Spring break is one of the most popular traditions in the USA. It’s the time of year when people plan a nice trip out of town to get away from the stress of school and work.
If your spring break is coming up and you want to try something new this year besides your local beach, you’ve come to the right place. These are the best spring break destinations in the USA, including some off-beat places!
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top spring break destinations in the United States, taking into consideration all budgets and activities of interest.
You’re guaranteed to have a remarkable and memorable spring break in any of these towns or beaches! Let us know your favorite USA spring break spots in the comments! Thanks!
Best Spring Break Destinations in the USA
Miami Beach
State: Florida
Average Temperature in Miami Beach in March: Highs of 75F, Lows of 69F
Average Temperature in Miami Beach in April: Highs of 79F, Lows of 73F
With its crazy parties, lovely beaches, and unique art deco buildings, Miami is surely one of the best choices for a truly unforgettable spring break.
One important thing you need to take into account is that it gets really crowded during this season, so plan beforehand and be ready to indulge in an insane atmosphere.
You can choose to stay in the northern neighborhoods of Miami Beach or the southern part of the city. South Beach is where most visitors go, so the prices are higher, but the parties can be louder.
In case an abundance of bars and a lot of clubbing is not what you want, keep in mind that you’ll be able to find everything here, ranging from cultural sites to shopping, pubs, and more.
There is plenty to do in Miami if you’re not into partying as well! Be sure to book a Miami jet ski tour to see the city from a different angle!
San Diego
State: California
Average Temperature in San Diego in March: Highs of 64F, Lows of 52F
Average Temperature in San Diego in April: Highs of 66F, Lows of 54F
San Diego is popular for its unlimited world-class attractions, starting with museums, stunning coastlines, the best cafes and coffee shops, amazing gardens, restaurants, and a lot of outdoor spaces and activities.
There is so much to do here that you might find it difficult to squeeze in just a week. But if you are limited in your days, you can still plan your San Diego weekend itinerary.
You can start your trip doing some water sports on San Diego Bay or Mission Bay, enjoy the nighttime atmosphere around the Gaslamp Quarter, or get a view of the best sunsets at La Jolla Cove (be ready to meet sea lions here).
If you like watching animals in their natural habitats, especially sea creatures like whales, get yourself a boat tour or go kayaking, and you’ll definitely have something to tell your friends and family about from this California seaside trip.
South Padre Island
State: Texas
Average Temperature in South Padre Island in March: Highs of 77F, Lows of 66F
Average Temperature in South Padre Island in April: Highs of 82F, Lows of 72F
Surrounded by Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, South Padre is full of life during spring break, and it is one of the best towns in Texas.
A well-known spot here is Rockstar Beach at the Isla Grand Beach Resort. It’s a true spot for party lovers and is full of dance contests (the most famous one being the Coca-Cola Dance Contest), concerts, huge giveaways, and intense parties.
It hosts the Beach Bash Music Fest, which is the #1 concert and festival for spring break and includes singers like Wiz Khalifa, Lil Uzivert, 21 Savage, Steve Aoki, and others.
Rentals include jet skis, banana boat rides, parasailing, snorkeling, and more.
Overall, if you’re looking for a combination of sun, sand, and enormous fun, then South Padre surely should be a choice to consider. It really is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas!
Outer Banks
State: North Carolina
Average Temperature in Outer Banks in March: Highs of 58F, Lows of 43F
Average Temperature in Outer Banks in April: Highs of 66F, Lows of 51F
Offering some sunny days along the beach, the Outer Banks is the ultimate spot, promising a relaxing spring break experience.
To unwind, consider checking out the South Virginia Dare Trail or Bay Drive in Kill Devil Hills for a bike ride or just a walk.
An easy day trip from Raleigh and many other coastal areas of NC, foodies better not miss the “Taste of the Beach,” which is a 4-day feast full of food and drinks.
