We know that Spring Break is primarily a North American thing so most of the destinations are going to be in the United States. I have a couple of tropical ones from a little bit further afield.
San Diego, California
It is known as America’s Finest City. It’s got over 70 miles of beaches, so there are no shortages of places to get some sun and sand. It’s a great craft beer city, tons of nightlife. Some of the biggest party areas in San Diego are Mission Beach and Pacific Beach. There are a couple of hotels there, but that’s the spot to go to a party, especially South Mission Beach. If you feel extra adventurous, you could go on a day trip to TJ. Tijuana is a crazy party scene. There’s also really good food there.
Big Sur
It is the section of central Coast of California, a road trip down the Highway 1 is classic. I’ve done this myself from San Francisco all the way back to LA. You’ve got so many opportunities to camp and see nature, get some good photos, and it’s just a really beautiful place.
Big Sur is not your typical spring break destination. Do not go there expecting huge parties and wild nightlife. This is definitely a mellow spring break and one where you take your significant other and go to a romantic, beautiful, natural place.
Miami, Florida
One of the most vibrant cities in the United States, full of Latino culture. This feels like you’re traveling internationally, but if you’re into warm weather, sand, beautiful people, and great nightlife, Miami is your spot. I would recommend staying at the Freehand Hostel. They’ve got a great bar there called the “Broken Shaker”. And if you want to dry out after all your party, go to over to Wynwood, great coffee shops and the Wynwood Walls, which is a big street art area.
Colorado
If you’re not done with winter; if you didn’t get to ski, Colorado got tons of snow. It’s a really fun place to go. Denver’s only two hours from the closest ski resorts, but make your way to the Rockies if you really want to get some snowboarding in. There are tons of craft beer in Denver.
Boulder’s a great place, and if your Spring Break does not coincide with Boulders, you can hit up from college parties while you’re there in Colorado. Add on fresh air, sunshine and legal ganja, and you have a pretty awesome spring break.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of the best value destinations in the United States with an amazing blend of French, Caribbean, and southern culture. Also, one of the best live music scenes in the country. There’s no beach, but you’re going to hit heavy on the culture points.
Catalina Island
It’s a great place. You can go camping in Little Harbor, which is beautiful. but make those reservations ahead of time. You can hike across the mountain on the Trans Catalina Trail, a three-day hike, 26 miles, and beautiful nature. Just bring some water and sunscreen. The easiest way to get there is by ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro harbors.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an island, a territory of the United States. San Juan has great nightlife, and El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States. Not to mention, you’ll probably learn how to dance better if you go to Puerto Rico. Bacardi is based there, so it’s probably pretty cheap.
Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the coolest destinations in the Caribbean. If you go there, go to Portland, it’s the northeastern side of the island; it’s beautiful; there’s plenty of hostels around there and just good vibes. It’s tropical, red stripes all day long, and there is no end of reggae dance parties.
Tulum and Playa del Carmen
It is situated in Mexico. Just south of Cancun is Tulum, the ancient Mayan city, which has turned into a kind of like a boho lifestyle hub. Beautiful beaches, great nightlife, cheap food, and a great alternative to Cancun. If you want to party, head to Playa del Carmen. If you want something more mellow like yoga vibes, head to Tulum.
Andalusia
Not only is one of the most culturally distinct parts of Spain, but during March, April, and May there are tons of events going on. Semana Santa is Easter, takes place all over Spain, but Sevilla and Andalusia have great things going on. They also have the Feria de Abril, which is like an April -themed event, it’s really fun. You also have beaches nearby, so overall great destination for Europe.