18+ Spring Break Destinations for Every Type Of Traveller In 2024

Suntans and a leisurely afternoon on the beach? Adrenaline-pumping rides in Disney Walt? Partying college days in Cancun? Or swimming among the most beautiful coral reefs in the Bahamas? Whatever you want, it's never too early to dream about your next perfect spring break.

As our long-waited season is approaching, we’ve got you the perfect spring break destinations for this year and the next. Let's choose your favourite on our list, pack your suitcase and jump on the plane for the best spring getaway ever!

Coolest Spring Break Destinations To Try This Year

It's time to leave those winter blues behind and treat yourself to a trip you more than deserve. Here are some of the most incredible spring break destinations to try this year, which are suitable for every interest and budget.

1. Panama City, Florida
2. Miami, Florida
3. New York City, New York
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
5. Orlando, Florida
6. New Orleans, Louisiana
7. Jamaica, North America
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
9. Outer Banks, North Carolina
10. Dominican Republic, Caribbean
11. South Padre Island, Texas
12. San Diego, California
13. Daytona Beach, Florida
14. Washington, D.C.
15. Cancun, Mexico
16. Bahamas, North America
17. Key West, Florida
18. San Juan, Puerto Rico
19. Maui, Hawaii
20. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

1. Panama City, Florida - Best for College Spring Break

Panama City is a hotspot for spring breakers for good reasons. Photo By Luis Aleman on Unsplash

Known as the “Spring Break Capital of the World”, Panama City welcomes over 100,000 college kids and adults every March.  You know what people say, “In Panama City, there's a party every night”.

During the day, you can find the spring break crowd leisurely tanning on the 27 miles of white sand beaches. At darker hours, the boardwalk turns into a nightlife haven and a different kind of energy, with rave music, bars, and an electric crowd.

Note that City Beach bans the use of alcohol on sandy beaches during the month of March. Furthermore, you can’t buy alcohol between 2 and 7 a.m. These rules are for the safety of everyone, so you should party responsibly, and you can have a good time.

Where to stay?

Go for the American Trade Hotel if you're looking for somewhere within the historic Casco Viejo. Some of the best mid-range options in town, like  Holiday Inn Panama City, an IHG Hotel or Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Panama Punta Pacifica, are also worth checking.

2. Miami, Florida - Best for A Week-Long Holiday

In Miami, your spring break is always packed with a lot of action and fun. Photo By Antonio Cuellar on Unsplash

How could a list of the best spring break destinations finish without Miami? We all know how ideal its 35-mile stretch of beachfront and its warm tropical climate are for lounging all day long. But that's just the start.

If you’ve got enough tan out in the sun, remember that the city has a vibrant street festival - Calle Ocho to explore. Miami also has some of the best clubs, such as Club Space, for night owls and techno lovers. 

Kayaking, parasailing, and snorkelling in the crystal waters are all possible at the Magic City. And if you’re a culture buff, you'll love Miami's art deco architecture, great museums, and several Michelin-starred restaurants. 

Updated info: Miami plans to cancel 2024’s spring break after the city has struggled with crowd violence for a while. Worry not, read on to find more spring break destinations that are worth a visit.

Where to stay?

Mandarin Oriental, Miami is an all-rounder, which makes you feel right at home while enjoying all the barefoot luxury. For budget travellers, there's no better deal than this Mesmerizing Loft  with a rooftop view via Airbnb!

CabinZero ADV Dry - Your Perfect Spring Break Mate

 

 

A carry-on-friendly backpack is all you need to enjoy your spring break to the fullest. It should be lightweight, water-resistant, and doesn’t take up much space. Enter the CabinZero ADV Dry lineup, which ticks all the boxes mentioned.

For starters, you can maximise every inch of your luggage thanks to the 2-in-1 design: convert it from a backpack to a pouch and vice versa. Once in the backpack form, the whole thing is spacious, with enough room for all your beach essentials: towels, phones, power banks, a change of clothes, etc.

