More national accolades are pouring in for one of Michigan’s gems. Mackinac Island has just been named the No. 3 Best Island in the Continental U.S. by Travel + Leisure.
To help come up with its 2025 list, the national travel publication says its readers shared the U.S. islands which they return to again and again in their annual “World’s Best Awards” survey.
And for the fourth year in a row, Mackinac Island has ranked among the top three islands on its lists.
The motorized vehicle-free island is known for its history, charming downtown shops and restaurants, scenery and trails.
“We owe this incredible recognition entirely to the remarkable people who are the very essence of Mackinac Island: our dedicated community,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau.
“From those who pour their passion into making every day magical to the visitors who fall in love with our shores, it’s the continued appreciation and hard work that makes this island an extraordinary destination, year after year. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributes to its enduring charm.”
Coming in at No. 1 is Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine. This island is the largest off the coast of Maine and was actually ranked at No. 12 in 2024.
Mount Desert is known for its granite peaks and rugged coastlines, with most of the island located in Acadia National Park, often called the “crown jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.”
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Here are the rest of Travel + Leisure’s 2025 list:
- 2. Amelia Island, Florida
- 3. Mackinac Island, Michigan
- 4. Golden Isles, Georgia
- 5. San Juan Islands, Washington
- 6. Marco Island, Florida
- 7. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
- 8. Florida Keys, Florida
- 9. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
- 10. Nantucket, Massachusetts
- 11. Sanibel Island, Florida
- 12. Outer Banks, North Carolina
- 13. South Padre Island, Texas
- 14. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
- 15. Captiva Island, Florida
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