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3 best beach vacations for spring break

Sun, fun, and adventure await at these amazing beach vacations for spring break.

By Cassandra Brooklyn | January 16, 2025

Cassandra Brooklyn

Cassandra Brooklyn is a freelance writer and guidebook author specializing in travel, accessibility, sustainability, and all things outdoors. Originally hailing from the Midwest, she now lives in New York City but escapes to adventures around the world as often as possible. She's the author of the cycling guidebook, Cuba By Bike, has contributed to multiple guidebooks about Egypt, Portugal, and the United States, and she has bylines in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, National Geographic, Forbes, The Daily Beast, and Lonely Planet, among others.

Headshot of author Cassandra Brooklyn

After a long, cold winter, there’s nothing quite like a warm beach vacation for a spring break getaway. Whether you’re seeking a serene spa escape, a party atmosphere, or a more family-friendly vibe, these three beautiful beach destinations will afford extraordinary experiences for all kinds of travelers. Here are our top suggestions for how to spring break in style — beach style, that is.

Cancun, Mexico

Few destinations are associated with spring break as much as Cancun, a city well-known for its nightlife, as well as its beautiful beaches, stellar snorkeling and scuba diving locations, plus its proximity to ancient Mayan ruins. Party-inclined travelers will want to head to Mandala Beach Club, where the nightclub welcomes DJs spinning tunes for a lively crowd into the wee hours of the morning. Overlooking the Nichupté Lagoon, Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla is just a 5-minute drive from Mandala but also has its own rooftop pool and jacuzzi should you prefer a more relaxing environment. The hotel is connected to La Isla Mall, a prime shopping destination, and just steps away from Casino Macao and Skywheel Cancun, which offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the area and an impressive backdrop for selfies.

Miami, Florida

As a year-round, palm-tree paradise known for its warm waters and stupendous stretches of sand, Miami is pretty much synonymous with the beach. South Beach is particularly famous for its beautiful coastline, cutting-edge art galleries and endless restaurant options, plus its unique Art Deco Historic District and the outdoor shopping paradise of Lincoln Road Mall. The Gabriel Miami South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton is walking distance from all of this, so you can drop your bags and easily meander around on foot or catch one of the free trolleys nearby. Need towels and comfy chairs for the beach or even a bike to ride up and down the coast? The hotel provides all of that and more, including a free shuttle should you want to explore downtown.

Honolulu

If your idea of spring break involves being pampered in paradise, then the elevated experiences in Waikiki are calling your name. Stunning beaches and easy access to active adventures like paddle boarding and snorkeling make it a divine destination for both indulgence and exploration. While you’ll find plenty to do all over Waikiki, you’ll want to take some time to enjoy your resort as well. Jaw-dropping ocean views and an elegant ambiance await at Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, where families and groups can spread out in spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens. Meanwhile, couples will be drawn to romantic dinners at the resort’s open-air restaurant, Wai’olu Ocean Cuisine, and relaxing massages at Spa Ka La'i. For some solo pampering, we recommend the Hawaiian Lomi Lomi treatment.

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