14 Cheap Spring Break Destinations for College Students in 2024

The life of a modern college student can be stressful: It’s not easy balancing assignments, exams, and even a part-time job. By the time March and April roll around, most students are ready to blow off some steam.

Spring destinations for college students offer the perfect opportunity to go on vacation with friends, discover new places, embrace adventure, or simply relax.

Spring break destinations for college students should be budget-friendly and fun — and they should also ensure that you’ll head back to school ready to push through the end of the academic year!

When Is Spring Break 2024?

In 2024, most schools are going on Spring break between late February and mid-March, though some vacation periods are in late March. The exact dates vary depending on the institution, so check with your administration office before booking anything.

Related: Need to get more organized before heading off on spring break? Check out our tips and advice on the best academic planners and the best laptops for graduate students.

How We Ranked the Best College Spring Break Destinations of 2024

Your ideal spring break destination will depend on your preferences and interests: Do you like to party or prefer getting lost in nature? Do you dream of days spent by the beach or want to hit up local attractions?

There are certain elements that nearly every college student looks for when planning a vacation (and that just about guarantees an awesome spring break getaway). Here are the criteria we used to determine the best spring break destinations for college students in 2024:

1. Budget

Between educational expenses and student loans, whether part-time or full-time, most college students are a bit skint. Rather than a luxurious getaway, we’ve chosen the best spring break destinations for college students on a budget while still offering a fantastic time).

2. Location

Spring break goes by too quickly — who wants to spend half of that time in airports and planes? We’ve picked the best US and some international destinations fairly close by.

3. Group-Friendly

Spring break is all about going away with your friends and having a great time. We’ve stuck to places that are perfect for groups seeking a fun vacation

4. Weather

To thaw out and absorb some sunshine before returning to colder climates, we’ve chosen places that are great to visit during spring.

5. Picture-Perfect

The picturesque destinations on this list are definitely Instagram-worthy (and are sure to make your followers jealous).

13 Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations for College Students

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, why not consider some of the best spring break destinations like Miami Beach, Oahu, or South Padre Island? Seeking a party spot? Las Vegas and Panama City Beach will keep you dancing all night long.

If you’re hoping to get into the great outdoors, why not check out the Rocky Mountains, Moab, or even Nicaragua (just be sure to grab your passport first)?

Florida College Spring Break Destinations

For many, Florida beaches are synonymous with Spring Break, and for good reason! The Sunshine State offers plenty of fun, cheap places for spring break college students.

1. Panama City Beach, Florida

Best for: Beachside partying

Average cost of hotels: $130-280 per night

Spanning over 25 miles, Panama City Beach is a paradise of white sand and warm, pristine water. It’s not hard to see why it’s called the Spring Break Capital of the World. This destination has something for everyone.

The city is ideal for people looking to chill out on the beach, shop, or eat at excellent restaurants. For adrenaline junkies, it has a lot to offer, from dolphin encounters to water sports.

What To Do in Panama City Beach:

• Hit up Pier Park and explore over 170 shops and restaurants.
• Try snorkeling, jet skiing, swimming, and other water sports.
• Check out the quirky backdrops for Insta-worthy selfies at the Selfie Museum.
• Visit ZooWorld and discover over 260 rare species of animals.
• Lay on the beach for hours.
• Dine at a beachside restaurant and enjoy fresh oysters and other seafood.

2. North Miami Beach, Florida

Best for: Nightlife and water sports

Average cost of hotels: $130-310 per night

With affordable hotels, perfect weather, and a host of activities, North Miami Beach is an ideal spring break destination. Miami Beach is much more than crystal clear water and endless white beaches: It’s also home to many popular museums, theaters, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.

What To Do in North Miami Beach:

• Visit South Beach for its famous parties and water sports.
• Explore the stunning Art Deco buildings and nightclubs at Ocean Drive.
• Try fishing and volleyball with your friends at Haulover Park.
• Discover the wonderful architecture of the Spanish Monastery and learn about its rich history.
• Enjoy the panoramic views of the shoreline at South Pointe Park.
• Go shopping at Lincoln Road Mall.

3. Daytona Beach, Florida

Best for: Beach time and car racing

Average cost of hotels: $140-200 per night

A cheaper alternative to Miami Beach, Daytona Beach boasts 23 miles of golden sand and sparkling water, inviting water sports and lazy days in the sun. However, it’s the Daytona International Speedway that makes this spot famous — and a top pick for adrenaline junkies.

If revving car engines isn’t your thing, you can check out a range of other attractions like the USA’s oldest lighthouse and the Museum of Arts & Sciences.

Note: This popular spring break destination is up and running again after being damaged by hurricanes Ian and Nicole in late 2022.

