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Last Updated on December 28, 2023 by sydabroad
Are you looking for the best spring break destinations for college students? Then keep reading!
Planning your college spring break trip can be exciting yet overwhelming, given the many incredible destinations to choose from. Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks, or adventurous activities, this guide will help you narrow down the perfect destination for your college spring break getaway.
In this article, I’m sharing all of the best spring break destinations for college students. Many are in the US since typically that’s the most feasible for spring breakers. However, I have included some destinations abroad that would make for the perfect spring break trip. Let’s get into the guide.
This post is all about the best spring break destinations for college students.
The Best Spring Break Destinations For College Students
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
Where do I even begin with New Orleans? If you haven’t been, it’s a city that needs to be on your bucket list! New Orleans is such a unique city with a vibrant culture and all kinds of activities.
The architecture in the city is beautiful. If you are into design, you’ll enjoy wandering around the streets of New Orleans. There is no other city in America that compares to New Orleans.
Also, the food. New Orleans Cajun cuisine is incredible. In my opinion, New Orleans has the best food in America. You’ve got to try seafood gumbo and the beignets from Cafe Du Monde.
Explore Royal Street, and the French Quarter, go on a ghost tour, eat your way through the city, and party down Bourbon Street. There are so many great tours and museums around the city too.
New Orlean’s Top 5
- Eat Fresh beignets at Cafe Du Monde.
- Get cocktails at The Carousel Bar & Lounge in Hotel Monteleone.
- Eat the best cajun food you will ever have.
- Wander around Bourbon Street.
- Attend a jazz brunch at Brennan’s.
READ MORE: City Guide: The Best Things to See in New Orleans
Recommended Tours in New Orleans
Find a Place to Stay in New Orleans
Booking.com2. New York City, New York
NYC is a city that has it all. The weather in the spring is typically pretty nice and there is so much to see and do here. Shop down SoHo, visit the Brooklyn Bridge, eat all the bagels and the best New York-style pizza, and visit the many iconic museums in the city.
I’ve been to NYC quite a few times and there is always something new to see. If you are looking for a city break – NYC is the perfect place. Keep in mind that New York is a more expensive destination, however, it is possible to travel here on a budget. Read my guide to New York City here.
NYC’s Top 5
- See the iconic Met Museum.
- People watch in Times Square.
- Get a break from the city in Central Park.
- See a show on Broadway.
- Walk along the Brooklyn Bridge.
READ MORE: How to Spend One Day in NYC
Recommended Tours in NYC
Find a Place to Stay in New York City
Booking.com3. Nashville. Tennesee
If you are planning a girl’s trip for spring break, Nashville should be at the top of your list! Nashville is the perfect girl’s trip spring break destination for college students. I love the laid-back atmosphere of the city, the live music, cafes, and honky tonk bars.
There are so many pretty areas to explore including 12 South, The Gulch, and Downtown Nashville. There is also plenty of partying to do on Broadway. During my girl’s trip to Nashville, we booked a honkey-tonk bus and wow this was a highlight of the trip.
Nashville’s Top 5
- Party on a honkey tonk bus.
- Cocktails at White Limozeen.
- Bar hop down Broadway.
- Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame.
- Wander around 12 South.
READ MORE: How to Plan a Nashville Girl’s Trip
Recommended Tours in Nashville
Find a Place to Stay in Nashville
Booking.com4. Panama City Beach, Florida
If you are looking for more of a party vibe for spring break, Panama City Beach in Florida is the place to be. Although the nightlife is fun, you can also spend time relaxing at the white sand beaches, explore 30A for the day, and visit Pier Park.
Living in Alabama for college, Florida is just a short drive away. So for Labor Day, my friends and I took a weekend trip to Panama City Beach. This is the perfect spring break destination for college students!
PCB’s Top 5
- Visit Pier Park.
- Spend a day relaxing at the beach.
- Panama City Beach Winery.
- Eat some delicious fish tacos.
- Take a dolphin sunset cruise.
Recommended Tours in Panama City Beach
Find a Place to Stay in Panama City Beach
Booking.com5. Rosemary Beach, Florida
Alternatively, you can spend your spring break at Rosemary Beach on 30A. This is just a short drive from Panama City – about 20 minutes – but it’s much more high-end than Panama City Beach.
Because Rosemary is a much nicer town than Panama City, it is more expensive. Read more about Rosemary Beach, Florida here to find ways to make it more affordable for a college spring break.
Rosemary Beach’s Top 5
- Rent a beach bonfire.
- Dinner at LaCrema.
- Drinks at The Pearl Hotel.
- Relax at the Beach.
- Bike to Alys Beach.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Rosemary Beach Travel Guide
Find a Place to Stay in Rosemary Beach
6. Hawaii
Hawaii definitely takes a bit more planning because this destination is farther and more expensive. However, there are endless things to explore in Hawaii. Drive the road to Hana on the island of Maui, relax on the gorgeous beaches, watch surfers on the North Shore of Oahu, and swim with mantas on the Big Island.
