Dreaming of turquoise waters, volcanic peaks, or just escaping the everyday? What if your next incredible island getaway required no passport, no customs lines, just… your driver’s license? For American citizens, some truly stunning destinations feel like they’re a world away, but since they are actually part of the U.S. (as states or territories), visiting them is surprisingly easy. Get ready to explore vibrant Caribbean islands and breathtaking Pacific gems flying the Stars and Stripes, all without the international travel hassle. Let’s dive into 10 amazing non-mainland U.S. spots where paradise is closer (and easier) than you think!
1. Puerto Rico
- Why Go: This vibrant Caribbean island offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore the 500-year-old streets and massive forts of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, hit some of the 300+ beaches lining its 270 miles of coastline. You can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, kayak through bioluminescent bays, hike in the El Yunque rainforest (the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System!), and savor delicious food like mofongo and lechón (roast pork).
- Vibe: Energetic, historic, beachy, foodie paradise.
2. U.S. Virgin Islands – St. Thomas
- Why Go: Known for its stunning beaches like Magens Bay (often listed among the world’s most beautiful) and great duty-free shopping in Charlotte Amalie. Get panoramic views from Mountain Top (supposedly the home of the banana daiquiri!), snorkel with turtles at Honeymoon Beach, or take a ferry to nearby islands.
- Vibe: Popular, lively, beautiful beaches, shopper-friendly.
3. U.S. Virgin Islands – St. Croix
- Why Go: The largest of the USVI, St. Croix offers a more laid-back vibe with a rich Danish colonial history visible in the charming towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted. Tour historic sugar plantations, visit the Cruzan Rum Distillery, kayak the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve (where Columbus landed), or go diving along the famous underwater wall.
- Vibe: Historic, diverse, relaxed, culturally rich.
4. U.S. Virgin Islands – St. John
- Why Go: If nature is your bliss, St. John is your island. Over 60% of it is protected as the Virgin Islands National Park, preserving miles of hiking trails, pristine beaches like Trunk Bay (with its famous underwater snorkeling trail), and vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. It’s quieter and less developed than St. Thomas.
- Vibe: Natural, tranquil, eco-focused, stunningly beautiful.
5. Hawaii – The Big Island (Hawaiʻi Island)
- Why Go: Experience incredible geological diversity. Visit the stark, dramatic landscapes of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, walk on black sand beaches like Punaluʻu (where sea turtles often bask), stargaze from Mauna Kea, and tour lush Kona coffee farms. Winter offers warm temps (often near 80°F) without peak summer humidity.
- Vibe: Adventurous, dramatic landscapes, volcanic wonders, diverse climates.
6. Hawaii – Oahu
- Why Go: Home to the state capital, Honolulu, the iconic Waikiki Beach, and the historic Pearl Harbor memorials. Learn to surf, hike Diamond Head for incredible views, explore Polynesian cultures at the Polynesian Cultural Center, or hit the legendary surf breaks on the North Shore (especially in winter).
- Vibe: Bustling city meets island paradise, iconic sights, surf culture.
7. Hawaii – Maui
- Why Go: Famous for the scenic Road to Hāna, sunrise viewing atop the dormant Haleakalā volcano, and world-class beaches like Kaʻanapali and Wailea. In winter, it’s a prime spot for whale watching as humpback whales migrate here to breed and calve.
- Vibe: Romantic, scenic drives, whale watching hub, luxury resorts and charming towns.
8. Guam
- Why Go: Located in the Western Pacific, Guam offers a unique blend of indigenous Chamorro culture, Spanish colonial history, and American influence. Known as “Where America’s Day Begins,” it boasts beautiful beaches (Tumon Bay is a hub), fantastic diving (including shipwrecks and reefs), and duty-free shopping.
- Vibe: Tropical Pacific, culturally unique, historical significance (WWII), water sports focus.
9. American Samoa
- Why Go: For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to this remote U.S. territory in the South Pacific. It’s made up of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls, offering dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and a deeply traditional Polynesian (Samoan) culture. The National Park of American Samoa protects unique ecosystems across three islands.
- Vibe: Remote, culturally immersive, rugged natural beauty, untouched Polynesia.
10. Northern Mariana Islands
- Why Go: This U.S. Commonwealth in Micronesia consists of 14 islands (Saipan, Tinian, and Rota being the most visited). Saipan offers beautiful beaches, resorts, and golf, alongside significant WWII sites like Suicide Cliff and Banzai Cliff. Tinian is even more relaxed, while Rota is known for its ancient Chamorro quarries. Diving, particularly in Saipan’s Grotto cavern, is world-renowned.
- Vibe: Pacific island charm, significant WWII history, excellent diving, less crowded.
So, pick your paradise! Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean warmth or Pacific adventure, these 10 destinations offer incredible getaways without the need to dig out your passport. Enjoy the ease of domestic travel with an exotic feel!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