Fishing enthusiasts will value the fishing piers, which open up during spring break. More adventurous travelers might challenge themselves to learn kiteboarding. Be sure to check out Outer Banks Kiting in Avon for this adventure.
Lastly, devote some time to visit the stunning Elizabethan Gardens, or if you’re visiting with kids, consider a fun day at the First Flight Adventure Park.
Savannah
State: Georgia
Average Temperature in Savannah in March: Highs of 67.8F, Lows of 52.3F
Average Temperature in Savannah in April: Highs of 75.7F, Lows of 59.9F
You don’t need to worry about temperatures if you’re thinking of visiting Savannah during spring break as it actually has the very best weather in Georgia’s First City.
The mild spring air is just perfect for enjoying a stroll on the trails, visiting historic Savannah, or checking out the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, a protected home for some of the state’s most beloved species.
In case you need to go to the beach this spring, head over to Tybee Island, where you can spend a relaxing day, get a tour to see dolphins, or book a charter fishing excursion.
Fans of fear and horror may try one of the ghost tours offered in Savannah, which has the title of one of the most haunted cities in the US.
Savannah is a pleasure to visit in winter, fall, and spring, and it beats the crowds of the high season!
While this may not be one of the many small towns in Georgia, its charm sure makes it feel like it is!
Orlando
State: Florida
Average Temperature in Orlando in March: Highs of 78F, Lows of 56F
Average Temperature in Orlando in April: Highs of 82.2F, Lows of 64F
With many theme parks and world-famous attractions, it’s no surprise that Orlando is considered one of the best places in Florida to spend spring break.
For some lasting memories with friends or family, visit the magical Walt Disney World Resort and spend a day full of entertainment.
Alternatively, you can visit Universal Studios, where you can indulge in the history of film creation, walk through the huge theme park, and be part of limitless attractions and live shows.
Foodies will certainly be satisfied with Orlando too, where you’ll find the Seven Seas Food Festival, offering more than 200 tasty dishes.
You can also plan visits to amazing water parks, take tours through canals and lakes, and explore all the other amazing things to do in Orlando!
Boulder
State: Colorado
Average Temperature in Boulder in March: Highs of 46.4F, Lows of 26.1F
Average Temperature in Boulder in April: Highs of 52.3F, Lows of 30.7F
Boulder combines amazing city and mountain views and offers its visitors outdoor activities, award-winning breweries, and so much more. It is an ideal day trip from Denver!
Visiting during the spring means that you can also check out the wildflower hikes on about 150 miles of hiking and biking trails. You can also take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park (or spend the weekend in Denver)!
If you haven’t tried an e-bike tour, you have an excellent chance to do so in Boulder. In case you’re interested in tasting some beer, definitely plan a day to check out a few brewery tours, as Boulder is known to be brewery heaven.
On a short drive from the town, Eldora Mountain is open for skiing until around mid-April. Also, you can go on a day trip to Nederland from Boulder, which is full of scenic views, fishing spots, great restaurants, and shops.
Charleston
State: South Carolina
Average Temperature in Charleston in March: Highs of 70F, Lows of 47F
Average Temperature in Charleston in April: Highs of 72.7F, Lows of 60.4F
From picture-perfect beaches to its lively nightlife, Charleston is ranked as one of the first choices for spring break in South Carolina.
One of the most common suggestions is to visit the nearby beaches: Charleston Harbor, the Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island. All are great options for guests looking to relax and rejuvenate.
When mentioning reasons why Charleston is an awesome springtime destination, there are a few things that cannot be missed, such as the annual Festival of Houses & Gardens, North Charleston Arts Fest, or Safe Sounds at Firefly Spring Concert Series, which features live music, local brew, wine, and more.
Famous party and nightlife attractions include the Rooftop Bar at The Vendue, the Honky Tonk Saloon, and the Charleston Pour House. Charleston is also a great base for visiting some of the state’s best waterfalls and day trips!
