Living on an island is choosing to live “removed” from the mainland which appeals to people; it’s remote while not remote at the same time. My wife and I own a boat-access cabin, and while not on an island, it is for all intents and purposes. That said, living on an island does not mean you’re roughing it. There are many islands in the USA, whether off the coast, in a river or lake that offers all that you need except that it’s surrounded by water. Technically, Manhattan is an island LOL and there’s certainly nothing remote about Manhattan. While I don’t include Manhattan in this list, you’ll enjoy these small towns in the USA that are on an island.
25. Put-in-Bay, Ohio
Located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Put-in-Bay is a charming small town known for its relaxed island vibe and vibrant history. The island is relatively small, about 3.7 square miles, and offers a quaint escape from the mainland. Visitors can explore Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, which commemorates a key naval battle in the War of 1812. The island is also home to several wineries, making wine-tasting a popular activity. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation around the town. You can reach Put-in-Bay by ferry from Catawba Island or Port Clinton, Ohio, with a journey of around 20 minutes.
24. Friday Harbor, Washington
Situated on San Juan Island in the Salish Sea, Friday Harbor is a picturesque small town known for its coastal charm and stunning waterfront views. The island itself is about 55 square miles, offering a serene mix of rocky shorelines, lush forests, and quiet coves. Visitors can enjoy whale-watching tours, explore San Juan Island National Historical Park, or visit the Whale Museum to learn about the region’s famous orca pods. The town is filled with cozy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops. You can reach Friday Harbor by ferry from Anacortes, Washington, or by seaplane from Seattle for a scenic flight over the Puget Sound.
23. Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague is located on a small barrier island off the coast of Virginia and is known for its stunning beaches and wild horses. The island is about 37 square miles and sits in the Atlantic Ocean near the Chesapeake Bay. The town is the gateway to Assateague Island National Seashore, where visitors can see the famous Chincoteague ponies, explore hiking trails, and enjoy the pristine beaches. The town itself is quaint, with seafood restaurants, art galleries, and boat tours. You can drive to Chincoteague via the Chincoteague Causeway from the mainland in Virginia.
22. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Nestled in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a car-free destination known for its Victorian charm and stunning natural beauty. The island covers just over 4 square miles and is famous for its horse-drawn carriages, historic forts, and Mackinac Island State Park. Visitors can tour Fort Mackinac, cycle around the island on the 8.2-mile loop, or enjoy the island’s famous fudge shops. The downtown area is filled with quaint hotels, boutiques, and charming restaurants. Mackinac Island is accessible by ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, with ferries running frequently during the tourist season.
21. Bald Head Island, North Carolina
Located off the coast of North Carolina in the Cape Fear River, Bald Head Island is known for its secluded beaches, maritime forests, and laid-back atmosphere. The island covers about 5.8 square miles and is accessible only by ferry from Southport, making it a peaceful retreat from the mainland. Visitors can explore Bald Head Island Conservancy, climb the historic Old Baldy Lighthouse, or enjoy golfing at the island’s picturesque course. The island is car-free, with bicycles and golf carts serving as the primary means of transportation.
20. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is a historic island located about 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod in the Atlantic Ocean. The island is 47 square miles and is renowned for its well-preserved cobblestone streets, charming cottages, and upscale boutiques. The town of Nantucket boasts attractions like the Whaling Museum, picturesque beaches such as Jetties Beach, and charming shops and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the island’s scenic bike paths and lighthouses. You can reach Nantucket by ferry from Hyannis, Massachusetts, or by small plane from various New England airports.
19. Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island is a small island located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island. The island covers around 10 square miles and is known for its dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and charming small-town feel. Visitors can explore the Southeast Lighthouse, take a scenic hike along the Mohegan Bluffs, or enjoy biking around the island. The quaint downtown area features boutique shops, local restaurants, and cozy inns. Block Island is accessible by ferry from Point Judith or New London, Connecticut.
