Top 7 Cheapest Spring Break Destinations in the US

Top 7 Cheapest Spring Break

Spring break is a time of year that many college students look forward to. It’s a chance to take a break from studies, relax, and have some fun. However, for many students, the cost of traveling during this time can be a major concern. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable travel options available for those who are willing to do some research and plan ahead. In this article, we’ll explore the top seven cheapest spring break destinations in the US.

Number one on the cheapest spring break locations is:

#1 Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is a hidden gem for budget travelers. This beautiful beach town on the Gulf of Mexico offers warm weather, stunning sunsets, and plenty of affordable vacation rentals. There are many low-cost activities to enjoy, such as sunbathing, fishing, hiking in the nearby state parks, and exploring the local seafood scene.

Cost-saving travel tips for Gulf Shores:

• Book your rental accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals
• Take advantage of free activities like visiting the beach, exploring state parks, and attending free concerts and festivals
• Look for happy hour specials at local restaurants and bars to save money on food and drinks

Top Things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama:

1. Relax on the Beach: Gulf Shores has some of the most beautiful beaches, making it the perfect place to relax.
2. Go Fishing. Gulf Shores has a rich fishing culture, and there are plenty of affordable fishing charters available for those looking to catch some fish.
3. Visit Gulf State Park. This state park offers plenty of activities for visitors, including hiking and biking trails, fishing, and swimming.
4. Take a Dolphin Watching Tour. The waters around Gulf Shores are home to many dolphins, and taking a dolphin watching tour is a popular activity for visitors.
5. Explore Local Seafood Scene. Gulf Shores has many restaurants that serve fresh seafood caught right from the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoying a delicious seafood meal is a must-do activity for any visitor.
6. Attend Free Concerts and Festivals. Gulf Shores hosts many free concerts and festivals throughout the year, including the Hangout Music Festival, which is held annually in May.
7. Enjoy Water Sports. Gulf Shores offers many water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. These activities are a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Number two on the cheapest spring break list is:

#2 South Padre Island, Texas

Next on the cheapest spring break list is South Padre Island is known for its party scene, making it a popular destination for college students. However, it’s also a budget-friendly option, with plenty of cheap hotels and vacation rentals available. During the day, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking or biking on the island’s many trails, or take a dolphin watching tour.

Cost-saving travel tips for South Padre Island:

• Consider visiting during the off-season when prices are lower
• Take advantage of happy hour specials and free events
• Look for all-inclusive packages to save money on food and drinks

Top Things to do in South Padre Island, Texas:

1. Enjoy the Beaches. South Padre Island is famous for its long stretches of sandy beaches. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim, sunbathe, or take part in water activities like surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, or jet-skiing.
2. Visit Sea Turtle, Inc. Sea Turtle, Inc. is a sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and education center. Visitors can learn about the various species of sea turtles, their habitat, and their conservation. They can also see the rescued turtles in their habitats and even witness the release of rehabilitated turtles into the wild.
3. Explore the Laguna Madre Nature Trail. The Laguna Madre Nature Trail is a 1.7-mile walking trail that winds through the island’s wetlands. The trail features a boardwalk and observation decks where visitors can spot native wildlife like birds, turtles, and fish.
4. Visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Schlitterbahn Waterpark is a popular water park located on South Padre Island. It features several water rides, wave pools, and water playgrounds suitable for all ages.
5. Visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is a 50-acre nature preserve that is home to a variety of native plants and animals. Visitors can hike on the trails, observe birds, and learn about the local ecosystem.
6. Go Fishing. South Padre Island is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can choose from a variety of fishing charters, including deep-sea fishing, bay fishing, and fly fishing.
7. Visit the Port Isabel Lighthouse. The Port Isabel Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in nearby Port Isabel. Visitors can climb the 75-foot tower and enjoy panoramic views of South Padre Island and the Gulf of Mexico.

Number three cheapest spring break location is:

#3 Daytona Beach, FL

Daytona Beach has been a popular spring break destination for decades, and for good reason. This beach town offers warm weather, plenty of affordable hotels and vacation rentals, and a lively party scene. During the day, you can enjoy the beach, explore the boardwalk, or attend free concerts and festivals.

