When most people think of Alaska they think igloos and not islands. Well, we are ready to break down all the barriers and let out our best kept secret. With over 2,600 named islands and 6,640 miles of coastline, Alaska breaks the mold when it comes to island life. From black sand beaches, stunning vistas, volcanic formations and unlimited outdoor activities, you've just gotta check out this list of the 16 best islands to visit in Alaska.

1. Adak Island

Located in the western section of the Aleutian Chain, Adak is an island that is filled with black sandy beaches and booming volcano views. Visitors here enjoy birding tours, fishing, hunting and more. Find out more about birding in Adak.

2. Admiralty Island

In a land where there are more bears that people, Admiralty is one of the most special and unique places in all of the world. Located between Juneau and Sitka, visitors here enjoy back-country excursions including hunting and hiking. Learn more about bear viewing on Admiralty Island.

3. Baranof Island

Located in the incredible Sitka, Alaska - Baranof Island is unique in so many ways. Visitors can enjoy some of the best fly fishing in all of the state. The natural warm springs here are the most relaxing and enchanting experiences in all of Alaska. Find out more about all the adventures you can find on Baranof Island!

4. Bogoslof Island

Now this is one of the most unique places in Alaska to visit! Bogoslof Island is remote volcanic island located in the Bering Sea. This island is very difficult to access and rarely seen due to fog and wind, but if ever given the opportunity to visit there are amazing opportunities to view stellar sea lions and northern fur seals. Check out the Bogoslof Volcano Observatory webpage here.

5. Chichagof Island

The most popular place to visit here is the adorable town of Hoonah. Visitors can enjoy delicious seafood, incredible wildlife viewing, epic fishing opportunities and deep rooted Alaskan culture. Check out this great list of adventure tours on Chichagof Island.

6. Douglas Island

Just west of downtown Juneau across from the Gastineau Channel, this is a great tidal island to visit if you are into long walks on the beach and a less remote type of an island experience. There are also some awesome hiking trails on Douglas that are well worthy of checking out. Check out this great list of things to do while you’re in Juneau.

7. Fox Island

This lush, mountainous isle located off Resurrection Bay in Kenai Fjords National Park is a truly must-visit for anyone planning on checking out the Kenai Peninsula. Stay at a remote lodge, enjoy utter silence and a delicious gourmet meal. It doesn't get much better than that! This easily makes near the top of the best islands to visit in Alaska list. Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge offers a beautiful place to stay if you want to spend the night on this island!

8. Hall Island

This tiny island located in the Bering Sea is not to be overlooked! It is a gorgeous spot to enjoy endless landscapes and a phenomenal variety of bird species. You can take a luxury cruise to Hall Island to see it in a way many do not get to experience!

9. Kodiak Island

Located off the south coast of Alaska, Kodiak is a land filled with beautiful bears and rich culture. Visitors enjoy delicious restaurants, warm hospitality, fishing, crabbing, playing on the beach and so much more! Read more about the Kodiak Island Wildlife Refuge and all the cool wildlife you can see on the island.

10. Montague Island

This island located in the Gulf of Alaska lying at the entrance to Prince William Sound is quite the enchanting place. Hunting, fishing and camping are the most popular items that visitors like to enjoy. If you want to spend the night, renting this cabin on recreation.gov is a great way to explore Montague Island further!

11. Pennock Island

Located near the town of Ketchikan, Pennock is an excellent place to take a vacation. Visitors enjoy swimming, peaceful hiking and epic kayaking excursions. The Pennock Island Challenge Pennock Island Challenge is a great swimming course that is counted among the World’s Top 100 Open Water Swims!

12. Popof Island

Located south of mainland Alaska in the Shumagin Islands, Popof is a great place to go hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing. There is a herd of buffalo that freely roam in protected valleys throughout the island which is a really cool sight to behold. Read more about all the wildlife you can spot at Sand Point on Popof Island.

13. Prince of Wales Island

As one of the islands in the Alaska panhandle, Prince of Wales is filled with natural beauty. Visitors here enjoy world class fishing, hunting, backpacking, kayaking and more. Fun fact: Prince of Wales is the fourth largest island in the United States! Check out Travel Alaska’s extensive traveling information about this wonderful island.

14. Raspberry Island

This remote island is a true treasure. Visitors spend days and weeks on end enjoying activities such as halibut and salmon fishing, hiking, backpacking, sea kayaking, hunting and more. If you want to spend some time on this gorgeous island, book a night at the Kodiak Raspberry Island Remote Lodge.

15. Unimak Island

Located on the Aleutian Chain, Unimak is a fantastic place to enjoy the great outdoors and it is filled with so much incredible history. Fishing and hunting are very popular activities here. This is one of the most scenic places to visit in Alaska. Learn more about the first island in the Aleutian Chain on their website here.

16. Wrangell Island

Located on the Alaska Panhandle, Wrangell is surrounded by natural beauty. Filled with mountains and rain-forest, visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, glaciers, fishing and an unlimited amount of outdoor activities. If you’re visiting, make sure to check out this great list of things to do in the area.

Get ready to pack a bag and escape to a remote and relaxing island paradise, Alaska style. Have you ever been to any of these island treasures? Where is your favorite place to explore? Are there any of the best islands to visit in Alaska that aren’t on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for more information about some of the beautiful islands in Alaska, check out These Remote Islands In The US Are Truly A Sight To Behold.