It’s officially a three-peat. A bona fide triple-crown accomplishment. For the third year in a row, Mackinac Island has been named the Best Summer Travel Destination in the country by the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice contest.

Each year, this travel award competition asks people where they’d love to steer their summer vacations if given the chance. And for the last three years, Mackinac has been the top vote-getter.

This year, it beat out Ocean City, New Jersey, for the top spot.

Mackinac Island tourism leaders say the honor underscores what they preach every season: There really is no spot as special as Michigan’s most popular island, especially in the summertime. “This recognition is a reflection of the unforgettable experiences Mackinac Island offers – quaint, car-free charm, natural beauty, and rich history – that captivates visitors year after year,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “It’s an honor to see our island community celebrated as the best summer travel destination three years in a row.“

This island known for its horses, charming downtown and natural beauty spots like Arch Rock and British Landing has been raking in the travel awards the past few years. Last year, it snagged second place as the Best Fall Travel Destination in the U.S., and earlier this year its Lilac Festival took third in the list of Best Flower Festivals, all by USA Today readers and voters.

And while new visitors explore the island’s attractions and adventure areas each year, return visitors make up a big piece of the island’s continued popularity as a travel destination.

“For generations, Mackinac Island has been a special place where families create lasting memories,” said Mackinac Island Mayor Margaret Doud. “This award is a tribute to the dedication of our residents, businesses, and caretakers who preserve the island’s unique spirit and timeless appeal.“ Twenty spots around the country were nominated for this year’s award. So who did mighty Mackinac beat out for the crown? Places like Amelia Island, Florida and Catalina Island in California. Jackson Hole in Wyoming and Lake Tahoe were also on the list.