Amazing and Romantic Places To Travel Without A Passport From The U.S. 2023
There are some amazing and romantic places you can travel to without a passport. Yes, traveling without a passport is possible. This list of romantic places to travel without a passport from the U.S. is all you’ll need to start planning and be on your way to a romantic tropical U.S. vacation.
Are you dreaming of visiting exotic islands and romantic destinations? Do you think you are limited because you either have never gotten a passport or discovered that your passport has expired?
We have great news, there are several territories that U.S. citizens can visit without needing a passport and you will feel like you are visiting an exotic place.
Not having a passport does put a damper on traveling to some destinations from the U.S. Yet we have discovered that there are places in the U.S. that make you feel as if you have traveled to an exotic place, you can also travel to some amazing U.S. territories and take many closed loop cruises all without a passport.
First – What are the U.S. Territories? U.S. Territories are not states. Each territory is partially self-governing and exists under the authority of the U.S. allowing U.S. citizens to visit them without a passport.
There are five major U.S. territories: American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You can travel to all of these territories without a U.S. passport. Being able to travel to these exotic destinations without a passport gives us many romantic options when vacationing as a couple.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the most romantic places to travel without a passport. So go ahead and dream of exotic vacations and book your trip today.
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Places to travel without a passport
Traveling to any of these amazing destinations may fill your lust for exotic travel. Some places require you to have your enhanced driver’s license and birth certificate to enter the country and travel.
When booking your trip, make sure you know the requirements. Requirements do change even if you have vacationed someplace before. It is always good practice to check and see if anything has changed.
Starting with the U.S. Territories, let’s look at these romantic places, how to get there, and where to stay.
1 American Samoa
Do you find yourself dreaming of the South Pacific? A visit to American Samoa may be what you are looking for, and as a U.S. citizen, you can travel here without a passport. This chain of islands is located between Hawaii and New Zealand and is often referred to as the heart of Polynesia.
This U.S. territory, known as American Samoa, has been a favorite travel destination for U.S. citizens since it became a territory in 1911.
Most American Samoan residents are bilingual and speak Samoan and English. Tourism is not high in American Samoa, making it a great place to explore the natural wonders it offers.
The islands are mountainous and known for their beautiful natural beaches, pristine coral reefs, and cliffs.
American Samoa and its unique experiences are awaiting the adventurous traveler. Unlike many tourist-filled islands, while visiting American Samoa, you will find genuine hospitality that’s hard to find anywhere else.
What do you need to visit American Samoa as a U.S. Citizen
To enter American Samoa, you must have in your possession your valid passport or certified birth certificate showing you are a U.S. citizen. You must also have your return tickets for departing American Samoa.
How to Get to American Samoa
American Samoa is located in the South Pacific Ocean. To get to American Samoa from the United States, you can take a direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Both Hawaiian Airlines and Samoa Airways offer flights to Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) in American Samoa.
Your flight time is approximately 5-6 hours from Los Angeles and 4-5 hours from Honolulu. You could also fly to Samoa’s capital city, Apia, and then take a connecting flight to Pago Pago.
It is important to note that American Samoa is on the other side of the International Date Line, so travelers will need to adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Where to Stay in American Samoa
Sadie Thompson Inn is located in the heart of Pago Pago and offers a unique and historic experience. The Inn was originally built in the early 1900s and has been restored to its original charm.
Tradewinds Hotel is located on the outskirts of Pago Pago and offers a more contemporary experience. The rooms are spacious and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV.
2 Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands are about three hours from Japan, on the North Pacific, right above the equator. While on the Mariana Islands, you will experience Chamorro and Carolinian culture. Once on the islands relaxing can take on many forms. You can take in the relaxing views of the Philippine Sea, sunbathe on the beautiful beaches, play golf, go scuba diving or try your luck at the casino.
If diving is your thing, you will want to visit the Grotto. It is considered one of the best places for diving. A visit to Managaha Conservation Area is a must. Here you will get to experience the coral reef at its purest. Swimming at Managaha is like swimming in an aquarium.
History buffs will want to check out the World War II sites and the invasion beaches. Here you will see the tops of three World War II Sherman tanks sticking out of the water.
While visiting the Mariana Islands, you can take a World War II snorkeling tour or kayak out and see them from a distance. While on the water, be sure to check out all of the beautiful coral.
The Northern Mariana Islands consist of 14 islands in total, each one with its own unique characteristics. Each one gives you a different glimpse of cultures and flavors.
What do you need to visit Northern Mariana Islands as a U.S. Citizen
U.S. Citizens visiting Northern Mariana Islands do not need a U.S. passport. It is recommended that you travel with a certified copy of your birth certificate and an enhanced driver’s license.
How to get to the Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean. To get to the Northern Mariana Islands from the U.S. mainland, visitors can take a direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Saipan International Airport (SPN). United Airlines and Delta Air Lines both offer flights to Saipan from Los Angeles, with a flight time of approximately 7-8 hours.
Visitors can also take a connecting flight from Guam to Saipan, which is a shorter flight of approximately 1 hour. It is important to note that while U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel to the Northern Mariana Islands, non-US citizens will need a valid passport and visa to enter the territory.
Where to stay when visiting the Northern Mariana Islands
The Hyatt Regency Saipan is located on the western coast of Saipan and offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views. The rooms feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV.
Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan is located on the eastern coast of Saipan and offers a more affordable option for couples. The rooms are spacious and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV.
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How to Plan Your Trip
3 St. Johns ~ Virgin Islands
St. John is home to the Virgin Islands Nation Park. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural resources. With 7,000 acres of the island protected, visitors can enjoy incredible beaches, hiking trails through the island forests, and a visit to sugar plantation ruins.
St. Johns is known for the relaxing pace the island offers. While simultaneously giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy snorkeling, island hopping, sailing, shopping, and dining in addition to the beauty of the National Park.
Once you visit St. Johns you will find yourself trying to plan your return trip.
How to get to St. Johns Virgin Island
St. John is one of the islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands and is located in the Caribbean Sea. To get to St. John from the U.S., visitors can fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on the neighboring island of St. Thomas. Several major US airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue, offer direct flights to St. Thomas from cities such as Miami, New York, and Atlanta.
From Cyril E. King Airport, visitors can take a taxi or shuttle to the Red Hook Ferry Terminal on St. Thomas, where they can catch a ferry to St. John. The ferry ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands. Visitors can also fly directly to St. John’s small airport, but these flights tend to be more expensive and less frequent.
Where to stay on St. Johns Virgin Islands
Caneel Bay Resort is located on a private peninsula within the Virgin Islands National Park and offers a secluded and romantic experience. The rooms feature traditional island decor and modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and satellite TV.
The Westin St. John Resort Villas is located on Great Cruz Bay and offers a more contemporary experience. The villas are spacious and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and kitchenettes or fully-equipped kitchens.
4 St. Croix ~ Virgin Islands
St. Croix is often referred to as the “Big Island. It is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The island is home to numerous sugar mill ruins. The island was once the sugar-producing king of the Caribbean. Today visitors can learn about sugar production but visiting Whim Plantation, a restored sugar plantation on St. Croix.
If you are a diver, you have likely heard of “The Wall,” this amazing diving experience is waiting for you in St. Croix. But don’t worry if you are not a diver and have always wanted to learn. You can take classes while vacationing in St. Croix. In addition, other water sports are available such as kayaking, snorkeling, and boating.
If land activities are calling you, shopping, island tours, exploring, golf, nightlife, dining, and crab races await you.
St. Croix is home to three National Parks, which protect the island’s natural resources and pre-historic ruins. These National Parks protect the island’s natural beauty and the natural ecosystem and wildlife.
