Top Islands in the U.S. You Can Travel to Without a Passport
By Jeff Lowe • September 14, 2025
Sometimes you just want an island getaway without the extra steps. No digging through drawers for your passport. No stressing about expiration dates. Just book the flight, pack your bags, and go.
That’s one of the best parts about traveling to U.S. islands — you still get turquoise water, palm trees, and that relaxed island pace, but without international travel headaches.
My wife, Colleen, and I have been lucky enough to visit several of these destinations over the years, and honestly, some of them rank among our favorite trips ever.
So if you’re dreaming of a beach escape that’s easy, familiar, and still feels special, let me walk you through some of the best U.S. islands you can visit without a passport.
Puerto Rico – Caribbean Culture, Beaches, and Rainforest Adventures
Puerto Rico is often the first place I recommend when someone asks about a tropical vacation without a passport. Colleen and I stayed at a resort just outside of San Juan, and it was the perfect home base for exploring the island.
San Juan itself is full of color and energy. Walking through Old San Juan feels like stepping into another era, with bright buildings, historic forts, and cobblestone streets everywhere you turn. We loved soaking up the culture — the food, the music, and just the general rhythm of island life.
One of the highlights for us was visiting El Yunque National Forest. It’s the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system, and it absolutely lives up to the hype. Lush greenery, waterfalls, and that fresh rainforest air — it felt like we were worlds away from everyday life.
Puerto Rico strikes a great balance. You can relax at a resort, explore history, hike through the jungle, and still enjoy amazing beaches. And all of it without needing a passport. That’s pretty hard to beat.
U.S. Virgin Islands – St. Thomas and Island Exploring
The U.S. Virgin Islands are another Caribbean favorite, and St. Thomas holds a special place for us. From the moment we arrived, it felt like classic island paradise.
One of our favorite experiences was kayaking in Magens Bay. The water there is calm, clear, and unbelievably beautiful. We actually spotted sea turtles while kayaking, which is one of those moments that sticks with you long after the trip ends. Can you imagine gliding across crystal-clear water and suddenly seeing turtles swimming below you? It was incredible.
We also loved exploring the island by car. St. Thomas is great for that — winding roads, scenic overlooks, and hidden beaches you’d never find otherwise. And of course, we spent some time shopping downtown, which is always fun if you enjoy browsing local stores and duty-free shops.
St. Thomas has a nice mix of relaxation and activity. You can be as laid-back or as adventurous as you want, which makes it a great choice for a Caribbean vacation without a passport.
Hawaii – One of Our All-Time Favorite Destinations
Hawaii deserves its own section, because it’s easily one of our favorite places to visit. We’ve been fortunate to travel there multiple times, and it never gets old.
We’ve spent time on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, and each island has its own personality. Maui, in particular, is our favorite. There’s just something about it — the beaches, the slower pace, and the incredible scenery.
What really draws us back to Hawaii is the lush vegetation. Everything feels alive. Waterfalls, rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and coastlines that look almost unreal. Whether you’re driving the Road to Hana, watching waves crash against black lava rock, or just enjoying a quiet beach at sunset, Hawaii has a way of making you slow down and appreciate where you are.
The Big Island is especially fascinating, with its active volcanoes and dramatic changes in landscape. You can go from tropical beaches to higher elevations that feel almost alpine. It’s wild.
Best of all, Hawaii gives you that faraway island feeling without ever leaving the U.S. No passport, no customs — just island magic.
Key West, Florida – Island Vibes at the End of the Road
This past year, Colleen and I took a drive from Miami to Key West for the day, and it turned out to be such a fun experience. The drive alone is worth it, with ocean views on both sides as you head south through the Florida Keys.
Once in Key West, we spent time shopping on Duval Street, which is lively, colorful, and full of personality. It’s one of those places where you can wander with no real plan and still have a great time.
We also toured the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Even if you’re not a huge literature fan, it’s a fascinating stop — and yes, the famous cats are everywhere.
Key West feels like its own little world. It’s relaxed, quirky, and perfect if you want island vibes without hopping on a long flight.
Guam – A Pacific Island With a Cultural Twist
Guam is one of those destinations people often forget is part of the U.S., but it absolutely counts when we’re talking about passport-free island travel.
Located in the western Pacific, Guam offers stunning beaches, incredible snorkeling and diving, and a unique blend of cultures. You’ll find Chamorro traditions mixed with Asian and American influences, especially when it comes to food.
It’s a longer trip from the mainland, but if you’re looking for something truly different while still staying within U.S. territory, Guam is worth considering.
American Samoa – Remote, Wild, and Beautiful
American Samoa is another U.S. island destination that feels incredibly remote. This is the place to go if you want dramatic landscapes, rugged coastlines, and a strong connection to local culture.
The National Park of American Samoa offers hiking, snorkeling, and views that don’t feel touched by mass tourism. It’s not as developed as other island destinations, which is actually part of the appeal for travelers looking for something more off the beaten path.
Other U.S. Islands Worth a Look
If you’re looking for additional island ideas, here are a few more worth mentioning:
-
Northern Mariana Islands – Known for clear waters, WWII history, and excellent diving.
-
Catalina Island, California – Just off the coast of Southern California, but it feels like a true escape.
-
Block Island, Rhode Island – A charming New England island with bluffs, beaches, and small-town character.
Final Thoughts
Island vacations don’t have to be complicated. Some of the best islands in the world are right here in the United States, and you can visit them without a passport.
From rainforest hikes in Puerto Rico to kayaking with turtles in St. Thomas, from lush Hawaiian landscapes to a laid-back day in Key West, these trips have given Colleen and me some unforgettable memories. And the best part? Getting there was easy.
So if you’re craving sunshine, ocean breezes, and a change of pace, maybe one of these U.S. islands is calling your name.
Which one would you visit first?