While in many parts of the U.S. spring break arrives when the weather still isn’t very spring-like, many take advantage of this week-long holiday to visit somewhere warm. From great beaches to spots that just have a lot of fun things to do, we’ve put together a list of the best spots for spring break.
1. Austin, Texas
Austin is certainly an emerging party town — although you don’t necessarily jump to this city when thinking about spring break. Warm temperatures, the famed South by Southwest festival (taking place in mid-March), and a happening music scene make this a top destination. During spring break, visitors can hit up Downtown’s Six Street for delicious Tex-Mex, live music, and bustling bars.
Hotel Pick: Close to Downtown, Club Wyndham Austin is a solid pick for spring break – thanks in large part to its small, but sleek, pool.
2. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
At the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas — a beach town on the stretch of coastline collectively known as Los Cabos — has long been a popular vacation spot for sun-worshipping party seekers over spring break, and this year is no different. Aside from its lively party scene, Los Cabos remains a staple in the beach resort world thanks to its California-esque vibe. It almost feels like an extension of Southern California, with similar deluxe accommodations, striking golf courses, high-end shops, and of course, beautiful beaches.
Hotel Pick: ME Cabo is set on bringing sexy back, from the on-site clubs to its position on the only swimmable beach in Los Cabos.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada
No matter the time of year, most visitors to Las Vegas head to the Strip, the three-and-a-half-mile-long stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard packed with more than 20 of the world’s largest casino resorts and nearly 70,000 hotel rooms. But during spring break, even more, descend on Sin City — bikinis in tow. That’s because come March, the notorious Vegas pool parties pick up once again for a rowdy, wild spring break crowd.
Hotel Pick: Hard to beat the allure and atmosphere of The Venetian Resort.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
No wonder New Orleans is a top spot for spring break; this culture-packed city stays at a comfortable 70 degrees (or above) during the springtime, and — from February’s Mardi Gras to April’s Jazz Fest — there’s always a party going on. Families can enjoy ghost tours and Creole eats, river cruises and historic sights, and partiers can take advantage of the lenient open-container laws and infamous (extremely potent) cocktails.
Hotel Pick: With a central location in the French Quarter, Bienville House has just finished renovations and is a perfect spot for your spring break stay.
5. Miami, Florida
The beautiful beaches, famous food scene, and celebrity-grade clubs that stay open until 4 a.m. make Miami a popular destination for spring break. And while Miami is certainly not cheap, you get much of the fun, the beachy vibe here that the Caribbean provides – without the extra cost of a Caribbean-bound flight. Like Cuba’s ultra-capitalist offshoot, Miami is a sprawling, modern metropolis that’s nonetheless relatively safe and clean for a city-meets-beach-town getaway.
Hotel Pick: There are so many new hotels in Miami to choose from, but it is hard to beat the pristine scene at Tru by Hilton Miami West Brickell.
6. Cancún
Cancún — with its beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise waters — is one of the world’s top beach destinations, so it comes as no surprise that its one of the most-visited spring break destinations on the planet. The Hotel Zone is where to go if you’re looking for all the college spring break staples; dozens of megaresorts line miles and miles of postcard-perfect beaches where guests lounge in the sun margarita in hand. Families can be just as happy here, though, especially if they opt for a quieter all-inclusive with amenities such as a kids’ club and water park.
Hotel Pick: A top all-inclusive spot, Grand Oasis has everything you need for fun in the sun (and a good party).
7. Los Angeles, California
Time and time again, Los Angeles is a top destination for tourists – and though summer is its true peak season, L.A. definitely welcomes a swarm of visitors for spring break. Show business is indeed a huge part of the city, and it’s there for visitors to enjoy, from tours of movie studio back lots to celebrity sightings. But, L.A. has so much more to offer, including a thriving visual arts scene, and natural beauty, from beaches and mountains to great parks.
Hotel Pick: Overall a classy spot that maintains a family-friendly vibe, the Mondrian Los Angeles has chic spots for drinks and eats, and a popular poolside scene come March (or earlier if the weather is nice).
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• The Best Florida Family Beach Destinations for When Spring Break Returns
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