Can you travel to the virgin islands without a passport

You might think you have to travel far and wide to find white sand beaches, turquoise ocean waters, and year-round pleasant weather… but did you know there are tropical places you can visit without a passport as an American citizen? From mainland US options like Miami, to far-flung destinations like American Samoa, here are the top 14 tropical places you can visit without a passport!

Best Tropical Destinations You Can Visit Without a Passport

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Tropical Places You Can Visit Without a Passport: Carribean

1. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Have the Caribbean vacation of your dreams on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands! Because the USVI are an unincorporated island territory of the United States, no passport is required to visit this tropical destination.

2. St. John, US Virgin Islands

St. John, another US Virgin Island, is home to (and mostly comprised of) the Virgin Islands National Park. Swim along beaches rimmed with stunning coral reefs, and you might even see sea turtles if you’re lucky!

Alternatively, trek along jungle hiking paths and keep an eye out for tropical birds and gorgeous flora.

Where to Stay: St. John Hotels

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3. St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

St. Croix is another great USVI destination if you’re looking for places that don’t require a passport! Stroll through town for a view of the historically quaint Danish architecture.

4. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Because Puerto Rico is a US territory, no passport is needed to visit this tropical destination! San Juan, the capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, is filled with great food, colorful architecture, and rich culture.

Check out the fortress of El Moro for sweeping ocean views, or head to El Escambrón beach for some fun in the sun. 

5. Culebra, Puerto Rico

Located off the east coast of Puerto Rico’s main island, Culebra is a tiny island surrounded by beautiful cays. Don’t miss Flamenco Beach, which is known for its tropical white sand beaches and refreshing turquoise waters. 

As the sun goes down, head to the southwest side of Culebra to Punta Melones. This beach known for its incredible sunset views!

Tropical Places in the USA

6. Key West, Florida

Only 90 miles north of Cuba, traveling to Key West will make you feel like you’ve left the US and truly entered the Caribbean. Renowned for its funky pastel-hued architecture and wild nightlife, Key West is a great option for partying travelers.

Key West is home to the only living barrier reef in the entire continental US, so it’s a popular choice among snorkelers and SCUBA fanatics too! See some of the awesome rentals available in Key West HERE.

7. Miami, Florida

As the third most populated city along the east coast of the US, Miami is a great choice for travelers who want the convenience of city life alongside their tropical vacation.

8. Anna Maria Island, Florida

If you’re looking for a tropical beach vacation that’s a little more laidback than Key West or Miami, try Anna Maria Island. A small barrier island on Florida’s gulf coast, Anna Maria has a laid back resort vibe.

9. Santa Catalina Island, California

Santa Catalina Island is the ideal destination if you’re looking for tropical places you can visit without a passport on the west coast. Just southwest of LA, Catalina Island is known both for its incredible dive sites and upscale resort feel.

Whether you’re hiking to the top of Mt. Orizaba or grabbing brunch in the resort town of Two Harbors, Catalina Island makes it easy to feel like you’re on a tropical vacation even though you’re only an hour away from mainland California. 

10. Oahu, Hawaii

While only the third largest island of Hawaii, Oahu is known for having the best nightlife in the state. Home to the state capital of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and the world-famous Waikiki Beach, you don’t want to miss all Oahu has to offer.

This island is one of the best tropical places you can visit without a passport! Filled with luxury shopping options, incredible upscale dining, and all sorts of outdoor activities, you’ll never be bored on Oahu.

See Oahu’s Top resorts HERE.

11. Kauai, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Kauai is home to everything from outrageously beautiful mountain views and sea cliffs to incredible snorkeling and diving locations along coral reefs and sandy beaches. 

12. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii and world-renowned as one of the best tropical destinations for honeymooners. That should come as no surprise — this island is filled with decadent resorts, stunning white-sand beaches, and magnificent sunrises and sunsets from the Haleakala volcano.

Other Tropical Places You Can Visit Without a Passport:

13. Guam

This tiny island nation is one of the farthest places you can travel to that doesn’t require a passport. Located in the south of the Mariana Islands, Guam is beloved by off-the-beaten-path travelers for its crystal clear ocean waters and relatively empty beaches.

If you’re looking for tropical dive locations that aren’t overrun by other divers or exotic beaches, then consider adding Guam to your list!

14. American Samoa

UPDATE: Americans now do need a passport to travel to American Samoa.

Located below the equator, American Samoa is the southernmost American territory. This island nation is known for its pristine beaches, volcanic peaks, and lush rainforests.

Located almost halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, much of the island remains completely untouched by touristic development, making it best for intrepid and adventurous travelers.

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