Most Popular Spring Break Destinations

The truth is that you can spend your Spring Break anywhere – but just because you could take a week’s vacation in Boston over Spring Break (and have a great time, probably) doesn’t mean it’s a popular Spring Break destination. For the vast majority of students headed anywhere other than home for Spring Break, this week-long break in the middle of the second semester is all about beaches, sun, and parties.

In order to make sure you’re not partying alone, you’ve got to head to one of the more popular Spring Break destinations.

All of these places are popular for similar reasons, including excellent weather in the spring and great spots for big beach parties. It can be more expensive to visit any of these destinations during Spring Break because they’re so popular, and if you wait too long all the best hotels will be sold out – but if you plan ahead you’re more likely to find bargains and have a better selection of accommodation options.

Here are some of the most popular destinations for Spring Break.

>> Don’t miss these other Spring Break travel deals, too.

>> The dates for Spring Break vary, but for most people it will be the first or second week of  March. 

• Cancun, Mexico – Cancun has been one of the top spots for Spring Break for years, and it remains one of the most popular. And because Spring Break is different depending on which school or part of the country you’re in, it tends to be party central for six weeks straight each spring. In other words, if you’re looking for one of Mexico’s best party places for Spring Break, head for Cancun – if you want to avoid the college hedonists, stay away from Cancun. Learn more about Spring Break in Cancun

• Panama City, Florida – When you think Florida for Spring Break, you probably think Miami first, right? You’re not alone. But Panama City has been outpacing Miami in recent years as the state’s top Spring Break destination. Why? MTV made Panama City it’s Spring Break headquarters in 2009, and the nearly 30 miles of beautiful beaches have kept people coming back. Of course, the city’s excellent nightlife doesn’t hurt its Spring Break reputation, either. Learn more about Spring Break in Panama City, Florida

• Bahamas – Just the name “Bahamas” conjures up images of the ideal setting for Spring Break, complete with spectacular beaches and an atmosphere that’s just foreign enough to remind you that you’re traveling. If lying on the beach by day and dancing away the night isn’t enough of an itinerary for you, remember that this is the perfect spot to go try out a water sport like jet skiing, snorkeling, or diving. Learn more about Spring Break in the Bahamas

• Acapulco, Mexico – You’d be forgiven if you thought Acapulco’s best days were behind it, but this Mexican beach town is making a little bit of a comeback lately. MTV made its Spring Break home in Acapulco in 2010, and there’s a bit of variety when it comes to the beaches if you decide you’d like a little peace and quiet every now and then. Oh, and in case you’ve heard some of the news lately about the crime Acapulco as a result of the drug trade, keep in mind that you can have a safe visit to the city if you travel smart. Learn more about Spring Break in Acapulco

• Miami, Florida – As mentioned earlier, Panama City may be giving Miami a run for its money in the Spring Break department recently, but if you head for Miami or South Beach during March and April you’re likely to think the entire college population is there. It’s still incredibly popular, and with good reason. It’s the perfect blend of beaches, shopping, clubs, bars, and parties. Learn more about Spring Break in Miami

• Jamaica – If it’s a bit more of a relaxing Spring Break destination you’re looking for, then Jamaica might be the perfect choice. Sure, you’ll find plenty of parties at pretty much all hours to keep you entertained and occupied in Jamaica, but when you want to take a break you can ease into the island lifestyle and remind yourself that you are on vacation after all. Learn more about Spring Break in Jamaica

• South Padre Island, Texas – Texas is big enough that it’s easy to forget it’s more than just arid inland cities. In fact, South Padre Island is gaining in popularity not only as a beach vacation spot for much of the year but in particular as a Spring Break destination. There are the requisite lovely beaches, of course, and all the water sports you can imagine available for you to try. And what’s more, Mexico is a short 30 miles away if you’re jonesing for a south-of-the-border day trip. Learn more about Spring Break in South Padre Island

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – For some, Spring Break isn’t all about the beach. No, really, it’s true. If you can’t quite decide between a beach spot and an adventure travel spot for your trip, then consider Puerto Vallarta where you can have both. In addition to fantastic beaches, a famous nightlife scene, and loads of parties, the city’s proximity to mountains and other interesting terrain means there are activities like mountain biking, hiking, and canopy tours nearby, too. Learn more about Spring Break in Puerto Vallarta

• Las Vegas, Nevada – Not all Spring Break destinations are about the beach. In fact, Las Vegas is such a party hotspot year round that it makes an ideal place to go for Spring Break. A pack of students visiting for Spring Break won’t stand out in Sin City, and there are always new and interesting clubs opening up that go out of their way to make you feel like a VIP. You don’t have to gamble to enjoy your time in Vegas, either, which is good if you’re on a student’s budget. Learn more about Spring Break in Las Vegas

• Caribbean Cruises – Another non-beach option for Spring Break is to take a week-long Caribbean cruise. Sure, you’ll stop in beach towns for your various ports of call, but you’ll get to visit several places without having to pack and repack or move around at all. Your hotel – the ship – moves with you. Cruises can be excellent bargains, especially if you forgo the room with a view, and almost everything is paid for up front so you’re better able to budget for extras like shore excursions and alcohol on board. Learn more about Caribbean cruises for Spring Break

photo by YoTuT