8 Caribbean Islands Americans Can Visit Without a Passport

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous holiday, visiting the Caribbean is always a good idea, and there are plenty of destinations to choose from.

Have you already thought about which documents you may need? There is no need to worry even if you have just realized that your passport has expired and the time to renew it is too long. Because there are 6 fantastic islands that you can visit without it.

St. John (US Virgin Islands)

St. John is a bit more exclusive than the other Virgin Islands. However, if you are looking for one idyllic holiday in nature without crowdsit’s the place to be.

More than half of the island falls under the Virgin Islands National Park full of incredible white sand beaches, various rare plants and animals, and historic plantations.

The best way to discover the park is by taking a walk. There are more than one 20 hiking trails to choose from of and you can virtually have them to yourself.

You can also practice water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking or snorkeling in Cinnamon Bay. Just a few meters from shore you will find a bed of coral reefs with many colorful fish, and occasionally sea turtles and rays.

• Average cost of flights: ​St. John does not have its own airport. The best way to get there is to fly into St. Thomas and take the ferry from there.
• Average cost of accommodation: $200-$400/night in a 3-star hotel, $500-$800/night in a luxury hotel

St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands)

If there’s one thing St. Thomas is known for, it’s that tax-free shopping. You can easily spend a day or two in Charlotte Amalie, the island’s capital, wandering the shops and boutiques. Yet there is much more to see.

Charlotte Amalie is sure to enchant all history buffs. Here is the famous Fort Christian from 1680, which has served as a prison and government office over the years. The second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere also lies in the colonial streets of Charlotte Amalie.

For the best beaches, go to Magen’s Bay or Sapphire Beach. They both offer crystal clear waters, soft white sand and views of the neighboring island of St. John.

On the other side for a wide panoramic view views of the surrounding landscape, walk or drive to Drake’s Seat. You can also zipline at the iconic Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Park. It’s scary, but we guarantee you’ll have fun.

• Average cost of flights: $400-$800
• Average cost of accommodation: $120-$250/night in a 3-star hotel, $300-$600/night in a luxury hotel

St. Croix (US Virgin Islands)

St. Cross is the largest of the islands and is known for its beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, world-class resorts, casinos, golf courses and well-preserved colonial architecture.

The cities of Christianity And Frederiksted are the perfect option to soak up the 18th century atmosphere of the Virgin Islands. Plus, they both have beautiful waterfronts and a fantastic food scene with a mix of Caribbean, Danish and African flavors.

On the eastern tip of the island you will find Point Udallthe easternmost point of the United States. We recommend that you get up early one day and take a trip there. It is the perfect place to watch the sunrise.

A visit to St. Croix wouldn’t be complete without one tour of a rum distillerysuch as Cruzan Rum Distillery or the world famous Captain Morgan. You can learn about the rum-making process and try a few samples.

Last but not least, we cannot forget to mention the beaches. Sandy point is a fantastic option for surfers. While Cane Bay offers great snorkeling and diving opportunities.

• Average cost of flights: $400-$800
• Average cost of accommodation: $120-$250/night in a 3-star hotel, $300-$600/night in a luxury hotel

Water Island (US Virgin Islands)

water island, the smallest of the four main US Virgin Islandsoffers a serene retreat for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. This lesser-known gem covers just 491 acres and is just a 10-minute ferry ride from Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, making it an accessible yet remote destination in the Caribbean.

Known for its emphasis on ecotourism and limited development, Water Island has no major resorts, instead offering vacation rentals such as private villas, cottages and a few guest houses that blend harmoniously into the island’s landscape. This makes it an ideal place for travelers who want to immerse themselves in tranquility and a slower pace of life.

• Average cost of flights: $400-$800 to St. Thomas and then a ferry.
• Average cost of accommodation: $200-380/night at a hotel/resort

Puerto Rico

Full of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and a fantastic food scene, Puerto Rico is an island that has it all and will please even the most discerning travelers.

San Juan – the capital of Puerto Rico – is definitely a place not to be missed, especially if you enjoy exploring foreign cultures and enjoying food.

In the cobblestone streets of old San Juanyou will find numerous gourmet restaurants serving local cuisine. During your search for the best foodie spots and bars, you will also pass several UNESCO World Heritage sites that are worth a visit.

If you enjoy spending time in nature, go to Yunque National Forest. It is the only tropical forest in the US territory and is home to more than 240 plant species, several endemic animals and breathtaking waterfalls.

Puerto Rico also has three worlds bioluminescent bays – Laguna Grande, La Parguera and Mosquito Bay. To get the best experience, avoid visiting them during full moon nights as they bring too much harsh light.

• Average cost of flights: $300-$600
• Average cost of accommodation: $80-$150/night in a 3-star hotel, $200-$500/night in a luxury hotel

Vieques (Puerto Rico)

Vieques is a small island west of Puerto Rico that can be reached by ferry or small local plane as it has a small airport.

It’s only 6 miles away, so the flight from San Juan is only 25 minutes. Most US airlines offer combined tickets to reach Vieques Island by connecting at San Juan Airport.

The ferry leaves from Ceiba and takes only 30 minutes. Prices are around $3.

Vieques Island is a paradise that feels more remote than Puerto Rico’s main island. You can enjoy snorkeling, beach hopping, swimming at great resorts and nature.

• Average cost of flights: $300-$600 (same as Puerto Rico)
• Average cost of accommodation: $90-$140/night in a 3-star hotel, $230-$500/night in a luxury hotel

Culebra (Puerto Rico)

Culebra Island is one of Puerto Rico’s best hidden gems, offering an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Unspoilt beaches, marine life and great walks are the island’s highlights.

Culebra Island is located 30 miles west of Puerto Rico’s main island and is a 30-minute plane ride from San Juan and about a 45-minute ferry ride from Ceiba. Airline tickets cost between $60 and $90 and ferry tickets cost about $5.

• Average cost of flights: $300-$600 (same as Purto Rico)
• Average cost of accommodation: $100-$160/night in a 3-star hotel, $230-$500/night in a luxury hotel