5 Island Vacation Spots in Legal Cannabis Country

Find a gorgeous, legal vacation destination on the coasts of the U.S.

Posted February 7, 2018

If you enjoy salty sea-breezes, ocean views, and smoking a bowl while gazing at a sunset or sunrise, one of these island destinations is calling for you. Nine states along with Washington D.C. have legalized recreational cannabis, but only a handful can offer a memorable island experience. Here are the top five island vacation spots you'll be able to enjoy your ganja without worry of police confiscating your greens and pipe.

However, be aware it remains illegal to consume in public so discretion is key.

Islands in Legal Territory

Channel Islands of California

Being one of the least traveled-to national parks in the U.S, and the warmest ganja-friendly islands on this list, Channel Islands lies off the Golden State's southern coastline and can only be reached by boat or plane. Its home to a diverse and rich marine ecosystem that includes over 100 species of endemic marine life. Once playing a vital role in WWII, and placed under military control, the islands not only have rich American history attached to them, but were once home to Chumash Native American tribes. Sandy beaches rest between rocky cliffs and gorgeous landscapes, offering tourists a vast range of activities:

Kayaking
Swimming
Surfing
Snorkeling (spotting dolphins, porpoises & whales)
Diving
Underwater caves & caverns
Trekking & trails
Whale watching
Spot sea lions & harbor seals
Beach camping

Aleutian Islands of Alaska

This massive chain of islands actually consists of eight island groups: the Andreanof, Delarof, Fox, Four Mountain, Near, Rat, Shumagin, and Sanak island chains. While these islands aren't as warm as those off the coast of California, summer months are still akin to pleasant weather and water conditions. You can take your pick among these 275+ islands. Akun Island found in the Fox Islands is home to basalt caverns that can be kayaked through. The Aleutian World War II museum will tell you how the islands were attacked by the Japanese (a fact not many Americans remember). Fishing charters and tours are popular, along with helicopter tours that will show you the gorgeous scenery of volcanoes and island topography. Bear viewing by float-plane is also a must for tourists at this island vacation destination. And of course, trails and lodging are found amidst these islands so you can warm up & toke up during the cold nights.

Nantucket Island of Massachusetts

If you'd like to relax with the ocean at your side, Nantucket is the ganja-friendly island destination meant for those of us that prefer shopping at boutiques, laying on a beach beneath the warm sun, and indulging in a good brew with a good strain. While you'll enjoy the salty sea air, waterscapes of the Atlantic, and shops designed for tourism, rest assured Massachusetts is now a rec state with lots of dry seaside fun to be had.

Peaks Island of Maine

Though legislation has not yet decided on how to properly tax recreational cannabis (meaning it isn't yet sold in the state) it's still legal to possess and consume. If you're looking for a historically-rich, mellow, stress-free vacation island to explore while keeping dry, Peaks Island just off the coast of Maine alongside other spectacular islands offers tourists:

Museums
Horseback riding
Boat tours & ferries
Seafood restaurants
Art galleries
Historic & sightseeing tours
Carting self-tours

San Juan Islands of Washington

When we think island vacation, we don't normally think of visiting an island during the winter months. However, winter is the prime season to visit the San Juan Islands located on the northwest coast of Washington below Vancouver, Canada (and above Seattle). If you enjoy the crisp air of winter and snowy landscapes, you can indulge in the many activities the San Juan Islands offer during such a time of year. Either indulge, or simply kick back and watch the snow fall upon the waves with a big cup of Hot Coconut CannaCocoa: