Whether looking for a tranquil getaway or an adventurous holiday, visiting the Caribbean is always a good idea, and there are plenty of destinations to choose from.
Are you already thinking about what documents you might need? You don’t have to worry even if you just realized your passport has expired and the time to renew it is too long. Because there are 6 amazing islands you can visit without it.
St. John (U.S. Virgin Islands)
St. John is a bit more exclusive than the other Virgin Islands. However, if you’re looking for an idyllic holiday in nature without crowds, it’s the place to be.
More than half of the island is covered by the Virgin Islands National Park full of incredible white-sand beaches, several rare plants and animals, and historic plantation sites.
The best way to discover the park is to take a hike. There are more than 20 hiking trails to choose from and you can have them pretty much to yourself.
You can also engage in water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, or snorkeling in Cinnamon Bay. You will find a bed of coral reefs with plenty of colorful fish, and occasionally sea turtles, and rays just a few meters of the shore.
- Average cost of flights: St. John doesn’t have its own airport. The best way to get there is to fly to St. Thomas and take a ferry from there.
- Average cost of accommodation: $200-$400 /night in a 3-star hotel, $500-$800/night in a luxury hotel
St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands)
If there’s one thing St. Thomas is known for, it must be duty-free shopping. You can easily spend a day or two at Charlotte Amalie, the island’s capital, wandering through its shops and boutiques. Yet, there is way more to see.
Charlotte Amalie will definitely enchant all history buffs. It’s where the famous 1680s Fort Christian is, which served as a prison and a government office throughout the years. The second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere is also nestled in the colonial streets of Charlotte Amalie.
For the best beaches, go to Magen’s Bay or Sapphire Beach. They both offer crystal-clear water, soft white sand, and views of the neighboring island of St. John.
On the other hand, for sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, hike or drive to Drake’s Seat. Alternatively, 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 (U.S. Virgin Islands)
St. Croix is the largest one of the islands and is known for gorgeous beaches, fine dining, world-class resorts, casinos, golf courses, and well-preserved colonial architecture.
The towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted are the perfect option to breathe in the 18th-century Virgin Islands atmosphere. On top of that, they both boast a beautiful waterfront and a fantastic food scene featuring a blend of Caribbean, Danish, and African flavors.
On the island’s eastern tip, you will find Point Udall, the easternmost point in the United States. We recommend you get up early one day and take a trip there. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise.
A visit to St. Croix wouldn’t be complete without a tour of a rum distillery, such 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 shouldn’t forget to mention its beaches. Sandy Point is a fantastic option for surfers. While Cane Bay features 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 (U.S. Virgin Islands)
Water Island, the smallest of the four main U.S. Virgin Islands, offers a serene retreat for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. Spanning just 491 acres, this lesser-known gem is located a short 10-minute ferry ride from Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, making it an accessible yet secluded destination within the Caribbean.
Known for its emphasis on eco-tourism and limited development, Water Island has no large resorts, instead offering vacation rentals such as private villas, cottages, and a few guesthouses that blend harmoniously with the island’s landscape. This makes it an ideal spot for travelers looking to immerse themselves in tranquility and a slower pace of life.
- Average cost of flights: $400-$800 to St. Thomas then a ferry.
- Average cost of accommodation: $200-380/night in a hotel/resort
Puerto Rico
Full of lush rainforests, amazing beaches, buzzing nightlife, and a fantastic food scene, Puerto Rico is an island that simply has it all and will please even the most demanding travelers.
San Juan – Puerto Rico’s capital – is for sure a place that shouldn’t be missed, especially if you love discovering foreign cultures and enjoy eating.
In the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, you will find plenty of gourmet restaurants serving local dishes. On your hunt for the best foodie spots and bars, you will also pass several UNESCO World Heritage worth a stop.
If you like spending time in nature, head to Yunque National Forest. It’s the only tropical forest on the U.S. territory and home to more than 240 species of plants, several endemic animals, and breathtaking waterfalls.
Puerto Rico also boasts three world’s 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 sharp 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 airplane as it has a small airport.
It’s only 6 miles away so the flight from San Juan takes only 25 minutes. Most of the U.S. airlines offer combined tickets to reach the Island of Vieques by transferring at the 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 compared to the main Puerto Rico island. You can enjoy snorkeling, beach hopping, swimming amazing 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 the best Puerto Rico’s hidden gems offering an idyllic escape from the bustle of the mainland. Pristine beaches, marine life, and amazing hikes are the highlights of the island.
Culebra Island is located 30 miles west of Puerto Rico’s main island and it takes 30 minutes by airplane from San Juan and around 45 minutes by ferry from Ceiba. Flights tickets are between $60-$90 and ferry tickets are around $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