Cost-saving travel tips for Daytona Beach:

• Book your accommodations well in advance to get the best rates
• Look for happy hour specials and free events
• Rent a bike to explore the area and save money on transportation

Top Things to do in Daytona Beach, Florida:

1. Hit the Beach. Daytona Beach offers sandy beaches for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, parasailing, and jet-skiing.
2. Visit Daytona International Speedway. The Daytona International Speedway is a world-famous race track that hosts major NASCAR races, including the Daytona 500. Visitors can take a tour of the facility, including the pit area, victory lane, and press box.
3. Explore the Daytona Beach Boardwalk. The Daytona Beach Boardwalk is a popular area that features amusement park rides, restaurants, shops, and a classic arcade.
4. Visit the Daytona Beach Bandshell. The Daytona Beach Bandshell is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts free concerts during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy live music while enjoying the ocean view.
5. Take a Dolphin and Manatee Eco Tour. Take a boat tour to see the dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat. Visitors can spot bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife playing and swimming in the waters of the Halifax River.
6. Visit the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in nearby Port Orange. Climb 203 steps for panoramic views of Daytona Beach.
7. Go Fishing. Daytona Beach is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can choose from a variety of fishing charters, including deep-sea fishing, river fishing, and pier fishing.
8. Visit the Museum of Arts and Sciences. The Museum of Arts and Sciences is a large museum that features exhibits on science, art, and history. Visitors can explore the galleries, including a planetarium and a children’s museum.

Number four on the cheapest spring break location is:

#4 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a family-friendly destination, but it’s also a budget-friendly option for college students. This beach town offers plenty of affordable hotels and vacation rentals, and there are many free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as visiting the beach, exploring the boardwalk, and hiking in nearby state parks.

Cost-saving travel tips for Myrtle Beach:

• Consider staying at a hostel or camping to save money on accommodations
• Take advantage of happy hour specials and free events
• Look for coupons or discounts on local attractions like amusement parks and water parks

Top things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:

1. Enjoy the Beaches. Myrtle Beach offers sandy beaches for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, parasailing, and jet-skiing.
2. Visit Broadway at the Beach. Broadway at the Beach is a popular entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, and Hollywood Wax Museum.
3. Explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a popular area that features amusement park rides, restaurants, shops, and a classic arcade.
4. Visit Brookgreen Gardens. Brookgreen Gardens is a beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve that features a variety of sculptures, gardens, and wildlife exhibits. Visitors can also take a boat tour through the rice fields and see native wildlife.
5. Play Golf. Myrtle Beach is known as the “Golf Capital of the World,” with over 100 golf courses in the area. Visitors can choose from a variety of courses, including championship courses, resort courses, and mini-golf courses.
6. Visit Myrtle Beach State Park. Myrtle Beach State Park is a beautiful park that features a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and birdwatching.
7. Visit the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel. The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a large Ferris wheel that offers amazing views of the city and the ocean.
8. Visit the Myrtle Beach Pelicans: The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are a minor league baseball team that plays at TicketReturn.com Field. Visitors can enjoy a game while taking in the beautiful ocean view.

Number five on the cheapest spring break locations:

#5 Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach is a popular spring break destination for college students, but it’s also an affordable option. This beach town offers plenty of budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, and there are many free things to do, such as visiting the beach, hiking in nearby state parks, and attending free concerts.

Cost-saving travel tips for Panama City Beach:

• Book your accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals
• Take advantage of happy hour specials and free events
• Consider cooking your own meals to save money on food

Top things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida:

1. Enjoy the Beaches. Panama City Beach offers sandy beaches for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, parasailing, and jet-skiing.
2. Visit St. Andrews State Park. St. Andrews State Park is a beautiful park that features a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and birdwatching. The park also has a beach that is popular for swimming and sunbathing.
3. Visit Shell Island: Shell Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Panama City Beach. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island and explore the beaches, dunes, and wildlife.
4. Visit Gulf World Marine Park. Gulf World Marine Park is a marine park that features a variety of marine life exhibits, including dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and turtles. Visitors can also take part in interactive programs, such as swimming with dolphins and feeding sea lions.
5. Visit Pier Park. Pier Park is a popular shopping and entertainment complex that features shops, restaurants, and attractions, including an amusement park, a movie theater, and a giant Ferris wheel.
6. Go Fishing: Panama City Beach is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can choose from a variety of fishing charters, including deep-sea fishing, bay fishing, and pier fishing.
7. Visit the Panama City Beach Conservation Park. The Panama City Beach Conservation Park is a beautiful park that features a variety of hiking trails and wildlife exhibits.
8. Take a Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour. Take a boat tour to see the dolphins and go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can spot bottlenose dolphins, tropical fish, and other marine life playing and swimming in their natural habitat.

