Five Florida Islands Make Travel + Leisure’s Top 15 U.S. Islands List in 2025

When it comes to America’s favorite island getaways, Florida isn’t just in the game — it’s dominating the leaderboard.

Travel + Leisure dropped its 2025 list of the “15 Best Islands in the Continental U.S.”, and Florida locked down five spots — more than any other state. Readers from around the country voted based on beaches, natural beauty, food, activities, and how much they wanted to stay forever.

It’s a big deal — and a big win — for Florida’s barrier islands, especially those still bouncing back from recent hurricanes.

So Who Made the List?

The official ranking didn’t list Florida’s islands in order of popularity, but if history is any guide, the usual fan favorites are likely among them:

• Amelia Island — known for its walkable downtown, shrimp festival, and historic inns

• Marco Island — a Southwest Florida gem with powdery beaches and endless sunshine

• Captiva & Sanibel — beloved for shelling, sunsets, and island time that actually feels slower

• Siesta Key — famous for its quartz sand and chill surf town vibes

• Florida Keys — always a strong contender with that blend of adventure, fishing, and Key lime pie

Each of these destinations consistently ranks among the best for their combo of access, charm, and beachside appeal.

Why People Are Still Obsessed

It’s not just the views (though the sunsets don’t hurt). What makes Florida’s islands stand out is how easy they are to get to and how hard they are to leave. Travelers rave about:

• Year-round sunshine

• Family-friendly activities

• Local wildlife and nature preserves

• Waterfront restaurants that don’t feel touristy

• Small-town feel with modern comforts

Some islands are car-free. Others offer sunset cruises, farmers markets, or impromptu beach yoga. But they all share one thing: that feeling that you’re not just on vacation — you’re somewhere special.

Rebuilding, Recharging, and Ranking High

Many of Florida’s coastal communities are still rebuilding after recent storms, but that hasn’t stopped them from drawing national attention.

In fact, the comeback stories may be part of the charm. With new boardwalks, improved beach access, and restored ecosystems, visitors are finding a mix of natural beauty and resilience that makes the experience feel even more meaningful.

Ready for Island Time?

The Travel + Leisure awards are voted on by readers each year as part of the magazine’s “World’s Best Awards”, which also rank top hotels, cities, cruise lines, and more.

If you needed an excuse to start planning your next beach getaway — or just want to daydream about sugar-white sand — Florida’s islands are ready when you are.