No passport? No Problem! Seeking an exotic vacation without the international travel drama? Escape the ordinary without the hassle of a passport. And your choices extend far beyond Florida, California, Hawaii, and the Carolinas. Explore hidden treasures in the U.S. Virgin Islands or indulge in luxury at Puerto Rico's resorts – all without venturing beyond U.S. territory!
Discover the best passport-free vacation destinations:
1. Puerto Rico (including Vieques and Culebra)
In spite of being merely a three-and-a-half-hour flight away from NYC, Puerto Rico offers an ideal destination for a unique getaway that transports you far from your familiar surroundings. Arrive in the picturesque coastal city of San Juan and settle into the Olive Boutique Hotel. This upscale property seamlessly blends chic interiors with a coveted lagoon backdrop, situated conveniently close to excellent dining and shopping options. Once you've checked in, the outside world will fade away. If you can't secure a room with a private jacuzzi, don't worry—there's one available on the rooftop exclusively for hotel guests, along with a plunge pool and a bar boasting breathtaking views of both the ocean and the city. Venture beyond the confines of your retreat to explore Old San Juan with its vibrant colonial architecture, or embark on a half-day journey to the El Yunque Rainforest for captivating waterfalls and scenic vistas. San Juan's culinary landscape is noteworthy, featuring a plethora of comida criolla—Creole cuisine with a Spanish influence. Just a brief stroll from the Olive, discover Cocina Abierta, an innovative Argentinian eatery housed in a stylish, open-plan setting.
Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, about a 13-hour flight southwest of Los Angeles, American Samoa is farther than Hawaii but not as distant as Australia. Comprising five lush, mountainous volcanic islands and steeped in Polynesian culture and heritage, it possesses a unique ambiance that sets it apart from other U.S. destinations. Just a 45-minute drive from the international airport (or with the option of arranging a private transfer) on the primary island of Upolu Samoa, you'll discover Sinalei Reef Resort and Spa. This retreat consists of rustic-luxe villas nestled within 33 acres of lush greenery and pristine beachfront. Featuring Beach Front Villas mere steps from the sand, Sinalei is the kind of resort where one could easily spend an entire stay without venturing off the property—unless, of course, you choose to partake in off-site activities such as island tours and fishing expeditions. Indulge in a dining experience at Ava I Toga, the hotel's exceptionally romantic overwater restaurant, offering lantern-lit South Pacific fusion cuisine (including fresh seafood) complemented by an outstanding wine selection.
3. Guam
If American Samoa doesn't satisfy your quest for a distant getaway, consider Guam—an island located four hours east of the Philippines. Originally of strategic importance in World War II, this remote U.S. territory has transformed into a popular vacation spot, renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and numerous shipwreck dive sites just off the coastline (with visibility reaching as far as 150 feet). The local culture reflects a rich blend of indigenous islanders, Guam's Asian neighbors, its historical Spanish and Japanese influences, and the ongoing impact of American presence, resulting in a distinctive fusion cuisine. While a long-haul flight to Guam might incur significant costs due to its distance, the prices at resorts are reasonable. Our recommendation is the The Tsubaki Tower, a top-notch establishment situated on Tumon Beach. Be sure not to overlook the impressive lunch buffet at Casa Oceano or the rejuvenating Ayualam spa. Additionally, it's a mere 10-minute drive to Two Lovers Point, a cliff-edge lookout considered by many as the best spot to witness Guam's breathtaking sunsets.
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Slightly larger than its counterpart, St. John (though still encompassing just 31 square miles), St. Thomas comprises numerous secluded coves and concealed beaches. Opt for accommodation at Secret Harbour Beach Resort, a tranquil retreat nestled within a marine sanctuary in Nazareth Bay. This location exudes serenity, offering spacious, contemporary rooms, each equipped with a balcony or patio facing the beach. The primary activities revolve around snorkeling, paddleboarding, and unwinding by the freshwater pool. For those seeking a more dynamic experience, the proximity to Red Hook provides access to vibrant activities. Immerse yourself in the local shopping and dining scene, or embark on a ferry journey to St. John for an adventurous day trip.
Accessible only by a 35-minute ferry or private boat ride from St. Thomas, St. John exudes an air of seclusion, spanning a mere 19.6 square miles. Within Virgin Islands National Park, discover the pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of Honeymoon Beach and Turtle Bay. Unwind with a leisurely swim, explore the vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling, or simply relax and soak up the Caribbean sun. For the more adventurous, St. John offers a variety of water sports, including paddle-boarding, scuba diving, and sailing. If you're looking for a true luxury experience, we recommend Lovango Resort and Beach Club. It's a secluded paradise with a beautiful beach, lush greenery, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, St. John provides the perfect escape without leaving U.S. soil.
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The Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth located in the western Pacific Ocean, is a group of 14 volcanic islands known for their stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich cultural heritage. Fly into Saipan, the most developed island, and check into the Kensington Hotel, the island’s only premium all-inclusive hotel destination. is a five-star resort hotel inspired by the majestic profile of a luxury cruise liner, where 15 stories of guest rooms look out across the white sand beaches and brilliant blue sea of Saipan’s northern coast. The Northern Mariana Islands offer a range of activities, including water sports like snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Explore historical sites related to World War II, such as Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff. Nature lovers can visit places like the Bird Island, Grotto, and Managaha Island. The Northern Mariana Islands is a perfect getaway destination.
St. Croix, the southernmost and largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is conveniently just a three-hour flight from Miami. Beyond its pristine beaches, the island offers a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore the 15-acre "Rain Forest," a private property featuring trails amid lush vegetation teeming with exotic birds. The Point Udall monument provides an incredible vantage point, while the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve boasts a bioluminescent bay that illuminates the water at night (best experienced on a kayaking tour). Preserving much of its 18th-century Danish occupation architecture, The Buccaneer Hotel, located just outside Christiansted, pays homage to history with its pink plantation-style design. Positioned atop a hill, the main building offers rooms with uninterrupted views of Mermaid Beach. For exploration, renting a car
is advisable, especially to indulge in some of the island's finest eateries. Additionally, a 30-minute drive to Rowdy Joe’s North Shore Eatery, a local favorite, is well worth it for delectable offerings like fish tacos and Cubano sandwiches.
BONUS!
**Beginning March 2024, U.S. citizens can explore the sunny island of Aruba passport free! Aruba is doing away with physical passports altogether for travelers from many nations, including the United States.
Aruba is a beautiful spot in the southern Caribbean, known for its stunning beaches, friendly locals, and relaxed atmosphere. Aruba's motto is "One Happy Island," and it lives up to its name. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and vibrant culture, infused with Dutch and Latin influences. Beaches are obviously a top draw, with pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and Baby Beach are some of the most popular spots. Explore the rugged interior by Jeep or ATV, discover hidden natural wonders like Arikok National Park, or climb Hooiberg Mountain for panoramic views. Dive into the island's history and culture in Oranjestad, the capital, with its colorful Dutch colonial architecture and lively markets. For those seeking adventure, try windsurfing, kitesurfing, or even horseback riding on the beach. And of course, no trip to Aruba is complete without experiencing the vibrant nightlife, with casinos, bars, and clubs offering something for everyone!
And there you have it! For a tropical getaway, this is our list of passport-free vacation destinations.
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