No Passport Required Destinations
No Passport Required Destinations. With passport offices slowly beginning to open due to COVID-19, if you did not have a passport before, it will take a while for you to get one now. If you are planning to take a trip, the US Virgin Islands may be a great location for you to visit as there are no passport requirements.
The destination offers all types of accommodations, from your standard hotel to resorts and villas and there are a limited number of all-inclusive accommodations to choose from on the islands.
Here are a few destinations to consider where passports are not required but you will need to access by airplane.
The US Virgin Islands is a No Passport Required Destination
The U.S. Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. The destination comprises 50 islands in total, some of which are mere rocks or islets set in the shimmering turquoise waters. The three principal islands—St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—are magnificent, tropical environments, each distinguished by its own personality. The USVI offers year-round warm temperatures with averages of 77°F (25°C) in winter and 82°F (28°C) in summer. St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas are within the Atlantic Standard time zone, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard time (except during daylight saving time).
As a United States Territory, the USVI does not require proof of citizenship from U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, only non-U.S. citizens must present a passport.
Also, remember you can island hop from one island to another for a true US Virgin Island experience.
If you are looking for a true beachfront experience on one of the islands, consider any of the following resorts on one of the USVI for your stay:
Beachfront Resorts in St. Croix
- Cottages by the Sea. Spread across almost two acres of beachfront property, this 27-cottage property features homespun charm, no resort fees, and free: Wi-Fi, bikes, and kayaks.
- Sand Castle on the Beach. Nestled among the palms along a pristine stretch of sugar-white sandy beach is a boutique hotel (or the best-kept secret in St. Croix) that sits close to Frederiksted’s dining scene.
- The Palms at Pelican Cove. Perched at the ocean, The Palms at Pelican Cove offers 40 beachfront guest rooms—each with its own balcony—in one of two freestanding buildings designed with your comfort and privacy in mind.
Beachfront Resorts in St. Thomas
- Bolongo Bay Beach Resort – An all-inclusive property that is the opposite of large, impersonal hotels. There are no elevators, marble, or chandeliers but your clients can expect comfortable and spacious rooms.
- Secret Harbor Beach Resort – A boutique condominium resort on the quiet east end of St. Thomas featuring beachfront and hillside villa accommodations and two beachfront restaurants.
Other options include Emerald Beach Resort, Elysian Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove, and Sapphire Beach Condominium Resort.
The Island of St.Thomas, USVI
Climb to the top of the infamous 99 steps for a view of the historical town and scenic harbor of Charlotte Amalie, if the steps don’t take your breath away – the view will. Explore the vast history of St. Thomas by taking a tour of the iconic Fort Christian, visiting the childhood home of French Impressionism father, Camille Pissarro, seeing the oldest sand floor synagogue in continuous use under the American flag, or gaze at the architectural influences of former occupying countries. Amidst the rich history and forts, the island offers a wonderful shopping experience, exquisite dining, and fun-filled activities and events.
Things to do in St.Thomas
- 99 Steps – Built in the 1700s, the ‘step streets’ were the easiest way to navigate the steep hills, by foot, of Charlotte Amalie. Wander through downtown Charlotte Amalie and you’ll see over 20 other step streets which are still utilized by locals today.
- Mountain Top – Carved by an inactive volcano, 1500 ft above sea level, this popular lookout spot is known for many cool facets: the expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, the all-encompassing gift shop and the famous Banana Daiquiri.
- Magens Bay – Spend the day laying on the expansive mile-long beach, paddleboard through the serene blue water, or enjoy a frozen drink at the beach bar and restaurant.
- St. Thomas SkyRide – The Skyride to Paradise Point whisks you 700 ft. above the town of Charlotte Amalie. It carries 24 passengers along its 8 tower ascent of Flag Hill. On top, head to Paradise Point for the true meaning of “limin.”
- Coral World Ocean Park – Visitors can Sea Trek along the ocean floor, swim with the dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. They can feed the lorikeets, Snuba, and more.
- VI Ecotours – Kayak, hike, and snorkel in the picturesque Hassel Island, Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary & Marine Preserve, complete with a deserted island, mangrove forests, and clear waters.
- Charter a Boat – Plan for a day on the water! Charter companies throughout St. Thomas offer days sailing, fishing charters, boat dives, all while taking in the serene beauty of the USVI.
The Island of St. John’s, USVI
Unspoiled natural grandeur meets modern luxuries on this small gem, which will remain protected because two-thirds of the island is a national park. The mountainous landscape and beach laden coastal plain create intricate hiking trails that interconnect throughout the island giving visitors spectacular views from white sand beaches to breathtaking vistas of the nearby islands. Hidden within this landscape is Trunk Bay – known worldwide for its stunning overlook, white powdered sand beach, an underwater snorkeling trail. The island has as many activities on land as at sea, so make sure to explore the various water activities offered, from kayaking to scuba diving.
Things to do in St. Johns:
- Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins – Tour the self-guided trail of the historic plantation that once produced sugar, molasses, and rum. The blast to the past gives visitors a peek into life on the plantation, resiliency of those that built and maintained the land and a chance to revel in the architectural ingenuity.
- Horseback Riding – Explore St. John on horseback through riding trails with scenic views of white-sand beaches, natural vistas and coral sunsets. Maho Bay – Take in the serene and calming waters at this roadside beach popular with local families and visitors looking to relax under a shady tree.
