Break free from spring break crowds
Spring break is not just for college students – it’s also a time when families, couples, friends and even honeymooners travel. The tricky part is to find enjoyable places where spring breakers don’t take over a destination with rowdiness, partying and antics.
There are a variety of destinations that beckon fun and tranquil vibes without partying college students. Here are our picks for spring break 2020:
Barbados
Known for the gorgeous beaches and friendly residents, the island of Barbados is the perfect spring break destination for a relaxing vacation without the crazy crowds or rowdy spring breakers. Featuring pristine white sand beaches along the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, a large selection of restaurants with dishes from around the world, bars and night clubs, and local shops, there’s plenty to do – and see – in Barbados.
Couples have great accommodation options where they won’t have to worry about wild college kids – or actual kids – at such places as Sandals Royal Barbados, the resort chain’s newest allsuite, adults-only all-inclusive retreat, located in the spirited St. Lawrence Gap area. .
Greater Williamsburg, Virginia
For families who want a blend of adventure and education, the historic triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown in Virginia boasts great options for arts, history and fun. In Colonial Williamsburg, young travelers can become a citizen of the Revolutionary City, watching reenactments and enjoying Colonial games. Later, have a family meal at a Colonial tavern inspired by our nation’s history.
The Busch Gardens theme park is open daily for a limited time during that period (March 27-April 20) with rides, entertainment and events.
Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman, a Carribean island known for gorgeous beaches, is not on the radar for spring breakers, which means it’s an idyllic – and ideal – destination for couples and families.
Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa, set on an expansive stretch of Seven Mile Beach, is a spring break getaway that the whole family will
enjoy. While visiting the resort, guests can kayak, sail, waterski, waterboard or try a free, daily Stand-Up Paddleboard clinic as well as SUP Yoga on the crystalclear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Santa Monica, California
Less than 30 minutes from bustling Los Angeles, Santa Monica is the quintessential beach town, boasting with warm weather and California sunshine, making it an ideal backdrop for outdoorsy family time. Stroll to Santa Monica Pier, along the expansive beaches, go for a bike ride, try surfing and cap your day by dining outside.
One great lodging pick is the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica with activities for the whole family. .
Portland, Oregon
Located in the scenic Pacific Northwest, Portland is a food and culture hotspot, but definitely not overrun with spring breakers during March or April, when spring break hits. After taking in the city’s sights, settle in at the Kimpton RiverPlace an 85-room property, the city’s only downtown waterfront hotel. It has a relaxing lodge-like feel despite being so close to the city center.
There are miles of walking, jogging and biking paths (bike rentals available) right outside the doors, along with easy access to watersport activities on the Willamette River. Spring is a beautiful time to visit Portland Japanese Garden, one of the most authentic such gardens
outside of Japan.
Bar Harbor, Maine
In Bar Harbor, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in beautiful Acadia National Park as well as ocean views. Plus, the low prices during the less-busy season make early spring for the perfect time to visit.
Stop by the visitor center in Hulls Cove to pick up park passes and maps for the hiking trails and check out their ranger-led programs for kids as well as the marine touch tank.
Acadia has beaches for building sandcastles, and car-free carriage roads for biking, walking, and horseback riding.
For lodging, the Atlantic Oceanside is perfect for spring breakers who want to spend time both in Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor, located just a mile away from each.There are both indoor and outdoor pools, which are ideal for the transitional spring season.
Curaçao
Located in the Southern Caribbean, the Dutch-Caribbean island of Curaçao is home to more than 35 secluded covelike beaches, stunning European architecture, diverse cuisine, and year-round sunshine, making it the perfect destination for spring break travels.
Visitors can enjoy everything from riding ATVs across the island’s rugged East Side, swimming with sea turtles at Playa Piskado, hiking Mt. Christoffel (Curaçao’s highest point at 1,227 feet), or even venturing to the uninhabited island of Klein (Little) Curaçao by sailboat for a day.
At night, travelers can check out the island’s nightlife and dance to the beats of salsa, merengue, and rumba, and, of course, try some Blue Curaçao, the island’s famous liqueur that’s used to make cocktails a bright, vibrant blue. For a hotel, try the new Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Early spring is Hilton Head Island’s best-kept secret: down South, the temperatures heat up just as the northeast is still thawing before high season. Whether a relaxing gal’s getaway, a reunion with the guys or a couple looking for a romantic escape, Hilton Head Island has so much to offer.
Try your swing at one of Hilton Head Island’s championship golf courses, including PGA players’ favorite Harbour Town Golf Links.
Consider Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island for your home base for your visit.
Bermuda
Rowdy Spring Breakers will be far from Bermuda, where the weather is gorgeous during early April. Only a 21⁄2 hour flight from many cities on the east coast, visitors can enjoy this Atlantic island in its most pristine form in spring before the rush of the summer crowds, as beaches are clear of tourists, and cruises aren’t yet coming into port.
The famous pink sand beaches are a highlight of Bermuda but there are cultural gems as well.
Looking for a beachside retreat far from the crowds? Try the Hamilton Princess.