How to get to St. Croix Virgin Islands
St. Croix is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands and is located in the Caribbean Sea. To get to St. Croix from the U.S., visitors can fly into Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX), which is located on the western side of the island. Several major U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue, offer direct flights to St. Croix from cities such as Miami, New York, and Atlanta.
Visitors can also take a connecting flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico, which is a shorter flight of approximately 30 minutes. Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the island’s beaches, historic sites, and other attractions. St. Croix is also accessible by ferry from the neighboring island of St. Thomas, but this option is less convenient and more time-consuming.
Where to stay on St. Croix Virgin Islands
The Buccaneer is a luxury resort located on a secluded beach on the eastern side of the island. The rooms feature elegant decor and offers three beaches and swimming pools.
Sand Castle on the Beach is a more affordable option located on a beautiful beach on the western side of the island. The rooms are spacious and feature modern amenities. The resort features an on-site restaurant and bar as well as a spa.
5 St. Thomas ~ Virgin Islands
St Thomas is known as the gateway isle of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. St. Thomas is a water lovers’ paradise. It is best known for its beaches, scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, fishing, and snorkeling. St. Thomas is also a popular stop for cruise ships and can be very touristy.
St. Thomas is not only known for its beautiful beaches, but it is a hot spot for golfing and shopping. The perfect combination, while the men are golfing, the women can be shopping.
Historic buildings in the downtown transport visitors to the Danish era. A time when St. Thomas was a bustling port of trade.
St. Thomas is a vacation spot for adults. The shops shut down by 6, and then the nightlife takes over. This sounds like an ideal island for a bit of romance.
How to get to St Thomas Virgin Islands
St. Thomas is one of the US Virgin Islands and is located in the Caribbean Sea. To get to St. Thomas from the US, visitors can fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT), which is located on the eastern side of the island. Several major U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue, offer direct flights to St. Thomas from cities such as Miami, New York, and Atlanta.
Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the island’s beaches, historic sites, and other attractions. St. Thomas is also accessible by ferry from the neighboring island of St. John, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands. Visitors can also take a ferry from St. Thomas to the nearby British Virgin Islands, including popular destinations like Tortola and Virgin Gorda.
Where to stay on St. Thomas Virgin Islands
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is a luxury resort located on a secluded beach on the eastern side of the island. The resort offers a private beach and has multiple restaurants and bars on site.
Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is a more affordable option located on a scenic beach on the southern side of the island. The resort features a fitness center and private beach.
6 Hawaii
When thoughts of a tropical destination come to mind, I think everyone’s first thought is the islands of Hawaii.
One of the most common searches by U.S. citizens wanting to take a vacation is “Do I need a U.S. passport to visit Hawaii? The good news is that you do not need a U.S. passport to visit any Hawaiian Islands.
In 1959 Hawaii became the 50th state. A visit to this 50th state will immerse you in a vastly different culture than anything you find in the other 49 states.
Vacation on Hawaii’s islands is like visiting The French Polynesian without a passport. Who could ask for anything more?
Hawaii is the perfect place to hike through a lush rain forest, visit Hawaii’s Volcano National Park, dive with manta rays, snorkel with sea turtles, discover secret waterfalls, and see where the movie Lost was filmed, or participate in a Luau.
How to get to Hawaii
Getting to Hawaii from the U.S. is relatively easy, as the state is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can fly directly to Hawaii from several major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, and New York. There are several major airlines that offer direct flights to Hawaii, such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines.
The two main airports in Hawaii are Honolulu International Airport on Oahu and Kahului Airport on Maui.
Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the island’s beaches, volcanoes, historic sites, and other attractions. There are also ferries and small planes that can take visitors to neighboring islands, such as Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Where to stay in Hawaii
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and offers luxurious accommodations with ocean views, private lanais, and modern amenities. The resort features a beachfront restaurant and multiple swimming pools, including an adult-only pool.
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, is located in Waikiki on the island of Oahu and is one of the most iconic hotels in Hawaii. The resort features a beachfront restaurant and a private beach. The resort also offers surfing lessons, hula dancing lessons and lei making classes.