And everything will be safe from an unexpected tide and spills thanks to the roll-top opening. Simply roll from the top down at least 4 times, buckle it, and you’re good to go!

Get one now so you can spend time off in the Caribbean or Hawaii hassle-free. 

• Come in 4 different colours and 2 sizes (30L and 11L)
• Lightweight at just about 200-300g
• Durable thanks to 70D Nylon Rip-stop fabric
• High water-resistant rating
• RFID blocking pocket
• Bungee cord for attaching gear, flip flops, towels, etc.
• Winner of 2019 Frontier Awards "Star Product of the Year (Under $100)".

3. New York City, New York - Best for Broadways and Festivals

Spring is the busiest time for Broadway shows in New York. Photo By Vlad Alexandru Popa on Pexels

Many will think of New York with towering skyscrapers, but we rather think about it as an art and cultural hub. Best of all? Visiting New York in spring means you score bargain hotel deals as the summer crowd has yet to arrive. 

In April, you can join Cherry Blossoms festivals in Brooklyn Botanical Gardens or Central Park. It's one of the best ways to welcome the warmer month. 

Springtime is also when you can enjoy some of the best shows and musicals on Broadway (as they all want to grab a chance of winning the Tony Awards in June). If you prefer to get to the artsy side of the city, the Frick Collection, Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim are all worth a visit. 

Where to stay?

Enjoy the quiet part of the city by booking Mint House at 70 Pine – NYC. The property also offers more space than you would expect in a typical NYC hotel room. If you dream of a luxury getaway, The Plaza is always an iconic choice in town.

4. Las Vegas, Nevada - Best for Clubbing and Casinos

At Las Vegas, luck can be on your side this spring break. Photo By David Vives on Unsplash

From round-trip airfare to hotel rates, the city's low prices in spring will make a week-long trip feel affordable. The city’s got an adult playground vibe, and there are always parties happening, no matter the season. 

On and off the famous Strip, you can also find more than 100 casinos that never close. Whether you're a gambler or not, it's still fun to try your luck and see what a few bucks can do.

If you get some cash left over, you can take a side trip to Red Rock Canyon. Horseback riding, mountain biking, and rock climbing there can easily make you lose track of time!

Where to stay?

For a mid-range budget, Paris Las Vegas is a reliable option. MGM Grand packs a little bit of everything you would expect from Las Vegas. This means premium rooms, great shows, all the fun of an on-site casino, and Michelin-starred restaurants. 

5. Orlando, Florida - Best for Theme Parks

Spring break in Orlando usually means theme park adventures, Photo By Josh Rich on Unsplash

There’s no better time to visit Orlando than spring when the weather is incredibly comfy and mild to get outdoors all day. If you have kids in tow, the central city of Orlando would be the place. The young and young-at-heart can have a blast at hot attractions like Walt Disney World, Epcot, and Universal Orlando. 

But there are more things the city can offer. Get downtown to take a break from theme parks. Stroll along the serene lakes, visit interesting aquariums, and enjoy Asian street foods to see a quieter side of the city.

Where to stay?

If your trip sticks with Walt Disney only, you may want to stay somewhere near the parks, such as Disney's Yacht Club Resort.  Only a few minutes away from Universal, Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort is also an affordable and family-friendly option you can think about!

6. New Orleans, Louisiana - Best for Foodie Paradise

Many call the French Quarter the beating heart of New Orleans. Photo By Kristina Volgenau on Unsplash

The Mardi Gra and the Jazz or the Heritage Festival seasons can be packed and pricey, but early spring is just the right time to visit New Orleans. The temperature is milder, the crowd is lighter, and hotel reservations are easier to get.

If this is your first time in the city, never skip a walking tour to the famous French Quarter. The neighbourhood will surprise you with its unique architecture, tons of history, and jazz music filling every corner of Bourbon Street.

