Are you searching for your next tropical beach vacation near the USA?
If you live in the US, you’re lucky to be close to several beautiful tropical islands.
Quick Picks
- Best for East Coast: Bermuda
- Best for South: Bahamas
- Best for Midwest: Bahamas
- Best for West Coast: Hawaii
10. Caye Caulker, Belize
Best time to visit: January – April
Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize in the Caribbean. You can get to it by water taxi or a small plane. It’s known for having a slower-paced vibe, compared to Ambergris Caye. Though, you can still find a nightlife scene here. Caye Caulker is a great option if you’re looking for a chill island vacation.
Things to do
- Dine at the Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill
- Snorkel or scuba dive at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Tarpon feeding dock
9. Sunset Key, Florida
Sunset Key is a small (27-acre) island, just off the coast of Key West. It was created during the Cold War as a refueling station for tankers.
It’s not the island to visit if you’re looking for a wild party.
Instead, expect a relaxed, quiet, and private vacation. It’s more common among families and honeymooners.
It’s also a private island, so you can’t randomly show up to explore.
Things to do
- Visit the Key West Aquarium
- Go on a shark & wildlife tour
- Explore the Key West Museum of Art & History
8. Isla Mujeres, Mexico
If Mexico is calling your name, but you want to stay away from the busyness of Cancun or Playa del Carmen, this is the place for you.
Located just eight miles off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a beautiful tropical island with so much to offer.
Known for its friendly locals, this destination is where you can have it all – relaxation and recreation.
There’s plenty to do, ranging from sports to shopping, but you can also find tranquility and quietness on the island.
Famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, this island is perfect for kids and adults alike.
Things to do
- Snorkel a coral reef
- Visit Garrafon Park
- Explore Punta Sur
7. Montego Bay, Jamaica
This list wouldn’t be complete without a party island.
Introducing… Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Known for its wild spring break parties, Montego Bay can also be low-key during the off-season.
It’s located on Jamaica’s north coast and is the capital of Saint James Parish, making it a major cruise ship port.
Even though there’s a lot of nightlife in Montego Bay, there are several private all-inclusive resorts.
If you’re looking for some solitude, Sandal’s South Coast is a great option.
Things to do
- Eco-adventures
Take a tour through the caverns, float down the Martha Brae River, or explore the Luminous Lagoons as an alternative to the beach
- Explore downtown Montego Bay (restaurants & nightlife)
6. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
Locally known as Provo, Providenciales is an island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago.
It’s known for having amazingly beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water.
As Providenciales is the busiest of the Turks and Caicos islands, don’t expect complete seclusion, though there are still opportunities for privacy.
With many beaches, various accommodation options, and many activities, Providenciales is perfect for families and couples looking for a stunning tropical getaway.
Things to do
- Visit Chalk Sound National Park
- Relax on the famous Grace Bay Beach
5. Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands and is a major cruise ship port.
It’s rare to find a tropical island that has beautiful beaches, and amazing waters, but also a rich history.
You can curate your trip to Grand Cayman based on what you’re interested in.
Among all of these wonderful aspects, you’ll still have your tropical beach getaway.
What else could you possibly ask for on an island?
Things to do
- Visit the Fort George ruins
- Learn about Caymanian heritage at the Cayman Islands National Museum
- Water sports and outdoor activities
4. Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba
Known for its beautiful and long sandy beaches, Cayo Largo del Sur in Cuba is located off Cuba’s southern coast.
Cayo Largo del Sur is a tropical island perfect for your next vacation.
The main attraction on this island is its beaches, which shouldn’t come as a surprise on a tropical island.
If you’re interested in other activities, you can find those here. While Cuba may not be the most popular tourist destination, Cayo Largo del Sur is a great introduction to Cuba and its culture.
Things to do
- Centro de Rescate de Tortugas Marinas
A sea turtle farm and conservation center
- Visit the three main beaches
Playa los Cocos, Playa Blanca, Playa Lindarena
3. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is arguably the best island in Hawaii.
It’s a safe, easy choice that will leave you suntanned, relaxed, and energized.
Home to Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital city, you have the luxury of choice in Oahu.
If you’d like seclusion and privacy, go to one of the smaller towns located in Oahu.
If you want a mixture of solitude and fun, consider Waikiki as your vacation destination.
And finally, if you want the hustle and bustle of the city, Honolulu is the choice for you.
Things to do
- Visit the Pearl Harbor memorial, west of Honolulu
- Hike in the rainforest at Manoa Falls
2. St. George’s, Bermuda
St. George’s, Bermuda, is one of Bermuda’s main islands.
It’s also home to St. George’s, the town, which was the first English settlement of the territory.
Spanning 703 acres, St. George’s island is a mixture of beaches and history.
Fun fact:
- St. George’s is a UNESCO world heritage site due to its history.
You can spend all of your time in the main area, or venture out for day trips to sightsee more of Bermuda.
Things to do
- Visit the various museums, churches, and parks.
- Enjoy the sandy beaches, sunshine, and water
- Watch the public punishment performance during the summer months in King’s square
1. Nassau, Bahamas
Last but not least, we have the capital of the Bahamas… Nassau.
The Bahamas are a staple for a tropical beach vacation.
Nassau is a good blend of nightlife and luxury, as well as relaxation and beach time.
It’s well-suited for families and couples, so come with whomever you’d like.
This island especially has many casinos, so if you enjoy gambling, this may be a good option.
Things to do
- Visit the offshore coral reefs
- Enjoy the nightlife and restaurant scene
There are so many tropical islands just outside of the United States to choose from, but these 10 are the most beautiful.
You can have your pick of city life, seclusion, relaxation, or all of the above.
Best of all, you’ll only be a short flight from the USA.
