An island escape is the perfect way to enjoy the summer season, but you don’t have to go all the way to Hawaii, Southeast Asia or the Caribbean to get a taste of the island life.
Check out these six West Coast islands that are worth a visit this summer.
Catalina Island, California
If you’re looking for the right island to set the mood for summer romance, Catalina Island off the coast of Los Angeles has you covered. Take a ferry from L.A. to Avalon Harbor, then explore this quaint island on your terms. Take a stroll to the grand entertainment venue of the Catalina Casino (just don’t expect to see a slot machine), or bike your way along the island and enjoy the 80-degree weather. While you’re there, take a look at Catalina’s local marine life with an underwater walking tour, courtesy of Sea Trek.
Coronado Island, California
Down in San Diego, Coronado Island is a must-visit during the summer months. The historic hotel that sits grandly on the beach, the Hotel del Coronado, is worth the experience whether you spend the night or not, thanks to its American architecture and a supposedly haunted history. While it’s tempting to spend the day digging your toes into the soft sand as you take in the San Diego skyline from across the water, it’s also nice to feel the ocean breeze against your skin as you take a rented beach cruiser for a ride to explore the rest of this charming island.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Hundreds of islands line the waters between Washington and Vancouver Island, but there’s something about the San Juan Islands that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Perhaps it’s the friendly locals or the “lost in time” atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back into the past. Maybe it’s the whale-watching, since orcas do love to put on a show as they pass the islands. Maybe it’s the local pastimes of hiking, cycling, fishing, paddling and clamming. Or maybe it’s just all of the above…
Sauvie Island, Oregon
Portland’s always been known to be a little quirky, so it makes sense that its neighboring island would be, too. The largest island of the Colombia river, Sauvie Island is just a few miles from Portland. It’s half-wildlife refuge and half-farmland, making Sauvie Island a great pick for those who want to pick their own berries at a local farm or spend an afternoon hiking and bird-watching. There are stretches of sandy shores, as well, and a nude beach for those who don’t believe in tan lines.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
If your idea of fun is all about getting outdoors, Bainbridge Island is the destination for you. Although it’s just across the water from Seattle, Bainbridge Island feels like it’s a world removed from the bustle of the Emerald City. Here, locals and visitors spend their time hiking, cycling or taking advantage of the surrounding calm waters with a kayaking trip through Puget Sound.
Channel Islands National Park, California
If you can’t make it down to South America this summer to visit the biological wonders of the Galapagos, you can enjoy the next best thing a little closer to home at Channel Islands National Park off the Southern California coast. Seclusion has allowed the islands to evolve in their own way, and you’ll find wildlife and vegetation here unlike anything you’ll find on the mainland. Don’t miss the views from Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island.
(Main image: gibffe used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