Number six on the cheapest spring locations is:

#6 New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of spring break destinations, but it’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers. This vibrant city is rich in culture and history, with plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as exploring the French Quarter, attending free concerts and festivals, and indulging in the city’s world-famous cuisine.

Cost-saving travel tips for New Orleans:

• Consider visiting during the off-season when prices are lower
• Look for budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals outside of the French Quarter
• Take advantage of happy hour specials and free events

Top things to do in New Orleans, Louisiana:

1. Visit the French Quarter. The French Quarter is a historic district in New Orleans, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the area’s shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the iconic Bourbon Street.
2. Enjoy the Food: New Orleans is famous for its delicious food, including gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po’ boys. Visitors can try traditional dishes at restaurants like Commander’s Palace, Cafe Du Monde, and Acme Oyster House.
3. Visit the National World War II Museum: The National World War II Museum is a must-see attraction for history buffs. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories from the war.
4. Listen to Live Music: New Orleans is known for its live music scene, with jazz, blues, and other genres of music playing in the bars, clubs, and music venues around the city.
5. Take a Riverboat Cruise: Visitors can take a riverboat cruise down the Mississippi River and enjoy views of the city and the surrounding area. Some cruises also include live jazz music and dinner.
6. Visit Jackson Square: Jackson Square is a historic public park located in the French Quarter. Visitors can see the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, explore the park, and watch street performers.
7. Take a Ghost Tour: New Orleans is known for its haunted history, and visitors can take a ghost tour to explore the city’s spooky side.
8. Visit the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium: The Audubon Zoo and Aquarium are popular family-friendly attractions that feature a wide variety of animals, exhibits, and interactive programs.

Number seven cheapest spring break locations is:

#7 San Diego, CA

San Diego may not be the cheapest destination on this list, but it can be affordable if you plan ahead. This city offers warm weather, beautiful beaches, and plenty of budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. There are many free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as visiting the beach, hiking in nearby state parks, and exploring the city’s many neighborhoods.

Cost-saving travel tips for San Diego:

• Consider staying in a hostel or camping to save money on accommodations
• Look for happy hour specials and free events
• Rent a bike to explore the city and save money on transportation

Top things to do in San Diego, California:

1. Visit Balboa Park: Balboa Park is a beautiful park that features museums, gardens, and cultural attractions. Explore 17 museums, including San Diego Museum of Art and Natural History.
2. Visit the San Diego Zoo: San Diego Zoo features diverse animals worldwide. Visitors can see pandas, elephants, lions, tigers, and many other species.
3. Take a Harbor Cruise: Take a boat tour of the San Diego Bay and enjoy views of the city skyline, Coronado Island, and the USS Midway aircraft carrier.
4. Visit the USS Midway Museum: The USS Midway Museum is a naval museum located on the USS Midway aircraft carrier. Visitors can explore the ship, see aircraft exhibits, and learn about the history of the U.S. Navy.
5. Visit La Jolla Cove: La Jolla Cove is a beautiful area that features stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and sea caves. Visitors can take a stroll along the shore, watch the sea lions and seals, or go swimming and snorkeling.
6. Explore Old Town San Diego: Old Town San Diego is a historic district that features shops, restaurants, and museums that showcase the city’s Mexican and Spanish heritage.
7. Visit the Gaslamp Quarter: The Gaslamp Quarter is a historic district that features a vibrant nightlife scene, with restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Traveling during spring break doesn’t have to break the bank. By choosing a budget-friendly destination, doing some research and planning ahead, and taking advantage of cost-saving travel tips, you can have a great time without spending a fortune. Whether you’re looking for a party scene, a relaxing beach vacation, or a cultural experience, these seven destinations offer something for everyone at an affordable price.