7 Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico became a U.S. territory in 1898. U.S. citizens are not required to have a passport to visit.
Puerto Rico has been capturing the hearts of U.S. citizens for years. Its Caribbean climate is always a good time to visit Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico has a culture all its own with no American flare. You will find plenty of unique and romantic things to do, combined with plenty of sunshine, blue skies, a cool ocean breeze, and average temperatures of 80 degrees year-round.
A visit to Puerto Rico calls for a romantic walk down cobblestone streets filled with colonial architecture and multi-colored homes tucked in along the hillside.
Regarding romance, couples must visit Raices Fountain at La Princesa, one of the most romantic spots in the city. Be sure to visit during sunset when the sun colors the streets in colors of gold while water flows from bronze statues.
This Island of Enchantment (as often referred to) offers visitors a tropical climate with diverse landscaping where locals dance on the streets during weekend parades.
Puerto Rico is home to numerous natural wonders, including the Guanica Dry Forest, one of the world’s largest dry forests; many underground caves; and El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the US.
This Caribbean island has something for everyone, mountains, forests, beaches, and waterfalls.
How to get to Puerto Rico
Getting to Puerto Rico from the U.S. is relatively easy, it is located in the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can fly to Puerto Rico from several major U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, Orlando, and Atlanta. There are several major airlines that offer direct flights to Puerto Rico, such as American Airlines, Delta Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Southwest Airlines.
The two main airports in Puerto Rico are Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan and Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla.
Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the island’s beaches, historic sites, and other attractions. There are also ferries and small planes that can take visitors to neighboring islands, such as Culebra and Vieques.
Where to stay in Puerto Rico
The Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico and offers luxurious accommodations with ocean views, private pools, and modern amenities.
The W Retreat & Spa – Vieques Island is located on the island of Vieques and offers a romantic, secluded atmosphere. The resort features a beachfront restaurant, a poolside bar, and a lounge. The resort also offers a range of activities, including horseback riding, paddleboarding, and yoga classes.
8 Guam
Guam offers you a chance to experience the West Pacific without a passport. This hidden paradise has so much to offer tourists.
Vacationers visit Guam to enjoy the natural beauty of its beaches and enjoy the restaurants and bars that line the shore. Mesmerizing coral-clad reefs and ancient shipwrecks greet those called to explore underwater. Those above the surface can enjoy surface sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddle boarding.
You can immerse yourself in Guam’s culture by visiting Chamorro Village Market and learning about the people and their way of life.
To understand Guam’s military past, visit the Pacific War Museum.
Add romance to your travels by taking your sweetie along with a picnic lunch and maroon yourselves on Alupat island, an uninhabited island just 1000 feet from Guam’s shores. Once on the island, there is not much to do other than relax and enjoy the quiet and each other’s company. You can easily reach Alupat Island by kayak, jet skis, or swimming.
How to get to Guam
Getting to Guam from the U.S. is possible by air or sea. Visitors can fly to Guam from several major U.S. cities, including Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Tokyo. There are several major airlines that offer direct flights to Guam, such as United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Japan Airlines. The main airport in Guam is the Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport, which is located in the capital city of Hagåtña.
Alternatively, visitors can take a cruise to Guam from the U.S. mainland or other nearby destinations, such as Japan or the Philippines. Several cruise lines offer trips to Guam, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International. The main cruise port in Guam is the Guam Cruise Terminal, which is located in the village of Piti.
Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the island’s beaches, historic sites, and other attractions. There are also several tour operators that offer guided tours of Guam’s cultural and natural landmarks, such as the War in the Pacific National Historical Park, the Tumon Bay beach area, and the Guam Botanical Gardens.
Where to stay in Guam
The Dusit Thani Guam Resort is located on Tumon Bay and offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views. You can enjoy the resort’s infinity pool, fitness center, and spa. The resort also offers a range of activities, including water sports, tennis, and golf.