- Reef Bay Trail and Petroglyphs – One of the longest and most popular National Park trails, Reef Bay culminates with the Reef Bay Factory ruins, a breathtaking beach, and the Reef Bay Valley petroglyphs carved within a natural waterfall. The petroglyphs are rock carvings made by Taino Indians as early as 500 AD
- Salt Pond Bay – Accessible by hiking trail or boat, the trail leads to a secluded beach offering vibrant snorkeling, crystal clear waters, and plenty of adventures. Tektite – Once an underwater laboratory, the remnants offer diverse terrain of coral-encrusted tunnels, caves, and ledges. Dive into the space designed for ‘aquanauts’.
- VI National Park – A trail for every hiker from beginner to expert can be found among the two dozen trails. Hike on your own or with an experienced guide.
- Scuba, snuba, and snorkeling – Take in the vibrant coral reefs and view the local sea life in their natural habitat up close and personal. Shore dives give swimmers an opportunity to mingle with friendly sea life while boat dives open divers up to a world of wrecks, tunnels, preserved underwater national parks.
Boating – Spend a day on the waters of St. John with a day sail, fishing charter, sunset sail, or thrill-seeking powerboat charter. Visit Pizza Pi, the floating pizza boat, or the floating taco bar ‘Lime Out’.
The Island of St. Croix, USVI – a No Passport Required Destination
St. Croix has a unique and diverse culture that was influenced by Denmark, Great Britain, France, Netherlands, Spain, Knights of Malta, and the United States. The cultural weaving of these nations has created an exotic tapestry rich in history, art, music, crafts, and festivals. The island is the home of the twin cities and world-renowned for its farm-fresh and sea-to-table culinary scene. St. Croix is a diver’s paradise and offers superior pier reef, wall, and wreck dives. On vacation, a visit to Buck Island is mandatory to experience the natural beauty and underwater national park.
Things to do in St. Croix
- Horseback Riding Stable – Learn the intricacies of the island from horseback. Scenic shores and lush countryside await you and an experienced guide.
- St. George Village and Botanical Garden – More than 1500 native and exotic plants thrive in this 16-acre garden along with plantation and historical ruins.
- Cultural Food Tour – This cultural walking tour offers visitors a chance to experience St. Croix’s rich culture and history through its diverse foods and authentic desserts.
- Rainbow Beach – Join locals and visitors on the small sandy bay that sits in the heart of Frederiksted; great for swimming, live music, beach sports, and capturing amazing crucian sunsets.
- Diving – St. Croix has amazing beauty above and below sea level. Nowhere else in the Caribbean can you dive a wreck, wall, pier, and reef in one day! Explore the Butler Bay Wrecks and the Frederiksted Pier.
- Buck Island – Home of the hawksbill turtle, this is one of three underwater national monuments in the U.S.
- Fort Christiansvaern – Situated in St. Croix’s first town Christiansted, this fort once protected the town from pirates and other invaders during the 1700s and 1800s.
- Distilleries and Brewery – The alcohol trade still thrives in the islands and its history lingers. Learn how it’s all made when you visit Cruzan Rum, Sion Farm Distillery-Mutiny Island Vodka, Captain Morgan, and Leatherback Brewery Co.
- Estate Whim Plantation Museum – The 12 acres of Whim Museum is the oldest sugar plantation in the Virgin Islands. Walk among the 18th-century architecture and take in the history.
- Kayaking – Ecological and historical tours take place from a kayak during the day or night. Discover hidden reefs, mesmerizing lagoons, and a bioluminescent bay.
- Watersports – If it’s on the water, you can find it here. Enjoy jet-skiing, snorkeling, and boating with inflatable or paddle boats.
Getting Married in the US Virgin Islands – a No Passport Required Destination
Here are some reasons to plan your destination wedding in the US Virgin Islands
- No Passport Required Destinations means No passport required for US Citizens.
- No residency or waiting period required. Couples can get married on the day of arrival but we recommend getting married at least 2 days after arrival on the island so couples can decompress after their flight and meet with the onsite wedding coordinator or meet with their off-site wedding coordinator on the island. Weddings on the islands are recognized in the United States.
- Marriage application and license – Once the Superior Court receives a completed and signed marriage application (recommended 14 days prior to your client’s arrival), couples can pick up their marriage license at the courthouse (valid, government-issued ID and proper attire required). The application and license fee is approximately $200 and is payable via a certified check or money order.
- Walk down the aisle of your choice – there are endless options to have the wedding of your dreams in the US Virgin Islands. Couples can walk down an aisle of seashells, explore the teak deck of a yacht or stroll through the historic path of a sugar mill ruins. If you are a nature lover, the botanical gardens make a great backdrop for your special day as well as luxury resorts and natural vistas atop rolling green hilltops.
- For our dive lovers, you can even take the plumb the depths of the Caribbean Sea for an underwater ceremony.
- Experience and professionalism wedding planners on the islands – The USVI hosts over 5,000 destination weddings annually and every service, from wedding planners to florists to caterers to photographers, are available to create every couples’ storybook.
Our LGBTQ couples can also have a legal wedding in any of the US Virgin Islands but most popular on the island of St. Croix.
Are you ready to say your “I do” in paradise?
To book one of the US Virgin Islands resort for your stay, please contact one of our travel advisors by calling 305-892-3496 or email andrea@exquisitevacation.com
We look forward to taking you on a US Virgin Island journey where no passports are required.