If you’re still considering making last-minute Spring Break plans, it’s not too late to have a relaxed or action-packed vacation even if you don’t have a passport yet. From idyllic islands to soft-sand beaches, there are several vacation options you can still book without breaking the bank. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you won’t need a passport for any of these five destinations.
The U.S. Virgin Islands
St. Thomas
Perhaps the most popular island for tourists, St. Thomas has plenty to see and do during a Spring Break vacation. The island offers multiple resorts, environmentally friendly activities, and an endless selection of beaches. Some things to add to your to-do list include eating at the food stalls at Coki Beach, dining at the menu-free Blue 11, and a three-hour tour with Virgin Island Eco Tours.
St. John
St. John is well-known for its lush nature and picturesque landscape. Visiting national parks, like St. John National Park, hiking, snorkeling, and other beach and outdoor adventures at hotspots like Trunk Bay are popular on the island.
When you’re visiting St. John, it’s also an easy island-hop to St. Thomas on the ferry. The Virgin Islands Ferry is a public transport option that transfers passengers between nearby islands, including the British Virgin Islands and Tortola.
St. Croix
Known as the “Big Island,” St. Croix is popular for its white sand beaches and optimal snorkeling. A tour with Island Kayak Adventures or Caribbean Sea Adventures is a great way to experience the island. There are several golf courses to tee up on and various festivals worth experiencing throughout the year.
One notable must-do activity is paying a visit to La Reine Chicken Shack. It won a Traveler’s Choice Award in 2022 and offers classic Caribbean dishes like stew chicken, oxtail, and conch fritters.
Puerto Rico
San Juan
San Juan is a great place to visit for an affordable and culturally rich Spring Break vacation. Visiting Puerto Rico is like a three-in-one destination with equal parts history, beach, and cityscape. Visitors can explore the history of Old San Juan, an area with several historical landmarks, learn about Puerto Rican culture through its food and music, or check out the island’s beauty by visiting the beach. San Juan offers various hotel brands, boutique accommodations, and vacation rentals.
During your visit to Puerto Rico, be sure to try authentic mofongo at Casita Miramar. For a bit of fun in the sun, head to Condado Beach. Experiencing the famous street party at La Placita de Santurce is also a must; the retail and dining hangout is a great place to visit for a music and bar scene.
Vieques
Often considered a lesser-known destination in Puerto Rico, Vieques is a 52-square-mile paradise popular for relaxation. Some watersports, like bioluminescent kayaking, happen at night at Mosquito Bay. Here, this popular activity takes travelers on the water under the night sky to experience the water lighting up while enjoying magnificent stargazing views. Other popular activities in Vieques include horseback riding and nature trail experiences. There’s even a distillery on the island—Crab Island Rum Distillery— for a true taste of Puerto Rican-made rum.