The Lotte Hotel Guam
The Lotte Hotel Guam is located on the beachfront in the village of Tamuning and offers modern accommodations with ocean views. You can enjoy the hotel’s swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. The hotel also offers a range of activities, including water sports, tennis, and beach volleyball.
9 Canada
Canada may not be a tropical island, yet it is a top-rated vacation destination for U.S. citizens due to its close distance to the United States.
Canada is home to some very unique and exciting cities, fascinating museums, a view of the Northern lights, top skiing areas, and the best reason of all, fabulous outdoors.
Some popular outdoor activities are camping, skiing, snowboarding, golfing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.
Canada is also home to Whistler, a small town in British Columbia, Canada, known for its’ winter activities and home to the 2010 Winter Olympics. Read more about Visiting Whistler in the Fall.
How to get to Canada
Getting to Canada from the US is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. The most common way to get to Canada is by air, as there are numerous airports throughout the US that offer direct flights to Canadian cities. Major US airlines such as Delta, United, American Airlines, and Air Canada all offer flights to Canada.
If you prefer to travel by land, you can also drive across the US-Canada border or take a bus. The border between the US and Canada is one of the longest and busiest borders in the world, with over 120 land border crossings. Many of these border crossings are open 24 hours a day, allowing for easy travel between the two countries.
Alternatively, you can take a train to Canada. Amtrak offers several daily trains from major US cities to Canadian destinations such as Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal. The VIA Rail Canada also offers train service throughout Canada.
Once you arrive in Canada, there are several transportation options available to get around, including rental cars, public transportation, and taxis. Canada has an extensive network of highways, making it easy to drive between cities. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is also widely available in most cities.
Where to stay in Canada
The Fairmont Banff Springs is located in the heart of Banff National Park and offers luxurious accommodations with stunning mountain views. The resort amenities include an outdoor hot tub, indoor and outdoor pools, and fitness center. The hotel also offers a range of activities, including golf, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
The Fogo Island Inn is located on Fogo Island off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador and offers modern accommodations with breathtaking ocean views. Couples can enjoy the inn’s outdoor hot tubs, sauna, and library. The inn also offers a range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and boat tours.
Traveling can be draining. Know how to prepare yourself before and during your vacation by reading Staying Safe and Healthy While Traveling. to protect yourself while traveling.
10 Closed Loop Cruise
Cruise ships that leave from a U.S. port and return to a U.S. port are closed-loop cruises. These cruises that depart from a U.S. port, travel in the Western Hemisphere, and return to the same U.S. port may be traveled using a government-issued ID, such as an enhanced driver’s license to prove your identity.
You will also need a copy of your certified copy of your birth certificate to prove citizenship.
Cruises that include stops outside the U.S. territories may stop at countries that require a U.S. passport to leave the ship and enter the country. So you may have to stay on the ship when everyone is off enjoying the port city, which could be the perfect time to schedule that spa treatment.
Be sure to check each cruise ship’s requirements before you book your tickets.
For example, some cruise ships may not let you board without a passport.
Don’t Let the Fact You Don’t Have a Passport Slow Your Travels Down
We’ve given you a great list of amazing places to travel without a passport. But why slow your travels down and limit where you can travel? It is easier to apply for a passport than you may think. Visit “How to get your U.S. passport” to see how simple the process is to obtain a U.S. passport. It opens up a whole new world of adventure and romantic travel when you have that little blue book in your hands.
Conclusion – Places to Travel Without a Passport
In conclusion, there are several beautiful destinations within the United States that can be visited without a passport. From the tropical beaches of Hawaii to the stunning national parks in Utah, there are plenty of options for travelers looking to explore without leaving the country.
Additionally, U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands offer the opportunity to experience a unique blend of American and Caribbean cultures. So, when you’re looking for a romantic getaway there are plenty of places to visit within the U.S. and outside the U.S. that don’t require a passport.
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