Now that summer has officially begun and Americans are ready to hit the road again, you might be looking for a tropical destination. Though international waters may be calling to you, it’s safe to say there are still plenty of folks who aren’t ready to take off for travel abroad. Instead, The Manual has rounded up some of the best islands in the U.S. to visit this summer. From posh villages to remote islands with tons of outdoor adventure activities, these islands are well within reach without having to pull out your passport.
If you skip across Los Angeles and head straight off of the coast, you’ll find a stunning island that’s a lovely place to spend time.
Santa Catalina
offers everything you might want from a laid-back island. There are beaches for relaxing and catching some rays, shops to explore and even a number of outdoor adventure activities. From parasailing to kayaking to the island, there are plenty of ways to have fun around the island. You can even book a whale watching tour or explore sea caves for other forms of sea life. It’s easily an unforgettable way to escape the city.
is just off the coast of Georgia with a ferry that launches from St. Mary. The island is a nature preserve as well as a place of historical significance. No cars are allowed on the islands with very few exceptions, but there are wide sweeping sand beaches with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sun. You can explore the ruins of Dungeness which was a mansion built by James Oglethorpe that wild horses now roam through. Plum Orchard, the Carnegies’ former home, is also open for tours. Ride a bike around the island to explore and overnight at the
is easily within reach by car ferry from Seattle, and it’s well worth the ride. The island, as well as Orcas Island, which is more rural but still has adorable towns, offers stunning landscapes and a reprieve from the city. In the waters around the islands, orca whales live year-round and can be spotted from the ferries or islands. Once you’re on the island, you can enjoy a bistro lunch and shop around before taking a kayaking or biking tour of the island. Fishing charters are also possible. But to make the most of what’s on the island, spend a full weekend there.
, Massachusetts continues to be one of the best islands you can visit in the United States. Apart from its breathtaking scenery, New England style, and white sand beaches, the island continues to be a favorite among many for its shops and eateries. Those who want to relax in style and eat well will find this luxurious spot to have everything they could need. So take time to slow down, take the bike to town and spend an afternoon shopping around before enjoying a leisurely dinner at one of the many great restaurants.
Naturally, the islands of Hawaii are undoubtedly among the first islands many Americans likely think of visiting without going abroad — even if the flight is still substantial. For a refreshing island with plenty of beautiful landscapes, try visiting
Kauai
. This island covered in tropical rainforests is home to many amazing views of the lush greenery, waterfalls, and the ocean below. The island boasts tons of vibrant flowers and plenty of wildlife, so it’s a perfect place to disconnect from the world and tune into your surroundings. Not to mention, Waimea Canyon is here and should be on your Hawaii bucket list.
So no matter what corner of the country is most convenient to you, there’s definitely a wonderful island retreat within reach. Just pack your bags and don’t worry about the passport. Enjoying a tropical or oceanside escape is so much closer than you might have realized.
These are the best wine regions to visit in Europe
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Bordeaux tops the list
Are you dreaming of sipping wine in a sun-drenched vineyard somewhere in Europe? With hundreds of celebrated wine regions across the continent (each offering its own varietals, history, and charm) it can be tough to narrow down where to go. Luckily, a new analysis by Emerald Cruises offers some guidance. The company evaluated wine tasting experiences across Europe, factoring in the number of top-rated tours (those with at least 4.4 stars on Google), the total volume of five-star reviews, and the general sentiment of traveler feedback to compile a definitive list of the 10 best wine regions to visit.
Taking the top spot, perhaps to no one’s surprise, is Bordeaux. Located in southwest France, Bordeaux is one of the most iconic wine regions in the world. But it’s not just famous, it’s beloved. With a total score of 96 out of 100, Bordeaux boasts 112,063 five-star reviews across nine standout wine tasting experiences, making it the clear winner in both popularity and quality.
This is the best state for a luxury vacation, according to a new study
Want a luxury vacation? Head to the Sunshine State
If you’re planning a luxury vacation without crossing any borders, you might want to consider heading south. A new study from Wander, a high-end vacation home rental platform, has crunched the numbers to determine which U.S. states offer the most luxurious travel experiences. By analyzing premium offerings like Michelin Guide restaurants, five-star spas, luxury yacht marinas, and golf courses, Wander has unveiled the ultimate destinations for upscale getaways.
Topping the list is Florida, with an impressive luxury escape score of 8.04 out of 10. The Sunshine State has long been known for its glamorous beach resorts and year-round warmth, and the data backs it up. Florida boasts the third-highest number of Michelin Guide restaurants in the country and ranks sixth when adjusted for population. It also comes in second for the number of five-star spas, and eighth for the percentage of spas rated five stars, making it an ideal destination for both food lovers and wellness seekers.
Anyone lose a bag of rocks or a freeze-dried chicken foot?
What secrets do our suitcases hold? Unclaimed Baggage, the retailer that gives a second life to lost airline luggage, released its annual Found Report for 2025, and it gives a fascinating glimpse into the belongings left behind by travelers in 2024.
According to the report, which analyzes the millions of items that passed through their Scottsboro, Alabama facility, airlines handled a staggering 45.6 million checked bags in July 2024 alone. While the vast majority of missing items were reunited with their owners, a small fraction ended up at Unclaimed Baggage after a 90-day search period.
