Spring Break Destinations for College Students
Three young adult women posing for a selfie on the beach.

Whether you’re craving beach days, city adventures, or vibrant nightlife, these spring break destinations offer something for every college student. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Where to spend your college spring break

Micayla ShevlinFebruary 24, 2025

Spring break is more than just a week off—it’s a brain break, a chance to escape college’s daily rigor, reset and make memories that will carry you through the rest of the semester. Whether you’re looking for a sun-soaked beach, bustling city or culture-filled destination, this list can help you choose the perfect spring break trip.

Spring break for less

Being 18–23 has its perks! MileagePlus® members ages 18-23 get a discount when they book flights using the United® app.

1. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

El Arco in Cabo San Lucas, a natural rock arch rising from turquoise waters.
From sun-soaked beaches to all-night parties, Cabo brings the heat. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Sun, sand and margaritas—what more could you want? Cabo is perfect for those who love a good beach day followed by a night out. With a plethora of all-inclusive resorts, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy this tropical paradise. Visit the famous El Arco, a breathtaking natural rock formation where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, snorkel among vibrant marine life, or dance the night away at lively clubs like El Squid Roe.

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

A nighttime view of the French Quarter in New Orleans, featuring neon-lit signs, historic balconies, and illuminated store fronts.
Beignets and live jazz? What more could you need? New Orleans serves up a perfect mix of culture, history, and late-night energy. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

New Orleans offers a unique blend of culture, music and culinary delights. Start with beignets at Cafe du Monde before exploring the lively French Quarter and historic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral. At night, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant music scene with live performances at hidden bars and jazz clubs. New Orleans has plenty of spots to discover for the best food, drinks, and late-night energy, offering a little something for every spring breaker.

3. Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas skyline at dawn, with the downtown skyscrapers reflecting on the waters of the Colorado River.
Swim in spring-fed pools, dig into Texas BBQ, and dance the night away to live music on Sixth Street. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Keep it weird in Austin! Start your day at Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming spot with crystal-clear, refreshing water that’s a local favorite. Then, explore quirky shops on South Congress Ave or grab some brisket at one of the city’s many legendary BBQ joints. When night falls, barhop down Sixth Street for great drinks and live music that embodies Austin’s vibrant spirit.

4. Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida skyline and bay at sunset, framed by silhouetted palm trees, with colorful skies reflecting on the water.
Miami offers the best of both worlds—relax on sun-drenched beaches by day and dance at world-class clubs by night. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Miami seamlessly combines sun-soaked relaxation with lively nightlife. Spend your afternoons paddleboarding at South Beach or strolling through Wynwood’s art-filled streets. Keep the party going until dawn as the city transforms into a hotspot for energy, music and partying, with outdoor venues and world-class clubs.

5. Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable adventures like swimming with pigs in the Exumas.
Colorful homes line the Nassau coastline in the Bahamas, with boats floating on the turquoise waters in the foreground. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Nassau offers the perfect tropical escape with crystal-clear waters and colorful local culture. Relax on Cable Beach or explore the lively marketplaces downtown. For something truly unique, take a day trip to the Exumas, where you can swim with pigs and snorkel alongside colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles.

6. Las Vegas, Nevada

Aerial view of the Las Vegas Strip on a sunny day, featuring iconic hotels, a large resort pool, and the surrounding desert landscape.
Vegas is a 24/7 playground with pool parties, rooftop lounges, world-class casinos, and nonstop entertainment on the Strip. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas—unless you post it on your Instagram story. For those 21 and up, the city is packed with non-stop entertainment, from high-energy pool parties to world-class casinos and rooftop cocktail lounges. Wander along the iconic Strip, catch a Cirque du Soleil show, and dine at must-visit restaurants like Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen or Tacos El Gordo.

7. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Aerial view of Bávaro Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, featuring white sand, turquoise waters, palm trees, beach umbrellas, and a parasailing balloon soaring above the shoreline.
Punta Cana has it all—snorkel vibrant reefs, zipline through the jungle, then dance in a cave nightclub or sip cocktails by the beach. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Punta Cana is the ultimate spring break playground, offering everything from thrilling outdoor adventures to lively nightlife. Snorkel coral reefs at Bavaro Beach, zipline through lush jungle canopies, or take a catamaran to Isla Saona, a protected nature reserve known for its untouched beauty and starfish-studded waters. As night falls, head to Imagine Punta Cana, a nightclub set inside a series of natural caves, or enjoy beachfront cocktails and live music at Jellyfish Restaurant, perfect for capping off an unforgettable day.

8. Scottsdale, Arizona

Landscape view of Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona, showcasing its red rock formations, desert vegetation, and scenic hiking trails under a clear blue sky.
No ocean? No problem. Hike, sip, and soak in the desert sun. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Swap sandy beaches for striking desert landscapes. In Scottsdale, adventure meets luxury. Start your day with a hike up the iconic Camelback Mountain, then begin the night exploring Old Town Scottsdale’s buzzing bar and restaurant scene. For the ultimate spring break experience, grab a group and go in on a vacation rental with a pool—it’s the ideal spot to relax and soak up the desert sun between adventures.

9. Toronto, Canada

Toronto brings a fresh take on spring break with city views from the CN Tower, charming shops in the Distillery District, and a vibrant arts and food scene.
Toronto City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square, featuring the modern curved towers and the illuminated "Toronto" sign against the backdrop of the city. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Spring break is usually synonymous with warmth, but Toronto’s mild climate mixes urban excitement and natural beauty. Start your trip with a visit to the CN Tower for 360-degree views, then explore the Distillery District’s charming shops and eateries. The city’s dynamic arts scene and diverse food options await discovery.

10. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville skyline at dawn, with city lights reflecting on the river and a boat gliding through the calm waters.
Nashville is a must-visit for music lovers, with live performances on Broadway, hot chicken in East Nashville, and neon-lit honky-tonks keeping the energy alive all night. Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Nashville is a can’t-miss destination for music lovers. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and enjoy live performances on Broadway Street. Check out trendy East Nashville for eccentric shops and local eats, including the famous hot chicken at Hattie B's. As the sun sets, Nashville's neon lights illuminate the honky-tonks, where lively country music and chatter fill the air, drawing you in.

Gather your friends, pack a bag and make memories that will last long after the semester ends.

Book your next adventure

Search flights now