The 15 Best US Spring Break Destinations

With Spring Break coming up, students from around the United States are scouring to figure out where they are going to spend the cherished holiday. While many may want to simply lounge somewhere warm, others are looking for a more exciting outing to spend a few days exploring,

From sun-soaked beach towns to less conventional destinations around the country, let's go over 15 of the best places that you can spend your well-earned time off this year.

Key West, Florida

Key West delivers a classic spring break experience that combines wonderful tropical scenery with a laid-back party scene for all ages.

Dowtown Duval Street is the center of activity, lined with numerous bars, live music venues, and open-air restaurants that stay busy all day long. Sunset celebrations at Mallory Square add a touch of festive community atmosphere each evening as well. Those looking for outdoor adventure can snorkel at Dry Tortugas National Park, kayak through mangroves, or relax on Smathers Beach.

Moreover, the town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, whether visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home, heading to the beach, or stopping for conch fritters at a local seafood shack. Warm weather, clear waters, and a mix of nightlife and recreation easily make Key West one of the country’s top spring break destinations.

South Padre Island, Texas

If you're looking to party up in the Lone Star State, South Padre Island is renowned for its extensive Gulf Coast beaches and high-energy atmosphere fueled in large part by Texas's colleges.

The island’s shoreline becomes a hub for beach parties, with live DJs, regularly held volleyball tournaments, and fun water activities like jet skiing and parasailing. Clayton’s Beach Bar, one of the largest in the country, hosts daily concerts and events, while Those looking for adventure can take dolphin-watching tours or explore the nearby Laguna Madre by kayak.

This island also has a more relaxed side for all kinds of visitors, with nature trails at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center and local sunset cruises available to book along the bay.

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Lake Havasu City draws springbreakers to the deserts of Arizona with its gorgeous landscapes, strong boating culture, and tons of great amenities to eat, drink, and stay the night in comfort.

Lake Havasu's waters make the perfect setting for wakeboarding, tubing, and floating parties, especially in the Bridgewater Channel, where boats line up and music fills the air. Moreover, the London Bridge, yes, the real thing that was actually relocated from its original home in England, serves as a unique landmark and connects the city’s downtown area to a nearby island, which features more bars, restaurants, resorts, and waterfront patios.

For a taste of this town's nightlife, be sure to check out Kokomo Beach Club and other nearby venues to keep the party going well after the sun goes down.

Spring temperatures here often reach well into the 80s making it ideal for outdoor activities of all sorts (just bring lots of water and sunscreen), including off-roading in the nearby desert or hiking in SARA Park.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge provides a spring break destination for those who prefer skiing over lounging on a beach. With high-altitude slopes a short day trip west of Denver and a season that often lasts into April, this town offers excellent spring skiing conditions.

In fact, the warmer temperatures and bluebird days (when the sky is completely devoid of clouds) make for ideal conditions on the mountains this year, whether skiing, snowboarding, or enjoying après-ski at on-mountain lodges and resorts like the famous Breckenridge Ski Resort.

Beyond the slopes, Breckenridge's Main Street is a cozy downtown area with breweries, restaurants, and tons of options for shopping. Bars like Gold Pan Saloon and Breckenridge Distillery provide a lively scene and offer some excellent locally made products.

You can also explore nearby snowshoeing and snowmobiling trails or take a scenic ride on the BreckConnect Gondola.

Destin, Florida

Destin, located along Florida's Emerald Coast, draws spring breakers every year with its stunning white-sand beaches and warm waters. The area is the place to find a range of activities, from parasailing and jet skiing to dolphin watching and fishing charters.

In town, Destin’s lively HarborWalk Village is the heart of its party scene, with bars, live music, and restaurants, like the iconic Margaritaville - Destin, and tons of waterfront views. The nearby Henderson Beach State Park offers a quieter escape with nature trails and scenic viewpoints spread throughout.

With mild spring temperatures, beautiful beaches, a vibrant atmosphere, and numerous accommodation options, notably the Pelican Beach resort, Destin is a top destination for beachgoers almost all year long, no matter the occasion.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is another classic spot that appeals to families and other kinds of travelers along with students looking for a town to spend their Spring Break in. The area around town features a 60-mile stretch of coastline, ideal for sunbathing and other outdoor activities.

