Spring Break is upon us, and college students nationwide are ready to break free from their winter routines and head for the beaches.
Here’s a look at some of the top beach destinations for Spring Break—including places like Cancun, South Padre Island, and Panama City Beach—and tips on scoring the best airfare deals for your trip.
Top College Spring Break Beach Destinations
While Daytona Beach and Ft. Lauderdale are well-known hotspots, here are several other beach locations that are favorites among students for their fun atmosphere and affordability.
- Cancun, Mexico – Known as the “Mexican Caribbean” or “Mayan Riviera,” Cancun offers a diverse array of entertainment options, from scuba diving in the second-largest reef globally to exploring Mayan history during the day and enjoying the vibrant club scene at night.
- South Padre Island, TX – Although Texas may not be the first thought when it comes to dolphin experiences, this barrier island on the Gulf Coast is packed with activities that make it a popular Spring Break choice.
- Virginia Beach, VA – March temperatures might not be ideal for sunbathing, but that doesn’t stop anyone from enjoying this beach town, which boasts lively nightlife, fantastic seafood spots, and attractions like its three-mile-long boardwalk.
- Myrtle Beach, SC – Famous for its extensive 60 miles of sandy beaches, Myrtle Beach offers family-friendly attractions, water sports, and over 100 golf courses. It also hosts numerous dance clubs and live shows suitable for all visitors.
- Panama City Beach, FL – With spring temperatures reaching the 70’s, this destination draws sun lovers, but it’s also known for excellent sport fishing and a bustling club scene that attracts touring bands. Enjoy swimming with dolphins or lounging on the beautiful sandy shores.
- Cabo San Lucas – This renowned Mexican resort at the southern tip of Baja California is a hub for snorkeling and diving, along with a vibrant nightlife, delicious dining options, and shopping opportunities.
Important Note on Beaches in Mexico and the Caribbean: Before traveling outside the U.S., be sure to consult Travel.State.Gov for important safety tips related to your chosen destination.
How to Reach Spring Break Destinations
When planning your trip, explore both major airports near popular beaches and smaller ones, as larger airports may offer more affordable flight options.
Flights to Cancun, Mexico
Cancun International Airport (CUN): The second busiest airport in Mexico, following Mexico City, is accessible via low-cost airlines such as AirTran, Frontier, Spirit, and Virgin America, as well as several other U.S. and international carriers.
Flights to South Padre Island
Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (BRO): The closest airport to the beach, served by American Eagle and Continental Express.
Valley International Airport, Harlingen TX (HRL): Located 40 miles from the beach, this airport services Continental, Southwest, and Sun Country airlines.
Flights to Virginia Beach
Norfolk International Airport (ORF): Just 18 miles from Virginia Beach, this airport is serviced by budget carrier Southwest, along with American, Continental, Delta, United, and US Airways.
Richmond International Airport (RIC): About a two-hour drive from the beach, this airport also offers service from low-cost carriers like AirTran and JetBlue, in addition to several other U.S. airlines and Air Canada.
If you’re willing to drive a little further, check airports in Washington, D.C., to see if there are any great deals.
Flights to Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): This airport features low-cost airlines Allegiant and Spirit, along with several larger carriers.
Wilmington International Airport (ILM): Located 75 miles away in North Carolina, this airport provides service from Allegiant, Delta, and US Airways.
Consider also checking fares to Charleston, SC, and Charlotte, NC.
Flights to Panama City Beach
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP): A new airport serving Panama City Beach, featuring low-cost flights from Southwest and Delta.
Pensacola Regional Airport (PNS): About a two-hour drive west, services from AirTran, American, Continental, Delta, United, and US Airways are available here.
Flights to Cabo San Lucas
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD): This airport is served by budget carriers like Frontier, Sun Country, and Virgin America, along with various U.S. and Canadian airlines, as well as several Mexican carriers.
Ensure you maximize your savings by following these tips:
- Don’t Delay Booking Flights: Spring Break is a highly sought-after travel period; wait too long, and you might miss out on available seats.
- Set Airfare Alerts for Multiple Airports: Sometimes, cheaper fares are available further from your ideal beach destination; set alerts for all airports you’re willing to fly into.
- Shop for Flights on Tuesday Afternoons: Typically, Tuesday afternoon is the best time to search for airfare deals, often around 3 p.m. Eastern Time.
- Avoid Layovers in Cold Cities: Protect your beach time by avoiding potential weather issues in cities like Chicago or New York; instead, consider connections through warm locations like Dallas or Atlanta.
- Know About Airline Baggage Fees: Airlines such as Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit may charge fees for carry-on bags, while most others do not. Pack lightly to save money.
So, get started on your bookings—and remember to pack your sunscreen!
Upcoming in the Next Issue of GLF: Study Abroad Programs
Attention college students: Looking to secure a job post-graduation? Consider joining a study abroad program. That’s the insight from a 2013 Student Universe survey, which has been facilitating international travel for students since 1999. (Read more in the March/April issue!)
Find Rick Seaney’s tips on GoodLifeFamilyMag.com or subscribe for savings at FareCompare.com.
