Ah, college spring break. The noblest rite of passage for our nation’s future leaders. With March around the corner, college students across the country are preparing for a week of fun and relaxation (much of which their parents will hopefully never hear about). From traditional party destinations to destinations you may not think of as typical spring break locals, here are the best spring break destinations.
Best International Spring Break Destinations
Cancun, Mexico
Perhaps the quintessential spring break destination, Cancun has it all: sun, loads of other college aged-students, and lots and lots of fun. There are loads of all-inclusive resorts, or packages you can add to your stay that make it all-inclusive. With nonstop flights from most major cities in the US, it’s easy to get to. Flights from major cities average around $400, and you can always find a deal! Your best bet is to stay in the hotel zone (Zona Hotelera), which is about 14 miles of resorts, hotels, restaurants, beaches, and pure entertainment.
Hotels in the hotel zone include: Le Blanc Spa Resort All inclusive, Hard Rock Hotel Cancun All Inclusive, and Secrets The Vine Cancun.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Another destination perfect for college students who want to party is Punta Cana. Gorgeous beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and poolside bars make for an unforgettable week away. It’s location in the caribbean makes it more appealing to those located on the east coast, as most east coast cities offer nonstop flights to Punta Cana. Flights booked a month in advance from major cities average $344 with stops and $723 for nonstops.
There are loads of hotels to choose from, with some of the most popular for spring break being Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort All Inclusive, Dreams Flora Resort & Spa and Breathless Punta Cana.
Montreal, Canada
Perhaps a lesser thought of spring break destination, Montreal is a great option for those who aren’t looking for time in the sun, but are just looking to get away and have fun. The drinking age is 18 in Quebec, and Montreal is within a reasonable driving distance from many college towns. Nonstop flights from major cities average $288 booking a month in advance. L’Axe du Mal (Axis of Evil) is a grouping of four venues in the Saint-Denis Street and Mont-Royal Avenue area, perfect for a night of bar hopping.
Top hotels include Le Nouvel Hotel, Le Saint-Sulpice Hotel Montreal, and Novotel Montreal Centre.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Fantastic beaches and lots of partying make for a classic spring break experience in Cabo San Lucas. Filled with lively nightclubs, day partying at clubs like the Sand Bar, Omnia Los Cabos, and Sur Beach House, you are sure to be in for a good time in Cabo. Flights average around $311 with stops from major cities, and $336 nonstop in select cities with nonstop service to San Jose Del Cabo.
Top hotels include: Casa Dorada Los Cabos, Resorts & Spa, Riu Santa Fe All Inclusive, and Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa.
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Perhaps a lesser thought of spot for a warm destination, Rio- in particular Copacabana Beach, is a party town perfect for an epic spring break. While on the pricier side as far as flights go (average cost from major cities booking a month in advance for spring break is $673 with stops, with few nonstop flights available), the extra cost is worth it for a spectacular time.
Recommended hotels include: Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, Copacabana Mar Hotel, and Miramar by Windsor Copacabana Hotel
Best Spring Break Locations in the U.S.
Staying within the US has one huge advantage: flights are typically a lot cheaper than flying internationally. The good news is that most spring break hot spots in the U.S. are super affordable to fly to. Here are the top spots in the US.
Miami, Florida
Like Cancun for international destinations, Miami takes the cake for quintessential U.S. spring break spot. Thanks to many discount airlines flying to Miami from major cities, the average price for a nonstop flight is only $126 when you book a month in advance. College students flock to Miami, so if you don’t like crowds, you may want to look elsewhere. But if a mass of partying people in their early 20s is for you, you’ve found your mecca.
Some of the best party hotels are: Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Nautilus by Arlo, and Riviera Suites South Beach.
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Just north of Miami is Ft. Lauderdale, another Florida spring break hotspot. The average price for a nonstop flight is only $100 from major US cities, making it one of the cheapest spots for spring breakers throughout the country. Top spots like Elbo Room and America’s Backyard offer open bars with cover fees for all-night parties, and the beaches are filled with college students living the high life.
Area hotels include Pelican Grand Beach Resort, B Ocean Resort Costa, and Costa Hollywood Beach Resort.
Puerto Rico
Travel to the caribbean without your passport by heading to Puerto Rico. While not as wild as some of the other beach locations mentioned, Puerto Rico’s resorts and beaches still promise a fantastic time. Spots that are hopping during the month of March include Club Brava, Ultra Lounge, Condado Beach and Sandy Beach. Airfare averages about $311 nonstop from major U.S. cities booked a month in advance.
Top hotels include: San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort, and Margaritaville Vacation Club At Wyndham Rio Mar.
New Orleans, Louisiana
One of the liveliest spots in the U.S. any time of the year, New Orleans is no different for spring break. Festivals like the Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival, NOLA on Tap, and a big St. Patrick’s Day parade add to the usual spirited atmosphere the city offers. Nonstop flights from major US cities average $262 booking a month in advance.
Top hotels include: Hotel Monteleone, Bienville House, and Le Pavillon Hotel.
Las Vegas, Nevada
What better place to spend spring break than “Sin City” (though some parents may disagree). All night venues like Hakkasan, Omnia or the rooftop deck at Chateau at Paris Las Vegas ensure an amazing time. It will seem like there is fun around every corner, and in most cases, you won’t even have to leave the confines of your hotel! Nonstop flights booked a month in advance average $98 roundtrip.
Recommended hotels include The Cosmopolitan, The Venetian, and the Golden Nugget.
Average Airfare by Destination
| Domestic Destinations | Average Airfare | International Destinations | Average Airfare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami, Florida | $126 | Cancun, Mexico | $297 | |
| Ft. Lauderdale, Florida | $304 | Punta Cana, DR | $344 | |
| San Juan, Puerto Rico | $311 | Montreal, Canada | $288 | |
| New Orleans, Louisiana | $262 | Cabo San Lucas, Mexico | $311 | |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | $98 | Rio De Janeiro, Brazil | $673 |
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