Whether you’ve been planning your spring break since classes started back in September, or you’re counting on a last-minute road trip to lead you to some much needed Vitamin D, you’re in luck: We’ve rounded up 10 of the sunniest destinations in North America for spring breakers this year.
All that’s left for you to do is finish packing, double-check you have your driver’s license, and stock up on sunscreen. Spring break, here you come!
10 Spring Break Destinations for Sun and Fun
1. Fort Lauderdale, FL
Average temperature: 80°/64°
Average rental car rate: $40.85/day
Regardless of whether this is your first visit to Fort Lauderdale, or you spent last spring break in the sunny destination, there’s always something to do.
With new hotspots opening with regular frequency, spring breakers can choose from dining and imbibing along Las Olas Boulevard, Himmarshee Street, or beachfront A1A Boulevard.
And with happy hour spots offering 2-for-1—and the occasional 3-for-1—drink specials, you’ll have plenty of money leftover to enjoy some watersports, too. Stand-up paddleboarding, anyone?
2. Miami, FL
Average temperature: 77°/67°
Average rental car rate: $52/day
If you’re looking to kick your spring break up a notch from Fort Lauderdale, Miami is the answer. With world-class restaurants, oceanfront hotels, and unparalleled nightlife—not to mention a thriving arts scene and, of course, beautiful beaches—you won’t regret spending a week in this slice of paradise.
Flying into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) instead of MIA? Not to worry! You’re just a quick 35 minute drive away in your rental car.
3. South Padre Island, TX
Average temperature: 74°/62°
Average rental car rate: $56/day
Everything is bigger in Texas—and spring break is no exception. Think beach resorts transformed into concert venues. Pool parties. Beach parties. Boat parties. Did we mention the parties?
And best of all, South Padre Island consistently ranks as one of the most affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. So, grab your roommates and make the drive to Texas—with the confidence you’ll have enough funds leftover to get you through the rest of the semester.
4. Panama City Beach, FL
Average temperature: 72°/54°
Average rental car rate: $33/day
Like South Padre Island, Panama City Beach ticks all the boxes on the quintessential spring break experience: Beaches—check. Beach bars—check. Lots (and lots!) of like-minded spring breakers—check!
5. Puerto Rico
Average temperature: 81°/75°
Average rental car rate: $54/day
While some parts of the island are still recovering from recent natural disasters, other parts of Puerto Rico are open for your spring break business.
To go beyond the major attractions of San Juan, rent a car and explore the island on your own. In doing so, you’ll not only discover under-the-radar gems, you’ll leave knowing your tourist dollars went to locals who benefited from your visit, too.
6. Honolulu, Hawaii
Average temperature: 82°/67°
Average rental car rate: $66/day
Speaking of islands, if you’re fortunate to have airfare at your disposal for spring break, heading to Honolulu is a no-brainer.
Spend your mornings surfing, snorkeling, or sunbathing. And your afternoons? Explore by land Oahu’s varied terrains, flora, and fauna on your own terms. Yes, your dreams of renting a Jeep to cruise the island are about to come true.
7. Scottsdale, AZ
Average temperature: 76°/44°
Average rental car rate: $52/day
Admittedly, we’re not talking about beach sand when we say head to Scottsdale, but rest assured that there’s no shortage of sunshine, adventure hikes, pool parties, or nightlife in this spring break destination.
8. Siesta Key, FL
Average temperature: 77°/58°
Average rental car rate: $30/day
If your idea of spring break is relaxed beach days, stunning sunsets, and local cuisine, Siesta Key, Florida is waiting for you.
After you’ve had your fill of lounging in the sun, make your way to Siesta Key Oyster Bar for—you guessed it—fresh oysters and a cold beverage to wash them down. The best place to rent a car is in Sarasota, 15 minutes away.
9. Las Vegas, NV
Average temperature: 72°/39°
Average rental car rate: $54/day
Pool parties by day, dance (club) parties by night—it’s hard to top a spring break in Las Vegas. Of course, there’s more to this warm weather destination than partying on The Strip. Grab your travel buddies and pay a visit to the highly-Instagrammable Neon Museum or hop in your rental car and venture to the Seven Magic Mountains.
Need a dose of nature? Set your GPS to nearby Death Valley National Park or Zion National Park. Scenic drive that will take you to a movie landscape. Now, to decide who gets to play DJ on this mini road trip…
10. New Orleans, LA
Average temperature: 73°/54°
Average rental car rate: $30/day
While Mardi Gras and its colorful parades arrived earlier than normal this year, that’s certainly no reason to second-guess spending spring break in New Orleans.
Bar hop along Bourbon Street or Frenchmen Street, dance the night away at Three Keys inside the Ace Hotel, or head to one of the city’s many art and music festivals. No matter your spring break speed, NOLA has something to offer.