Locals Want to Keep These 12 U.S. Tropical Paradises a Secret (Too Late!)

I often dream of turquoise water. I imagine warm, white sand between my toes.

But I don’t always want the hassle of passports. Or the long international flights.

I’ve explored countless beaches and island escapes. Some of my absolute favorites are right here at home.

Why travel far when these 12 amazing tropical vacations in the US exist? They are perfect for incredible no-passport tropical trips.

Allow me to find your next getaway.

1. Maui, Hawaii: A Top Choice for Tropical Vacations in the US

My first sunrise from Haleakalā was unforgettable.

I watched clouds part from above 10,000 feet. Later that day, I was driving the lush Road to Hana. That incredible contrast is the magic of Maui.

You can spend your morning on a volcano. Then spend your afternoon by a waterfall. The island offers so many different experiences.

It is perfect for romance and adventure.

Activities: Drive the scenic Road to Hana. Watch the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park. Snorkel in the clear waters of Molokini Crater.

My Two Cents: Book your Haleakalā sunrise reservation far in advance. They sell out quickly! Also, the best banana bread is at Aunty Sandy’s along the Hana highway.

2. Kauai, Hawaii: The Adventurer’s Emerald Isle

Kauai feels prehistoric. It is THE “Garden Island”.

When I first saw the Nā Pali Coast, I was speechless. Its emerald valleys and sharp spires are breathtaking. I understood why they filmed Jurassic Park here.

The island is raw, powerful, and overwhelmingly green. Much of Kauai is only accessible by air or sea. This preserves its untouched splendor.

My mom thinks it’s one of the most beautiful US tropical destinations.

Activities: Hike a portion of the famous Kalalau Trail. Take a boat tour of the magnificent Nā Pali Coast. Explore Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

My Two Cents: Many Nā Pali boat tours get canceled in winter. The seas can be very rough. For the calmest water, plan your trip between May and September.

3. Key West, Florida: A Caribbean Vibe in a Paradise Vacations USA Spot

Key West is wonderfully weird and vibrant. I love the colorful gingerbread houses. The free-roaming chickens always make me smile.

My evenings always end at Mallory Square. I watch street performers as the sun sets into the Gulf. The atmosphere is electric and full of life.

It genuinely feels like the end of the road. A little slice of the Caribbean right here in Florida.

Activities: Watch the sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. See the famous six-toed cats that live there.8 Stroll down lively Duval Street for food and fun.

My Two Cents: The best key lime pie isn’t at the most famous spot. Ask a local for their favorite! Mine is from Kermit’s, especially the frozen, chocolate-dipped slice.

4. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida: A Remote Island Jewel

Getting to Dry Tortugas is an adventure.

It is 70 miles west of Key West. After the ferry ride, I felt like I’d found a lost world.

Historic Fort Jefferson is massive and surreal. It is surrounded by the most brilliant blue water.

This is one of the most secluded no-passport tropical trips you can take. It feels completely disconnected from everything.

Activities: Explore the impressive Fort Jefferson. Snorkel the coral reefs around the old moat wall. Walk the pristine beach on Bush Key (when it’s open).

My Two Cents: Book your ferry tickets months in advance. They sell out very quickly! If you get seasick, take medication beforehand. It’s a long ride on open water but so worth it.

5. Anna Maria Island, Florida: One of the Best US Tropical Destinations

Anna Maria Island has a special “Old Florida” charm.

Strict building codes mean no high-rises block the view. The vibe is relaxed and incredibly peaceful. I love riding a golf cart down quiet streets.

The turquoise water is always just a few steps away. It’s a low-key, residential paradise.

Activities: Relax on the white sands of Bean Point. Rent a golf cart to explore the 7-mile island. Fish from the historic Anna Maria City Pier.

My Two Cents: For the best sunset view, head to the north end of the island at Bean Point. You can watch the sun dip into the Gulf where it meets Tampa Bay. I think it’s one of the most serene spots on the island.

6. Culebra, Puerto Rico: Home of World-Class Beaches

Culebra is pure, unspoiled Caribbean beauty, and it’s also one of my personal favorites when it comes to tropical vacations in the US.

It is a small island east of mainland Puerto Rico. The island is mostly a wildlife refuge. This keeps development to a minimum.

The result is some of the most pristine beaches I have ever seen. It’s a quiet escape from the modern world.

Activities: Sunbathe on Flamenco Beach, often ranked among the world’s best. Snorkel with sea turtles at Tamarindo Beach. Explore the island’s many hidden coves by kayak.

