Most people flock to places like Miami Beach, Cancun, or Playa del Carmen for Spring Break. And you can’t blame them! They’re amazing.
However, it pays to look elsewhere if you want to avoid big crowds and peak prices. Do a little digging, and you will realize there are tons of incredible Spring Break destinations flying under the radar. Here are 12 of the best.
1. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe came second on Travel and Leisure’s 2023 list of their readers’ favorite cities in the US. While its clubbing scene might not be lively enough for some folks, the city has striking architecture, fantastic food, and a thriving art scene, making it ideal for a more laidback Spring Break. Abundant outdoor opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, and rafting add to the appeal.
2. Pismo Beach, California
Looking for beach vibes without the mad party scene of other classic Spring Break destinations? Pismo Beach could be perfect. Expect a scenic pier to watch the sunset from, sandy beaches to stroll along, plus many great places to eat and drink. Golf, surfing, and ATV rides also provide some fantastic leisure activities.
3. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the mighty Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a lovely alternative to a traditional beachside Spring Break. The scenery is spectacular, downtown buzzes with live music, boutique stores, craft breweries, and fantastic food, and there are endless outdoor activities on your doorstep.
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you love North Carolina but prefer spending Spring Break at the ocean versus the mountains, consider Outer Banks. The weather is warm without being too hot, and having over 100 miles of shoreline means you can escape the crowds. True, you won’t find many nightclubs in Outer Banks, but there’s plenty of live music to make up for it.
5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Spring Break at Lake Tahoe has something for everyone – especially if you adore the outdoors. This vast alpine lake is called “The Jewel of the Sierra” for a reason! Skiing, hiking, biking, and watersports are just a few possibilities. There’s plenty of partying to be done, too. Expect beachside barbeques, cabins with private hot tubs, live music, and so much more.
6. Jekyll Island, Georgia
There are more laid-back beach vibes on offer at Georgia’s glorious Jekyll Island. Rent bicycles to explore, hire kayaks to hit the water, and spend lazy afternoons sunbathing on the beach. There are golf courses, water parks, dolphin boat tours, a Sea Turtle Center, top restaurants, and much more. With enviable weather year-round, you won’t want to leave.
7. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Anyone seeking a beachy, nature-filled Spring Break with fewer crowds should book somewhere in Cannon Beach, Oregon – preferably in early April. The weather may leave something to be desired, but there’ll be fewer visitors at that time than later in the season.
Accompanying its charming small-town atmosphere, expect exquisite coastal views, tide pools, and the mighty Haystack Rock.
8. Bend, Oregon
Bend would be an outstanding Spring Break destination for outdoor lovers. Its diverse landscapes and climate at this time of year mean you can be skiing on fresh powder on Monday and then hiking in blistering sunshine on Tuesday. Expect to be dazzled by rivers, lakes, and mountains. Then, when you’ve worked up a thirst, hop back into town to enjoy the thriving craft brewery scene. Bend’s nightlife is said to be top-notch, too.
9. Surfside Beach, Texas
Drive roughly an hour south of Houston, and you’ll arrive at Surfside Beach, a coastal gem with laid-back vibes. It’d be a tranquil and budget-friendly Spring Break, but there’s still lots to keep you entertained. Walk (and camp!) on uncrowded beaches, go kayaking or paddleboarding, do some fishing at Surfside Jetty Park, and dine on finger-licking fresh seafood.
10. Anna Maria Island, Florida
Spring Break on this glorious barrier island sounds hard to beat. Relax on world-class white sand beaches, stroll and fish along the attractive pier, swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters, and partake in countless water sports. Anna Maria Island isn’t renowned for its nightlife, but you could always nip over to Siesta Key if you’re desperate for a drink and a dance!
11. Phoenix, Arizona
Arizonans seeking a Spring Break destination closer to home should consider Phoenix. It’s relatively affordable, the weather is excellent, and there are endless outdoor activities within easy reach. Camp, hike, bike, paddle down the Salt River…the list goes on. Of course, you also have access to the many trappings of a modern city – including great dining opportunities and bustling nightlife.
12. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Picturesque and full of history, the coastal city of Portsmouth would be another unique and less-traveled option for Spring Break. Expect several excellent museums, beautiful waterfront parks, striking architecture, a thriving music scene, and plenty of craft beer to sample!