Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Forget The Jersey Shore, Visit New Jersey's Former Landfill Turned Park Gem For Wildlife, Trails, And NYC Views

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Just 30 minutes from the heart of Manhattan, this park is part of a 10,000-acre estuary and has been completely transformed into a wildlife haven.

Between Middlesbrough And Newcastle Upon Tyne Is A Lesser-Known Destination With Wooded Trails And Coastal Charm

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Complete with enchanting woodland trails, this cliffside escape in the northeast of England is described as quiet and uncrowded by past visitors.

Scotland's 'Queen Of The South' Is A Lovely Market Town With River Views, Nature Retreats, And Historic Charm

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Home to famous residents throughout its history, including beloved Scottish poet Robert Burns, this town is full of fascinating sights worthy of a day trip.

Forget Florida, Retire To This Midwestern Escape With Affordable Living, National Park Fun, And Mountain Views

staff@islands.com (Christy Nicholson) — Sun, 25 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

For retirees who prefer mountains to Florida's coast, a South Dakota county with access to many national parks is an affordable option in the Midwest.

Under An Hour From Milwaukee Is Wisconsin's Darling Forest Lake With Camping, Fishing, And Boating

staff@islands.com (Nally Preseault) — Sat, 24 Oct 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Nestled within a vast protected forest, this lake is a local gem for woodsy camping, cruising by boat, and casting a line for a variety of gamefish.

Over Two Hours Away From Bakersfield Is A West Coast Beach With Ocean Views, Wildlife, And A Boardwalk

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Thu, 22 Oct 2026 00:25:00 +0000

Known for its gemstone-strewn shores, abundant wildlife, colorful tide pools, and boardwalk atop the bluffs, this beach is an absolute must-visit.

This Crystal-Clear Pacific Northwest Lake Is An Artificial Gem With Mountainside Beaches, Swimming, And Fishing

staff@islands.com (Danno Wise) — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Visitors can't get enough of this lake's Caribbean-like waters, abundant year-round fishing, and gorgeous beaches with the North Cascades overhead.

Between Waco And Shreveport Is An Artificial Lake Escape For Trophy Fishing And Camping

staff@islands.com (Danno Wise) — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:25:00 +0000

Though somewhat overshadowed by the region's larger reservoirs, this lake has been a quaint escape for anglers, boaters, and campers for over half a century.

Forget Florida, Retire To This East Coast Town With Mountain Views, Shops, And Tasty Eats

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Sun, 18 Oct 2026 21:00:00 +0000

A picturesque retirement awaits in a charming East Coast town with nearby mountains and a vibrant sense of community at every turn.

Forget Florida, Retire To Alabama's Serene Escape With Untamed Trails, Parks, And Affordable Living

staff@islands.com (Garrett Martin) — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 21:45:00 +0000

This county in Alabama may not be an obvious retirement choice, but it offers affordability with access to nature through lakes, trails, and forests.

Pennsylvania's Artificial Lake Paradise To Fish, Boat, And Spot Wildlife Is Getting A Big Revitalization

staff@islands.com (Nally Preseault) — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 03:45:00 +0000

A beloved Pennsylvania lake is preparing for a major transformation, and visitors may want to plan their next fishing or boating trip sooner rather than later.

Illinois' 9 Hands-Down Best Parks In And Around Springfield For Scenic Nature Walks And Outdoor Fun

staff@islands.com (Kaylee Giacomini-Moran) — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Scenic parks surround this Illinois capital, but these 9 offer the most beautiful, activity-packed, and accessible of the lot – and the locals adore them.

'The Ice Cream Capital Of The World' Is A Charming Iowa City With Quaint Shops And Colorful Local Art

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Sample the finest scoops, hunt for giant cones, and visit a historic museum in this bustling town that makes over 150 million gallons of ice cream a year.

Between Houston And San Antonio Is A Historic Charmer Called The 'Cleanest Little City In Texas'

staff@islands.com (Garrett Martin) — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 16:00:00 +0000

A mandatory stop on a Texas road trip, this tiny home of Shiner Bock exudes Texan charm, offers delicious food, and truly lives up to its spotless reputation.

One Of The Best Spots For Scenic Camping Outside NYC Is This State Park With Trails And A Lake For Fishing

staff@islands.com (Nally Preseault) — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:45:00 +0000

Less than an hour's drive from Manhattan, this 15,000-acre oasis in the Hudson Valley offers secluded camping in the woods and all kinds of activities.

Between Orlando And Gainesville Is A Fishing And Boating Paradise With Scenic Lakes And Foodie Finds

staff@islands.com (Madeleine Bee) — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Prime fishing, kayaking past a 400-year-old oak, and tasty seasonal dishes in a historic mansion are just part of the appeal of this friendly lakeside suburb.

Arkansas' Charming Retirement City Is An Ozark Gem With Senior-Friendly Fun And A Low Cost Of Living

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Retire to Arkansas' Ozark landscapes in a senior-friendly, affordable city. Explore the charming, artsy downtown to get a feel for the community.

10 Most Breathtaking Lighthouses On The West Coast

staff@islands.com (Hillary Louise Johnson) — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 22:00:00 +0000

There are over 100 functional lighthouses on the West Coast, and we think these 10 offer the most breathtaking views, rich histories, and picturesque designs.

Between St. Cloud And Grand Forks Is Minnesota's State Park With Trails, Wildlife, And Riverfront Leisure

staff@islands.com (Melanie Johnson) — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 21:45:00 +0000

Minnesota's prairie country offers more than wide-open views at this peaceful state park, where a winding river brings wildlife and outdoor adventure.

Under An Hour From The Indiana Border Is An Ohio Lake State Park With Camping, Fishing, And Trails

staff@islands.com (Nally Preseault) — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 23:45:00 +0000

Complete with waterfront campsites and cabins, hiking trails for all skill levels, and easily accessible fishing waters, this park is a nature lover's delight.