Have you ever dreamed of a vacation without the stress of a passport? There’re amazing destinations where you can soak up the sun and enjoy nature. Follow my lead and dive into the top spots!
Quick Picks: Must-Visit Passport-Free Destinations
Destination | Best for | Fun Picks |
Puerto Rico | Pristine beaches, colonial history, lively Caribbean nightlife | El Morro, Condado Beach, local eats like mofongo, lechón, and pastelón |
Hawaii | Majestic volcanoes, lush waterfalls, sun-kissed beaches | Waikiki surf, Haleakalā sunrise, luau nights (you can hear the beats of drums and ukuleles) |
U.S. Virgin Islands | Thrilling snorkeling experiences, white sand beaches | Magens Bay, Virgin Islands National Park
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While these places may feel like international destinations, they’re all officially under the U.S. flag. You just need a government-issued ID to visit. No passport, no customs lines, no international currency exchange hassles!
Top 1: Puerto Rico – Old San Juan & Sunny Beaches
Credit: from Zixi Zhou, Unsplash | Old San Juan
- Location: Northern Caribbean Sea, east of the Dominican Republic and west of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Flight: New York – Puerto Rico (~4 hours, nonstop)
- Notes: San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico and its cultural, historical, and economic hub!
Things to do in Puerto Rico
- Wander Old San Juan: Those cobblestone streets and pastel buildings are perfect for Instagram shots. Don’t forget San Juan National Historic Site!
- Beach time: Condado and Isla Verde are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. For something quieter, Luquillo Beach is a local favorite.
- Eat your heart out: Mofongo, pastelón, and fresh seafood are must-tries.
- Nightlife: La Placita de Santurce has bars, live music, and dancing.
- Rainforest adventure: El Yunque National Forest is a short drive away, all for the waterfalls, hiking, and tropical scenery!
- Water activities: Kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel in Fajardo.
Click here to find more things to do in Puerto Rico!
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico?
On Trip.com, you can find multiple types of hotels in romantic Puerto Rico. Resorts with scenic views, hotels offering premium services, and luxury hotels are all easy to get.
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Top 2: Hawaii – Islands Sneaking Out of City Hustle
Credit: from Pat Whelen, Unsplash | Hawaii
- Location: In the central Pacific Ocean, southwest of the continental United States
- Flight: New York – Honolulu (~11 hours, nonstop)
- Notes: Hawaii is always perfect for its natural beauty, such as the beaches, volcanoes, and lush forests. It’s warm year-round, best for activities like surfing, hiking, and snorkeling.
Things to Do in Hawaii
- Surf Waikiki Beach or take a lesson if you’re a newbie.
- Hike through tropical forests, past waterfalls, and along coastal trails.
- For an Oahu Island full-day guided tour by bus (visit Byodo-in Temple, take a dip, and see the famous surfing beaches).
- Explore volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Snorkel or dive at Molokini Crater or Hanauma Bay.
- Visit Pearl Harbor, a large seaport in Hawaii, for a base of education in patriotism.
Click here to see more fun things to do in Hawaii!
Where to Stay in Hawaii？
In Hawaii, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a lovely stay on Trip.com, from cultural houses to Instagrammable hotels. You can also find family-friendly resorts, best for groups and kids!
Top 3: U.S. Virgin Islands – Caribbean Paradise
Credit: from Roger Darnell, Unsplash | Overlooking Cruz Bay
- Location: A group of islands in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico
- Flight: New York – St. Thomas (New York – St. Croix) (~5 hours)
- Notes: Do not forget to try fresh seafood, like lobster, conch, snapper, etc., you’ll never try inland.
Things to Do in the U.S. Virgin Islands
- Try a full-day sail/snorkel tour with a fresh grilled lunch served!
- Try a night kayak tour at St. Thomas. Paddle through the shallow waters of the Mangrove Lagoon.
- Get yourself an adventurous parasail experience in St. Thomas! Fly in the beautiful U.S Virgin Islands.
Click here to find more things to do in the U.S. Virgin Islands!
Where to Stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Never miss out on the luxury experiences in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Try different stays here, whether it’s a seafront room or a 4-star hotel offering delicate food, poolside bars, and a private beach with stunning sunrise views.
Other Cool U.S. Territories
Territory | Highlights | Top Activities |
Tropical beaches, WWII history, Chamorro culture | Tumon Bay beach, snorkeling at Gab Gab, visit WWII monuments, and cultural shows | |
Remote, lush, eco-adventures | Hiking in a National Park, snorkeling reefs, and village cultural visits | |
WWII sites, secluded beaches, and snorkeling | Historical tours, hiking, snorkeling/diving, beach relaxation |
Travel Tips for Passport-Free Tips
- Bring a government-issued ID
- Most places use U.S. dollars
- Book flights early, especially in peak season
- Use Trip.com for hotels, tours, and activities
- Consider travel insurance for adventure sports
- Check local travel advisories even for U.S. territories
Pack your ID and get ready for a trip without a passport. Visit destinations that feel international but stay domestic in the U.S. Book nonstop flights, enjoy local food, and incredible views of beaches and buildings. All available on Trip.com, all for your beloved memories!
FAQs about Places to Travel Without a Passport
Which countries can U.S. citizens visit without a passport?
U.S. citizens can travel to certain U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa without a passport.Do I need ID for these destinations?
Yes, a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) is required for travel to U.S. territories.Can I travel to Mexico or Canada without a passport?
For air travel, a passport is required. For land or sea crossings, an enhanced driver’s license or passport card may suffice.Are there restrictions for children?
Children under 16 may use a birth certificate for land or sea travel to some destinations, but a passport is needed for air travel.Do U.S. citizens need a visa for these destinations?
No visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to U.S. territories.