Four Fabulous Island Getaways that Don't Require a Passport

If you're craving an island vacation but don't have a passport, or don't want the hassle of international travel, you're in luck. There are many beautiful islands that are part of United States, or at least considered a U.S. territory, making travel a lot easier. Here is a look at four of the best.

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is not only easily accessible from Seattle, it was rated the third best travel destination in the world. The island is a gem in the archipelago north of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and getting there is a spectacular scenic adventure in itself. You can reach the island by taking the ferry from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal, which weaves its way through small forested islands until it arrives in Friday Harbor.

The island is not only a tranquil retreat, but the historic seaport town of Friday Harbor offers museums, eclectic shops, art galleries, beautiful gardens and more. Visit Lime Kiln Point State Park on the other end of the island for an opportunity to spot the majestic killer whales that pass by in June and July.

Duck Soup Inn is one of my favorite restaurants in the world, found just a few miles from downtown Friday Harbor. With a cozy and casual atmosphere and menus based on fresh Pacific seafood, island produce and homegrown herbs, it serves an unforgettable dining experience.

Pohnpei Island

If you want a tropical vacation and don't have a passport. Pohnpei fits the bill perfectly. While not easily accessible from the continental states, it is a U.S. territory, and well worth the journey. Don't forget to bring you birth certificate as she'll still need to show proof that you are a United States citizen.

Pohnpei is a large volcanic island located 3,240 miles southwest of Honolulu in the remote west Pacific. Many fly from Hawaii on a spectacular island-hopping flight out west. The island is not the type where you'll spend your days relaxing on the sand, but if you enjoy the outdoors, spending your days in crystalline waters with tropical fish and exploring coral reefs, you'll be more than satisfied. Don't forget your camera, you'll spot a wide variety of tropical birds in the air and breathtaking waterfalls on land.

Vieques Island

You'll find another beautiful island paradise in Puerto Rico. Vieques Island is a short hop from the mainland and offers lush rainforests, pristine water, and even boasts a herd of wild horses. It was even voted the best Caribbean island by Travel + Leisure.

Vieques is also home to the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, where you'll discover a sea that glows in the dark, one of only five like it on the entire planet. Of course, this tiny island also offers white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling or doing nothing it all but indulging in its magnificent beauty.

Matinicus Island

Matinicus Island offers a completely different experience. Lying off the coast of Maine, it's the most remote inhabited island on the Atlantic seaboard. It's accessible by ferry from Rockland, just a 20-minute ride from the mainland. For those that appreciate sweeping ocean views and have a rugged sense of adventure, this island may be for you.

If you want to enjoy a simpler time with unspoiled scenery, you'll probably fall in love with Matinicus. It's an ideal place for artists and bird lovers, with gorgeous sunsets, crashing waves and starry nights. You won't find cell phone service, or even a paved road, making it the ultimate get away from the stress of everyday life.

K.C. Dermody is a freelance writer and a Featured Contributor for Yahoo!Travel. She has traveled to nearly all 50 states, and many countries worldwide, and has a passion for imparting what she has learned from her experiences to others.

More from this contributor:

Prime Whale Watching: Just One of Many Reasons to Visit the Oregon Coast This Winter
Three Great Destinations for Spectacular Spring Flowers
Five Fascinating Western Ghost Towns to Visit
Three of the Best International Destinations for Winter Sun