My Two Cents: Don’t miss the iconic painted tanks on Flamenco Beach. They are leftovers from old military exercises. They make for a unique photo opportunity against the turquoise water.

7. St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands: An Eco-Tourist’s Dream Paradise Vacations USA Spot

Over two-thirds of St. John is a protected national park. The island is incredibly lush and unspoiled.

I love that the focus here is on preservation. You can hike through tropical forests. Then you can end your trail on a secluded white-sand beach!

Activities: Snorkel the famous underwater trail at Trunk Bay. Hike the Reef Bay Trail to see ancient petroglyphs. Relax on the sands of Maho Bay, a favorite spot for sea turtles.

My Two Cents: Check the cruise ship schedule before you go. On days when ships are docked at nearby St. Thomas, popular beaches like Trunk Bay can get crowded. Visit a quieter beach like Salt Pond Bay on those days.

8. American Samoa: A Journey to the South Pacific

This is the only US territory south of the equator.

American Samoa offers a truly unique cultural experience. It is a world away from the mainland.

The culture, known as Fa’a Samoa (the Samoan Way), is deeply respected.

The National Park here is one of the most remote. It protects pristine rainforests and vibrant coral reefs. 

If you are on the hunt for the most adventurous tropical vacations in the US, this is it, bud.

Activities: Hike through the rainforest on Tutuila Island. Snorkel the incredible coral reef off Ofu Island. Experience local culture through a traditional homestay program.

My Two Cents: Always ask for permission before taking photos in villages. Respect local customs, especially on Sundays. Modest clothing is recommended when you are not on the beach.

You may like: These 12 U.S Towns Are So Scenic, You’ll Think You’re in a National Park

9. Guam: A Pacific Island Gem for No Passport Tropical Trips

Guam is the largest of the Mariana Islands. The island has a rich Chamorro culture. It also has a fascinating WWII history.

I was amazed by the clarity of the water at Tumon Bay. The coral reefs are teeming with life. It’s a fantastic destination for diving and snorkeling.

Activities: Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Tumon Bay. Visit Two Lovers Point for breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the island’s history at the War in the Pacific National Historical Park.

My Two Cents: Rent a car to explore the island’s southern end. You’ll find quiet villages and stunning coastal drives. It’s a great way to see a different side of Guam.

10. South Padre Island, Texas: The Caribbean of the Lone Star State

It’s the “Caribbean of Texas” for a reason.

South Padre Island surprised me. The water is surprisingly clear and blue-green. The sand is powder-soft and white. It has a fun, lively atmosphere, especially in the summer.

It’s also a great spot for water sports and nature lovers. I found it to be one of the most accessible US tropical destinations.

Activities: Go birdwatching at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. Take a dolphin-watching tour in the Laguna Madre. Try windsurfing or kiteboarding lessons.

My Two Cents: Visit in the fall (September-November). The summer crowds are gone, and the weather is still warm. The Gulf water is perfect for swimming.

11. Gulf Shores, Alabama: One of the Best Family Tropical Vacations in the US

I took my family to Gulf Shores. It was an instant hit.

The kids loved the sugar-white sand. The Gulf waves were gentle and perfect for them. We spent one day building sandcastles.

The next day, we biked the trails at Gulf State Park. It’s an easy and fun beach getaway with Southern charm.

Activities: Relax on the 32 miles of public beaches. Bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Visit the family-friendly Waterville USA waterpark.

My Two Cents: For a great meal away from the crowds, try LuLu’s. It’s owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister. It has a fun atmosphere and a ropes course for kids.

Also Read: 12 Dream Vacations That’ll Make You Quit Your Job and Book a Flight

12. Santa Catalina Island, California: A Mediterranean Island Escape

Stepping off the ferry in Avalon feels like arriving on the Amalfi Coast. I love renting a golf cart. I use it to explore the winding, hilly streets.

It’s a unique island escape just an hour from Los Angeles. It’s one of my favorite paradise vacations in the USA.

Activities: Relax in a private cabana at Descanso Beach Club. Explore the charming town of Avalon by golf cart. Take a bison tour to see the island’s famous herds.

My Two Cents: Most golf cart rentals have a two-hour maximum. That’s plenty of time to do the main loop around Avalon. Include a stop at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden.

As you can see, you don’t need a passport for an amazing escape. These incredible US tropical destinations have something for everyone.

I hope this list of tropical vacations in the US inspires your next trip. These are some of the best paradise vacations USA has to offer.

And they are all amazing, no-passport tropical trips!

Which of these paradise spots is calling your name? Maybe I’ve missed one of your favorites? Share your thoughts with us below!