Read more about planning your trip to Hawaii here.
Hawaii’s Top 5
- Explore the North Shore of Oahu.
- Take a snorkel trip.
- Road to Hana in Maui.
- Visit Haleakala National Park.
- Swim with manta rays on the Big Island.
READ MORE: How to Spend a Week in Oahu and Maui
Recommended Tours in Hawaii
Find a Place to Stay in Hawaii
Booking.com7. Los Angeles, California
I’ve been to Los Angeles many times and there is always something to do here. There are so many amazing restaurants, sites to see, and beaches to visit. You can spend the day at the beaches in Malibu, see the Hollywood sign downtown, watch surfers at Manhatten Beach, or visit Santa Monica Pier.
If you need some inspo for planning your trip to Los Angeles, read more here.
LA’s Top 5
- Spend an afternoon in Malibu.
- Explore the Santa Monica Pier.
- Shop down Melrose Avenue.
- Ride bikes on Venice Beach.
- Take photos at the Lacma lights.
READ MORE: How to Spend 3 Days in Los Angeles, California
Recommended Tours in Los Angeles
Find a Place to Stay in Los Angeles
Booking.com8. Tulum, Mexico
If you are looking for a tropical, wellness-inspired spring break, Tulum is the place for you. This destination is perfect for a spring break trip with friends! If you are into art, yoga, and beaches – you’ve got to add Tulum to your bucket list.
Tulum is split up between the beachside and the town. In Tulum town, you can find many great affordable, and aesthetic villas to rent as well as the best food.
In the beach area, you’ll find the most amazing beach clubs and funky art and museums. If you are looking for more adventure, book a cenote tour or a day trip to Chichen Itza (one of the New 7 Wonders of the World). Tulum is perfect If you want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a touch of nightlife.
Tulum’s Top 5
- Eat street tacos in Tulum town.
- Spend a day relaxing at a beach club.
- Bike around the city.
- Cenote tour.
- Explore the Tulum Ruins.
READ MORE: How to Visit Tulum on a Budget
Recommended Tours in Tulum
Find a Place to Stay in Tulum
Booking.com9. Las Vegas, Nevada
Okay, Las Vegas is not an affordable destination. But it would be a fun place to visit for a short spring break if you are looking for nightlife and endless entertainment.
In Vegas, you can enjoy day clubs, and nightclubs, eat at high-end restaurants, gamble on Fremont Street, see all sorts of unique shows, comedy shows, concerts, and more. Las Vegas is a great spring break destination for college students looking to have a good time.
I’ve been to Vegas countless times and it never gets old. But make sure to take it in small doses – you don’t want to spend more than three or four days here. Read more about planning your trip to Las Vegas here.
Las Vegas’s Top 5
- A bottomless brunch.
- Hotel hop down the strip.
- Book a comedy show or concert.
- Photos at the Las Vegas sign.
- Visit Fremont Street.
READ MORE: How to Plan The Ultimate Las Vegas Girls Trip
Recommended Tours in Las Vegas
Find a Place to Stay in Las Vegas
Booking.com10. Harbor Island, Bahamas (or Nassau)
Harbor Island will always be one of the prettiest places I have ever been to. I visited this tiny island with my best friend and her family when I was 15 years old, and it is still one of my favorite places.
I love how golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on the island and the water and beaches are some of the prettiest in the world. Harbor Island is great, but I will say Nassau is one of the better spring break destinations for college students because it is easier to get to and more affordable. However, if you want a more unique and less-touristy experience, Harbor Island is certainly a bucket list destination.
The Bahama’s Top 5
- Swim with the pigs and sharks in Exuma.
- Take a snorkel trip.
- Visit the pink sand beaches of Harbor Island.
- Spend a day at Atlantis in Nassau.
- Eat fresh seafood!
Recommended Tours in The Bahamas
Find a Place to Stay in The Bahamas
Booking.com11. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is absolutely beautiful. If you are looking for more of an adventurous spring break destination, Sedona is the place to go. Hike the Devil’s Bridge and explore the surrounding area of Sedona.
Also, the town itself is charming. My friends and I stopped in Sedona during our summer road trip and I am dying to go back.
Sedona’s Top 5
- Hike to the Devil’s Bridge.
- Stroll through the town of Sedona.
- Spend a day at the spa.
- Go on an ATV tour.
- Visit Red Rock State Park.
READ MORE: The Perfect Route 66 Road Trip Itinerary
Recommended Tours in Sedona
Find a Place to Stay in Sedona
Booking.com12. Charleston, South Carolina
For beautiful beaches and a charming city, visit Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston is known for its rich history, exquisite culinary scene, warm hospitality, and nearby beaches.
