10 of the best places to go for spring break in the U.S.

Spring break isn’t just about college students flocking to crowded beach towns. Winter fading into warmer days is the perfect time to break free from routine and indulge in a little R & R—whether you’re fresh out of finals or not.

From dozing in the sun on a sandy beach and hiking through breathtaking national parks to exploring the buzz of a new city, spring break offers something for every type of traveler. But with so many options, choosing a destination and figuring out all the details—especially if you’re traveling with a large group—can leave you feeling like you already need another vacation.

If you’re ready to toss a dart at the map and call it a day, read on. We've rounded up 10 of the best places to go for spring break in the U.S., plus pro planning tips to make sure your getaway is unforgettable (for all the right reasons). 

Organizing a spring break group trip: What to consider

Taking a spring break trip with a big group is exciting, but without proper planning, it can quickly turn chaotic as everyone debates the details. Before you start a new group chat and hand the mic to everyone at once, here are a few tips to help save you from last-minute headaches.

1. The group budget

Talking about money can feel awkward, but setting expectations upfront spares everyone from surprise credit card bills later. Agree on a budget that works for the group, covering travel, accommodations, meals, and activities. Be sure to include some wiggle room for unexpected expenses—or that final round of margaritas. Apps like Splitwise simplify tracking shared costs and keep things hassle-free.

2. Timing and availability

When it comes to large group vacations, timing is everything. Juggling everyone's work schedules, school breaks, and personal commitments is often tricky, but the earlier you decide on the dates, the more options you’ll have when booking the flights and lodging. Reserving as early as possible also gets you the best deals and saves you from having to settle for backup options.

3. Accommodation options

For your spring break home away from home, pick a place that fits the group's size and vibe—whether it's a beach house, mountain cabin, or downtown loft. Always check reviews and research spots with extra in-house perks for downtime, like all-inclusive resorts with pools, spas, and plenty of spaces to relax and unwind. With Engine, you can explore nearly every hotel in the U.S. for large group bookings, with flexible options and reward perks to make the most of your trip.

4. Group interests

One person’s dream spring break trip might be another’s snooze-fest. Start by brainstorming everyone’s must-dos—beach days, hiking trails, food tours—and look for overlapping interests. Want to make planning even more fun? Host a planning party where each person presents their top pick with a creative PowerPoint.

5. Travel logistics

Airfare, lodging, and nearby attractions are just the start of vacation planning. Consider timing for activities, meals, and transportation that require reservations. Likewise, research spring weather conditions, nightlife, and outdoor activities (like kayaking, mountain trails, or boat tours) that might require special gear. 

10 best spring break spots in the U.S.

All-inclusive resorts, national parks, island getaways: When deciding where to go for spring break in the U.S., there are plenty of options to ensure everyone’s a happy camper (whether you’re camping or not).

Beach spring break destinations in the USA

Whether your group prefers snorkeling, surfing, or catching rays on the beach, these spring break getaway spots guarantee plenty of fun in the sun.

San Diego, California

San Diego is the picture-postcard of the California dream. With temperate Mediterranean weather year-round, this laid-back, sun-drenched SoCal city offers endless outdoor fun. For most spring breakers, that means playing in the Pacific—whether it’s swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or surfing. The San Diego coastline also boasts some of the nation’s top all-inclusive resorts, many of which dot the city's 70 miles of stunning beaches. 

Beyond the surf and sand, the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park ranks as one of the world's best. The same goes for San Diego’s street taco scene, thanks to the city’s proximity to the Mexico border.

Panama City Beach, Florida

With white sandy beaches and warm emerald waves, Panama City Beach is a classic spring break destination, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and reef diving. St. Andrews State Park and Shell Island’s hiking trails along coastal dunes set the scene for up-close encounters with tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles. 

The Gulf Coast getaway also holds the title of the Florida Panhandle's most notorious party hotspot, ideal for spring breakers looking to unwind by day and light up the town by night (or vice versa).

South Padre Island, Texas

Perched off the southeastern Texas coast on the other side of the Gulf of Mexico, this barrier island ticks all the boxes for a spring break beach vacation: Bathwater-warm waters for kayaking and swimming, miles of sprawling sun-soaked beaches like Isla Blanca Park and South Beach. It also boasts plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants like Louie’s Backyard and Clayton’s Beach Bar for party-hearty spring breakers and several family-friendly resorts for groups traveling with little ones. 

