Travel & Living

10 Unexpected Spring Break Destinations

Miami may be the go-to spot for spring break, but these places are the best refreshing alternatives for your next adventure.

Model in red net dress on the beach.
Photography by Ezra Patchett. Photo courtesy of L'OFFICIEL archives.

Spring Break is right around the corner, and perhaps it's already started for some of you lucky early birds (we're jealous). Still, the rest of you might be planning your trips last minute. Or, maybe you already want to get a head start on where to visit next year. Usually, when we hear "Spring Break," a few places immediately come to mind: Miami, Cabo, and Bahamas. And while all of them are undeniably must-see vacation spots, there's a whole world of breathtaking locales waiting to be explored beyond the typical party beaches, especially if you are looking for spring break destinations for families. So whether you're looking for quieter beaches, serene lakes, outdoorsy adventures, or the last bit of winter ski, L'OFFICIEL has curated a list of the best places for spring break. Who knows? You might end up wanting to revisit some of these every year.

New Orleans

 

Located near the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans is loved for its vibrant culture, rich history, and lively nightlife and music scene. Among its top attractions are iconic landmarks like the French Quarter, which is known for its bustling streets historic colonial architecture. But for foodies, the real draw is its cuisine, most especially Creole and Cajun dishes. If you're looking for the most authentic Cajun restaurant, complete with live music, visit Mulate's. With its unique blend of traditions and festivities, New Orleans is a must-see for travelers of all ages seeking a taste of authentic Southern charm and hospitality. 

Ithaca

 

Ithaca, nestled in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, boasts a plethora of attractions that cater to visitors of various interests, and is a great spring break destinations for families. Nature lovers can explore the gorges and waterfalls of Buttermilk Falls State Park or embark on scenic hikes in the nearby Robert H. Treman State Park. On the other hand, history buffs can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the area by discovering the exhibits at the Cayuga Museum of History and Art or simply strolling around its small town charms. Additionally, foodies will enjoy the culinary scene at Ithaca. It offerse a diverse array of farm-to-table restaurants like Moosewood Restaurant, cozy cafés such as The Coal Yard Cafe, and food markets that showcase the region's local flavors. 

Lake Tahoe

 

Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is an all-year-round vacation spot and spring break destination for families. Surrounded by Sierra Nevada mountains, it is renowened for its azure waters, scenic vistas, and outdoor recreational activities. During the spring and summer, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and swimming, while winter brings world-class skiing and snowboarding to its resorts. 

Crater Lake

 

Located in Oregon, Crater Lake is famous for its deep blue clear waters, making it one of the most pristine lakes in the world. Formed over 7,000 years ago by the collapse of Mount Mazama, the lake is renowened for its deep, almost perfectly circular caldera. Visitors can enjoy the lake's beauty from various viewpoints along the rim, or take a boat tour to Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone within the lake. With its unique geological history and breathtaking scenery, Crater Lake offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. 

Yosemite National Park

 

Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sierra Nevada, California, is known for its iconic mountainous landmarks. Home to towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite offers awe-inspiring scenery at every turn. Visitors can explore famous attractions like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, as well as enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, rock climing, and wildlife viewing. With its diverse landscapes and rich ecological diversity, Yosemite is the ideal spot for nature lovers, outdoor adventure-seekers, and a great spring break destination for families

Vail

 

If you're hoping to hold on to the last bit of winter, consider a ski vacation. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Vail is one of North America's premier ski destinations. It boasts over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and offers world-class skiing and snowboarding experiences for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Don't worry if you're a skiing newbie; ski resorts typically offer various lessons. But if you're looking to visit during warmer seasons, it has more to offer beyond its winter wonderland allure. Vail transforms into a summer playground with ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the surrounding alpine landscapes. With its charming village atmosphere, upscale resorts, and stunning natural beauty, Vail beckons visitors year-round for unforgettable mountain adventures. 

Niagara Falls

 

Located on the border of New York State and Ontario, Canada, Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic natural wonders in North America. This breathtaking spectacle of three waterfalls—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls—draws millions of visitors each years. But why should you visit for more than a day? Though many might come for a quick photo-op, Niagara Falls offers a range of activities, including boat tours like Maid of the Mist, scenic overlooks, and attractions like the Cave of the Winds. Visitors can also explore the Niagara Falls State Park for hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning vistas of the falls. It's one of the most wholesome places for a post-midterms retreat. 

Bermuda

 

Famous for its pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Bermuda is one of the best must-see island destinations in the world, and a great spring break destination for families. But it's not just about the lush escape amidst the pristine beaches. Bermuda also boasts a rich maritime history, where visitors can snorkel, dive, and explore shipwrecks scattered along its coastlines. It's also known for historic landmarks like the Royal Naval Dockyard and St. George's, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as one of Bermuda's first English colonial towns. Bermuda might be on the pricier end of places to visit, but all visitors would agree that it's well worth it. 

Playa del Carmen

 

Situated along the coast of Riviera Maya in Mexico, Playa del Carmen is loved for its vibrant atmosphere. Not only does it offer the breathtaking ocean vistas typical of a Mexican island destination, but it also has its very own version of Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida). Just like that of Manhattan's shopping landmark, Quinta Avenida is lined with local shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a lively ambiance day and night. Of course, don't expect to see any of the luxury labels you would find in New York's Fifth Avenue. But that's not all that Playa del Carmen has to offer One simply can't visit this Mexican city without making a stop at eco-parks like Xcaret, Xel-Ha, and Xplor Park.

Cancún

 

If you're looking for the traditional spring break experience with beaches and lively nightlife, head to Cancún, Mexico. Known for its turquoise waters and powdery white sands, Cancún is a popular destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Think of it like the Miami of Mexico. But beyond its stunning beaches, Cancún also has a rich cultural heeritage; it's home to ancient Mayan ruins like El Rey. Though it's home to many luxurious hotels and resorts, Cancún also has some decent, affordable options like Emporio, Fiesta Americana Condesa, and Óleo Cancún Playa. Like most travel destinations, you'd get an even better deal when you book in advance. 

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