Above all things else, the best deal of the Big Easy city is its cuisine. New Orleans’ Cajun and Creole food alone make New Orleans' spring break absolutely worthwhile. Yet, it's the iconic beignets at Cafe du Monde that will have you come back for more. 

Whatever is on your itinerary, you can always “Laissez les bon temps rouler” - “let the good time roll” in this city.

Where to stay?

Hotel Monteleone is a luxury hotel if you want something just within the French Quarter. The Jung Hotel & Residences will help you save some bucks, but it's still within walking distance from the French Quarter and other tourist attractions. 

7. Jamaica, North America - Best for A Tropical Break

The warm, tropical climate alone is reason enough to visit Jamaica. Photo By Irina Schmidt on Adobe 

There's no better cure for winter blues than a tropical break. Just like hot spots like Florida, the Island also has crystal water, sandy beaches, and rum cocktails. However, you won't be fighting with the crowd for a prime sunbathing spot in Jamaica.

If you simply want a moment of disconnecting from the world, then these less-packed beaches are ideal for lazing all day long. And if you visit the island in spring, the cheaper prices mean you have more to spend on all of this entertainment and relaxation.

There are still activities for the active type if that’s what you're looking for. Travellers can go snorkelling in Montego Bay, river rafting in Port Antonio, or hiking in the Blue and John Crow Mountains. 

Where to stay?

Surrounded by lush tropical foliage and with a private beach, Round Hill makes it ideal for a staycation. Half Moon is also among Montego Bay's top all-inclusive resorts. You can sunbathe to your heart's content on the hotel's 2-mile private beach, with a view of the Caribbean Sea.

8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - Best for Family Spring Break

The iconic SkyWheel of Myrtle Beach from a distance. Photo By Curtis Adams on Pexels

Myrtle Beach reawakens after winter in March. It's the time when hotels, restaurants and attractions open up again. Spring is also off-season, so budget spring breakers can snag a good deal on hotels.

With affordable prices, a pocket of kid-friendly activities and gorgeous beaches, Myrtle Beach is among the best spring break destinations for families.

Although spring is too soon for taking a swim, the 60 miles of golden sand beaches are still tempting for lounging and strolling all day long. Had enough beach time? You can spend some time at the Broadway Grand Prix and Ripley's Aquarium to see more of the world with your kids. 

There are also amusement parks for people of all ages, where water slides and roller coasters will give you a bit of an adrenaline pump. For extra family downtime, head to North Myrtle Beach and test your skills at one of the 100 golf courses in the city. 

Where to stay?

Sitting 6 miles from downtown, the oceanfront Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes lets you take a break from the crowds, but still easier to get to popular attractions. Marina Inn at Grande Dunes has a pampering onsite spa and great coastal views for you to relax and rejuvenate.

9. Outer Banks, North Carolina - Best for A Serene Getaway

Outer Banks is for those wanting a quiet and simpler way of life. Photo By Gene Gallin on Unsplash

Picturing your perfect spring break as a nice afternoon on a crowd-free beach? Then you have it with Outer Banks.  The main draw of this coastal town is the vast expanse of open beachfront, which covers 200 miles. 

During March and April, the temperature is just around 65 degrees during the day. You can always get outdoors and explore the OBX without worrying about the heat.

Outer Banks is also a city of history. Many lighthouses lying on the shore lights will give you a sneak peek of the town in the past. There are also stories being told about the Wright brothers' first flights at Kill Devil Hills or the infamous pirate Blackbeard. Great water parks, mini golf courses, and surfing also help fill up your spring break itinerary in this North Carolina city.

Where to stay?

Vacation rental is a great way to scale down your budget when visiting the Outer Banks. This Charming Kill Devil Hills apartment is perfect for a couple's spring break. If you’re travelling with a family, this Boardwalk apartment in Duck offers three bedrooms, with many amenities and a pet-friendly policy.

