Think you need a passport for a tropical escape? Think again. The U.S. is hiding some seriously lush, sun-soaked spots that bring the island vibes without the international flight. I’ve explored beaches with palm trees, swam in turquoise waters, and hiked through tropical forests…all without ever leaving the country.
If you’re craving white-sand beaches, warm ocean breezes, or that laid-back island energy, there are plenty of places right here in the U.S. that deliver. Here are 12 of the most amazingly tropical places to visit in the U.S. this year – perfect for your next warm-weather getaway.
1. Maui, Hawaii
Maui brings the ultimate island mix with gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, and world-class resorts. Relax on the golden sands of Kaanapali, chase waterfalls along the Road to Hana, or catch sunrise above the clouds at Haleakalā National Park. You’ll find everything from snorkeling with sea turtles in Molokini Crater to stargazing under palm trees.
It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a little of everything. Maui blends Hawaiian culture with laid-back luxury…and the tropical scenery never misses. I’ll never forget watching the sunrise from Haleakalā‘s summit, feeling like I was floating above the world as the sky erupted in brilliant oranges and pinks.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Maui
- You may also like: Things to Do in Maui at Night
- For more reading: Best Airlines to Maui
2. Key West, Florida
Key West is the quirky, colorful end of the road…literally. It’s the southernmost point in the continental U.S., just 90 miles from Cuba. Expect turquoise waters, historic charm, and vibrant energy.
Tour Ernest Hemingway’s House, snorkel the reefs at Fort Zachary Taylor, and stay for the iconic Mallory Square sunset celebration. With its pastel homes, salty air, and nonstop sunshine, Key West gives you a tropical escape without leaving the mainland. I spent an entire evening at Mallory Square watching street performers and the most spectacular sunset of my life, surrounded by fellow travelers celebrating another perfect day in paradise.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Key West
- You may also like: Best Airlines to Key West
3. Kauai, Hawaii
Nicknamed the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is all about raw, untouched beauty. Think emerald valleys, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches. Hike the Kalalau Trail along the Nā Pali Coast, take a helicopter over Waimea Canyon, or float down jungle rivers in a kayak.
Less developed than other Hawaiian islands, Kauai is perfect for nature lovers looking to unplug. It’s peaceful, wild, and straight out of a movie (literally – Jurassic Park was filmed here). I hiked just two miles on the Kalalau Trail and felt like I had discovered the most beautiful secret on Earth, with cliffs that dropped dramatically into the endless Pacific.
- Read next: Na Pali Coast Activities and Attractions
4. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico blends Caribbean flavor with U.S. convenience…no passport needed. Lounge on white-sand beaches in Culebra, hike to waterfalls in El Yunque Rainforest, or explore the colorful streets of Old San Juan. The island pulses with history, music, and mouthwatering food (don’t miss the mofongo).
Whether you want a city vibe, beach trip, or jungle adventure, Puerto Rico delivers. And you can use U.S. dollars and cell service without skipping a beat. I wandered through Old San Juan‘s cobblestone streets for hours, completely mesmerized by the vibrant colonial architecture and the rhythm of salsa music spilling from every doorway.
- Read next: Underrated Places in Puerto Rico
- You may also like: Best Airlines to Puerto Rico
5. Big Island, Hawaii
The Big Island offers a jaw-dropping mix of tropical coastline, volcanic landscapes, and stargazing like you’ve never seen. Visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, swim with manta rays in Kona, or explore the lush jungles of Hilo. It’s the only place in the U.S. where you can go from snow-capped peaks to black sand beaches in one day.
The Big Island is wild, diverse, and full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I stood at the edge of an active volcano crater at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, watching molten lava glow against the night sky like nature’s own fireworks show.
6. U.S. Virgin Islands
With three main islands—St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix—the U.S. Virgin Islands offer classic Caribbean vibes with U.S. perks. Swim in crystal-clear water, snorkel vibrant reefs, or sail between islands. St. John is mostly protected national park, making it a paradise for beach lovers and hikers.
