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Best Spring Break Destinations for Days of Sand and Sun

A tried and true vacation for spring breakers all over America, the quintessential beach trip is a must-do at least once in your youthful life! Come springtime, college students, families, and friends escape their lives for warm weather and sandy beaches around the USA.

While it would be fun to hop away to Mexico for the wild nightlife in Cabo or Cancun, we kept this list national. Less travel hassle and a bigger bang for your buck! As you read through our list of beautiful beaches to select for your next spring break destination, envision yourself drink in hand, toes in the sand, and start discovering your A+ vacation rental today!

6 Best Spring Break Beaches

6. Key West, Florida

Pathway to a beach in Key West, framed by palm trees

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Another Florida favorite, there is no denying the magic of the Florida Keys. White sand beaches and crystal clear waters await at this chain of incredible islands nestled off the state's southernmost tip. An island in the Straits of Florida, Key West is composed of all or parts of the separate islands of Dredgers Key, Fleming Key, Sunset Key, and the northern part of Stock Island.

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Besides the obvious of spending sun-kissed days riding bikes, sunbathing, eating fresh key lime pie, and drinking frozen daiquiris, Key West also offers the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, schedule a sunset snorkel cruise, peruse the colorful streets of boutiques, or plan an epic camping trip to the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. If you happen to be driving along the East Coast, you can also stop by Miami Beach while on the Overseas Highway.

5. Tybee Island, Georgia

Walkway to the Tybee beach during a cloud golden hour.

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Situated just 30 minutes from the heart of Savannah, this Georgian Island is where the gorgeous Savannah River merges with the Atlantic Ocean. With endless fun for the whole family, this spring break destination is perfect for those looking to stay away from bigger crowds. Famous attractions include the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum and Fort Screven, used as a U.S. Military post from 1897 to 1947.

South Beach is ideal for those solely focused on bagging the sun rays. At the same time, a dolphin cruise presents a different way to experience the ocean. Jet skis are another fun way to enjoy your time on the island. At the same time, deep-sea fishing is also a super frequented activity for tourists and locals alike.

Visit Georgia's Best Beaches for a Perfect Weekend Away

4. San Diego, California

Lifeguard Tower with people enjoying the sun and the beach with ocean waves in La Jolla, California, Located in San Diego County.

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The stunning beaches of southern California await when you plan your next spring break getaway to San Diego. From Pacific Beach to La Jolla to Coronado to Dog Beach, San Diego has a coastline for days! You can also check out the incredible array of art galleries, museums, and theme parks. If you are craving even more adventure, plan a short road trip along the famous Pacific Coast Highway for epic views and memories to last a lifetime.

While you will still need a wetsuit in springtime, San Diego is a known mecca for outdoor and water sports enthusiasts. Spend unforgettable days surfing, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, or parasailing. This southern California hub is also home to a fabulous selection of live music venues, breweries, and beautiful cafes that are sure to impress.

3. Charleston, South Carolina

A view of Folly Beach with people on the beach and a seagull flying by

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From picturesque kayaking trips through the famous waters of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens to touring Charleston City Market, and of course, the beautiful waters of Folly Beach. This iconic beachfront city is perfect for your next Spring Break trip. It offers something for everyone, including foodies, outdoor activity lovers, and history buffs!

With its infamous history as one of the birthplaces of the Confederacy during the Civil War, schedule a trip through the National Park Service for a visit to Fort Sumter or take tours of some of the country's oldest graveyards. Other Charleston hot spots include the Nathaniel Russell House, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum, Drayton Hall, and The Angel Oak Tree.

Walk Through History on Your Visit to Charleston, South Carolina

2. South Padre Island, Texas

Plants growing on sand dunes on South Padre Island. Beach and blue sky in background.

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While Texas may not be the first place you think of when it comes to your Spring Break getaway, the Gulf Coast city of South Padre Island has quite the spring break reputation. The perfect spot for spring breakers and sea turtles, South Padre is a "barrier island" featuring prime bird watching, the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, and the Beach Park at Isla Blanca waterpark.

An essential region of the island includes the Padre Island National Seashore, which preserves the dunes that keep the grasslands and their ecosystems functioning correctly. If you are looking for a seashore geared toward families, spend a blissful day on Malaquite Beach.

1. Daytona Beach, Florida

image of a beach with blue skies and many people

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An ideal getaway for a friend and family-friendly spring break vacation, Daytona Beach offers motorsports, golfing, shopping, sports events, and some of the best beaches! If you fly into Orlando, you can even make a day of visiting some of the most famous theme parks in the area, including Disney and Universal Studios. Another incredible day trip nearby that will delight every crew member is an adventure to Blue Spring State Park.

Blue Spring State Park is located in Central Florida, just north of the Orlando area outside Orange City and situated along the St. Johns River near the border of Volusia County. The 72-degree water that feeds the spring area is also winter home to hundreds of West Indian Manatees. In addition to being a designated manatee refuge, the park is full of idyllic swimming areas and a destination for all types of aquatic activities such as boating, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Blue Spring State Park Is Florida's Crystalline Manatee Playground

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