When you hear folks talking about their fab vacay to St.
Croix, St. John, or St. Thomas, they're talking about the US Virgin Islands, just southeast of Puerto Rico. Though each of the main islands is easily distinguishable from the others, they all share white-sand beaches -- look to Magens Bay or Trunk Bay -- deepwater harbors, and gorgeous views.
Virgin Islands National Park takes up much of St. John, a time capsule of petroglyphs and plantations and a great spot for a snorkel amongst the coral reefs. St. Croix itself is an ancient coral reef, just barely popping out of the sea. Whether you're here from a cruise ship or spending a week popping from isle to isle, start your island dreaming by scoping out the below.
No passport, no problem.