6 Island Destinations For A Rejuvenating Vacation

When the grind of daily life becomes too much to bear, many people dream of escaping to a peaceful island where their troubles can be oceans away. The destinations listed here can help make that dream a reality. Ranging from islands off the American East Coast to Caribbean archipelagos, they're perfect for anyone who wants some time away to refresh in paradise. This video was made with Ezvid Wikimaker.

6 Relaxing Island Getaways

Destination About
Guadeloupe Islands Located in the Lesser Antilles between Dominica and Antigua, it's a five-island French archipelago featuring cultural events, sporting and wellness activities, shopping, and outdoor recreation
Kiawah Island Golf Resort Encompasses ten miles of oceanfront beach, lagoons, marshlands, and maritime forests near Charleston, South Carolina, plus renowned golf courses
Chincoteague Island Virginia's only resort island, famous for its oyster beds and clam shoals, it also serves as a gateway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Macaronis Resort Resort in Sumatra, Indonesia, featuring a lagoon-style swimming pool, on-location spa, and opportunities for surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, snorkeling, and more
Little St. Simons Island Among the crown jewels of Georgia's famed Golden Isles, it offers seven miles of pristine beaches and 11,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness for exploration and relaxation
Cap Cana Caribbean location on the eastern shores of the Dominican Republic, featuring a state-of-the-art marina, white sand beaches, an award-winning golf course, an equestrian center, natural springs, and more

Welcome to the Guadeloupe Islands

Romantic Novels Set In Exotic Locales

Title Author
1. Anywhere Jen Meyers
2. Perfume Girl Vanessa Fewings
3. Quest for Kriya Rahul Deokar
4. A Rather Lovely Inheritance C.A. Belmond
5. Chasing Swells A.L. Goulden
6. 26 Hours in Paris Demi Alex
7. If Only for the Summer Alexandra Warren
8. Greek for Beginners Jackie Braun
9. French Lessons Ellen Sussman
10. The Florentine Bridge Vanessa Carnevale
11. Mine for the Week Erika Kelly
12. Hidden Paradise A.M. Guilliams

Things To Bring on Your Next Vacation

  • Travel size toiletries that won't take up too much space
  • Keep your dirty clothes separate from the clean ones with a laundry bag
  • A money belt for easy access to cash & cards
  • If you're traveling with kids, you might want to bring along some games
  • Depending on your preference, either a backpack or some nice luggage
  • Cozy pillows can improve any long flight or car trip
  • If you're going to a country where you don't know the language, a translator can be a big help
  • A travel mug for your coffee or tea

The Little St. Simons Island Experience

In Depth

Encircled by lapping waves and set apart from the mainland's hustle and bustle, an island is the perfect escape for renewal and relaxation. From exotic hideaways and tropical resorts to quiet coastal sanctuaries, these alluring havens evoke images of pure paradise. In no particular order, here are some beautiful island destinations for a revitalizing getaway.

Coming in at #1, the Guadeloupe Islands are located southwest of Puerto Rico in the French Caribbean. Part of the Lesser Antilles, the archipelago is composed of five islets: Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes, and La Desirade. Frequent ferry services connect them all and make island-hopping a top choice for travelers.

A land of diverse cultural influences - African, European, Indian, and Arawak - the Guadeloupe Islands offer a variety of experiences. Visitors can partake in whale watching, colorful festivals, and music and dancing. Foodies can explore sugarcane fields, coffee trails, and vanilla bean estates. It's also a great place for watersports such as scuba diving and snorkeling.

It's also a great place for watersports such as scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is #2 on the list. This luxury destination near Charleston, South Carolina is situated on a ten-mile beach. The retreat is surrounded by nature, including a tidal river estuary and marshes for kayaking. Vacationers can try Low Country cuisine, dine at multiple restaurants, and play golf on five different courses.

There's also a spa and an art studio for indoor recreation. Outside, guests can participate in tennis matches, bike rentals, and nature programs for discovering the area's wildlife and ecosystem. Two interactive pool complexes are well-suited for family vacations, each with multiple swimming options and casual outdoor dining.

Found on the coast of Virginia, #3, Chincoteague Island, is known for its oysters, beaches, and wild horses. Travelers can enjoy the outdoors nearby at the National Wildlife Refuge and the Assateague Island National Seashore, home to the feral Chincoteague Ponies. Scenic boat cruises and nature paths allow visitors to explore the landscape from different perspectives.

Scenic boat cruises and nature paths allow visitors to explore the landscape from different perspectives.

Activities abound, including annual events like the Chincoteague Seafood Festival and the old-fashioned Christmas Parade. There's an Artisan Trail Network for arts and crafts shopping, plus a NASA Visitor Center for watching rocket launches. The Pony Express trolley provides rides between the top attractions during the tourist season.

Macaronis Resort in Sumatra, Indonesia is #4, a secluded getaway near a distinctive surf break. Accessible only by boat, it's situated on a clear saltwater lagoon with ocean views and a poolside spa. Included in all vacation packages are speed boat rides with guides, as well as equipment for diversions such as snorkeling and village visits.

Macaronis is a famous left-handed wave that is visited annually by pro surfers, and many travelers come to ride the consistent swells. There are several other waves within close proximity to the hotel, which offers beginner surfer deals and board rentals. Those who don't surf can relax on white sand beaches, practice yoga, and sample tropical cuisine.

There are several other waves within close proximity to the hotel, which offers beginner surfer deals and board rentals.

#5 on our list is Little St. Simons Island. Nestled among Georgia's Golden Isles, it's surrounded by 7 miles of beaches and 11,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness. Comfortable lodging in rooms and cottages is available for no more than 32 overnight guests. Meals are family-style, and the resort provides chairs and umbrellas for the beach.

One of the least developed barrier isles, it's a popular destination for eco-themed tours and naturalist-led activities like birding and fishing. Guests can view wildlife in every season. Conservation is the central focus on the relatively undisturbed island, which has adopted numerous green practices and ecological projects.

Located on the eastern shores of the Dominican Republic, Cap Cana, #6 on our list, is a Caribbean beach retreat that's home to the ocean-facing Punta Espada Golf Club. The Cap Cana Marina has over 150 slips and can accommodate up to 150-foot yachts, many of which sail to the coastal city for fishing and polo.

The Cap Cana Marina has over 150 slips and can accommodate up to 150-foot yachts, many of which sail to the coastal city for fishing and polo.

Miles of white sand beaches with palm trees stretch out in both directions, and there's an equestrian center for horseback riding. The Scape Park features a 15-kilometer ecological walk and a natural spring, Hoyo Azul. Vacationers can enjoy unique cuisines at international restaurants, tour historic sites in Santo Domingo, and go on expeditions to waterfalls.