South Padre may be small in size, but as the saying goes, everything’s bigger in Texas—including spring break fun.

Family-friendly vacation spots

Be it dramatic desert landscapes or the Smoky Mountains’ sweet charm, when it comes to spring break vacation destinations in the U.S. that cater to the whole family, options stretch from sea to—you guessed it—shining sea.

Sedona, Arizona

For families with adventurers of all ages, Sedona sets a stunning scene. Encircled by towering red rock formations, Sedona serves as a gateway to scenic hikes in Oak Creek Canyon and thrilling off-road adventures in the surrounding desert. Not to be missed nearby in the Coconino National Forest is the Palatki Heritage Site, which features ancient Native American cliff dwellings and petroglyphs—some of which experts believe to be 5,000–6,000 years old—a kaleidoscopic, unparalleled peek into the Southwest's indigenous history.

Yellowstone National Park

Of all the spots to make this list, Yellowstone National Park speaks for itself the most: the thunderous geyser eruptions of Old Faithful, the serene beauty of Yellowstone Lake, the nearly 3,500 square miles that make up one America’s most treasured landscapes. Need we say more? Kids and adults alike will be captivated by the abundant wildlife—bison grazing in open meadows and elk wandering through the forests—while guided hikes and interactive programs make it a spring break getaway to remember.

Asheville, North Carolina

Blooming wildflowers line the Blue Ridge Parkway—a scenic highway winding through the Smoky Mountains—making spring the perfect time for a getaway to Asheville. Known as "America’s Favorite Drive," the parkway offers sweeping mountain views, hidden waterfalls, and overlooks ideal for family photo ops. For a closer look out of the car, take to the trails of Pisgah National Forest. In Asheville proper, explore the majestic Biltmore Estate’s gardens full of tulips and azaleas, and learn about Appalachian craftsmanship at the Southern Highland Craft Guild. 

Urban spring break spots

Prefer skyscrapers, cityscapes, museums, and shopping over flip-flops and snorkel masks? Last but not least, here are four spring break destinations in the U.S. that’ll have any urbanite buzzing with excitement.

Miami, Florida

A two-for-one that involves city and sand, Miami in the springtime averages a dreamy mid-70s that makes the beaches feel like breezy paradise rather than the all-out inferno of South Florida summers. Lounge on the shores of South Beach, or trade your beach day to enjoy the art galleries of Wynwood or the iconic Art Deco architecture along Ocean Drive. Take a detour to the heart of Miami's Cuban community, Little Havana, for a cafecito at La Carreta, or savor fresh seafood with waterfront views at local favorite Garcia’s. Miami’s mix of culture, cuisine, and Southern Florida coastal charm makes it a spring break standout.

Austin, Texas 

Dubbed the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin rocks—literally. Jam with bands at any of 6th Street's iconic venues and bars, like the legendary rooftop at Maggie Mae's or behind the trick bookshelf at the Firehouse Lounge speakeasy. But save room in your itinerary (and your stomach) to savor the Texas capital's amazing food scene. On the menu are breakfast tacos and slower-than-slowcooked BBQ (both Texan musts), and a thriving craft brewery scene.

Also, it’s no coincidence that spring break dates usually coincide with one of Austin's most noteworthy annual happenings, SXSW (South By Southwest), one of the hottest film, interactive media, and music fests in the world.

Savannah, Georgia

With its cobblestone streets and oak trees draped in Spanish moss, Savannah exudes quintessential Southern charm and hospitality to make for a spring break destination that's one of a kind. Stroll through hidden gardens bursting with color and the lively waterfront on River Street. Uncover the city’s storied past at the Savannah History Museum or, for a more macabre touch, take a ghost tour through the city's shadowy squares and antebellum homes.

Las Vegas, Nevada

If any metropolis were built for the ultimate spring break experience in the U.S., it’s Las Vegas. Sin City is the ultimate spring break playground, and the Strip never disappoints: all-day pool parties at Encore Beach, exquisite dining at Joël Robuchon (perfect for an over-the-top 30th or 40th birthday celebration), and luxurious shopping at the Venetian. And with so many fantastic hotels, booking accommodations for a large group is a breeze.

Go big with your spring break (or any) group trip

Planning for large groups doesn’t have to be a headache. With Engine, simply share your destination, group size, and preferences, and we’ll find the perfect accommodations.

You focus on rallying the group for your dream destination—leave the logistics to us.