When people dream of a tropical island vacation they picture white sandy beaches, palm trees, the rich blue color of the ocean, and the sun warming their face. They wish to relax on the beach with a soft breeze cooling them and returning home with that perfect sun kissed glow. This dream can become a reality, and the Florida Keys, Hawaii, and Aruba are three great destinations to explore and take that island vacation you have always wanted.

The Hammocks at Marathon Resort located in the "Middle Keys" has all of the ingredients for that perfect island vacation in addition to many other attractions in the area to keep the family occupied. You can become better educated about the wildlife in the area at the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center in addition to hiking the trails across the 63 acres of tropical vegetation. While here you should also check out the Adderly House, which is the oldest house outside of Key West.

When visiting Marathon you can also visit the former home of Flipper, the world’s most famous dolphin. At the Dolphin Research Center visitors learn all about this captivating mammal as well as interact with them through their various "get wet with a dolphin programs." Island vacations always include water activities and one must do thing in Marathon is to dive in the Sombrero Reef. It is quite the site to see and is currently the only living coral barrier reef in the United States. Another great dive area for those interested in exploring the sea is the Florida Straits where there is world-class wreck diving. If exploring the ocean from a boat is more to your liking then you can rent or charter a boat and see the beauty of this tropical island destination from that vantage point. Deep sea fishing is also a great way to get out onto the open water and enjoy the Sunshine in the Florida Keys.

Hawaii is another great island vacation destination especially if you are in search of that perfect beach vacation. There are almost 70 different beaches to choose from on the island of Kauai, so one of them is sure to be the perfect destination for you. This island vacation comes complete with all the sandy beaches, entertainment, relaxation, and adventurous water sports you could possibly want. For those who love to explore all the marine life there are plenty of scuba diving locations. Windsurfing, boogie boarding, and surfing are available for the more adventurous types. Of course relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun is always an option as well.

For those looking to venture away from the beaches and explore all that the island has to offer you can tour the Wailua River and discover the beauty of the several waterfalls that fork off of this river and are accessible by kayak. Another popular thing to do is travel on a flat bottom cruise boat to Fern Grotto. This island also boasts some gorgeous forest preserves and the mile-high Kawaikini Mountain. Take the time to explore this area through a bike tour and venture into Waimea Canyon State Park, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

One other fantastic island vacation is Aruba located in the waters of the Caribbean. Each part of the island offers something different for visitors. The western shore offers tropical island attractions and the activities to go along with this. While there is a rugged desert landscape encompassing the northern and eastern shores.

Whether you desire to lounge on Eagle Beach or get a little more adventurous by four wheeling across the terrain in the northern part of the island this destination offers something for everyone. The typical water adventures such as scuba diving, parasailing and windsurfing are available for those who want to partake in them. There is also horseback riding and golf for those who find those activities relaxing on vacation as well.

These tropical islands come complete with all of the activities and beautiful landscape necessary for an amazing vacation. So turn those dreams of white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and bright sunshine into a reality and take a vacation to the Florida Keys, Hawaii, or Aruba.