Spring Break is fast approaching, and it is time for travelers to get organized if they plan on taking a trip this year. While anywhere different from home and traveling with friends or family is generally a good idea, some destinations offer more value than others.
Here are 8 fabulous (and warm!) spring break destinations that are affordable and easy to get to from the U.S.
Punta Cana
Punta Cana is the Dominican Republic’s golden child, and for good reason. With world-class beaches and warm weather all year, Punta Cana is a great option for spring break. The city’s beaches are less developed than other popular resort areas, meaning groups of spring breakers can claim their own piece of paradise on the beach. There are also plenty of other things to do nearby, from watersports and ziplining to exploring caves and nature reserves.
It is an easy destination to get to – close to 30 U.S. and Canadian cities have direct flights to Punta Cana. Bargain hunters can not only find cheap flights to Punta Cana, but the city’s multitude of resorts also offer spring breakers plenty of options for accommodations to suit any budget.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic destination for an enjoyable and varied spring break. The city is known for its nightlife, rich culture, and beautiful beaches close to downtown. Puerto Vallarta is generally a safe destination for tourists and has been recognized as a safe destination for the LGBTQ community.
Spring breakers on the west coast can’t go wrong with Puerto Vallarta. It is a quick 3-hour flight from Los Angeles, and flight deals can often be found for around $200. The downtown area is an easy 10-minute ride from the airport, which means tourists will have more time to party.
Los Cabos
Los Cabos, on the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, is another inexpensive and close spring break destination, especially for anyone on the west coast. The region has two incredible resort towns that are linked with 20 miles of beachfront resorts. Cabo San Lucas is 23 miles away from the airport, and San José del Cabo is only an 8-mile transfer.
A quick search on google flights unearthed several options from LAX to Los Cabos for under $200 in March. And what’s even better is that it is only a quick 2.5-hour flight from Los Angeles.
Mazatlán
Often overlooked as a spring break option, Mazatlán is actually an incredible choice. With a beautiful old town, an extensive beach promenade, and a vibrant tourist area, Mazatlán offers plenty to do at a great value. One can’t miss is Brenster’s Beach Bash, an all-you-can-drink live music party that happens every Tuesday at Diego’s Beach and Grill.
Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, and Minneapolis all have direct flights into Mazatlán. And while getting there can be more of a hassle for passengers needing to make a connection, the city makes up for it with lower accommodation costs.
Cancun
Cancun is often at the top of mind when thinking of spring break destinations. The city is a well-polished tourism machine, meaning that spring breakers have plenty of options when it comes to accommodations. It is home to a huge range of resorts, beautiful beaches, epic nightlife, and plenty of nearby excursions.
Cancun is well-connected and very convenient to get to. The airport welcomes over 500 flights each day, with over 38 U.S. cities offering direct flights. Because it is such a popular and connected destination, flights to Cancun come at a great value, as do many of the resorts.
Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen is just 45 minutes south of Cancun. It is a great option for spring breakers looking for more of a laid-back vibe. The resort area has plenty of beautiful beaches and great nightlife. But what really makes Playa Del Carmen a great spring break destination is its access to the surrounding region. Tourists can easily explore the nearby Mayan ruins, breathtaking cenotes, and coral reefs that surround the area.
Playa Del Carmen is a great choice for anyone on the East Coast, as it is well connected via the Cancun Airport. Buses, shuttles, and rental cars are ready to whisk travelers from the airport to Playa Del Carmen. Later this year, a train will connect the two cities, making it even easier to get to.
Montego Bay
Jamaica’s Montego Bay is known for its incredible beaches, fantastic resorts, and laid-back culture. The city provides a great mix of urban and resort life. This gives tourists a taste of the local culture without having to venture too far from their resort. Spring breakers can’t go wrong with Montego Bay – it has all the beaches, nightlife, and culture one could ask for.
21 U.S. cities currently fly direct to Montego Bay, and it is less than a 4-hour flight from most east coast cities. It is also one of the most affordable destinations to get to from the U.S. Direct flights from the east coast are typically around $200. Because the city has a well-developed tourism industry, there are plenty of amazing hotels and resorts to choose from.
Puerto Rico
Another great option for spring break this year is beautiful Puerto Rico. There is no shortage of incredible nightlife and entertainment in Puerto Rico to keep tourists busy. With beaches and accommodations to suit every type of spring breaker, a rich and welcoming culture, and plenty of non-beach excursions, Puerto Rico is at the top of the list for many.
Puerto Rico is the best option for spring breakers who want to experience a different culture but don’t have a passport. Flights from Miami are just 2.5 hours and are often less than $200 if booked ahead of time.
