When you think of American islands, only a handful of familiar names likely come to mind. Key West, Nantucket, and Maui might be some of the most popular islands for tourists, but they aren't the only places for vacationers to kick back and enjoy island life-without leaving the USA. Here are a few of America's best islands you've probably never heard of:

Mount Desert Island

Photo by Peter Rintels via Flickr

The largest island off the coast of Maine-and home of Acadia National Park-this tranquil area was first made popular as a retreat for the likes of wealthy families such as the Rockefellers, Morgans, Fords, Vanderbilts, and Carnegies. To this day, there are many famous summer residents who decide to spend their summers here, including the likes of George Mitchell, Susan Sarandon and Martha Stewart. Rub elbows with the rich and famous while enjoying the stunning natural scenery.

Amelia Island

Photo by Michele Truex via Flickr

With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, Amelia Island is likely one of the only places in Florida where you can still find a strip of beach all for yourself. Amelia Island is the southernmost island of the Sea Island Barrier Island Chain in Northeastern Florida. Try to time your visit with the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in May for a tasty treat.

Mackinac Island

Photo by Franklin B Thompson via Flickr

A trip to this island in Lake Huron off the shores of Michigan is like traveling back in time to where horse carriages roamed the streets and family-run inns are the norm. There are no cars allowed on Mackinac Island giving it a real laid-back feeling. The best ways to get around are by foot, bike, horseback or carriage. We recommend walking as you'll want to work off any extra pounds you may accumulate as you indulge your sweet tooth at any of the various famous fudge shops.

Assateague Island

Photo by halserad via Flickr

Split between Maryland and Virginia (the northern two-thirds are in Maryland while the southern third is in Virginia) this 37- mile long barrier island is host to pristine beaches and the Assateague Lighthouse. One of the island's most unique inhabitants are the herds of wild horses; this is one of only a few places in the US where they can be viewed in their natural habitat.

Anna Maria Island

Photo by Mark Vance via Flickr

Located on the western side of Florida outside of Tampa Bay on the Gulf of Mexico, Anna Maria Island has been described for years as a hidden gem. The sleepy island provides a rare glimpse into "Old Florida." Perfect for families and nature lovers alike, the calm waters are a popular nesting place for sea turtles from May through October.

Jekyll Island

Photo by Evangelio Gonzalez via Flickr

One of the Golden Islands of Georgia, be sure you don't miss the Landmark Historic District and the old preserved houses made of tabby, or crushed shells. Once you've taken in the sites of old town, stop by Driftwood Beach, also known as Boneyard Beach, which gets its name from the remains of weathered grey trees that have been preserved by the salt air and water from the ocean. It's a ghostly scene at sunset and a perfect place for pictures.

Kiawah Island

Photo by Bill Showalter via Flickr

If golf is your thing, then Kiawah Island off the coast of South Carolina, and the highly regarded Kiawah Island Golf Resort, is sure to thrill. The Ocean Course is widely considered to be one of the toughest courses on the East Coast.

Molokini

Photo by Forest Starr and Kim Starr via Flickr

Most popular for scuba diving and snorkeling, this islet is actually the remains of an old volcano. It is host to over 250 different marine species with amazing visibility reaching up to 150 feet. Common sights include black triggerfish, yellow tang, Moorish idol, parrotfish, raccoon butterflyfish and bluefin trevally as well as the occasional whitetip reef shark.

Hatteras Island

Photo by Jim Dollar via Flickr

Hatteras Island is one of the longest in the contiguous United States, measuring roughly 50 miles along the curve of the land. Hatteras Island is known for surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding, and is named in the sport fishing arena as the "blue marlin capital of the world."

Wizard Island

Photo by Peter Roome via Flickr

This unique island is a result of a volcanic cinder cone rising from the west end of Crater Lake in Crater Lake National Park, Oregon. There are two hiking trails on Wizard Island, the summit trail takes you up the flanks of the cone and circles the crater on top offering gorgeous views 360-degree views of the surroundings. The other trail meanders from the dock at Governor's Bay towards the western end of the island.

What is your favorite island destination in the US?

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