10. Dominican Republic - Best for Whale Watching

Ever seen a humpback whale? Let's visit the Dominican Republic in the spring. Photo By Michal Marek on Pexels

The pristine coast, gorgeous beaches, and coconut palm trees in Punta Cana can rival those in Hawaii. But the spotlight it gets is still far behind, so it's a great spot if you want to avoid the crowd. 

During the season, you can get the best bang for your buck for hotel reservations. If you carefully plan, you may also score a bargain for airfare. 

Water sports lovers can head to Samaná Bay. The clear water is more than ideal for travellers to dive and snorkel to their heart content. 

The special reward nature creates for spring breaks only is whale watching. From January to March, around 2,000 humpback whales put on a great show as part of their annual migration. A tour for this can also offer snorkelling and diving alongside these creatures.

Where to stay?

If you don’t want any surprising costs during your trip, all-inclusive offers in Ocean Blue & Sand and Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Hammock will give you a carefree spring getaway.

11. South Padre Island, Texas - Best for Party Crews

South Padre Island is the only tropical island paradise in Texas. Photo by David - stock.adobe.com

If you want to always stay dry, South Padre is not the place for you. During March, college students head to the Island for its long stretch of sand beaches and crystal blue waters. 

Whether it's day or night, lively parties are always in their full swing. There are also banana boating, diving, and surfing, so it's hard to not get wet.

If you want to get to the wild side of South Padre, hit up the Sea Turtle Art Trail or sign up for a dolphin-watching tour. Or live up to your fantasy by riding a horse along the coast, and taking some cool pictures for your Instagram feed. 

Where to stay?

You can't beat the beachfront view and pool parties of Isla Grand Beach Resort. 

12. San Diego, California - Best for Every Type of Traveller

There are up to 30 individual beaches in San Diego, Photo By Samuel Ramos on Unsplash

The San Diego's temperate weather in Spring Break is to die for. You can get the most from a day out on the beach, whether it's biking, surfing, sailing or doing your favourite water sports.

Above anything else, San Diego's beaches are something not to be missed. More than 30 beaches along the 70 miles of coastline draw any kind of traveller, from surfers, and sunbathers, to watersport lovers. When beach time is over, you can do the museum hop at Balboa Park (there are up to 17 museums on site). 

There can be some learning with your kids along your trip, as well. The Maritime Museum of San Diego or the USS. Midway Museum is all about naval history to explore and reflect. In San Diego, there's something for everyone, so pack your surfboard, lounge chair, and the kiddos.

Where to stay?

The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is the right home away from home if your trip sticks to Mission Bay. Old Town Inn, 4 miles from Mission Beach, is a budget-friendly choice without packing in a lot of thrills.

13. Daytona Beach, Florida - Best for Speed Lovers

Daytona is a spring break destination for beach and speed lovers. Photo By Andrew Roberts on Unsplash

A little away from Orlando, Daytona Beach is the place if you ask for some sea, sand and surf from your spring break. The 23 miles of Atlantic shoreline welcomes large crowds every day. 

But what makes Daytona unique is its hard-packed sand, as you can drive and park your cars right on the beach. If you're a motorsport fan, you can find yourself sitting on the bleacher and sharing the thrill of a NASCAR race. 

As the Festival Capital of Florida, Daytona Beach will treat you right with live concerts, non-stop parties and motorcycle races all year round. If you visit in the first week of March, don't miss out on the fun of Daytona Bike Week.

Where to stay?

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach is right on the beach, so you can have the best view of the Atlantic Ocean. Bonus, there's always live band music playing.

14. Washington, D.C. - Best for Free Attractions

With a lot of free things to do, Washington is among the best family spring break destinations. Photo By Kmiragaya on Adobe

Washington, D.C. is among the top places to go for spring break with kids. There are a lot of free, cheap, and kid-friendly things to do. 

Visit Smithsonian museums and take a closer look at the past in person, all without reaching your wallets. Other monuments and memorials, as well as the U.S. Botanic Garden and National Mall, are all free to enter. 

Yet, your kids' spring break doesn't have to all stick with history. The capital comes alive every springtime, with 3,000 pink trees in full bloom. 