What To Do in Daytona Beach

• Watch a car race right on the beach.
• Visit the US’ tallest and oldest lighthouse.
• Explore vintage American cars and other historic exhibits at the Museum of Arts and Sciences.
• Discover Florida’s native wildlife, palm trees, and various birds at Tomoka State Park.
• Head to the Daytona Lagoon for a fun day of thrilling water slides.

Related: The best jobs for MBA graduates.

Fun Spring Break Trips for College Students in the Deep South

Don’t overlook the southern parts of the US when looking for cheap places to go for spring break college students. Here, you’ll find some lesser-known yet super fun and affordable destinations!

4. South Padre Island, Texas

Best for: Nature and wildlife

Average cost of hotels: $100-230 per night

You don’t have to go to Mexico or the Caribbean for a stunning beach getaway. South Padre Island has white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and a wide range of activities.

There’s more to this island than just basking in the sun: Go fishing, watch dolphins, and even witness baby turtles hatching. The pleasant weather and beautiful ambiance make South Padre Island one of the best spring break spots for college students in the Southwest.

What To Do in South Padre Island:

• Go birdwatching at the South Padre Island Birding Nature Center (it’s also an alligator sanctuary).
• Visit Sea Turtle, Inc. to watch baby turtles enter crystal clear ocean waters for the first time.
• Try 13 amazing water slides at Beach Park, Isla Blanca.
• Enjoy horseback riding at Adventure Park.
• Enroll in sandcastle-building lessons and participate in a competition.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for: Music and food

Average cost of hotels: $160-300 per night

Known for its eclectic vibe, delicious food, Mardi Gras, and incredible music, New Orleans has over 18 million visitors every year — and for good reason!

Not only is New Orleans one of the best budget destinations for spring break, but you can also try mouth-watering food, attend legendary jazz festivals, and plan wild weekends.

What To Do in New Orleans

• Hit Frenchmen Street and explore its nightclubs, restaurants, bars, and great music.
• Explore fascinating architecture and history by taking a stroll through the French Quarter.
• Listen to authentic New Orleans Jazz at Preservation Hall.
• Try beignets, delicious coffee, and other local specialties at Cafe du Monde.
• Take a tour of the Mississippi River on Steamboat Natchez.

6. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Best for: Affordable beach vacations

Average cost of hotels: $170-260 per night

Gulf Shores is a stunning beach destination boasting crystal clear waters and white sand beaches just along the coast of Florida.

This up-and-coming spring break vacation destination is not nearly as well known as certain spots in Florida (yet), so it’s a great place to enjoy a fun, relaxed getaway without the seasonal crowds.

Along with lazy beach days, you can enjoy golf, sport fishing, and plenty of opportunities to party.

What To Do in Gulf Shores:

• Visit the popular Gulf Shores Public Beach.
• Have loads of water-based fun at the massive Waterville USA water and amusement park.
• Go camping or hiking at Gulf State Park.
• Let loose at the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge beach bar at Orange Beach.
• Get close to nature at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.

Related: The best states to start your tech career.

Spring Break Destinations in the Wild West and Beyond

You’ll also find some great spring break ideas for college students in the great American West and as far as Hawaii. Enjoy amazing nature, culture, and nightlife without leaving the USA.

7. Moab, Utah

Best for: Nature and adventure

Average cost of hotels: $300-480 per night

Moab is a great spring break destination for adventure junkies and nature lovers alike. The weather is warm and pleasant around spring break, making it the perfect time to explore this destination.

Try ATV rides, mountain biking, or river rafting if you want an adrenaline rush. The city is also budget-friendly, and most of its attractions are within walking distance (or a few minutes drive from the heart of the city).

What To Do in Moab

• Try white water rafting on the Colorado River.
• Go on a desert safari.
• Rent a jeep and check out the rich nature just outside of town.
• Visit Arches National Park.
• Hit the Island in the Sky district for enchanting views.

8. Las Vegas, Nevada

Best for: Nightlife and live performances

Average cost of hotels: $100-250 per night

Las Vegas needs no introduction: Famous for its high-end casinos, neon lights, and incomparable nightlife, it’s long been an excellent spring break destination for college students who love to party.

But there’s more to Las Vegas than blackjack tables: Climb the Eiffel Tower for a mesmerizing view of the city, check out a live show, or watch the beautiful fountain display at Bellagio.

What To Do in Las Vegas

• Get active with hiking and biking at Red Rock Canyon.
• Get a bird’s eye view of the entire Strip from the High Roller Observation Wheel.
• Visit the downtown Neon Museum.
• Take in the breathtaking live acrobatic performances at Cirque du Soleil.
• Book a “Paris” tour to see the replicas of some of the world’s most iconic buildings.

9. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Best for: Hiking and outdoor activities

Average cost of hotels: $130-210 per night

With warm, sunny, and pleasant weather during spring break, the Rocky Mountains are the perfect destination this time of year.

The resorts offer comfortable accommodations, amazing food, and a lot of fun things to do outside of the snow season. It’s the ideal spring break destination for fitness junkies and nature lovers, with plenty of hikes and other activities.

What To Do in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Drive the very scenic Trail Ridge Road.
• Explore local history at the Holzwarth Historic Site.
• Climb Longs Peak for breathtaking views of the area.
• Go hiking on the Cub Lake Trail.
• Go fishing in Mills Lake.

10. Oahu, Hawaii

Best for: Nature and water sports

Average cost of hotels: $170-290 per night

Oahu is another gorgeous spring break destination — and it’s just a short flight from the West Coast!

It has stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and everything from shopping centers to beaches to museums. This Hawaiian destination is perfect for lovers of the great outdoors, offering a range of activities such as surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking.

What To Do in Oahu:

• Hike the peak of the Diamond Head State Monument.
• Learn to surf at Waikiki Beach.
• Explore the history and architecture of Iolani Palace.
• Spot different species of turtles at Laniakea Beach.
• Book a helicopter ride and take in the amazing views of the island.

Central American and Caribbean Spring Break Getaways

Some of the cheapest spring break destinations for college students can be found in the USA’s backyard. Central America and the Caribbean offer a range of popular and affordable spots with plenty of beaches, parties, and amazing landscapes.

11. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Best for: Culture and partying

Average cost of hotels: $70-160 per night

For a cheap spring break trip for college students that’s just as memorable, head to the Mexican city of Puerto Vallarta.

This is a fantastic beach destination for groups, couples, and solo travelers, with perfect warm weather every spring. It’s another great spot to unwind on the beach, explore the vibrant city, or try some of the many outdoor activities.

What To Do in Puerto Vallarta:

• Visit Zona Romantica, the most colorful district of the city, and explore its historic buildings with red-tiled roofs.
• Take a morning stroll around the Malecon and discover its excellent restaurants, beaches, and colorful buildings.
• Hit Playa Las Gemelas, a tranquil local beach that is less crowded than other city beaches.
• Discover Mexico’s stunning orchids at the Botanical Garden.

12. Jamaica

Best for: Caribbean vibes

Average cost of hotels: $60-180 per night

Reggae music, spectacular beaches, low-key vibes, and endless-flowing rum: It’s hard to think of better ingredients for an amazing spring break.

This Caribbean island has all this and more; during spring, the weather is warm (with very little rainfall). Plenty of things are happening on the island too, like coffee, seafood, and rum festivals.

However, be aware that some areas of Jamaica are safer than others, so check what the State Department says about Jamaica and avoid the areas identified as “high risk.”

Portland is a stunning beach destination that’s safe for tourists and is slightly less crowded than many other parts of the island.

What To Do in Jamaica

• Go bamboo rafting on the scenic Rio Grande.
• Swim in the natural pools underneath the stunning Reach Falls.
• Discover Jamaica’s beautiful native orchids.
• If the dates line up, check out the colors of Carnival (usually two weeks in March or April).
• Go shopping and pick up some authentic handmade crafts.

13. Cancun, Mexico

Best for: Beaches and nightlife

Average cost of hotels: $50-160 per night

Seen by many as the best spring break destination for college students on a budget, Cancun is packed with resorts offering affordable packages that include accommodation, three meals a day, drinks, and entertainment.

In addition to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, it also boasts stunning beaches. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try parasailing, jet skiing, and other water sports.

If you’ve had enough of the beach, immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and learn about Mexican history.

What To Do in Cancun:

• Take in the stunning sunset at Playa Delfines.
• Visit Las Coloradas and see the world’s most beautiful pink lake.
• Take a glass-bottomed boat tour to discover the ancient statues and artifacts at the underwater museum MUSA.
• Swim in a stalactite river at the world-famous Cenotes.
• Relax and enjoy delicious Mexican food at Isla Mujeres.
• Go shopping at Mercado 28 and pick up some souvenirs.

14. Granada, Nicaragua

Best for: Adventure and nature

Average cost of hotels: $35-90 per night

Spring breakers with a more adventurous spirit will love immersing themselves in Nicaragua’s vibrant culture, trying local food, and getting lost in the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes” — all for a super affordable price tag.

The historical city of Granada is a jewel in the country’s crown. Located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, the city boasts Spanish colonial architecture, plenty of restaurants and bars, and is within easy reach of stunning nature and fun attractions.

Note: When visiting any underdeveloped destination, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and follow official advice to make sure you stay safe and have an awesome trip.

