While disembarking from an international flight can feel fantastic, realizing you have to spend an hour waiting in line at customs can be a total drag. Nothing beats waltzing right through the airport terminal and into tropical escape.
That's why we've compiled eight stunning tropical destinations that U.S. citizens can visit without a passport, from the U.S. Virgin Islands to Puerto Rico, and even a few exotic locales right here in the States. Wherever you go, remember to share photos on the 'Gram and Snapchat — but not too many, okay? Because FOMO.
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Year-round summer, clear skies, and emerald waters await, just a short flight away (three hours from Miami). Go horseback riding near 18th-century sugar mills (and into the ocean), head to the Danish-styled Christiansted for local charm and shopping (be sure to check out the handmade jewelry), or just hit the laid-back beaches to relax and enjoy the island’s natural wonders. Adventure-seekers can explore the rainforest and hike to the Annaly Bay tide pools.
Where To Stay: The Buccaneer Hotel was founded in the 17th century and continues to charm with its old-world style, but keeps up with modern amenities. Each room features a private patio or balcony to take in the resort’s spectacular views and cool breezes.
Photo: Getty Images.
Guam, Mariana Islands
As a U.S. territory, Guam requires only proof of citizenship and a valid photo ID for entry. The largest of the Mariana Islands, the vivid tropical escape offers a mix of Asian, European, and Polynesian cultures, and is known for its laid-back attitude. Plus, it's small enough to do in a weekend (though getting there can take nearly a full day if you're coming from the East Coast). Explore the historical villages, stunning waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Head to the Tumon district for high-end and duty-free shopping, resorts, and nightlife.
Where To Stay: Hilton Guam Resort is situated on the beach overlooking scenic Tumon Bay; you can get gorgeous views of the bay from one of Guam’s only infinity pools. The private beach club offers water sports and snorkeling, and you can choose from six different on-site restaurants that serve up award-winning seafood, Hawaiian-fusion cuisine, and international dishes.
Photo: Getty Images.
Maui, Hawaii
Hawaii is an obvious choice for a tropical, no-passport-required getaway — but Maui, with its never-ending supply of immaculate white-sand beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and lush greens, feels wildly exotic. The Hawaiian "It" island offers top-notch water sports and activities, a volcanic landscape, a rich culture, and a range of fantastic lodging options with prime seaside locations. A sunset will never look the same once you've experienced it in Maui.
Where To Stay: Hotel Wailea is an intimate Relais & Chateaux property that is now an adults-only retreat. The all-suite, 72-room escape is tucked into the hills, 300 feet above sea level, and removed from the overly crowded oceanfront resorts.
Photo: Getty Images.
Key West, Florida
The Florida island city — which is connected to the U.S. by a railway and highway — is famed for its conch-style houses, laid-back lifestyle, and diving and snorkeling in the Florida Reef coral reef system (the only living coral barrier reef in the country). Loaded with quirky charm and a range of cultural offerings (don't miss the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum), you'll find Caribbean vibes in Old Town, and a variety of festivals ranging from fishing tourneys to art events to the wild 10-day party week of Fantasy Fest. It’s also a historically LGBTQ-friendly escape.
Where To Stay: A landmark luxury resort on the island, the Casa Marina (a Waldorf Astoria Resort) is nestled along the southern edge of the island on 1,100 feet of private beach, just half a mile from the famed Duval Street. The elegant, Mediterranean-style rooms and suites offer city or ocean views, with either a balcony or lanai. Make sure to book a sunset dinner at the Toes In The Sand beachfront restaurant for stunning views and tasty, classic Floridian dishes.
Photo: Getty Images.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
This tropical, vibrant metropolis is the island’s social and cultural center. It's home to the historical Old San Juan district, with its cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings. You'll find ocean and lakefront hotels in the sub-district of Condado, along with sandy beaches in the heart of 21st-century San Juan. Venture to the Santurce district for hot local restaurants and lively bars and clubs.
Where To Stay: Olive Boutique Hotel is a rustic-chic and luxurious option just three minutes from the beach. Start your morning with a splash in the rooftop pool, and return at night to cool off with a drink at the bar.
Photo: Getty Images.
Miami, Florida
South Florida may not sound wildly exotic, but there are some spots that offer a total escape. Miami is dotted with hidden beach gems — you just need to know where to look. The North Shore Open Space Park is spacious and fresh compared to the hordes of people in South Beach, and you'll find outdoor adventure galore at the big Oleta River State Park, where you can bike, kayak, and fish in peace.
Where To Stay: The Delano South Beach is the spot — because who doesn’t love a trendy, upscale art deco hotel? The 7,000-square-foot Beach Club is home to the hotel’s iconic swimming pool and offers direct access to the ocean.
Photo: Getty Images.
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
The smallest of the Virgin Islands, two-thirds of St. John is actually a pristine national park. Thanks to the intrinsic beauty of the Caribbean, the island offers visitors some of the world's most breathtaking beaches, including the much-beloved Trunk Bay (renowned for its crystal sands and underwater nature trail). Frequented by nature lovers, St. John also offers hiking, camping, and insane views — but Cruz Bay, the island's main town, brings some hustle and bustle.
Where To Stay: Concordia Eco Resort has a variety of eco tents, (which are like tree houses on the hillside), with all of the basic facilities you need. They sleep up to five people each.
Photo: Getty Images.
Vieques, Puerto Rico
While it's just a few miles away from the mainland of Puerto Rico, Vieques feels like another world. Renowned for (surprise!) its beaches, wild horses, and eerily awesome bioluminescent bay, 70% of the island is a U.S. wildlife refuge, protecting coastal lagoons, mangrove wetlands, subtropical dry forest, and smaller islands.
Where To Stay: The W Vieques is a destination unto itself. There are two private beaches in the backyard of the resort, which is filled with unpolished wood and colorful, luxurious details. Along with airy rooms and suites that feature sitting areas and balconies, there's also a hip lounge with a terrace and a bi-level infinity pool.
Photo: Getty Images.
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