St. Thomas has shopping and nightlife, while St. Croix offers history and culture. You’ll get tropical beauty without needing a passport. I spent an entire day island-hopping by ferry, feeling like a modern-day pirate exploring hidden coves and pristine beaches that seemed untouched by time.
- Read next: Best Areas to Stay in St. Thomas
7. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is where island paradise meets city life. Hang ten on Waikiki Beach, hike to the top of Diamond Head, or pay respects at Pearl Harbor. The North Shore draws surfers from around the world, while Honolulu brings the energy of a tropical metropolis.
You’ll find shaved ice stands, high-end restaurants, and wild landscapes…all in one place. Oahu is perfect for first-time visitors who want a little bit of everything. I watched world-class surfers tackle massive waves at Pipeline on the North Shore, then enjoyed a gourmet dinner in Honolulu the same evening…only on Oahu could you experience such incredible variety in one day.
- Read next: Picture-Perfect Places in Hawaii
8. Key Largo, Florida
Key Largo is a scuba diver’s dream and one of the top spots for underwater adventure in the U.S. Home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, you can snorkel vibrant reefs, paddle through mangroves, or spot dolphins in the wild. It’s more low-key than Key West, with a laid-back island vibe and easy access from Miami.
Think tiki bars, boat rides, and breezy afternoons under the palms. I snorkeled the Christ of the Abyss statue at John Pennekamp, floating above this underwater shrine surrounded by tropical fish in the clearest water I’d ever seen.
- Read next: Mesmerizing Locations in the Florida Keys
- You may also like: South Florida Bucket List
9. American Samoa
Remote and wildly beautiful, American Samoa is a tropical paradise tucked in the South Pacific. It’s part of the U.S., but culturally rooted in Samoan traditions and island rhythms. Hike lush cliffs in the National Park of American Samoa, swim in coral-filled coves, and experience a slower pace of life.
It’s not touristy, and that’s the point. You’ll find unspoiled nature, friendly locals, and a truly off-the-grid escape. I hiked to the top of Mount Alava and realized I was standing in one of the most remote and pristine places under the American flag, surrounded by nothing but endless Pacific Ocean and untouched rainforest.
10. Guam
Located in Micronesia, Guam blends U.S. comforts with rich Chamorro culture and island beauty. Expect turquoise water, white-sand beaches, and World War II history scattered across the island. Explore sea caves, snorkel at Tumon Bay, or hike to waterfalls in the interior jungles.
Guam feels like a crossroads of Asia and the Pacific, offering tropical weather and diverse flavors (hello, barbecue and sushi). It’s a long flight…but totally worth it. I explored ancient Chamorro village sites in the morning and enjoyed fresh sushi for lunch, experiencing this unique blend of Pacific Islander, Asian, and American cultures all in one incredible day.
11. Northern Mariana Islands
This lesser-known U.S. territory is a tropical gem in the Pacific. The Northern Mariana Islands include Saipan, Tinian, and Rota…each offering stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and clear warm water. You can dive shipwrecks from WWII, relax on nearly empty beaches, or learn about indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian culture.
It’s quiet, uncrowded, and far off the beaten path. For tropical serenity without the crowds, the Northern Marianas are a hidden treasure. I dove a Japanese shipwreck off Saipan and felt like an underwater explorer discovering a piece of history that few people will ever see.
12. South Padre Island, Texas
Yes, Texas has a tropical side. South Padre Island sits at the southern tip of the state and brings balmy weather, palm trees, and wide beaches. Winter temps hover in the 70s, making it a popular escape from colder climates.
Enjoy dolphin tours, kiteboarding, or sunset walks on the sand. It’s a spring break hotspot in March, but January and February are ideal for a more laid-back vibe. I couldn’t believe I was walking on a tropical beach in Texas, watching dolphins play in the surf while palm trees swayed overhead. It truly felt like a completely different state from what I expected. For warm weather without flying far, South Padre is an easy win.
