The world is full of tiny islands you've never heard of. While it may take a little extra work to get to one of these outlying islands by ferry, charter plane, or helicopter, the hectic pace of life is well worth the hike. Some of these islands are car-free, so you don't have to worry about traffic jams. And once you check into the hotel, your feet - or a golf car, bike, or kayak - can take you wherever you go.
Little St. Simons Island, Georgia
- The Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Georgia, is 10,000 acres with seven miles of beaches and just over 4.8 km wide at its widest point.
The Barrier Island, with its large cedars and Spanish moss, is for those who love the beach as much as fishing, boating, canoeing or swimming. The resort employs only 25 people and they are the only people you will meet on the island.
Benguerra Island, Mozambique
- Indian Ocean, about 12.8 km off the coast of Mozambique, 9.6 km by about 4.8 km.
With crystal clear turquoise waters, white beaches and approximately 1,000 inhabitants, the island is a national park and seclusion. Here you can see sea turtles, migrating whales and dolphins, endangered dugongs.
Sea Lion Island, Falkland Islands
- South Atlantic Ocean, about 482.8 km from the coast of South America, 8 km by 2 km.
You can see elephant seals, killer whales and five species of penguins.
Fox Island, Alaska
- Bay of Resurrection off the coast of Seward, Alaska, 4.8 km by 1.6 km.
Sheltered coves and pebbly beaches provide a haven for a variety of marine life. Sea kayaking, wildlife watching, nature hikes and beach walks provide opportunities to see seabirds, sea lions and whales.
Kay Kolker, Belize
- Caribbean Sea, about 32 km off the coast of Belize, 8 by 2 km.
Fun and laid-back, Kay Kolker is known for its diving and snorkelling (it has the largest reef in the Western Hemisphere). Less than 1,500 permanent residents travel by golf carts along the three sandy roads of this former fishing village.
Madeleine Island, Wisconsin
- Lake Superior, about 3.2 km from the northern tip of Wisconsin, 22.5 by 4.8 km.
The only one inhabited of the 22 islands of the Apostles in Lake Superior. Guests can go golfing, kayaking, hiking or cycling. Sign up for a master class at Madeleine Island School of Art on writing, painting, quilting and more, including dog sledding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter.
Yap, Micronesia
- Federated States of Micronesia in the South Pacific, 20.9 by 4.8 km.
A remote town and one of the best spots for diving and watching giant manta rays. The island is partly built up and partly still in the countryside, where about 1200 people live permanently.
South Bass Island, Ohio
- Lake Erie off the coast of northeastern Ohio, 6.4 by 3.2 km.
This island has fewer than 400 inhabitants but is quite lively with boating, camping and a popular nightlife, its own Brewpub, breweries, Heineman Winery's own winery.
Saba, Netherlands Antilles
- Caribbean Sea west of Saint Martin.
One of the Caribbean islands that most travelers seem to overlook. While there are no beaches, diving is an attraction, as are hiking in the rainforest of Mount Landscape, a dormant volcano.
Corvo Island, Azores
- The Atlantic Ocean, part of the Azores archipelago approximately 1287.5 km west of the coast of Portugal; 4.8 by 3.2 km.
Enjoy scuba diving and fishing, fresh seafood and secluded hiking opportunities with sky and sea views — Corvo is home to only 300 Azores.