18. Peaks Island, Maine
Peaks Island is part of the Casco Bay Islands and is located just 3 miles off the coast of Portland, Maine. Covering only about 1 square mile, Peaks Island offers a quiet escape with charming cottages, scenic beaches, and beautiful forested trails. Visitors can explore the island by bike or foot, visit the 5th Maine Regiment Museum, or enjoy kayaking in the calm waters. The island’s small-town vibe is enhanced by local shops and cafes. Peaks Island is easily accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride from Portland.
17. Southport, Maine
Southport is a quaint town located on an island in the Sheepscot River off the coast of Maine. The island covers about 5 square miles and is connected to the mainland by a single bridge, offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful ocean views. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beaches, explore Hendricks Head Lighthouse, or take a boat tour around the surrounding islands. The small town itself features art galleries, antique shops, and local restaurants offering fresh seafood. Southport is best reached by car via Boothbay Harbor.
16. Vashon Island, Washington
Vashon Island is located in Puget Sound, just a short ferry ride from Seattle. Covering about 37 square miles, Vashon Island is known for its artistic community, scenic views, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can explore the island’s numerous art galleries, hike through Maury Island Marine Park, or enjoy kayaking along the island’s coastline. Vashon’s quaint downtown is home to local boutiques, cafes, and farmers markets. The island is accessible by ferry from West Seattle, Tacoma, or Southworth.
15. Lopez Island, Washington
Lopez Island is part of the San Juan Islands in the Salish Sea, offering serene landscapes and a slower pace of life. At 29 square miles, the island is known for its rolling farmlands, quiet beaches, and picturesque hiking and biking routes. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, bird-watching, or exploring Shark Reef Sanctuary for wildlife sightings. The town of Lopez Village offers charming shops, cafes, and galleries. Ferries to Lopez Island depart from Anacortes, Washington.
14. Madeline Island, Wisconsin
Madeline Island is the largest of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior, covering about 14 miles in length. The town of La Pointe is home to historic sites, quaint shops, and local eateries. Visitors can explore Big Bay State Park, offering hiking, swimming, and stunning views of the surrounding Apostle Islands. Art galleries and cultural centers provide insights into the island’s rich Native American and settler history. You can reach Madeline Island by ferry from Bayfield, Wisconsin, with a scenic 20-minute ride across Lake Superior.
13. Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island is a small barrier island off the coast of Georgia, just 18 miles from downtown Savannah. The island is about 3 square miles and offers a laid-back beach town vibe with attractions like the Tybee Island Light Station and Fort Pulaski National Monument. Visitors can relax on the sandy beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, or take boat tours for dolphin watching. The quaint downtown area features colorful shops, restaurants, and inns. Tybee Island is accessible by car via US Route 80.
12. Sanibel Island, Florida
Located off the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sanibel Island is known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere. The island covers 33 square miles and is famous for shelling, with thousands of seashells washing up on its shores daily. Visitors can explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, bike along scenic paths, or visit the Sanibel Lighthouse. The town itself offers boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining. Sanibel Island is accessible by car via a causeway from Fort Myers.
11. Fishers Island, New York
Fishers Island is located in Long Island Sound, just 2 miles off the coast of Connecticut but part of New York. The island is about 9 miles long and offers a peaceful atmosphere with scenic beaches, golf courses, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore Race Point Beach, the historic Henry L. Ferguson Museum, or enjoy the island’s nature reserves. Fishers Island is accessible by ferry from New London, Connecticut.
10. Deer Isle, Maine
Deer Isle is a charming island located in Penobscot Bay off the coast of Maine. The island spans about 30 square miles and is connected to the mainland by a scenic suspension bridge. The town of Stonington on Deer Isle is renowned for its working waterfront, lobster shacks, art galleries, and stunning harbor views. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Isle au Haut, part of Acadia National Park, or enjoy kayaking along the rugged coastline. Hiking trails like the Barred Island Preserve offer peaceful walks through forests to secluded beaches. Deer Isle is accessible by car via Route 15 from the mainland.
9. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard is a renowned island in the Atlantic Ocean, located just south of Cape Cod, covering around 100 square miles. The island is home to several quaint towns, including Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven, each offering charming cottages, historic lighthouses, and boutique shops. Visitors can explore the island’s many beaches, bike paths, and scenic hiking trails like the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest. Martha’s Vineyard is a popular destination for celebrity sightings and offers both upscale dining and cozy inns. The island is accessible by ferry from Woods Hole or by plane from regional airports.
