8 fresh spring break getaway ideas

Spring it on, vacation
The pool area overlooking the beach at a hilton head island vacation rental.
An outdoor pool with families relaxing at a resort in Davenport, FL.

Want a memorable spring break escape this year? Then, think beyond the beach. There are spring break destinations for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking for relaxation, theme park fun, thrilling outdoor adventures, or delicious food. We’ve found a little bit of everything for you and everyone in your group.

The back pool area at a vacation rental in Costa Rica.

1. Costa Rica

A paradise for adventurous, eco-conscious travelers, Costa Rica’s charm lies in its lush rainforests, an abundance of wildlife, and unspoiled beaches. This spring, hike to a volcano, kick back on a quiet beach, and zip line through the jungle all on the same day.

  • Tour San José to discover its rich culture and history through museums, parks, and coffee plantations.
  • Experience adventure on the North Pacific Coast by visiting Guanacaste and Nicoya Peninsula for hiking, wildlife viewing, and beach activities.
  • Zipline through the lush canopy in Monteverde, where you can also explore hanging bridges and coffee farms.
  • Visit Arenal Volcano to hike its trails and soak in nearby hot springs while taking in breathtaking views.
  • Kayak on Lake Arenal, the largest man-made lake in Costa Rica, surrounded by stunning volcanoes and hills.
  • Discover wildlife at Palo Verde National Park, famous for birdwatching and exploring its wetlands teeming with crocodiles and other species.
  • Participate in a chocolate-making workshop to learn about Costa Rican cacao while creating your own delicious treats.

Moab at sunset.

2. Moab, UT

The quaint town of Moab—located in the southwestern corner of the state—rises from a sea of rust-colored sandstone, ancient canyons, and towering arches. With iconic national parks and trails, Moab’s awe-inspiring landscapes will fill your spring break with stunning sights and adventures.

  • Explore Arches National Park to marvel at over 2,000 natural stone arches and catch the sunrise at Delicate Arch.
  • Visit Canyonlands National Park for breathtaking views from Mesa Arch and the Island in the Sky District, perfect for photography and solitude.
  • Take a Jeep tour through Moab's rugged terrain on trails like Hell’s Revenge for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
  • Experience river rafting on the Colorado River, navigating class II and III rapids amidst stunning canyon scenery.
  • Visit Moab Giants Dinosaur Park, where kids can engage with interactive exhibits and learn about dinosaurs that once roamed the area.
  • Go mountain biking on the famous Slickrock Bike Trail, which offers challenging terrain and beautiful vistas.
  • Zipline over sandstone cliffs with Raven’s Rim Moab Zipline Tour for an exhilarating view of the landscape below.

Drone shot of Bahama Bay Resort overlooking the lake.

3. Davenport, FL

Orlando and Kissimmee aren’t the only destinations in Disney World’s backyard. Davenport is a small town with big appeal. Most importantly, it's at the epicenter of fun due to its proximity to major theme parks, including Universal Studios and Legoland.

  • Experience the magic at Walt Disney World Resort, where you can explore iconic parks like Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney's Hollywood Studios.
  • Dive into adventure at Universal Orlando Resort, featuring thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and franchises.
  • Enjoy family-friendly fun at LEGOLAND Florida, where you can explore interactive rides, shows, and LEGO-themed attractions.
  • Explore the Crayola Experience in nearby Orlando, an interactive attraction where you can engage in hands-on art activities and play with color.
  • Take a thrilling airboat ride at Wild Florida, where you can see alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Spend a day at ICON Park on International Drive, enjoying the views from The Wheel and exploring various dining and entertainment options.
  • Relax with a wine tasting at Lakeridge Winery, sampling local wines while enjoying the scenic views of the vineyards.
  • Unwind at Lake Louisa State Park, where you can hike, picnic, and enjoy various outdoor activities amidst beautiful natural scenery.

View from a balcony at a Hilton Head rental.

4. Hilton Head Island, SC

Experience a slower pace of life set on 12 miles of beaches. Anchoring the southern tip of South Carolina’s coastline, this semitropical island is a haven for long bike rides and lazy days wandering between the beach and your oceanfront pool.

