10 Best Places to Go for Spring Break
Where to Escape and Forget about Studies this Spring?
Spring Break is a rite of passage for college students across the States, a hedonistic purge between March and April before student life resumes. Even if you’re not studying, do not fear, Spring Break fever has now spread to young and old vacation lovers alike. Our guide to the best places to go for Spring Break will have you whipping out your bikini and packing your board shorts while dreaming about parties, palm trees, and sapphire pools.
For those who are looking for a Spring Break far from the frenzied crowd, do not fear, we’ve got you covered. From Zen-like beaches and stunning Southwest deserts, our fun-filled guide has something for everyone.
1. Maui, Hawaii
A tantalizing tropical getaway
Good for: Couples, Families, Adventure
Known for its golden sand beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, and picture-postcard palm trees, Maui is an ideal Spring Break destination that’s less wild than some of its party-hard counterparts. Sure, you can still enjoy a classic Hawaiian cocktail like the Maui Island Breeze, but you’ll be spending your time involved in more constructive adventures including hiking and horseback riding.
For those who love the idea of a total chill-out, Maui offers some of the best beaches in the Hawaiian archipelago including Hamoa, Kapalua, and the heavenly Honokalani with its striking jet-black shore. Snorkel in Turtle Town or sunbathe all day before sampling delicious cuisine in a waterfront restaurant.
Maui, Hawaii
2. Palm Springs, California
Decadence comes to the desert
Good for: History, Photo, Luxury
With its endless blue skies, rugged mountain ranges, and glamorous poolside vibes, Palm Springs, California is an A-list enclave that draws Spring Break vacationers every year to its ritzy hotels and resorts. Be warned: the parties are wild in the Coachella Valley and often take place in, and around, the water.
Check calendars online because this “Hollywood Desert Playground” is an event destination that’s full of blistering live music, plush rooftop lounges, and world-class DJs spinning all the latest tunes. When the sun sets on the city, it’s time to hit the dance floor. Try retro-tinged Copa for high-octane hip-hop or Toucans Tiki Lounge for drag queens and cocktails.</p>
Palm Springs, California
3. South Padre Island, Texas
A mega beachside blowout
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Nightlife
Spring Break on South Padre Island is a wet and wild affair of Texas-sized proportions. Make no mistake, this is a fully loaded celebration of sun, sand, and students that’s famous for its pool parties, bikini contests, and mind-blowing live music.
Located at the southernmost tip of the Lone Star State, you’ll have the time of your life splashing about in Laguna Madre Bay, knocking back tequila shots, and living it up big style on miles of powder-soft sand. Head to Clayton’s, the largest beach bar on the Texas coast, to catch smokin’ hot acts like Lil’ Wayne and Kodak Black.
South Padre Island, Texas
4. Moab, Utah
A different type of sandy break
Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo
It may be thousands of miles from the coast, but Moab, Utah, makes an enticing Spring Break destination thanks to its dreamy desert landscapes, outdoor sports adventures, and world-class camping grounds. While it’s not full of partygoers, one can still enjoy a night of revelry at one of the city’s bars or nightclubs, including the Cabana Club for live music or The Spoke Bar for cocktails and ice cream.
By day, go off-roading along Moab’s red dirt trails, climb the canyon walls, or take a kayak down the Colorado River. Visit the Arches National Park for its unforgettable sunsets, thousands of ancient rock formations, and breathtaking vistas.
Moab, Utah
5. Miami, Florida
Lights, camera, action!
Good for: Adventure, Luxury, Nightlife
An iconic Spring Break destination, Miami, Florida is definitely not for wallflowers. Here, the neon is bright, the drinks are colorful, and the music is extra loud. This hotspot of mayhem does everything in excess, including its daytime events and after-dark festivities. Party at the beach, let your hair down on a yacht, or hit the dancefloor in art deco South Beach.
After a tasty breakfast at one of the many great restaurants, work on your tan by a hotel pool or stroll the city streets for a glamorous spot of shopping. When you hit the bars, the visually-striking Miami Vice cocktail, part Strawberry Daiquiri, part Pina Colada, adorned with a slice of pineapple, is a popular choice.
Miami, Florida
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Fun and sun in the City of Sin
Good for: Couples, Nightlife, Luxury
If you’re seeking excitement this Spring Break, look no further than fabulous Las Vegas. America’s Sin City is a hotbed of bright lights, desert nights and world-class resorts. “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” is advice that every Spring Break partier should heed. The Glitter Gulch Bar is known for its raunchy, rowdy parties.
Book yourself into one of The Strip’s famous hotels and soak up the glamor. Daytime pool parties are also a winner, so get ready to celebrate under the palm trees. After dark, the clubs come to life and offer a whole other level of entertainment. Swing by OMNIA at Caesars Palace, JEWEL Nightclub at ARIA Resort, or XS at Wynn Las Vegas.
Las Vegas, Nevada
7. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Serenity on the sand
Good for: Families, Photo
If Miami, Vegas, and Cancun aren’t your thing, then hit the great American highway and head to Cannon Beach in Oregon. Celebrated for its long sandy shores, idyllic coves, and famous Haystack Rock, you’ll enjoy an easy-breezy Spring Break in this charming coastal community.
This Oregon enclave offers adventures aplenty, including trips to Ecola State Park to see migrating gray whales, guided winery tours, and hilltop hikes along the Cape Falcon Trail. After sunset, unwind in one of the town’s beloved beachfront bars like Gatsby’s Wine Cafe and Steakhouse or the Warren House Pub.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
8. San Diego, California
You’ll need more than a week
Good for: Couples, Families, Adventure
For a Spring Break vacation that’s got it all, head on down to sunny San Diego. Jam-packed with attractions, this SoCal playground is all about the good life, whether that’s surfing the waves, rollerblading along the boardwalk, or floating across the sea in a giant fluorescent inflatable.
Between March and April, the city springs to life with major events including the San Diego Comic Fest, CityBeat Beer Festival, and plenty of Spring Break focused parties that heave with glitter and DJs. For a touch of glamor, swing by The Pool House at the Pendry Hotel for cocktails, bites, and a rooftop party.
San Diego, California
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
A carnival of color
Good for: History, Food, Nightlife
It might be known for its annual Mardi Gras celebration, but New Orleans turns up the volume when it comes to Spring Break. The Big Easy sure knows how to party, whether that’s catching a tan on a hotel balcony or dancing through the night on iconic, rowdy Bourbon Street.
While the rest of the French Quarter prides itself on its sophistication and history (think galleries, restaurants, and beignet cafes), Bourbon Street is teeming with neon-lit, live music bars, and a fantastic street party atmosphere. The Hand Grenade cocktail at Tropical Isle or the world-famous Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s pub are popular choices to get the party started.
New Orleans, Louisiana
10. Honolulu, Hawaii
A Polynesian paradise
Good for: Couples, Families, Adventure
With its spectacular beaches, vast volcanic mountain ranges, and swaying emerald palm trees, Honolulu in Hawaii is an exceptional Spring Break spot. This Oahu Island favorite brims with all things glamorous, from its upscale boutique shopping to its romantic hotels and resorts.
Hanauma Bay is a major attraction thanks to its crescent-shaped beach and tantalizing turquoise waters, while the world-famous Waikiki draws visitors with its golden sands and vibrant, fun-filled nightlife. Hit RumFire, the Sheraton resort’s swanky, panoramic beachside lounge, for fire pits, comfort food, and artisan cocktails.
Honolulu, Hawaii
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