Island Getaways That Don’t Require a Passport

There’s something about an island vacation that makes the rest of the world seem to drift away. Don’t get us wrong, we love places such as the Caribbean Islands, Tahiti, or the Greek Isles. But what if you need a quick island getaway here in the states. We’ve picked our favorite island getaways that don’t require a passport.

Florida

Florida is filled with island getaways, with the Florida Keys one of the highlights. While Key West is often a highlight with sidewalk cafes, sunset celebrations, and gay friendly events, don’t forget the other keys. Islamorada is home to amazing seafood restaurants thanks to the popular sport fishing in the area, and Key Largo is only an hour’s drive from a major airport and has exceptional diving.

The Other Florida Keys – Siesta Key, Lido Key, and Longboat Key are home to some of the best beaches in the world, exquisite shopping and dining, and is a short drive from Tampa. Consider these keys for easy to get to option.

Michigan

Not the first place that comes to mind when thinking island vacations, Michigan is home to a very unique island in between the peninsulas. Mackinac Island returns visitors to the days before automobiles, since no cars are allowed on the island. Think horse drawn carriages, bike rides, and grand Victorian architecture. Not to mention, so much world-famous fudge that you can smell it along the main street.

Maine

Maine’s coastline is dotted with hundreds upon hundreds of islands. For a different kind of island adventure head to Mount Desert Island part of Acadia National Park for hiking and wildlife adventures.

Washington

San Juan Islands are a perfect fishing village with lush forests that also happen to be prime whale watching spot.

Texas

South Padre Island is a popular year-round destination and about as close to Mexico as you can get. This bustling island has everything you might expect with white sands, turquoise waters, nightclubs and entertainment.

New York

Manhattan is an island. Who says that islands have to be all sand beachwear? This island truly does have it all, and if you want the beach vacation vibe, head to Coney Island in Brooklyn for that old-fashioned beach boardwalk fun. Long Island offers many beach towns including Montauk. For many, including the LGBT community, Fire Island is an island getaway that is habit forming.

California

We often visit Catalina Island and it’s one of our favorite easy escapes. It is a bit of the Mediterranean in Southern California. Where else in Southern California other than a zoo can you see bison roaming?

Hawaii

And of course, we have to include all the Hawaiian island on this list. While they seem worlds away, you’ll get a different vibe with each island. The Hawaiian islands deserve a full article all their own, so we won’t cover them in detail here.

Ready for an island getaway? Contact us to make your reservations today!

Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3).