St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Known for: No passport required for U.S. citizens, duty-free shopping, Magens Bay

St. Thomas is a favorite recommendation for U.S. families who don’t have (or don’t want to deal with getting) passports for younger kids: as a U.S. territory, it doesn’t require one for U.S. citizens traveling directly.

Magens Bay is one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean, and the island makes an easy cruise port stop or a full stand-alone resort trip.

Dave’s tip: confirm passport requirements for your specific itinerary before booking: the exemption applies to direct U.S. travel but not necessarily if St. Thomas is one stop on a multi-country cruise.