There’s a special allure about traveling to an island—maybe it’s knowing the sea surrounds you, maybe it’s the culture that tends to arise in these areas, hell, maybe it’s simply the hyper-fresh seafood and coconuts. Whatever the reason, travelers are looking for islands this year: global interest in visiting isles has risen 30-percent since last year, according to Expedia. In fact, the travel site noticed the trend was so popular that it created its first-ever "Island Hot List"—and three such islands are located right here in the U.S.
RECOMMENDED: The 11 most beautiful islands in the world
One of those is Nantucket, an island south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts. This upscale enclave has beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets, bright beaches, a good art and dining scene, and fascinating history as a one-time whaling capital and as a spot of Quaker abolitionism. You can also craft a limerick as you stroll around; the island’s got an excellent walkability score, stretching a mere 14 miles long and is 3.5 miles wide. Nantucket is the second-most popular island search among Americans, per Expedia, just after Madeira off the coast of Portugal, famous for its fortified wine.
The third island U.S. travelers seem most interested in is St. Thomas, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. (It became a U.S. territory in 1917, purchased from Denmark with Saint Croix and Saint John for $25 million in gold.) Visitors love the stunning beaches, coral reefs that are excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling, and fascinating historical sites like Blackbeard’s Castle.
Coming in at No. 4 is Palm Beach, Florida. Here, luxury rules, and Mediterranean architecture sets a distinct look along with the tall palm trees. Expect high-end shopping and fine dining, along with museums, water activities and miles of beautiful beaches. And last on the list of where Americans are dreaming of visiting next is Turks and Caicos, located southeast of the Bahamas, which offers secluded luxury adored by celebrities.
When we widen the scope and look at islands that people all over the world are searching for, the only American one is Oahu, Hawai’i. Faraway island locales like Fiji and Koh Samui pop up for affordable beauty and incredible cultural experiences.
These are the top 10 island destinations based on global interest, and what they’re known for:
- Aruba (best for year-round sunshine)
- Bali, Indonesia (best for relaxation)
- Dominican Republic (best for adventure)
- Fiji (best for community)
- Jamaica (best for culture)
- Koh Samui, Thailand (best for affordable luxury)
- Maldives (best for romance)
- Oahu, Hawaii (best for surfing)
- Paros, Greece (best for nightlife)
- Sardinia, Italy (best for food lovers)