New Orleans
State: Louisiana
Average Temperature in New Orleans in March: Highs of 70.7F, Lows of 58.3F
Average Temperature in New Orleans in April: Highs of 79F, Lows of 61F
Spending spring break in New Orleans is convenient for all ages and preferences.
If you’re lucky enough, you can visit during Mardi Gras, the most colorful and festive celebration full of street parades and jazz music. There are also other popular festivals like the French Quarter Festival, Spring Fiesta, and more.
The weather conditions will most probably be good enough to plan a nice picnic in a city park. Still, to take in more of New Orleans’ spirit, reserve a dinner at one of the best restaurants in the area, such as Muriel’s or K-Paul’s.
You can also devote a day to shopping for antiques and visiting some art galleries. The main place for art galleries is Royal Street.
Maui
State: Hawaii
Average Temperature in Maui in March: Highs of 81F, Lows of 66F
Average Temperature in Maui in April: Highs of 82F, Lows of 67F
Spring break offers great temperatures to enjoy Maui to the fullest. Notably, there are not many crowds at this time, and most of the visitors are families.
Maui has more than 30 miles of black, red, and white beaches. You can plan your journey to be relaxing or adventurous. While in Maui, you can participate in a whale-watching tour, Molokini snorkeling tour, or other boat tours.
An activity worth trying here is ziplining. The options available range from short lines to some bigger ziplines on the west side above Lahaina and Kapalua.
Don’t miss checking out the Haleakala Crater in Haleakala National Park. It’s at an elevation of 10,000 feet and has pretty amazing views for both sunrise and sunset.
Moab
State: Utah
Average Temperature in Moab in March: Highs of 55F, Lows of 37.2F
Average Temperature in Moab in April: Highs of 63F, Lows of 43.2F
As the spring weather is not too harsh and you don’t have to worry about overheating, many people visit Moab in March and April.
Off-roading is one of the most popular activities here. Trails like Monitor, Merrimac, and Rose Garden guarantee a breathtaking experience.
There are also some great climbing spots, like Castle Valley, Ice Cream Parlor, and Indian Creek, if you’re interested in reaching high and challenging points.
A lot of visitors take a drive from Moab to visit the magnificent Arches National Park (even in winter) or Canyonlands National Park. However, for those who wish to escape the crowds, the Needles and Maze Districts are probably the best options.
Austin
State: Texas
Average Temperature in Austin in March: Highs of 72F, Lows of 51F
Average Temperature in Austin in April: Highs of 80F, Lows of 59F
With plenty of attractions, restaurants, and activities, Austin is great for family fun (still, the nightlife here is pretty cool too). In the city, spots like Zilker Park, which is Austin’s largest and most popular park, are a great escape for families with kids.
Alternatively, to get to know the town better, you might consider Austin Duck Adventures, a tour of downtown Austin and Lake Austin.
Some day trips to locations like McKinney Falls or Pedernales Falls State Park would be good choices for your spring break in the USA, too.
The parks boast miles of trails convenient for camping, hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.
A suggestion for younger travelers is to visit Rainey Street, which is full of the hottest bars and endless live music. While Austin is beyond a day trip from Dallas, it is a great weekend getaway (or a week if you’re spending spring break in Texas)!
Seattle
State: Washington
Average Temperature in Seattle in March: Highs of 55F, Lows of 40F
Average Temperature in Seattle in April: Highs of 56.5F, Lows of 40.5F
Even though it’s not considered a popular spot to spend spring break, Seattle is one of the most beautiful cities in the US and is packed with tons of activities during the spring in spite of the rainy weather.
First, you can check out some of the local festivals, such as April’s Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. During this festival, the valley is colored with numerous shades of tulips.
Movie lovers might be lucky enough to be in Seattle when it’s time for the Seattle International Film Festival, which is generally held in May or June.