  • Discover local wildlife during sea turtle nesting season, which begins in late spring; join volunteer organizations for educational sessions and beach clean-ups.
  • Tee off at one of Hilton Head Island's 23 championship golf courses, where you can enjoy stunning views and challenging play, especially during the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament in April.
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches, taking advantage of warm spring weather to build sandcastles, swim, or kayak along the coast.
  • Attend the Harbour Town Spring Fest, featuring live entertainment, craft shopping, and outdoor activities, kicking off the season in March.
  • Join a dolphin cruise to witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat while enjoying the scenic waterways around the island.
  • Ride bikes along over 60 miles of multi-use pathways, allowing you to explore the island's beautiful landscapes and reach various attractions easily.
  • Participate in outdoor water sports, such as jet skiing or paddleboarding, offered by local rental companies like Sea Monkeys Watersports.

A modern living room at a vacation rental in Steamboat Springs, CO.

5. Steamboat Springs, CO

Known for giving ‘Champagne Powder’ its name, Steamboat Springs has a longer ski season than other mountain resorts—with snow still falling into mid-April and plenty of bluebird days. Heading in late spring? Get your camera ready for gorgeous displays of wildflowers around April and May.

  • Attend the Springalicious Festival from April 15 to April 21, celebrating the end of ski season with live music, food, and giveaways.
  • Enjoy spring skiing at Steamboat Ski Resort, where you can experience fantastic snow conditions and sunny days.
  • Relax in the Old Town Hot Springs, soaking in mineral pools and enjoying water slides and climbing walls.
  • Hike to Fish Creek Falls, taking in the stunning views and enjoying a family-friendly trail.
  • Cast a line at Casey’s Pond, where spring fishing offers a peaceful outdoor experience.
  • Attend a local farmers market, typically opening in late spring, to sample fresh produce and artisan goods.
  • Discover the history at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, showcasing artifacts from local Native American tribes and pioneer settlers.
  • Enjoy a thrilling adventure at featuring zip lines and aerial obstacle courses amidst beautiful scenery.

ocean view from back deck of orange beach vacation home

6. Orange Beach, AL

Cozied up against the state line separating Florida and Alabama, Orange Beach is known as an underrated gem offering sugar-white sand beaches, spectacular outdoor space, crystal clear waters, and warm temperatures all year round.

  • Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo to see exotic animals and participate in interactive exhibits.
  • Explore the sugar-white sands of Orange Beach, perfect for sunbathing and beach games.
  • Take a scenic bike ride along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, enjoying the lush landscapes.
  • Join a thrilling dolphin cruise to witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
  • Participate in the Flora-Bama Music Festival featuring live music across multiple genres.
  • Take part in the Waterway Village Zydeco & Crawfish Festival for delicious food and lively music.
  • Explore Gulf State Park, where you can hike, bike, or fish in a stunning natural setting.
  • Discover marine life on an eco-tour through the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, learning about coastal ecosystems.

Galveston drone shot.

7. Galveston, TX

Get away to where palm trees sway next to Victorian mansions. Galveston is an island city an hour outside of Houston with 32 miles of beautiful beaches, historical treasures, fresh coastal cuisine, and family fun, like the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Schlitterbahn Waterpark.

  • Kayak or bike through Galveston Island State Park, navigating paddling trails, taking in picturesque views of wetlands and beaches, and observing local wildlife in their natural habitats.
  • Ride thrilling attractions at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, featuring roller coasters and carnival games.
  • Splash around at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, enjoying water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools perfect for all ages.
  • Embark on a dolphin tour, watching bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment around Galveston Bay.
  • Participate in sandcastle building lessons, guided by professionals to create impressive sandy masterpieces.
  • Take a historical tour of Galveston's iconic homes during the Galveston Historic Tour.
  • Catch a live performance at The Grand 1894 Opera House, experiencing local culture through music and theater.

San Diego

8. San Diego

With near-perfect climate year-round, 70 miles of beaches, and family-friendly attractions, like Legoland California and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, San Diego is one giant playground that feels tailormade for spring break.

  • Explore Balboa Park, home to 15 museums, beautiful gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, where you can see over 3,700 animals and enjoy special spring activities.
  • Wander through the Flower Fields of Carlsbad, a stunning display of vibrant blooms from early March to early May.
  • Catch a Padres game at Petco Park as the MLB season kicks off, offering great views and exciting baseball action.
  • Go whale watching along the coast, as spring is prime time to spot migrating whales.
  • Hike the trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, offering breathtaking coastal views and diverse wildlife.
  • Visit La Jolla Cove, famous for its sea lions and stunning sunsets; consider snorkeling or diving in the Ecological Reserve.
  • Explore Old Town San Diego, rich in history with shops, restaurants, and cultural events celebrating California's heritage.

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