The 10Best Spring Break Destinations: Imagine the Possibilities!
10Best's travel experts have chosen their favorite spring break vacation spots for every type of traveler. Discover the best beaches for college partying, the top resorts for skiing, the most activity-filled spots for vacationing with the family, the premier islands for taking a cruise, and the most needful places for giving back as a volunteer. We've got them covered – all you need to do is pack!
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It's wild, it's crazy, and it's certainly not for families with small children! Located within driving distance of many colleges, Panama City Beach is a non-stop college party hosted by mtvU. (Check their website for a full list of concerts and contests!)
Tip: Don't lie to hotels about room occupancy; it will cause a lot of unnecessary front desk traffic, not to mention unwanted anxiety. Also, remember to bring extra cash to pay for night club covers.
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South Padre Island provides a perfect tropical setting for a large beach party. Spend the day with 12,000 to 18,000 other college students at Coca-Cola Beach, and at night don't miss out on concerts at Schlitterbahn Water Park.
Tip: The local surf can sometimes be too rough to swim in or be filled with dangerous jellyfish. Look for flags and signs posted by local officials before taking a dip.
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Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort is known for its gnarly slopes and fun atmosphere. The runs are so great that the resort will serve as the official Alpine skiing venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. After hours, give up the slopes to partake of the area's great nightlife activities.
Tip: Under 21? The drinking age in British Columbia is 19, and public transportation runs almost continually through the night.
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Known for its laid-back atmosphere and vast slopes, Winter Park offers travelers the opportunity for much more than just skiing. The resort features an outdoor ice rink, evening snowbike excursions, snowshoe tours, and scenic chairlift rides.
Tip: Winter Park is located at a very high elevation. Drink plenty of water to acclimate yourself, and be sure to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
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The Atlantis Resort is a safe place to bring your family for a week of non-stop fun. The terrific facility includes a water park, tons of kid-friendly pools, clubs for teens, and a chance to swim with dolphins.
Tip: The resort hosts concerts throughout the year, featuring folks like the Jonas Brothers and Cyndi Lauper. Plan accordingly to escape the crowds or be part of them.
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The Cayman Islands may be small, but they offer an ideal location for a family getaway. Sparkling turquoise waters and spotless beaches provide a perfect setting for novices or experienced snorkelers and divers, a place to mingle with sea turtles and blue iguanas or climb aboard a pirate ship!
Tip: Take advantage of the babysitting services that hotels offer, and plan a romantic evening without the kids.
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The Bahamas are one of America's most sought-out destinations. Instead of flying directly to the islands, we recommend taking a 4-day cruise. The ship will likely stop at Nassau or Freeport (or both) and give you time to shop, snorkel, and enjoy the island's activities.
Tip: February 28 through April 10 is spring break season in the Bahamas. To celebrate, the tourism department has large beach parties, sporting events, and musical entertainment planned. Check before departure for a list of activities.
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The worst part about taking a cruise in the Caribbean is choosing which one to go on! Luckily, cruise lines offer many routes of the same length that include different stops along the way. Pick a few of your favorite locations ahead of time, and try to find a cruise that offers those stops.
Tip: Even if you think you're immune to the rolling of the sea, bring a few motion sickness patches. Don't worry about looking obvious– they're small and worn behind your ear. Believe us: You'll not be alone in sporting them.
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Do something good during spring break in the beautiful rainforests and beaches of Costa Rica. By working through the i-to-i program (www.i-to-i.com/), you can experience the life and culture of locals. Choose from activities like sea turtle conservation or building homes for underprivileged families.
Tip: You'll need a passport and a trip to the doctor to have all of your shots updated. Don't forget to pack bug spray to fight off mosquitoes too – their bite has the potential to spread dengue fever and malaria in the unprotected.
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In 2008, Hurricane Ike trampled over Galveston, leaving behind devastation and a huge mess. You can help the reconstruction by spending a week helping to rebuild Galveston with the Houston chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Although it will be hard work, at the end of the week, you'll feel accomplished and helpful instead of hung-over and useless.
Tip: Arrive before 8am to home sites for a necessary safety briefing, and pack old clothes and closed-toe shoes that can be thrown away or donated after use.
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