8. Bainbridge Island, Washington
Located in Puget Sound, Bainbridge Island is a serene and scenic escape just a short ferry ride from Seattle. The island spans around 28 square miles and is known for its lush forests, scenic coastlines, and small-town charm. Downtown Bainbridge offers cozy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops, while outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Bloedel Reserve or hike through the Grand Forest. Visitors can also kayak along the calm waters of Puget Sound or bike around the island’s scenic roads. The best way to reach Bainbridge is by ferry from Seattle’s waterfront, a picturesque 35-minute ride.
7. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of South Carolina, covers 69 square miles and is famous for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and golf courses. The town’s well-preserved natural landscape is complemented by a network of bike trails, making it easy to explore the island’s scenic beauty. Visitors can take nature walks in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, enjoy kayaking through salt marshes, or visit the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse. The island also boasts a lively arts scene and upscale dining options. Hilton Head is accessible by car via the Cross Island Parkway from the mainland.
6. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
Sullivan’s Island is a small barrier island located at the entrance to Charleston Harbor, covering only about 3.3 square miles. Known for its wide sandy beaches, historic homes, and laid-back vibe, the town offers a quieter alternative to nearby Charleston. Visitors can explore Fort Moultrie, enjoy the beach, or dine at one of the local seafood restaurants. The island is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, making it an ideal spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and bird-watching. Sullivan’s Island is accessible by car from Charleston via the Ben Sawyer Bridge.
5. Chebeague Island, Maine
Chebeague Island is one of the larger islands in Casco Bay, covering 24 square miles, and offers a peaceful retreat with stunning ocean views. The town of Chebeague is known for its historic inns, sandy beaches, and small-town atmosphere. Visitors can explore the island by bike, take a leisurely stroll along the shore, or visit the Chebeague Island Historical Society. The island’s natural beauty is best appreciated on hiking trails like the Indian Point Preserve. Chebeague Island is accessible by ferry from Cousins Island or Portland, Maine.
4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island is a private island located in the Atlantic Ocean, just 25 miles southwest of Charleston, South Carolina. The island covers 13.4 square miles and is renowned for its luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and miles of unspoiled beaches. Visitors can explore the island’s vast network of bike trails, kayak through salt marshes, or take guided nature walks to spot local wildlife, including dolphins and sea turtles. Kiawah’s exclusive and serene atmosphere makes it a top destination for relaxation. The island is accessible by car via a bridge from the mainland.
3. Orcas Island, Washington
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands in the Salish Sea, covering 57 square miles and offering a tranquil setting with a mix of coastal and forested landscapes. The town of Eastsound features quaint cafes, art galleries, and local shops. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Moran State Park, home to the towering Mount Constitution, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and mountains. Kayaking, whale-watching, and hiking are popular activities on Orcas Island. Ferries to the island depart from Anacortes, Washington, or visitors can arrive by seaplane from Seattle.
2. Shelter Island, New York
Shelter Island is located in Long Island Sound, nestled between the North and South Forks of Long Island. The island is approximately 8,000 acres, much of which is protected as nature preserves. The town features charming bed-and-breakfasts, quiet beaches, and historic landmarks like Sylvester Manor. Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty by hiking through Mashomack Preserve, a 2,100-acre nature reserve with trails that wind through forests, marshes, and along the coastline. Shelter Island is accessible by ferry from Greenport or North Haven, Long Island.
1. Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
Daufuskie Island, located between Hilton Head Island and Savannah in the Atlantic Ocean, is a small barrier island with a rich history and a population of just a few hundred residents. Covering 8 square miles, the island is known for its untouched beauty, historic Gullah culture, and peaceful beaches. Visitors can explore the island by golf cart, visit the Bloody Point Lighthouse, or tour historic homes and artisan shops. The island’s isolation adds to its charm, as it is only accessible by ferry from Hilton Head Island or Savannah, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the crowds.