The spring vibe even goes up with the Cherry Blossom Festival. The event lasts two weeks in late March and early April, with parades, fireworks, and cultural performances that make your spring break even more worth it.

Where to stay?

Staying at Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center lets you reach the attractions more easily. The property is just a mile from the National Mall and the White House. You will also love the convenience of being near the metro stop to get around the town.

15. Cancun, Mexico - Best for Luxury Spring Breaks

The comfort of luxury resorts pulls many spring breakers to Cancun. Photo By David Vives on Unsplash

So many things that turn Cancun into the best place to visit during spring break. Springtime is when the temperature gets near perfect for sundowners. There are also inexpensive direct flights from many US cities. 

Many come to Cancun to lounge on the powdered sand beaches, explore Mayan ruins or take a dip in Chichén Itzá cenotes. After dark, the city also pulses with college students who while away their hours with a Caribbean rum punch or tequila shooting. 

And the resorts are top-notch, as you can easily choose a place to wake up to a sunrise sea view over the Caribbean.

Where to stay?

From the luxury Kempinski Hotel Cancún, and family-friendly Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach to the boutique Sandos Cancun, there is literally something for every taste.

16. Bahamas, North America - Best for Diving

The best dive season in the Bahamas is from November to May. Photo By Allen Dewberry Jr on Unsplash

The best thing about the Bahamas is the large number of islands - up to 700 islands and 2000 cays. Many springbreakers come here for island hopping to admire the clear water, the wildlife, and the local cultures. 

The Bahamas is home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef -  Andros Barrier Reef. With 190 miles of spectacular landscape and marine life, you can't leave this town without having a deep-sea dive. For a trip of unique experience, never skip Exumas to swim alongside the friendly pigs or Harbour Island to bury your toes in the unique pink sand.  

Where to stay?

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas  is an all-in-one package with its world-class hotels, Aquaventure waterpark, casino and amazing restaurants. Your family will be spoiled by adventure on both land and sea there. 

17. Key West, Florida - Best for Boating

If you want to see Key West at its best, try boating. Photo Shelby Cohron By on Unsplash

Mid-March and April in the Keys fill with rowdy spring breakers, thanks to the agreeable weather and cheaper hotel prices. 

Come to the Florida Keys and you’ll know that the island is not your average beach spot, but a boater's paradise. Many folks arrive with plans to hop on a boat, whether it's for snorkelling, diving, fishing, or just cruising between reefs and sandbars. 

But there is also more to discover on land. Bar hopping on Duval Street is a must for night owls. You can shop until you drop at the Mallory Square shop or even do a tour of Ernest Hemingway's old home.

Where to stay? 

At Ocean Key Resort & Spa, the beautiful sunsets over the Pier are just one step away from your door. Opal Key Resort & Marina also boasts surreal waterfront views and few places in Key West can beat its location.

18. San Juan, Puerto Rico - Best for History Buffs

The medical architecture in San Juan is filled so much with history. Photo By Stephanie Klepacki on Unsplash

Puerto Rico is just a short flight from the US for sun worshipers to live their sunbathing dreams. Good news for American travellers:: you don't  even need to get a passport to get there.

Wandering the colonial streets of historic Old San Juan or Castillo San Felipe del Morro feels just like a walk through the city's 500 years of history. San Juan is also where the old meets the new. Once your feet grow tired, replenish with locally distilled rum at Bacardi and unwind on a sunset cruise over the Careanbin Sea.

Puerto Rico knows your spring break needs a good beach time, too. The island has hotspots like Flamenco Beach or Condado Beach, where you can splash with some of the bluest and most beautiful Caribbean waters. 

Where to stay?

Close to downtown and historical landmarks, Hotel El Convento is a great choice for a romantic spring break.