Close by, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is the prime hub for spending some time off of the beach, with arcades, shops, eateries, and famously, a huge selection of world-class mini put courses, while the SkyWheel offers incredible aerial views of the surrounding coastline.

At night, the city comes alive with bars, nightclubs, and live shows, with locales like The Bowery offering a little bit of everything just steps away from the ocean.

Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach has long been a spring break hotspot, best known for its white-sand beaches and amazing weather year-round. With beachfront venues like Harpoon Harry’s and Sharky’s hosting daily events, you never have to venture far from the water. Moreover, locales like Spinnaker and Club La Vela—one of the largest nightclubs in the U.S.—keep the party going long after dark.

The adjacent Gulf waters and beaches are perfect for a day under the sun, while local boat tours to Shell Island allow you to further explore this picturesque region of the Florida Panhandle.

Take a break from the sand and explore the city and its downtown core. Pier Park is a great place to start, with its abundance of boutique stores, bars, and restaurants. Panama City actually has a surprising amount of great pizza joints, with spots like Panama Pizzeria and Zoll's Pizza serving hungry partygoers into the early hours of the morning.

San Diego, California

San Diego delivers a well-rounded experience with its combination of beaches, big city life, and scenic outdoor destinations that are easily accessible.

Two of the most popular oceanside hands, Pacific Beach and Mission Beach, attract a healthy mix of sunbathers, surfers, and volleyball players, while La Jolla Cove is more for snorkeling and boating among nearby sea caves. Those looking for a classic beach party atmosphere can head to Ocean Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and pier views.

In town, the Gaslamp Quarter serves as the city’s nightlife hub, packed with rooftop bars, music venues, and tons of late-night restaurants. The culinary scene here is beloved, with institutions like La Puerta serving some of the freshest and best Mexican food in California.

For daytime excursions, you can pay a visit to Balboa Park’s museums and gardens or take a scenic coastal walk at Torrey Pines. Further inland is the Cleveland National Forest, a rugged yet gorgeous wildland that is perfect for an extended hike.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores sits at the far southern tip of Alabama and makes the best out of this state's relatively small Gulf Coast shoreline. It is a popular place for residents and visitors alike to engage in pastimes like parasailing and jet skiing, and dolphin cruises for animal lovers, while nearby Gulf State Park is well known for its wonderful hiking and biking trails for those looking to explore beyond the shoreline.

For those arriving for their Spring Break, be sure to stop by local destinations like The Hangout, a beachfront seafood restaurant, bar, and live venue that even hosts its own music festival.

At night, this city's huge number of local bars and beach clubs along the water help avoid crowding at any one place, with nearly a dozen within walking distance from the beach. Try out the Pink Pony Pub for a drink with a view on its deck, or Mudbugs Dive Bar further dowtown for a more classic bar experience.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Spend your break at one of the South's most beloved cities. New Orleans can deliver a spring break unlike any other, combining a longstanding tradition of being home to top-tier live music, historic streets, and round-the-clock energy.

Bourbon Street in the French Quarter is the center of the action, where jazz clubs, bars, and open-air courtyards make for a fun atmosphere. Be sure to grab a cocktail at locales like Bourbon Street Drinkery, where you can pair handmade drinks with live tunes played by local acts of all kinds. Day drinking is certainly part of the city’s charm, whether it’s a frozen daiquiri on the street or a classic Sazerac in a dimly lit bar, the options are seemingly endless in downtown New Orleans (just be sure to hydrate well!).

Besides the party scene, you can tour the nearby swamps, try out the city’s unique Creole cuisine, or soak in the views along the Mississippi River.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is another destination that stands out as a fun travel destination for all occasions but truly shines as a spot for spring breakers with its high-energy mix of pool parties, nightlife, and entertainment. With warm weather, luxury resorts, and nonstop entertainment, Las Vegas is a top choice for those looking to turn spring break into an all-day, all-night event.