What To Do in Granada

• Take a boat trip to Las Islets, a cluster of hundreds of tiny islands caused by an ancient volcanic eruption.
• Climb to the top of Granada’s cathedral for breathtaking city views.
• Swim in the clear blue waters of a volcanic crater lake at nearby Laguna de Apoyo.
• Hike a cloud forest and see sloths in their natural habitat at Mombacho.
• Peek inside an active volcano, Volcan Masaya.

How to Plan Spring Break on a Budget

There’s no denying that college is expensive. According to Grand Canyon University, undergraduate students can expect to spend between $30,132 and $33,662 on tuition, housing, food, and other expenses.

However, visiting the best spring break destinations for college students in 2024 doesn’t have to break the bank, even if you’re on a tight budget.

Here are some practical tips for planning cheap spring break trips for college students:

1. Get organized early – Accommodation, transport, and other costs often get much more expensive closer to the date, especially around peak periods such as Spring Break. So booking a few months in advance can save you some serious cash.
2. Avoid the predictable destinations – Although you can plan an affordable trip to Florida or Mexico, many of the best deals are in less-known places. For a fabulous Spring Break on a budget, consider heading off the beaten path to somewhere like Moab, South Padre Island, or Central America.
3. Look for bulk discounts – Group trips can be much more affordable than traveling alone or as a couple. Grab some buddies and look around for accommodation deals for large groups and group discounts on activities.
4. Pack smart – Buying extra supplies like sunscreen, shampoo, or flip-flops after you arrive can become costly. So make sure you pack all the essentials to avoid unnecessary expenses. Also, avoid overpacking to ensure you don’t get hit with excess baggage fees.
5. Ask about student benefits – You’ll be surprised to learn how many companies and organizations, such as airlines, hotels, and museums, offer student discounts. Before paying, always check if there’s a discount available — it never hurts to ask!
6. Tap into credit card rewards – Many credit cards offer travel rewards, so be sure to check if your card allows you to earn points or miles and how you can use them for Spring Break.
7. Plan a budget – Make sure you don’t overspend by planning a strict budget for your trip, including how much you can afford to spend on meals, drinks, and activities. You can ensure you stick to your budget by bringing a prepaid debit card.

Related: The best backpacks for college.

4 Reasons to Travel During Spring Break

With midterms looming, planning a spring break trip might be the last thing on your mind. But making a trip to one of the best spring break destinations for college students can have a number of advantages:

1. It’s a Great Time to See the World

Many destinations in the US have their best weather in spring, with sunny, warm days (and even spring flowers). Equally, many of the cheapest international destinations are in the US backyard, such as Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

At the end of their dry season is the time to go because there will be plenty of sunny days for sightseeing!

2. Fewer Crowds

The peak season for most destinations in the summer and around the holidays. Many attractions have fewer crowds during spring break and may even offer discounted rates on accommodation and tours.

3. Relax and Reset

You’ll need to hit the books hard after spring break, regardless if you’re a full-time undergrad or a part-time grad student. This is an important opportunity to chill out and/or blow off steam as you head into the final stretch of the academic year.

4. Experience New Things

Your college days are the perfect time for new experiences and adventures. Use this time to see new places and appreciate everything the world offers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Students Stay on Campus During Spring Break?

This depends on your school. Some dorms close during this time, meaning you can keep your stuff in your dorm (but you can’t be there during spring break). You may need to go home to your parents or go away on vacation.

What’s the Most Popular Beach for Spring Break?

Miami Beach and Panama City Beach (both in Florida) are the most popular US spring break beach destinations. Another Florida location, Daytona Beach is another great Florida destination for spring breakers. Otherwise, check out South Padre Island or Cancun.

What Percentage of College Students Go on Spring Break Trips?

According to Gitnux, between 35 and 40% of college students take a spring break trip, amounting to around 1.5 million travelers annually. On average, students spend $1,080 on their trip, and around 20% of all spring breakers regret spending too much during this time.

How Early Should I Plan My Spring Break?

Spring break is a popular travel time, so booking transport and accommodation 3-4 weeks in advance is a good idea. That said, you can sometimes find great last-minute deals — so it’s never too late to book your dream spring break trip!

References

Government of Canada. “Nicaragua Travel Advice.” https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/nicaragua

Grand Canyon University. “Cost of Attendance.” https://www.gcu.edu/tuition/cost-attendance

Lindner, J. “College Spring Break Statistics (Fresh Research).” 2023 Dec 16. Gitnux.

STS Travel. “Spring Break 2024 Dates.” https://www.ststravel.com/college-spring-break-dates

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. “Jamaica Travel Advisory.” https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/jamaica-travel-advisory.html