Here, you can spend your spring break near the water, enjoying the best seafood, shopping down King Street, and learning about the historic downtown.
Charleston’s Top 5
- Explore Historic Downtown Charleston.
- Take photos on Rainbow Row.
- Shop down King Street.
- Visit the waterfront.
- Charleston City Market.
Recommended Tours in Charleston
Find a Place to Stay in Charleston
13. San Juan, Puerto Rico
If you want to feel like you are traveling abroad without actually leaving the United States, visit the beautiful island of Puerto Rico! US Citizens do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico.
In Puerto Rico, you can get lost in the colorful streets of Old San Juan, hike through El Yunque National Forest, tour the Bacardi rum distillery, and relax at some of the most beautiful beaches.
If you are looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, Puerto Rico is one of the best spring break destinations for college students.
San Juan’s Top 5
- Explore the colorful Old San Juan.
- Castillo de San Felipe del Morro.
- Visit Condado Beach.
- Book a Bacardi Distillery tour.
- Take a day trip to the west side of the island.
Recommended Tours in San Juan
Find a Place to Stay in San Juan
14. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
If you are looking for a colder spring break destination, consider visiting Jackson Hole, Wyoming. In the spring, temperatures will range from below-freezing to the high 40s.
Jackson Hole is not the most affordable place to visit but it’s certainly a bucket list destination. Jackson Hole in the winter is so magical – you can book a sleigh ride, relax in hot springs, go snowmobiling, and more. Read more about Jackson Hole in the winter here.
Jackson Hole’s Top 5
- Astoria Hot Springs.
- Visit the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.
- Visit Grand Teton National Park.
- Book a sleigh ride in the National Elk Refuge.
- Take a wildlife tour.
READ MORE: The Best Things to do in Jackson Hole in the Winter
Recommended Tours in Jackson Hole
Find a Place to Stay
15. Austin, Texas
Earlier in the guide, I mentioned Nashville being the best girls’ trip destination for spring break, well so is Austin, Texas. They are pretty similar honestly (but Austin has better food).
Austin is nice and warm in the spring making it the perfect time to go out on Lady Bird Lake or Lake Travis. You can also explore Mount Bonnel and the Green Belt. As for nightlife, Rainy Street and 6th Street are the perfect spots. Read more about my girl’s guide to Austin here.
Austin’s Top 5
- Relax at Barton Springs Pool.
- Visit the Blanton Museum of Art.
- Enjoy a night out on Rainey Street.
- Picnic in Zilker Park.
- Watch the bats under the Congress Avenue Bridge.
READ MORE: How to Plan the Perfect Girls Weekend in Austin
Recommended Tours in Austin
Find a Place to Stay
16. Lake Tahoe, CA
Another chilly spring break destination is Lake Tahoe, California. This place is stunning in the wintertime. Read all about visiting Lake Tahoe here.
You can relax at the spa, go skiing, and all sorts of fun things. Again, not the most budget-friendly destination, but I had to include it on the list.
Lake Tahoe’s Top 5
- Take a boat tour on the Lake.
- Relax at the spa.
- Hiking and nature trails.
- Skiing or Après Ski.
- Visit the breweries downtown.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to North Lake Tahoe in the Winter
Recommended Tours in Lake Tahoe
Find a Place to Stay
17. Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is one of the best spring break destinations for college students. It’s affordable, easy to get to, and there are so many amazing things to do here.
Cozumel has some of the best snorkeling in the world and there are amazing beaches to relax at. Read all about how to plan a trip to Cozumel here.
Cozumel’s Top 5
- Book a snorkel trip.
- Pirate ship dinner cruise.
- Mojitos at Mojitos Factory.
- Explore downtown Cozumel.
- Chankanaab National Park.
READ MORE: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Cozumel, Mexico
Recommended Tours in Cozumel
Find a Place to Stay
18. Cabo San Lucus, Mexico
I had to add one more Mexico destination to this list. I mean anywhere in Mexico makes the perfect spring break destination for college students in my opinion. Cozumel certainly has a lively nightlife scene, amazing food, and all sorts of adventures.
You can book ATV tours, whale-watching cruises, and fishing trips. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Cabo San Lucus.
Cabo’s Top 5
- Visit El Arco and Land’s End.
- Book an ATV tour.
- Wander around Marina Cabo San Lucus.
- Book a whale-watching tour.
- Spend a day at a beach club.
Recommended Tours in Cabo
Find a Place to Stay
Travel Insurance
Travel medical insurance is essential for every trip. This can save you time, money, and a lot of stress on the road. I love using SafetyWing for travel insurance. SafetyWing offers affordable and flexible travel medical insurance coverage. You can enter your details below for a free quote.
Spring Break Travel Tips
- Find resources for traveling on a budget here.
