The origins of spring break may be traced back to collegiate athletics. Many schools on the East Coast conducted their first mid-winter holidays in the 1920s and 1930s. Later, institutions in southern states began to use spring holidays to avoid the chilly weather. These top ten spring break destinations offer a lot of options. 

Colgate University students traveled by rail to Fort Lauderdale for a vacation with students from other colleges in 1936. They learned that there were hundreds of hotels and motels in Fort Lauderdale. Other institutions quickly followed Colgate’s lead and sent their students there. This was the first time a spring break trip to that location had been documented.

The first recorded instance of college students taking spring road trips occurred in 1939 when University of Wisconsin swimmers traveled to Fort Lauderdale for training. Iowa State College’s golf team competed in a tournament in Miami in 1949. Purdue University’s swim squad made its maiden trip to Florida in 1956. Then an MSU professor wrote a book and Connie Francis’ song “Where the Boys Are” came out, and college campuses all over the north knew where they were heading for a week in March.

#10 Galveston Island, Texas

Another great beach destination for spring break is Galveston Island. Galveston is one of the best coastal cities in the Lone Star State; therefore, many travels here for a bit of sun and beach fun every spring break. Relax on Galveston’s sandy beaches, stroll down the Seawall, hit up Schlitterbahn Water Park, or explore the exhibits and attractions at Moody Gardens. 

If you’ve gotten your fill of sand and sun, Galveston has one of the country’s most prominent and best-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture. Visitors may learn about the island’s fascinating history by exploring one of its popular historic houses.

#9 Gulf Shores, Alabama

In Gulf Shores, Alabama, you may enjoy the spectacular beauty of sugar-sand beaches, turquoise seas, sea breezes, and genuine Southern hospitality. Gulf Shores, surrounded by four bodies of water, is ideal for families who flock to the beaches of this laid-back holiday resort. Renting beach chairs, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards is accessible at the beach.

When you’re ready to hit the beach, find a spot at the secluded Gulf State Park. For a chance to reconnect with nature, check out the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail. Finish your days with a plate of shrimp and other fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant such as King Neptune’s or the  Hog Wild Beach and Barbecue, which offers everything you could hope for in barbecue-based cuisine.

#8 Mandeville, Louisiana

Crossing the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge into Mandeville may find spring break activities just a short drive north of New Orleans. Relax on the beaches of Fontainebleau State Park on Lake Pontchartrain’s shore, or rent bikes at Brooks Bike Co-op and cruise on the multi-use route that was formerly railroad lines.

Chafunkta Brewing Company serves artisan beers. The term ‘Chafunkta,’ sometimes known as ‘Tchefuncte,’ refers to an early Indian town in what is now Mandeville, Louisiana. Do you like dive bars? Go to Ruby Roadhouse. This is the real deal, with a close-up and friendly stage setup. There’s also a back bar and chairs for when you need to take a break from all the excitement and dancing.

#7 Gulfport Mississippi

Gulfport is the obvious choice for spring break if you want to travel to beautiful beaches and hear the sounds of waves crashing outside your vacation spot. This city is home to Ship Island, where you can go on a dolphin tour with Ship Island Excursions or hike the walkways to watch birds. You should pay attention to the seaside promenade at Jones Park. The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum is an excellent spring break destination for families and children. In the evening, Sipps Bar hosts themed events.

#6 South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is Texas’ southernmost point in the Gulf of Mexico. Famous artists perform at some of the world’s most outrageous beach parties every day. Then, at night, experience the island’s waterfront nightclubs and pool parties that you’ve only dreamed of.

This island may be small, but believe us when we tell you we’ve never witnessed a party like this before. Everything is bigger in Texas, especially during Spring Break on South Padre Island.

#5 Miami Beach, Florida

Probably, the earliest spring breakers came here for a good time. Miami Beach has been considered a leading beach resort since the 1920s. College spring breakers often stay in and around South Beach, but the opportunity to enjoy the nightlife extends far beyond South Beach into a city with outstanding nightlife.

South Beach is home to the famous (Google Jackie Gleason, he was excellent) and is a popular spring break destination for college students. Furthermore, its art deco design makes Miami a cultural, historical, and architectural magnet.

#6 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, on the Atlantic coast, is the beach that started it all. This bustling seaside city is located in South Florida, where warm weather is almost guaranteed in March. Furthermore, its closeness to Miami allows for a quick journey to the world-famous South Beach. Consequently, Fort Lauderdale is the ideal location for Spring Breakers, with miles of gorgeous beaches, hundreds of students from all over the country, and some of Florida’s best nightlife.

#4 Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach, which hugs the Atlantic coast, is in Central Florida, where moderate weather is almost guaranteed in March. With 23 miles of beautiful beaches, hundreds of students from all over the country, and some of the best nightlife in Florida. Daytona Beach was the first spring break destination. Because of its proximity to Disney World, it is an appealing alternative for a day trip away from the beach.

#3 Panama City Beach, Florida

This resort region, located in northern Florida along the Gulf Coast, allows students from all over the country to get in their cars and drive to their little paradise. Panama City Beach, with its 27 miles of beautiful beaches and crystal blue water, is where plenty of sunshine, convenience, and fun meet. Panama City Beach has the most significant beachfront nightclubs in the country, which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

#2 Destin, Florida

Destin Florida Spring Break is both elegant and energetic. This beach town combines the best of both worlds, with white sandy beaches suitable for a mid-semester getaway and a vibrant boardwalk lined with infinite bars. Destin, Florida’s Panhandle, is about an hour’s drive from Panama City Beach and is easily accessible from hundreds of colleges and universities around the country.

#1 Key West, Florida

This island, located at the far end of A1A in the lovely Florida Keys, welcomes you for a week of fun in the sun. While many college students would prefer to visit the more proximate Daytona Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, or Miami Beach, visiting Key West is like entering another world. It’s an island with a unique culture and atmosphere, and everything makes you feel like you’re in the Caribbean, which you are.

Driving to Key West from many midwestern colleges takes roughly 36 hours. You may also travel to Miami and rent a car to Key West. Numerous worthwhile stops along the A1A bridges from Miami to Key West, including Islamorada, for snorkeling.

Final Thoughts on Spring Break 2023

Think of these as the traditional locations for your Spring Party. If you are more adventurous, consider staying north and hiking in Minnesota in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. If you are skilled in winter camping, you will have a blast. These destinations offer a great way to get warm and have fun. Book your travel plans early for the best selection and price. Stay safe.