If your beach cravings hit harder than your motivation to dig up your passport, you’re in luck. Several U.S.-affiliated islands offer the turquoise waters, warm breezes, and sunny days of a far-away paradise without the need of a passport for U.S. citizens.
Here are four tropical destinations where you can simply book a flight and enjoy island life without a passport:
The islands you can visit
1. Guam
Set in the western Pacific, Guam feels like a world apart but legally, it’s a U.S. territory so you can visit without a passport. This island blends Indigenous Chamorro culture, WWII history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty, all wrapped in warm, quiet hospitality.
The coastline alone is worth the trip. Tumon Bay is Guam’s resort hub, with luminous water, soft beaches, and an active dining and shopping scene. Snorkelers and divers adore the visibility here, especially at spots like Gun Beach and Blue Hole. Inland, hikers can explore waterfalls, thick jungles, and mountain viewpoints like the popular trek to Mount Lamlam, where cloud-fringed views make it feel like the edge of the world.
Although no passport is required for U.S. citizens, keep in mind that flights often route through international airports, so airlines may ask for additional ID. Still, the island itself is entirely U.S. territory, making your arrival wonderfully easy.
Related: This small island was just dubbed the safest in the Caribbean, here are 6 things to do there
2. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)
Just north of Guam lies the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, another U.S. jurisdiction that U.S. citizens can enjoy passport-free. The three main islands: Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, offer a slower pace, pristine beaches, and warm, clear Pacific water that feels almost untouched.
Saipan is the largest and most accessible island of the Northern Mariana Islands, known for its coral reefs, blue lagoons, and dramatic viewpoints like the seaside cliffs at Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff. Adventure seekers can explore the Grotto, a deep-blue limestone cavern renowned among divers.
Tinian is quieter but historically rich, with WWII sites and peaceful white-sand beaches. Rota is often described as the “friendly island” and is wonderfully off the radar, boasting lush landscapes, incredible birdwatching, and dive sites with visibility that seems unreal.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or serene beaches without crowds, the CNMI delivers a tropical experience that feels truly special with no passport needed as long as you fly in from U.S. territory.
3. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is arguably the easiest tropical escape for Americans: no passport required, no currency changes, and no roaming charges. But convenience is only the beginning.
This island’s energy is electric. Old San Juan’s pastel colonial streets and fortresses overlook a turquoise harbor. El Yunque National Forest offers lush hiking trails, waterfalls, and cool mountain breezes. On the west coast, Rincon draws surfers with golden sunsets and rolling waves. On the east, island-hoppers can ferry to Vieques and Culebra, two outlying gems famous for bioluminescent bays and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
Foodies are in for a treat too. Don’t miss mofongo, roasted pork, and roadside fritters. Whether you want nightlife, history, nature, or simply a chair in the sand, Puerto Rico delivers.
4. U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)
The U.S. Virgin Islands are everything you picture when you think “island vacation”: bright water, warm breezes, coral reefs, and slow mornings with coffee overlooking the sea. And yes, U.S. citizens can enjoy it all without a passport.
St. Thomas is the lively, resort-filled hub, offering duty-free shopping and panoramic viewpoints. St. John is quieter, protected by the Virgin Islands National Park, with beaches like Trunk Bay that consistently rank among the world’s best. St. Croix mixes calm beaches with historical towns, rum distilleries, and vibrant reefs perfect for snorkelers.
Whether you prefer adventure, solitude, or cocktails by the water, the USVI has an island that matches your energy.
Related: Bermuda and more tropical islands just got easier to visit
What to pack
While you don’t need to pack your passport to visit these islands, there are a few things you should bring along. When heading to Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, pack light and focus on tropical essentials.
-
Breathable clothing, swimsuits, and reef-safe sunscreen are musts for long beach days, while a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle will keep you cool and protected under the strong island sun.
-
Bring sturdy sandals or water shoes for rocky shorelines, plus lightweight hiking shoes if you plan to explore rainforests or coastal trails.
-
A compact dry bag comes in handy for boat excursions and sudden showers, and don’t forget insect repellent, especially for jungle hikes.
-
While most amenities are easy to find, it’s smart to carry a small first-aid kit, any necessary medications, and a portable charger for those all-day adventures
With the right gear, you’ll be ready to enjoy every wave, reef, and sunset.
These four destinations offer all the warmth, color, and relaxation of tropical travel minus the passport hassle. So go ahead: pick an island, book your flight, and let the sea breeze do the rest.
This story was originally published by TravelHost on Nov 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.