If you haven’t figured out your plans for spring break yet, don’t worry! We’ve compiled a list of our favourite places to visit for spring break, and some might steer you in the right direction.
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Whether your ideal spring break is being out on the beach enjoying warm weather, getting lost in a new city, or exploring national parks, we’ve got a few that can give you spring break vacation ideas.
In case you’re not familiar, spring break is a one or two-week long vacation that usually happens around March and April. In the US, it’s considered part of the full college experience, but most cultures in the west typically have a similar week-long holiday right around Easter. A change of scenery is just what college students (and springbreakers of all ages) are after.
Now, time to look for the best spring break destinations for you!
Traveling Soon? Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip!
Best Spring Break Destinations for Beach Bums
Los Cabos, Mexico
When it comes to spring break destinations, most people think of white-sand beaches. To that, our first answer is Los Cabos. Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, it offers visitors the best of both worlds: a bustling nightlife scene, and a calm, relaxing alternative.
If partying is what you’re after, set your sights on Cabo San Lucas. With world-class resorts buzzing with fellow tourists, you’ll find lots of like-minded spring breakers nearby. When you’re not grabbing a drink or relaxing at the beachside, you can check out the huge yachts at the marina or go on an awesome whale-watching tour from San Lucas Bay.
Meanwhile, about 35 minutes north is the town of San Jose del Cabo. It’s much quieter in comparison, with a more traditional Mexican feel. With colourful colonial-era buildings and cobblestone streets, you can see why it’s known as the historic center. Downtown, you’ll find lots of excellent restaurants–you can never go wrong with seafood and authentic tacos!
History buffs will likely enjoy San Jose del Cabo. But if you have a little more time and want to see the famous Ancient Mayan Ruins, why not extend your trip and visit the Yucatan Peninsula on the east coast?
Cuba
Want to know what it feels like to spend spring break in a town that feels like a time machine? Cuba has beautiful beaches, historic structures, and a rich, vibrant history. Quick disclaimer: we were 22 the first time we visited Cuba in 2008. Most of what we remember are hot nights in local bars, live music, salsa dancing, cigar smoke, and coconut rum. The energy is electric, but there is definitely more to it than partying. When we returned in 2016, we spent over a month travelling all over the country to discover the true Cuba.
The capital city of Havana is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and spots like Viñales, Trinidad, and Baracoa are also great to visit. A week-long spring break itinerary here is just right, but we do recommend two if you have time!
READ NEXT: Things to Do in Cuba on Your Next Vacation
Florida Keys
Florida Keys is a great option for a beach spring break destination. Located on the southern coast of sunny Florida, it’s known as one of the top spring break destinations in the US. The Keys are popular for activities like beach volleyball, and water sports like fishing, boating, snorkelling, and diving.
Key West is considered the main destination, but we also spent some time in Marathon and Key Largo. In Key West, you can check out the attractions, bars, and restaurants at Key West Town or catch the sunset on Mallory Square 3. There are also iconic photo spots like the Southernmost Point Buoy and Mile Marker 0. If you make it to Key Largo, you won’t be too far from the Everglades National Park–worth a stop if you’ve got time!
Looking for other beach spring break destinations in the USA? For a more lively, big-city beach scene, you might want to check out South Beach in Florida or Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. Meanwhile, nature lovers will enjoy the vibrant marine life along the shores of South Padre Island in Texas.
READ NEXT: 13 Best US Destinations for Spring Break
Best Spring Break Destinations for a City Escape
New York City, USA
The Big Apple also makes for an awesome spring break destination, especially if you feel at home in bustling cities. New York has different neighbourhoods with distinct personalities, each of them fun to get to know.
You’ll find the typical tourist attractions in Manhattan, like the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, and the Grand Central Station. If you’re there to have a luxurious time, head to the Upper East Side where you can find some of the best galleries and museums. You can also lose yourself in art and vintage finds at SoHo, or head to Brooklyn and grab a seat at the best bars and cafés. The possibilities are endless in the city that never sleeps!
Tokyo, Japan
How about a spring break getaway that takes you all the way to Asia? Tokyo is an amazing historic city that’s both futuristic yet traditional, and the local culture is just amazing. A week-long trip there is a good start for first-timers.
