Picturesque Mackinac Island is situated in Lake Huron between the state’s upper and lower peninsulas. A great destination for the outdoorsy and adventurous, Mackinac Island has more than 70 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore. Meander through Historic Downtown to view beautiful, 18th-century architecture and to tour Fort Mackinac — the oldest building in Michigan — along with other historic sites.

A true New England getaway, Martha’s Vineyard — located seven miles off the coast of Cape Cod — lures travelers to its shores with its history, charm and natural beauty. Meander through the historic districts of Edgartown, Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. Tour the Vineyard’s five lighthouses, or find respite on one of the island’s 19 scenic beaches. Avoid crowds of tourists and travel here from October to May when prices also tend to be less expensive.

Lush forests, placid lakes and beautiful, craggy shorelines await the outdoorsy and adventurous at Orcas Island, in the San Juan Islands, off the coast of Washington. Stroll through some of the island’s charming waterfront villages, hike the miles of trails in Moran State Park, or go on a wildlife or marine life tour to spot bald eagles or Orca whales.

The San Juan Islands, located just off the coast of Washington, represent the best the Pacific Northwest has to offer — lush forests, quaint fishing villages and scenic waterways. A top whale-watching destination, the island is best visited from mid-April to October when whale sightings are most popular, and when the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures.

Nantucket Island may be small but it’s so full of character. With cobblestone streets, historic cottages and quaint shops and restaurants, the “Faraway Land” — as it was referred to by Native Americans — provides visitors of all ages with the perfect New England getaway. Meander through downtown’s historic district, charter a boat for a day of fishing, or watch the sunset on popular Madaket Beach.

A part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Ocracoke Island is a small fishing village only accessible by ferry, private boat or plane. The island’s 16 miles of pristine, undeveloped beaches — protected by the National Park Service — offer a peaceful escape to travelers willing to make the trip. Explore the tree-lined streets and 1880s architecture of Ocracoke Village and the Ocracoke Lighthouse — one of the oldest lighthouses still in use in the U.S.

Located off Florida’s Gulf Coast, the sister islands of Sanibel and Captiva offer travelers a tranquil, tropical escape year-round. The beautiful, shell-strewn beaches on both islands rank among the top destinations for shelling, and provide the perfect landscape to sit back, relax and watch the sun set. The island’s pristine, turquoise blue waters are also great for offshore fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving.

For a five-star luxury island getaway, visit Sea Island. Part of Georgia’s Golden Isles — which includes St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons and Brunswick — Sea Island is only 75 miles south of Savannah. Book a room at the island’s internationally acclaimed Sea Island Cloister Resort, play a round (or more) at one of the three championship golf courses, or melt the stress away with a day at the lavish Spa at Sea Island.

Moss-draped oaks, centuries-old historic sites and charming shops and restaurants line the streets of St. Simons Island, the largest barrier island in Georgia’s Golden Isles. Tour St. Simons Lighthouse — a working lighthouse built in 1872 — tee off at one of the three 18-hole championship golf courses, or stretch out on East Beach — perfect for sunbathing, windsurfing and more.

Located on the eastern end of Long Island, Shelter Island is a quiet island with secluded beaches and one of the richest nature preserves in the northeast. Go boating, sailing or fishing along the island’s 17 miles of coastline, ride a bike to secluded Shell Beach, or explore the miles of trails in the Mashomack Preserve — a nearly 2,100-acre preserve that makes up 1/3 of the island.