11 Tropical Paradises You Can Visit Without a Passport

Dreaming of a beach getaway but don’t have a passport? No problem! You don’t need to travel halfway around the world to find your slice of paradise. There are plenty of stunning tropical destinations right in U.S. territory that you can visit with just a driver’s license or birth certificate.

From crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches to lush rainforests and colorful coral reefs, these places have it all. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an adventure-packed vacation, we’ve got you covered. Here are 11 tropical paradises you can visit without ever needing to dust off your passport.

Puerto Rico

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This Caribbean island is a perfect mix of beach and culture. San Juan, the capital, has colorful old buildings and tasty food. The beaches are gorgeous, with clear blue water. You can explore rainforests, go snorkeling, or just relax on the sand. Don’t miss the bioluminescent bays that glow at night!

U.S. Virgin Islands

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This group of islands includes St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Each has its own personality. St. Thomas is great for shopping and lively beaches. St. John is quieter, with lots of nature to explore. St. Croix has an interesting history and good snorkelling spots. The beaches on all three islands are stunning.

Hawaii

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Hawaii is the classic tropical getaway. Each island offers something different. You can watch surfers on Oahu, see volcanoes on the Big Island, or find quiet beaches on Kauai. The scenery is breathtaking, from green mountains to black sand beaches. Don’t forget to try some fresh pineapple and watch a hula dance!

Guam

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This small island in the Pacific is a hidden gem. It has beautiful beaches and interesting World War II history. You can go hiking, snorkeling, or shopping. The sunsets here are amazing. Guam is also a great place to try new foods that mix Asian and Pacific flavors.

American Samoa

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If you want to get away from crowds, American Samoa is perfect. It’s one of the least visited U.S. territories. The beaches are pristine and often empty. You can hike through rainforests and see colorful birds. The local Samoan culture is rich and welcoming.

Northern Mariana Islands

Image Credit: “Pagan Island, Northern Marianas” by NASA Earth Observatory is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

This chain of islands in the Pacific has some of the best diving spots in the world. Saipan, the main island, has beautiful beaches and World War II sites. You can see amazing sea life, hike to hidden beaches, or try your luck at the casinos. The mix of cultures here makes for interesting food and festivals.

Florida Keys

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Drive down to the very tip of Florida for a tropical feel without leaving the mainland. Key West is famous for its laid-back vibe and beautiful sunsets. You can go fishing, snorkeling, or just relax on the beach. Don’t miss the key lime pie – it’s a local specialty!

Dry Tortugas National Park

Image Credit: “Snorkeling At Dry Tortugas National Park” by SNORKELINGDIVES.COM is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

This small group of islands is part of Florida but feels like another world. You can only get there by boat or seaplane. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. You can explore an old fort, watch for sea turtles, or camp under the stars. It’s one of the least crowded national parks.

Channel Islands National Park

Off the coast of California, these islands feel tropical despite the cooler water. You can kayak through sea caves, watch for whales, or hike along clifftops. The islands are home to plants and animals you won’t see anywhere else. It’s a great place for adventurers who like nature.

Puerto Rico’s Outer Islands

Image Credit: “Blue beach, Vieques” by karlnorling is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Vieques and Culebra are small islands off Puerto Rico’s coast. They’re quieter than the main island but just as beautiful. Vieques has wild horses roaming free and a bioluminescent bay. Culebra has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Both are perfect for a relaxing vacation away from crowds.

South Padre Island, Texas

Image Credit: “Port Isabel, South Padre Island, Texas” by VSmithUK is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

This long, thin island off the Texas coast has a tropical vibe. The beaches are wide and sandy, great for long walks or building sandcastles. You can go kiteboarding, watch for sea turtles, or take a dolphin-watching cruise. In spring, it’s a popular spot for college students on break, but it’s quieter the rest of the year.

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Victoria Omololu

Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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