Your golden years are here, and now you have all the time in the world. And what can you do with all this time? Well, you can travel. If you are a fan of exotic destinations, we are sure that you have always dreamed about the Maldives. But getting there costs a fortune, and you are not ready to spend such an amount of money.
Say no more! You don’t have to go to the Maldives and spend all of your savings if you want that beautiful and exciting tropical experience. There are many tropical locations here, in the US, that are better. Some of the travelers who have visited them say that they are heaven on earth, and they now have a special place in their hearts.
Read on and find out the best tropical destinations in our country. Discover the most beautiful beaches in the US, as well as the mesmerizing volcanic islands.
1. Big Sur, California
This place is famous for its impressive backdrop, and many sunseekers are big fans of this location. But if you are not the biggest fan of sunbathing, there are other activities you can enjoy.
You can always go for a walk and explore the rugged shorelines and amazing cliffs. There are many trails around that you can discover. Watch the birds and the wildflowers, or just gaze at the beautiful sunsets.
Also, of all the 900 miles of coastline that California has, the 90 miles that go through Big Sur are the most epic road trip that you can take in this state. Mountains on one side and the ocean on the other; what more can you ask for? And we didn’t even get to the hidden waterfalls!
Highway 1 is also the place where you can visit the famous Bixby Bridge. The bridge was finished in 1932 and is among the most photographed places in California.
So, if you want to visit an amazing tropical location right here in the USA, don’t miss Big Sur.
2. Gulf Shores, Alabama
When you hear Alamaba, you don’t think about a tropical island, am I right? This might surprise you, but the state of Alabama has its own piece of paradise on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The place is called Gulf Shores, and you must visit it if you want to discover some of the most beautiful beaches you will ever see.
If you like going to the beach, you should visit Gulf State Park. Here you can find 6,500 acres of white-sand beaches. The way the sand sparkles in the sunlight is something you will not easily forget. You can go to a picnic or you can just watch the scenic view; the choice is yours.
Book a tour at the Fort Morgan State Historic Site if you are curious about the history of Alabama. The fort was built by the US Army in 1813 to prevent a potential British attack. This place is surrounded by wild areas, and you can go bird watching or wildlife watching after the tour.
Gulf Shores is a family-friendly destination, perfect for those who like water sports and a nice walk along the shore of the Gulf of Mexico.
3. Maui, Hawaii
This is the second-biggest Hawaiian island and is also a real tropical paradise that draws thousands of visitors from all across the globe every year. Just say Hawaii once, and you already hear the sound of the ocean and feel its cool breeze across your skin.
Watch the gorgeous sunrise or go out surfing; Maui has many activities for you. Its coast is one of the most beautiful in the entire world and has many unique features. One of these is Wai’anapanapa State Park. This park is the home of those famous black-sand beaches that you have seen in many pictures and on postcards.
If you want to go on a scenic road trip, don’t miss the “Road to Hana.” The name sounds mystical, and we can assure you that the trip will also be an unforgettable experience. Those traveling along Maui’s stunning shoreline will see about 600 curves, more than 50 bridges, and 60 waterfalls that surround the island’s eastern side.
The Pipiwai Trail is perfect for anyone who is up for some hiking. You will see wonderful waterfalls and go through a bamboo forest until you get to Iao Valley State Park. If you want something easier, try the Kapalua Coastal Trail.
4. Boca Raton, Florida
What is a list of tropical destinations without good old Florida? The Sunshine State has many tropical locations, but Boca Raton is one of the best. Located on the beautiful coast of the Atlantic Ocean, this place is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to experience the luxuries of life.
Fancy restaurants, world-class stores, lush parks, and posh spas – you can find everything that you wish for here. If you are into shopping for designer brands, Boca Raton has many luxury stores waiting for you.
If you are a nature lover, you should know that you can go and see some beautiful butterflies at the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. Their butterfly garden is amazing, and you can easily spend a few hours strolling along its pathways.
Also, Red Reef Park is another good alternative if you want to go outside and explore the surroundings. The area is secluded and heavily foliaged. This makes it one of the favorite places of many small bird species. So, grab your camera and get ready for some birdwatching.
5. South Padre Island, Texas
We know that South Padre Island has a reputation for being one of the best places to party during Spring Break, but this is not all that this place has to offer. This island is an amazing family-friendly destination, and even if you are not partying, you can still visit SPI and have a good time.
South Padre Island is an amazing destination for nature enthusiasts. Visit South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center, and you will be surrounded by trees and water. Do some birdwatching and also admire the beautiful butterflies that live in the center’s garden.
If you want to go hiking, try exploring the Laguna Madre Nature Trail. This is one of the best free things that you can do in this part of Texas. The trail is open 24 hours a day and is an amazing sightseeing venue. Also, it is a unique lagoon; it is actually one of the six lagoons worldwide whose water is fresher than the ocean.
If you like sandcastles, you should know that on South Padre Island you can take sandcastle-building lessons and also visit the largest outdoor sandcastle in the United States. The Sandcastle Trail has 30 castles along its way, and these works of art are truly impressive.
6. St. John, US Virgin Islands
St. John is the best tropical island in the US. It is the smallest of all the US Virgin Islands, but also the most beautiful. More than half of this island is part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Here, tourists can do water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving and discover the marvels of the ocean.
If you are eager to learn more about the history of the place, Annaberg Sugar Plantation is a good starting point. It was established by Danish colonists in the 18th century and is a popular tourist attraction. The best way to explore the ruins of the old plantation is to go on an organized tour with a local guide.
Nature is at home on St. John Island, and you should not miss the beautiful beaches and the luxurious forests.
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