19. Maui, Hawaii - Best for the Beach and Road Trip

Drive along the scenic Road and you'll fall in love with Maui. Photo By  Stephanie Klepacki on Unsplash

We know that The Valley Isle is famous for its gorgeous beaches (33 miles of them). But there are more facets of the Island to explore during your trip.

For many, a trip to Maui won’t be complete without an epic drive to the Road to Hana. This 64-mile route is all about the journey, not the destination. Lava tubes, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and more make the drive one of the most scenic road trips you ever have. 

Waīa‘ānapanapa State Park is a must-check on your way to Hana. Here lies the towering Mount Haleakala, 10,000 feet up - the best point if you want to catch an epic sunrise of the Island. Before you get to the peak, you can first spot the wildlife there, and spend some downtime on its iconic black sand beach. 

Where to stay?

You'll love this Fairmont Kea Lani if you have a spring break with your family. There are also some chic plantation-style spots like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea to disconnect from the world!

20. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Best for Water Sports

There are a lot of exciting sports you can do on and under the water in Cabo San Lucas. Photo By Genuine_ Anthony on Unsplash

Cabo San Lucas sits on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula. Bordering a desert vista and running along the coastline, this Mexico hotspot has a stunning landscape to start your spring break dream.

From March to April, spring-breakers flock to this coastal city for its beautiful blue-flag beaches, sunshine, and all-inclusive resorts that pamper any type of traveller. 

Diving and snorkelling in Cabo are also second to none. The world under the surface is a trove of treasure, where you can swim alongside sea turtles, tropical fish, and even sea lions.

Cabo is also the place if you’re searching for a sense of sophistication. Have money to splash? Think about clifftop dining with a view, sunset on a private charter boat, and cool pool parties. You're treated like royalty in Cabo San Lucas.

Where to stay?

Stay at Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort for barefoot luxury or Chileno Bay Resort if you want a family-friendly spot. With a grown-up vibe, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is what you need if you want a candle-lit evening or a tranquil retreat.

Top Tips For The Best Spring Break Trips

With these spring break ideas, we guess now you're more than ready to get to the planning, booking tickets, and packing. But before leaving, you may want to check out some tips to make your trip easier, safer, and more fun!

Drink Responsibly

Spring break often means all-out partying for college students. But here's the thing: let's not go overboard. While drinking and having a good time is part of the college spring break, doing it in a new spot can be risky. 

So, be mindful of what you're drinking and how much it will affect you, especially if you're on the beach or near any body of water. Cheers to a responsible, fun spring break!

Stay Hydrated

You'll get pretty sweaty spending time on the beach, especially on hot days when you're constantly active. So, drink regularly, even when you don't feel thirsty. Pack juicy water, like a mixture of water and your favourite juice, to entice you to drink more. 

Remember the Sunscreen

We know you love the sun just as much as any sun worshipper, but remember to include sunscreen in your spring break packing list. If not, sunburn will be the worst nightmare of your spring break.

Before heading to the beach, cover your skin with a generous amount of high-SPF sunblock. It's best to reapply after lunch, especially if you've been in the water for a while.

Don't Leave ID Documents At Home

Even when you want to travel as lightly as possible, bring all the necessary documents. Your ID and passport are must-haves, and remember to have a printout of each in case you’re missing any of these documents. 

It also won't hurt to double-check if your destination or your airliner requires the extras, like a visa or the like. You can do so by checking out these best flight apps.

We know you want to make sure all your spring break essentials will accompany you for the upcoming trip. This also means that you need the right pack for the job. Visit our collection of CabinZero daypacks to find a handy packback that best suits your needs. 

Last But Not Least, Remember to Unplug!

Your trip is a time when you can take a break from all those assignments and tight deadlines at work. It's all about enjoying those simple pleasures right in front of you. This sometimes also means shifting your focus from electronic gadgets to nature and your companions. I bet you'll have a blast of time!

So, where are your next spring break destinations? Share your favourite spots in the comments to see if anyone has the same plan as you. Hope you have a great spring break ahead, and we love to see you again in our next post.

Kesley