9 Less-Crowded Spring Break Destinations

This blog post was updated on August 13, 2021.

When most of us hear spring break, images of Fort Lauderdale or Cancun tend to come to mind. While these popular spring break destinations are all fine and all, the crowds full of partying and wild times aren’t for everyone. Many people crave a stretch of sand or weekend getaway that they don’t have to share with the world for their spring break. And there are places that are perfect for that, you just have to choose the right locations.

So here are 9 spring break destinations that won’t leave you trying to find your way through the crowds.

Amelia Island, Florida

Florida is crawling with spring breakers from March until May. However, if you are looking to dodge the crowds congregating in Miami, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale, you can head up north to Amelia Island for a tranquil spring break getaway. Amelia Island sits off the coast of northeast Florida, around 30 miles from Jacksonville. The barrier island comes packed with history for it was once under the thumb of France, Spain, and England. For beach-oriented spring breakers, Amelia Island delivers 13 miles of beaches. Outdoor pursuits run rampant on the island where you can partake in horseback rides along the water, water sports, and sea life viewings.

Austin, Texas

Heading west, Austin, Texas is often overlooked as a spring break destination. At the same time, Texas’ capital city presents some of the best weather for visitors in the spring. The summer heat hasn’t quite set in yet temperatures are balmy enough to enjoy all of the city’s outdoor offerings including Zilker Park. The city’s largest park is home to two water-based activities, the Barton Springs Pool, a natural swimming pool, and Lady Bird Lake. A spring visit to Austin also almost guarantees the famous bat flight off of South Congress Street Bridge. Known as the Congress Street Bat Colony, from March to September, you can see 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge just in time for sunset. A spring break in Austin also puts travelers within reach of the Texas Hill Country and its tasty wineries.

Monterey, California

While many on spring break head to nearby San Francisco, Monterey, California presents a calmer spring getaway. A piece of iconic California, the community is home to the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium. The aquarium lends a fine spot for families to enjoy with its innovative exhibits with more than 35,000 creatures. To get even closer to the sea, Monterey supplies a number of scenic drives and beaches. Travelers can cruise Highway 1, one of the top scenic drives in the world. The drive presents a breathtaking coastline and plenty of opportunities to stop for a dip along the way.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Due south of Savannah, Jekyll Island in Georgia presents another barrier island without hordes of spring break crowds. With temperatures in the high 70s during the spring months, this southern Georgia island is state-owned, meaning it has maintained an undeveloped, untouched quality. Jekyll Island is home to 10 miles of beaches, golf courses, and a 250-acre historic landmark district. Jekyll Island can easily be reached from Jacksonville, Florida, or Savannah, Georgia.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is a melting pot for culture and food galore. It’s not a very populated place during March or April. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city then enjoy a hotel on the water downtown. There are miles of gorgeous walking and hiking trails. Rent a bike for a few hours to get in some good exercise and check out the views. The Willamette River has numerous events and fun watersport activities for all ages. The Portland Japanese Garden is breathtaking at this time of year. The Lan Su Chinese Garden was put together by Suzhou artisans. You can take a stroll along the block taking in the sights of the garden and looking at the beauty of Zither Lake.

Bermuda

There is much more to Bermuda than the infamous Bermuda Triangle. Not only is the weather perfect this time of year, but its pink sand lures you in with its magic. The luminous turquoise waters sit under the beauty of the limestone cliffs. If you’re an art lover, there are numerous galleries including the Masterworks Museum. If you want adventure, check out the Crystal Caves. If you just want to relax, you can enjoy a day basking in the sunshine on the beach then watch the sun setting behind the clouds at night. Take a moonlit stroll on the beach then have dessert at one of the many amazing restaurants in the area.

Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is located right off the West Coast of Canada. The island is full of extraordinary shorelines and gorgeous beaches. You can camp on the beach under the stars, hike for hours, or learn to surf. Pacific Rim National Park calls out to those that want to experience a day of hiking amazing trails. Victoria is the best place to find exciting nightlife, lots of dining, and numerous cultural attractions. There are many small towns along Vancouver Island to find adventure for all ages. You can stay in remote lodges located in the temperate rainforest or visit some of the most amazing hotels in the area.

Bryce Canyon, Utah

Spring break travel doesn’t always mean the beach. You can have a blast in the coolest canyons, too. Bryce Canyon National Park is full of stunning red rock formations. Spend a few days hiking, biking, and camping in the park. Connect with nature as you check out the neatest rock formations and fossil finds. You can even hear geology talks and learn about the canyon. You may even get a glimpse at some special wildlife. There isn’t wild nightlife, so you get to relax and enjoy yourself in peace.

Mallorca

Most college kids will head to neighboring Ibiza for their crazy spring break time. Mallorca is full of simple beauty and fun instead of the wild times. Mallorca has a long, exciting history. You can enjoy the white sand under the large cliffs and mountains. Take a day to hike and bike the toughest runs. If you want to get in a taste of culture, check out the Gothic Palma Cathedral and the Bellver Castle. Palma is full of special treasures. You can also go shopping in nearby tiny towns like Alcúdia.