 3-4 bedroom home here costs between $745,000 and $1,000,000, blending laid-back living with rich history.
3. Timeless Beauty of Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island enchants with its blend of Victorian-era history and pristine nature. Stroll through Fernandina Beach’s historic district, with its beautifully preserved buildings and delightful shops. Horseback riding on the beach is a popular activity, offering a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty. Fort Clinch State Park is a hidden gem where reenactments bring history to life amid moss-draped oaks and coastal dunes. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms here are priced from $650,000 to $725,000, making it an accessible slice of timeless charm.
2. Coastal Elegance on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island is renowned for its upscale resorts, golfing excellence, and commitment to the environment. With miles of scenic bike trails, it’s easy to explore the island’s lush landscapes. The Coastal Discovery Museum offers a deeper look into the area’s natural history and cultural heritage. Shelter Cove Towne Centre provides waterfront shopping and dining—a perfect blend of leisure and luxury amidst stunning coastal beauty. A 3-4 bedroom home here costs between $800,000 and $1,000,000, offering the perfect balance of elegance and relaxation.
1. Tropical Charm of Key West, Florida
At the southernmost point of the continental United States, Key West brims with tropical allure and a spirit of adventure. Wander through the vibrant streets lined with conch-style houses, and visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where six-toed cats roam the gardens. For a hidden gem, explore the Key West Cemetery, known for its quirky epitaphs reflecting the island’s unique humor. As the sun sets, Mallory Square comes alive with street performers—a fitting end to a day in this eclectic paradise. Expect to pay between $1,200,000 and $1,595,000 for a 3-4 bedroom home, a price reflecting its tropical charm and vibrant culture.