Daytime revolves around massive poolside events at venues like Encore Beach Club and Wet Republic, where DJs perform for crowds of sun-soaked partygoers. Furthermore, The Strip offers endless activities, from rooftop bars and celebrity-chef restaurants to roller coasters and immersive shows.

At night, top-tier nightclubs like Omnia and Zouk host internationally renowned DJs, while casinos provide a 24/7 atmosphere of excitement.

Those looking to escape the neon lights can take a day trip to Red Rock Canyon for hiking or rent a boat at Lake Mead.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

For a spring break that leans more toward adventure and exploration, the Outer Banks is home to a number of uncrowded beaches, historic sites, and outdoor fun.

Stretching over 100 miles along the Atlantic coast, this barrier island chain draws surfers and kiteboarders to the ideal winds and waves that are common. Wild horse spotting is another unique activity here, with populations of the animals roaming in nearby Corolla.

Another highly recommended natural destination around Outer Banks is Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which provides miles of open shoreline for bonfires and stargazing due to the lack of light pollution in the area, while Jockey’s Ridge State Park contains towering sand dunes that are perfect jumping points for hang gliding. Moreover, those interested in history can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial or explore the island’s historic lighthouses.

The nightlife here is more relaxed, centered around smaller beach bars and entertainment venues, like The Froggy Dog, making it a great alternative to louder party destinations.

Austin, Texas

Austin is renowned for its live music scene, thriving food scene, and great weather. Sixth Street and Rainey Street serve as a couple of the main nightlife hubs in the city, offering everything from rooftop dance clubs to laid-back beer gardens. For something a little more relaxing, try out The Roosevelt Room, a local favorite serving up arguably Austin's best cocktails amid a selection of laidback lounges.

For daytime activities, visitors can kayak or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake, hike to the top of Mount Bonnell for city views, or take a dip in the natural waters of Barton Springs Pool.

Food trucks and Texas-style barbecue joints in Austin provide endless dining options, with brisket and breakfast tacos being local staples. For some of the best BBQ in the country, head over to local joints like Stiles Switch BBQ, SLAB BBQ & Beer, Terry Black's Barbecue, and dozens of others within reach.

Spring break often coincides with South by Southwest (SXSW), turning the city into a hotspot for live concerts, film screenings, and tech events.

Montauk, New York

If you're looking to stay up north for your Spring Break, Montauk is a relaxing beach town just about a 3-hour drive east of New York City. Located at the eastern tip of Long Island, it provides cooler spring temperatures but fewer crowds than peak summer months.

Cold weather surfing at Ditch Plains Beach is a draw for some, while hiking trails at Montauk Point State Park lead to scenic ocean views and the historic Montauk Lighthouse.

The local seafood scene thrives in spots like The Lobster Roll and Duryea’s, where fresh lobster rolls and oysters are a must-try. At night, casual beach bars like The Surf Lodge and Montauket are fun spots for music and views over the bay while you enjoy a drink or two.

Biloxi, Mississippi

Biloxi is another idyllic Gulf Coast destination, with access to beaches, casinos, and many other exciting attractions. The city’s sandy shoreline is a hotspot for sunbathing, partying, and fishing, while nearby Ship Island offers a more secluded experience, with its clear waters and less visited beaches accessible by ferry.

Biloxi’s casinos, including the Beau Rivage and Hard Rock, provide gaming, live entertainment, and pools, making it the top spot for spring breakers looking to live it up in the deep south of Mississippi. Bars and seafood restaurants along Beach Boulevard serve fresh Gulf shrimp and oysters, with live music venues keeping the energy high this season.

To learn more about the history of this city and embark on some sightseeing, the Biloxi Lighthouse and Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum showcase the city’s longstanding coastal heritage.

Make Your Spring Break Unforgettable this Year

Spring break in the United States offers something for every kind of traveler, whether it’s the nightlife of Las Vegas, the ski slopes of Breckenridge, or the coastal charm of Florida. Those seeking relaxation can find quiet retreats, while adventure-seekers have endless outdoor options across the country.

The right destination depends on personal preference, budget, and travel style, but with so many choices, an unforgettable spring break is guaranteed with any of these destinations. Whether on the sand, in the mountains, or exploring a bustling city, the perfect getaway awaits this season.