- Group tours are a great way to spend a spring break. EF Ultimate Break has all sorts of tours all around the world and some specific spring break trips. Check them out here and save $100 on your trip with this link.
- If you are flying, make sure to check out my in-flight essentials list.
Spring Break Packing List Essentials
- Portable charger
- Hydration packets
- Swimsuits & Coverup
- SPF & Chapstick with SPF
- Wine opener
- Sunglasses
- Disposable Camera
And that wraps up this post all about the best spring break destinations for college students. If you have any questions about these locations feel free to comment below, DM me on Instagram, or email me at sydabroad@gmail.com.
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I would love to go to New Orleans during spring break! It’d be much different than heading to the party-beach areas.
Author
It’s so much fun and a unique spot!
A lot of great destinations! Can older people go on spring break? I hope so! Thanks for the info!
Author
Yes definitely!! This is a great list for everybody 🙂
I am years past college age but I would definitely keep that list for future reference. I’d love to go to Las Vegas and Hawaii has been on my bucket list forever.
Author
It is a great list for everybody looking for a fun trip!
Okay, yes, yes yes to all of these! Unfortunately I’m not in college anymore lol, but first, as a New Orleans native, yes to beignets at Cafe du Monde! I had a Nashville trip planned the first few months of COVID so we had to cancel, but I can’t wait to travel! I want to go to Tulum soooo bad! And, what?! PCB has a winery???
Love ALL of these destinations!
Author
Thank you so much! and these destinations are definitely for everyone! I hope you get to rebook your Nashville trip 🙂 and I know right?! you would never guess there was a winery in PCB haha
Very nice post. We don’t really have a spring break here. I wish we did when I was going to school. Great read.
Author
I’m glad you liked the article!
I live in Phoenix and love taking weekend trips to Sedona! Also, although we’re past our college days, my boyfriend and I are going to Tulum in a few months. We have all your suggestions on our list to do while we’re there. 😊
Author
This list is definitely for everyone! and AH I’m jealous you will love Tulum! Let me know if you have any questions about Tulum 🙂
I appreciate all these very well-curated ideas for spring break. They aren’t just beach and party places. I led a lot of spring break trips for college students and they appreciated real travel experiences, not just alcohol-induced ones. I agree with swimming in as many cenotes as possible.
Author
Thank you! it is great to have a mix of destinations for all sorts of travel styles. and yes those cenotes are incredible!
This is an awesome list for spring break destinations. I love New Orleans, Panama City Beach, and Vegas. I’ve been to each of those and I agree that it’s a great place to visit for spring break.
Author
They are wonderful cities!
I guess nobody does Spring Break in Florida anymore? Ft. Lauderdale was THE place when I was that age.
Author
Many people do! I included Panama city beach, Florida but there are so many more spring break spots too!
Tulum and New Orleans are top of my list for sure! Love that you address safe travel options during COVID. This spring certainly will be different than other years!
Author
Yes it will definitely be different than past spring breaks!
Nashville and New Orleans would be so much fun for a spring break trip! Definitely a nice change from the typical spring break destinations.
Author
Yes they are wonderful places!
If I was of the right age I would definitely be going on a spring break. Alas, I will have to enjoy some of these places with my husband!
Author
That is still a wonderful way to enjoy these great places!
Yes to New Orleans! Brennan’s brunch is a must! I did Puerta Vallarta for spring break and it was amazing.
Author
That sounds like so much fun!
This is such an inspiration guide – and I can’t believe how cheeky it is that they took away a week break and replaced it with one day! I’d find it hard to choose a favourite but I think New Orleans would be so much fun! And the food!
Author
Right?! and I totally agree, New Orleans is amazing and the food is incredible!!
So many cautiously safe but beautiful places! I love how you’ve gone beyond stereotypes and considered places which will be good for a variety of different personalities.
Author
Ah thank you! I’m glad you liked the list!
These all look like perfect spring break vacations for college students. Especially love NOLA and Nashville for girls trips.
Author
Yes NOLA and Nashville are so fun!
Hawaii and New York are two of my favorite places in the world! Loving this list
Author
Thank you! I’m happy you liked it!
Love the variety of places you have listed. I would either go to New York or somewhere near the coast!
Author
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
Admittedly, I spent most of my Spring Breaks at the beach (university in Florida will do that to you)… but I love Nashville and New Orleans particularly for their live music! The biggest disappointment now is not getting a spring break as an “adult” to check out the rest of them!
Author
Spring Breaks at the beach are always the best though!
Yesss such cute ideas! Been to most of those spots and they’d all make great spring break destinations. Also love the top 5 list for each!
Author
Thank you so much Amanda! I’m happy you liked the article 🙂
Love this compilation. They all look amazing but I find myself drawn to New Orleans and Nashville the most. Will check them out when I get the chance. I can’t wait to travel again!
Author
New Orleans and Nashville are two of my favorites! Those cities are amazing