Spring falls between March and April, and that happens to be the peak cherry blossom season. It’s worth it if you don’t mind being around other tourists. Fill your days with visits to temples and palaces, have your fill at Tokyo Ramen Street, and join the scramble at Shibuya Crossing. If you want a quick itinerary, check out ours below!
READ NEXT: 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary
Vancouver, Canada
Did you know that Vancouver is considered the culinary and cultural capital of Canada? If you’re looking for a blend of culture, art, outdoor adventure, nature, and city life, then it makes for a great spring break destination, too.
Soak up the natural beauty within the inner Vancouver parks, coastal areas, and surrounding areas. Then get to know the city through its fabulous restaurants and bars, craft breweries, and incredible local art scene.
For a spring break trip in March, you can catch some winter sports at Grouse Mountain. Meanwhile, the rainier month of April is a good time for whale-watching and wildlife viewing.
READ NEXT: 30 Top Things to Do in Vancouver
Best Spring Break Destinations for Outdoor Adventure
Banff National Park, Canada
If you think spring break should be spent doing outdoor activities, add Banff National Park to your list. It’s Canada’s first national park and part of the Canadian Rocky Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A spring break destination meant for outdoor adventures, you’ll find yourself eager to explore the rocky mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and evergreen trees.
Banff’s ski season is one of the longest in North America, starting in mid-November all the way until April. You’ll arrive just in time to go cross-country skiing. Aside from that, there are plenty of hiking trails to be traversed on foot or horseback, and other activities like camping, sightseeing, biking, and more.
READ NEXT: 33 Things to do in Banff, Canada
Costa Rica
It’s probably no surprise that Costa Rica makes the list of our best destinations for spring break! With pristine beaches, a tropical rainforest, and even more natural wonders, Costa Rica has everything for all kinds of travellers.
Want to ride a wave or work on your tan? Head to the sandy beaches of the Guanacaste region. If volcano treks and wildlife spotting interest you, the province of Alajuela is the way to go. Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies can feel the rush as they zip-line through Monteverde Cloud Forest. And that’s just the beginning–Costa Rica holds lots of thrilling adventures that are perfect for adventurous families and groups of friends!
Patagonia
We love Patagonia, Chile, not just because the region it’s breathtaking, but because it’s one of the most sustainable destinations in the world. Aside from the famed Torres del Paine National Park, there are also fjords, beaches, and glaciers that make up the beautiful scenery.
Experience one-of-a-kind views while hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting, and more. The most popular hike in Torres del Paine is the W Trek, which takes 4-5 days, but don’t worry–there are also day trek options available. Our favourite day treks were Sierra Baguales, Salto Grande, and Huella de Puma.
Best Spring Break Destinations for Road Trips
California Coast Road Trip
Thanks to the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), you can take the scenic route while getting acquainted with California’s coastline. The route takes you from San Francisco to Los Angeles, stopping by towns like Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara and more.
2 weeks for spring break is the ideal time to cover the 440-mile drive. That way, you can see the famous sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Big Sur, Channel Islands, and Venice Beach, and still have time to do some detours.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road Drive through Melbourne to Warrnambool is one of the most beautiful drives, and a must if you’re in Australia. It takes you through mountainsides, waterfalls, seaside vistas, and even a rainforest. Although the route takes only 5 hours, with so many towns and points of interest along the way, we recommend that you take the time to stop and appreciate each one.
The 12 Apostles on the shores of Port Campbell National Park are often the star of the show, but each town has hidden gems worth discovering. Based on our drive,3-5 nights is the perfect length of time to see all the attractions along the Great Ocean Road without rushing. If you can go even longer, extend your drive from Warrnambool to Adelaide, or the Grampians National Park.
Ireland
How about a spring break adventure that takes you to old castles, and tells tales from kings and queens? Ireland is a unique destination filled with stunning landscapes, interesting cultural and historical sights, as well as great food and wine experiences.
You’ll need 7-10 days to cover the highlights, such as Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Giant’s Causeway. There are also lesser-known stops like the Connemara National Park, the Aran Islands, or the Dingle Peninsula, where you go for a hike or even a dip.
READ NEXT: 10-Day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