Hikers may devote some of their precious vacation time to climbing Tiger Mountain. You can also plan on the West Tiger 3 Trail hike, which is less challenging but offers stunning views of Lake Washington, Seattle, and more.
Other interesting options are a day trip to Victoria or visiting Golden Gardens Park and Ballard Farmers Market.
Chicago
State: Illinois
Average Temperature in Chicago in March: Highs of 41.5F, Lows of 32.2F
Average Temperature in Chicago in April: Highs of 50.7F, Lows of 40.6F
Don’t be scared of the fact that it’s cold in Chicago around spring break. Activities and places to visit are endless, even if you’re visiting outside of Chicago’s awesome summer months!
If you’re visiting with kids, Field Museum with its numerous artifacts and giant dinosaur fossils will surely impress you.
Another point of interest is SkyDeck Chicago, which is an observation deck providing breathtaking views of the city.
Other places not to miss are Maggie Daley Park (great for children’s fun), the Museum of Science and Industry, and Navy Pier (a very popular family attraction).
Last but not least, you can learn more about space by visiting the state-of-the-art sky theater, Adler Planetarium.
Palm Springs
State: California
Average Temperature in Palm Springs in March: Highs of 66.2F, Lows of 47.1F
Average Temperature in Palm Springs in April: Highs of 72F, Lows of 50.9F
Another city ready to offer a memorable spring break is Palm Springs.
Interesting spots worth visiting are the Palm Springs Air Museum, the Palm Springs Art Museum with its eye-catching exhibits, the Agua Caliente casinos, a roadside attraction of the Cabazon Dinosaurs, and the famous shopping district of El Paseo.
A must-see near Palm Springs is Joshua Tree National Park. With a unique landscape, this park provides the ultimate hiking and exploration opportunities in the area.
You can take a road trip from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree easily, and it is definitely recommended!
In Palm Springs, you can also see and experience the world’s largest rotating tramcar if you decide to take a journey on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
You will find many hotels in Palm Springs catering to all kinds of budgets (including some unique Airbnbs), so it makes planning far easier!
Daytona Beach
State: Florida
Average Temperature in Daytona Beach in March: Highs of 73F, Lows of 60.1F
Average Temperature in Daytona Beach in April: Highs of 79F, Lows of 59F
Daytona Beach has been known as Florida’s top spring break destination for years. That’s because of the beautiful white, hard-packed sand beach and crazy nightlife.
With activities ranging from boogie board and frisbee tournaments to jet skiing and beach volleyball, the beach is an absolute must if you plan on visiting Daytona Beach.
If you get bored of the ocean quickly, definitely consider a day trip to Orlando, where you can visit Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and more.
This way, you’ll combine a peaceful beach vacation with good memories from Orlando’s world-famous attractions!
Other things to do in Daytona include checking out Daytona USA (an exhibit celebrating the history of NASCAR) and the Daytona International Speedway.
Panama City Beach
State: Florida
Average Temperature in Panama City Beach in March: Highs of 68.9F, Lows of 56.1F
Average Temperature in Panama City Beach in April: Highs of 95.7F, Lows of 67.1F
Concerts, parties, and lots of fun family attractions describe Panama City during spring break. It even boasts the title of “Spring Break Capital of the World.”
Lying on the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the city’s number one gem is the beach. Entertain yourself in a relaxing seaside experience, or get more active and take part in various beach activities like volleyball, parasailing, and jet skiing.
We also simply can’t ignore or not mention the nightlife here! After all, Panama is home to the best beach clubs in the US. Here, you’re free to dance and party all night!
Key West
State: Florida
Average Temperature in Key West in March: Highs of 78F, Lows of 68F
Average Temperature in Key West in April: Highs of 77.4F, Lows of 74.8F
The small island of Key West is located in the Florida Keys and is Florida’s southernmost point. Well-known features of the island city are its conch-style houses, waters with coral reefs, and insane spring break parties.
