This article has been updated since its original publication date.
Why should college students have all the fun on spring break when there are plenty of unique spring break destinations perfect for adults? We all need a little taste of warmth and sun at this point in the winter season. A beach vacation might sound a little daunting if you have visions of college kids littering the beaches with beer cups and loud music. There are, however, plenty of places where that won’t be happening. Get your bags packed! We’ve got seven adult spring break destinations where you can enjoy sunshine, adventure, history, cuisine…and perhaps some peace and quiet.
Unique Spring Break Destinations for Adults
The Azores
Everyone deserves that fantasy island vacation at least once in their life. The Azores are a set of nine major islands often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe. These islands are located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean full of bright green grass, thriving animal life (look forward to lots of whale watching), thermal pools, lagoons, extinct volcanoes, and plenty of restaurants. It’s a great place for hiking and exploring the wilderness as closely as possible.
Sedona, Arizona
Looking for a warmer escape that’s not overrun by tourists? Sedona has some of the most beautiful desertscapes of red rocks, steep canyons, and plenty of evergreen pines. Besides hiking the 400+ miles of trails, check out the wine country that stretches through Flagstaff to Sedona. Not to mention, the historic sites Sedona Heritage Museum and Montezuma Castle National Monument are fascinating.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Attention outdoor explorers! Make a trip to see the famous Joshua trees. Travel through scenic mountain landscapes, marvel at intricate and unique rock formations, and so much more. At night, low humidity and low light pollution allow the Milky Way Galaxy to gleam across the sky in a beautiful display.
Savannah, Georgia
This vacation location is covered in Spanish moss and blessed with plenty of arts and culture. The 19th century history of Savannah is visible in historic buildings and homes, and plenty of museums. A walking tour is very rewarding! After an afternoon of exploring, settle in at one of the many restaurants offering wonderful coastal cuisine. In March, temperatures run at about 70 degrees so, while shorts are still very much in evidence, you won’t be overheated during your journey.
Belize
Warm weather, picture-perfect blue waters, and even a barrier reef to explore, what more could you ask for? Head to the coastal tourist zones of Belize which are incredibly safe and provide experiences you won’t get elsewhere. Imagine spending your time snorkeling, caving, canoeing, birding, and taking in Maya sites along with archeological sites too. Plus, your likelihood of seeing a group of college students is low, since you do need a passport for entry into Belize.
Hawaii
If you want to stay in the United States for a tropical island adventure, Hawaii is your state. Choose from various beaches in Honolulu, Maui, and Oahu for a day in the sand. Or, spend your time exploring the rich culture of Hawaii with luaus, hula lessons, visiting sacred temples, sampling local cuisine, and more. Depending what activities you love, there is an island that’s just right for you.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Take a romantic stroll through the streets of San Juan for shops, restaurants, and lots of history to discover. Try your hand at salsa dancing before heading to the beach the next day for a nice tan. You really can’t go wrong no matter what you choose to do. Just don’t forget to indulge in some authentic Caribbean cuisine before you leave.
Curaçao
Sandy beaches and blue waters are a given in this beautiful island paradise…but keep in mind that the capital, Willemstad, is a UN World Heritage Site featuring world-class museums and some of the best hotels around. Make time for a reef dive. Reefs here tend to be protected from strong currents, and a languorous look can be educational and enjoyable.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
If you want to spend your vacation at a resort that’ll take care of everything, then Punta Cana is the place for you. The clear blue waters are enchanting and relaxing. There are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, and zip-lining to keep each day exciting. You can even find resorts that are adult-only in case you need some time away from the kids.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo courtesy of Zetong Li
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