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Top island destinations in 2025

Discover the most coveted islands to visit or call home in the year ahead
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Pacaso’s Editorial Team
August 13, 2025
Looking for an island escape without leaving the country? The U.S. is home to a number of islands boasting a mix of beautiful beaches, relaxed culture, and recreational pastimes. Travel + Leisure recently ranked the top 15 favorite islands in the continental U.S. for 2025, and five Pacaso destinations made the cut.
Read on to learn more about these coastal gems and our stunning homes that are available for co-ownership.

Marco Island, Florida

With six miles of powdery white sand and the turquoise waters along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Marco Island pairs natural beauty with a polished, laid-back atmosphere. Upscale dining, boutique shopping, and outdoor pursuits make it a favorite for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Known for its exceptional shelling, especially after a storm, it’s a sun-drenched retreat that keeps visitors coming back year after year.Windmill Palms: A modern coastal retreat that invites you to slow down and savor the view. Enjoy sunset cocktails on the lanai as boats and paddleboarders pass, bask in the afternoon sun by the pool, or host alfresco dinners as the sun casts a golden glow over the waters. Here, it’s easy to embrace the effortless luxury of life by the bay.

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Island offers unspoiled natural beauty with the comforts of resort living. Its pristine beaches, celebrated golf courses, and network of trails through maritime forests and marshlands make it a haven for golfers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts alike.Blue Heron: Set amidst lush marshlands, this spectacular home is framed by native live oaks and pines, with expansive decks and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in. Spend mornings wandering nearby trails, then unwind by the pool to the sounds of water and melodic birds.Eugenia: Just a short stroll from the beach, Eugenia combines airy interiors with generous outdoor living. The half-acre estate offers a private saltwater pool, a screened-in porch for breezy afternoons, and sunlit decks perfect for morning coffee or evening gatherings.

Florida Keys, Florida 

The Florida Keys offer dazzling tropical beauty, laid-back beach culture, and some of the nation’s most spectacular stretches of sand. Home to the largest living coral barrier reef in the U.S., the Keys are a diver’s paradise. Coastal towns range from peaceful escapes to lively islands with energetic nightlife. Wildlife, like sea turtles and colorful birds, makes every outdoor adventure memorable.White Marlin: Nestled on Islamorada within the exclusive Marlin Beach enclave, this home is a canal-front oasis. Sip a refreshing drink poolside under swaying palms, enjoy breezy dinners on the patio, or relax by the canal watching kayakers and paddleboarders drift past the serene surroundings.Sunset Park: This spacious home is a waterfront retreat ideal for family vacations. Take a bike ride to the beach or challenge the crew to pickleball or tennis at nearby courts. The east-facing patio welcomes early risers with stunning sunrises, while ample space ensures room for the whole family to unwind and connect.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 

Hilton Head is celebrated for its 12 miles of pristine sandy beaches, world-class golf courses, and abundant wildlife. Spot dolphins playing just offshore or explore The Sea Pines Forest Preserve, a lush sanctuary full of local flora and fauna. As the first eco-planned tourist destination in the U.S., Hilton Head blends natural preservation with thoughtful development. Historic landmarks, diverse dining options, and family-friendly activities complete the picture of a charming coastal escape.Red Cardinal: This second-row beachside estate has been newly remodeled for comfort and ease. Prepare family meals in the gourmet kitchen, then gather for game nights or backyard dinners after a day at the beach. With three floors and seven bedrooms, it’s perfect for hosting the whole family while enjoying coastal charm and Southern hospitality.Seaside: Designed for entertaining, this stunning residence balances modern style with cozy comfort amid lush surroundings. Unwind on the deck to the sound of waves and windswept trees, take a refreshing dip in the pool, and enjoy ample living spaces perfect for reconnecting with loved ones.

Nantucket, Massachusetts  

Steeped in history, Nantucket is known for preserved buildings lining cobblestone streets and a 110-mile coastline dotted with beaches. Over 40% of the island remains protected, offering a diverse mix of shorelines, cranberry bogs, and dunes. Outdoor lovers can enjoy seaside bike rides, coastal strolls, and fishing amid these varied landscapes.Cedar Isle: This elegant home blends classic design with modern touches and is perfectly situated near coastal bike paths and picture-perfect beaches. Just a short ride from downtown Nantucket, it offers easy access to shopping and dining. Lounge by the resort-style pool, savor meals on the back deck or porch swing, and enjoy the best of island living.

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