The best beaches in Key West include South Beach, Higgs Beach, and Smathers Beach. It’s worth mentioning that, apart from parties, the location is pretty famous among divers and snorkelers.
While in Key West, aside from checking out the local nightclubs, you should also be sure not to miss the sunset party cruise with lots of drinks and live music, sailing and snorkeling, and a kayaking tour with unique views of the beautiful coast.
Lake Havasu City
State: Arizona
Average Temperature in Lake Havasu City in March: Highs of 73.4F, Lows of 56.8F
Average Temperature in Lake Havasu City in April: Highs of 80.8F, Lows of 61.5F
Another spring break party destination is Lake Havasu City. It’s an Arizona city that is very popular among college students and gets pretty busy and loud with a lot of all-night partying.
Arizona’s playground offers things to do ranging from after-hours parties and beach games to boat tours and delicious dinners.
Sign up for boat rentals to explore some unique beaches and coves. You can take a Cabana boat tour, which is fully equipped with many amenities and will definitely be a memorable experience!
Check the event calendar before getting here, as spring break weeks include various famous artist performances of rap and hip hop, and you do not want to miss those!
Las Vegas
State: Nevada
Average Temperature in Las Vegas in March: Highs of 71F, Lows of 49F
Average Temperature in Las Vegas in April: Highs of 77F, Lows of 55F
From the beginning of March towards the end of April, Las Vegas is spring break party central. This city offers a lot of options, even for tourists who are traveling on a budget.
Partying spots are limitless, starting with names like Rain and Ghostbar at the Palms Casino and ending with Rockhouse Bar. Get ready to dive into some classic Vegas fun full of drinks and dancing.
Apart from staying in nice resorts and getting all the fun from the lavish casinos, you might also spend some of your precious time on rides at Stratosphere.
For those interested in trying out the food here, the good news is that even the fanciest hotels offer quite affordable menus. You will also find some amazing day trips from Las Vegas, including one of the most famous state parks in the US, Valley of Fire.
Gulf Shores
State: Alabama
Average Temperature in Gulf Shores in March: Highs of 66.9F, Lows of 58.5F
Average Temperature in Gulf Shores in April: Highs of 72.9F, Lows of 64.9F
Gulf Shores is a longstanding spring break spot, especially for families who are in search of a peaceful seaside vacation. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach welcome more families than large groups of college students who long for loud parties.
Access to beaches is easy, but know that in March and some days in April, alcoholic drinks are not allowed on the beach.
The beaches are indescribably beautiful and are just perfect for when you want to stay and just unwind.
Still, in case you get a bit bored, apart from traditional water-related activities like dolphin watching, parasailing, and fishing, you can visit places like the Coastal Arts Center or choose from various dining and shopping options available locally.
Atlantic City
State: New Jersey
Average Temperature in Atlantic City in March: Highs of 46.9F, Lows of 38.1F
Average Temperature in Atlantic City in April: Highs of 55.9F, Lows of 47.3F
Fully recharge and get ready to spend an amazing vacation if you’re planning to spend your spring break in Atlantic City.
The mild weather attracts a lot of families and couples who are looking for sunny days mixed with a lot of entertainment.
Among popular places to visit are Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, where you can go early in the morning and enjoy magnificent views, and The Quarter at Tropicana, which is home to numerous world-famous retailers, eateries, wellness centers, and more.
If you want to have something remarkable to share with your friends and family after visiting Atlantic City, make sure to see the world’s largest pipe organ at Boardwalk Hall and get on a tour to discover its history.
Did we miss any of your favorite spring break destinations in the USA here? Let us know your top US spring break destinations in the comments! Thanks!
More Spring Travel Guides
- Spring break destinations in Europe
- USA in March
- USA in April
- USA national parks in March
- USA national parks in April
- Europe in March
- Europe in April
Pin this USA Spring Break Destinations Guide
Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now lives in Finnish Lapland after previous stints in Norway, Germany, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ (2020) and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.