Boasting the perfect combination of sun, sand, and surf, Florida is one of the most popular destinations for a spring break vacation in the United States. When the rest of the country is drowning in layers of snow and clothing, Florida’s coastlines offer miles of white sandy beaches and tropical weather conditions that are ideal for plenty of legendary fun in the sun. Whether you’re looking for a spring break party mecca or rather lounge in the sunshine, from lively nightlife to laid-back activities, all types of spring break travelers are sure to find their version of a beach paradise in the Sunshine State. A vacation filled with sunshine and adventure, read on to discover the best places to celebrate spring break in Florida.
Panama City
Florida’s most famous spring break destination, Panama City is known as the “Spring Break Capital of the World” by many. Panama City is a fantastic destination in itself, with 27 miles of sugar-white sand but come spring, you’ll find the beach loaded with college students looking for endless parties and the sunshine. You’ll find plenty of entertainment to keep you busy, with non-stop events, outdoor concerts, and bars that cater to a high-energy crowd, where you’ll regularly find free giveaway booths, games, and creative contests. The city parties late into the evening when crowds head to one of the area’s many top beach clubs to dance the night away.
Miami & South Beach
A city that needs no introduction, Miami is Florida’s premier spring break destination, where you can sip a fresh mojito under a tropical swaying palm tree. A vibrant mix of cultures, Miami is like visiting another country without the need for a passport. The beaches of South Beach are peppered with a mix of beautiful people and celebrities enjoying the pristine shores of “America’s Riviera.” Mixing trendy and chic, it is where you’ll find a well-heeled crowd amongst a line of outdoor cafes on Ocean Drive. Come evening, spring breakers will find an extensive list of energetic clubs open until the wee hours of the morning to choose from. Miami isn’t only for the party crowd, as you can find plenty of family-friendly activities in North Miami Beach and an abundance of land and water-based activities for the more laid-back crowd.
Clearwater Beach
Rivaling its bigger city counterparts, Clearwater holds its own, with a stunning beach and a mix of activities for all types of spring break travelers. An award-winning beach in Florida and consistently ranked as the most beautiful in the state, travelers here are spoiled for choice in how they want to spend their days. The center of Clearwater Beach is where you’ll find all the action on spring break. The breathtaking Gulf of Mexico views with 3 miles of fine white sand mixes with a variety of beach bars, water-based activities, and free nightly events at Pier 60 with musicians and street performers. Those looking for a more tranquil respite can explore the nearby Honeymoon Island, Fort De Soto, and Caladesi Island, while families can head to Tampa and the theme parks in Orlando in less than an hour.
Key West
Boasting a party vibe all year-round, Key West is the perfect place to spend your spring break vacation. The southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West offers a diverse and laid-back charm with an attitude that anything goes. A colorful mix of free-spirited locals and visitors alike, spring breakers will find plenty of attractions to keep them entertained. Beach bars and restaurants line the famous Duval Street, while Mallory Square is where crowds flock for the nightly sunset celebrations, and Smathers Beach is the ideal spot to soak in the Florida sunshine. Other areas of the Florida Keys are easily accessible by car for those who are looking to explore some of Florida’s other scenic landscapes.
Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach has long been a favorite spring destination for both locals and visitors alike, where iconic events like Daytona 500 and Bike Week set the stage for its spring party atmosphere. Beach enthusiasts can lounge on the 23 miles of white sandy beach, soar above the beach on a para-sail, or try their hand at riding the famous waves in the Atlantic surf. Those who want to keep the party going will find sponsored activities held on the beach during the day and an abundance of wild nightclubs that run late into the evening. Book an oceanfront hotel or explore nearby attractions, which include the Main Street Pier and Boardwalk, offering plenty of fun-filled activities, while a road trip to Orlando is less than an hour away.
Cocoa Beach
Popular with local Floridians and made famous by the legendary pro surfer Kelly Slater, Cocoa Beach is not only the surfing capital of Florida but where you’ll find lively beaches come spring break. An excellent location to soak in the sunshine and watch the surfers do their thing, those who want to join the crowd can head to the pier for a variety of lively beachfront bars and restaurants boasting panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean. A small town with a big personality, spring breakers flock to the 24-hour surf shop, the Original Ron Jon Surf Shop, and a long list of popular beach bars that attract a lively crowd of people during the day.
Fort Myers
Located on Florida’s southwest Gulf coast, Fort Myers Beach offers the ideal mix of excellent weather and idyllic beaches for a variety of spring break crowds. Ideal for the party-focused spring breakers, spring breakers will find a handful of party mecca hotspots along the beach. You’ll find some of the largest and most energetic parties featuring endless beach games, prizes, and live entertainment with top DJs and an energetic crowd throughout the day and seven days a week. Those looking for a more low-key spring break experience will also find quiet stretches of sand in Fort Myers, where you can soak in the salty breeze and sunbathe, in addition to a variety of fishing and shopping opportunities.
Check official resources for availability, as Fort Myers was significantly impacted by Hurricane Ian.
Orlando
Many spring breakers flock to Orlando to indulge in some theme park fun, as you’ll have your pick with Disney, Universal Orlando, and even LEGOLAND Florida for the little ones. Nicknamed “The City Beautiful,” Orlando has a lot to offer, not only in terms of non-theme park attractions. You can go bar hopping downtown, or head to International Drive for shopping and restaurants, while The Wheel at ICON Park lets you fly high above the local scenery. If you’re up for a day trip, visit the alligators in Gatorland or learn about space travel at Kennedy Space Center.
St. Petersburg
In addition to blissful beaches in the area, St. Pete makes for an ideal spring break destination in Florida for its array of top-rated attractions nearby. You can also do a lot of exploring to some of Florida’s most picturesque destinations, including the likes of Fort De Soto Park, Madeira Beach, Clearwater Beach, and Treasure Island. You’ll find a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from, whether you prefer digging your toes in the sands at St. Pete Beach, marveling at the artwork in the Salvador Dali Museum, or browsing the tropical plants in Sunken Gardens.
Key Largo
Water-loving families will love Key Largo, a top Florida Keys destination. The 33-mile-long Key Largo offers an excellent introduction to the Florida Keys, where you can snorkel past colorful coral reefs, join glass-bottom boat tours, and indulge in delectable seafood offerings. John Pennekamp State Park is its biggest attraction with its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, while simply kicking back and gazing at the sunset views with a fruity cocktail is perfectly acceptable too. If you’re traveling with the family, head to the Dolphin Research Center to learn about Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions.
Naples
A nature lover’s paradise, Naples is home to white sandy beaches with bright blue waters. Set on Florida’s picture-perfect Gulf Coast, you’ll find family-friendly activities and nature viewing opportunities. Plan a day of fun in the sun at Lowdermilk Beach, swim in the waters at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, or plunge down water slides at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. Adults can sip artisan beer at Naples Beach Brewery, while all ages will enjoy day trips to Everglades National Park and the floral-filled Naples Botanical Garden.
Jacksonville
The largest city by area in the continental U.S., Jacksonville is an underrated spring break destination where you’ll discover a stunning coastline and a range of outdoor adventures. Nature lovers of all ages can appreciate the manicured gardens at Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens, while Talbot Island State Park is one of Florida’s few undeveloped barrier islands. When the sun goes down, spring breakers 21 years and up can enjoy the city’s buzzing craft beer scene and cosmopolitan nightlife.
Sanibel & Captiva
Sanibel and Captiva islands are two of Florida’s most beloved beach destinations, often clumped together due to their proximity to each other. It’s all about the outdoors on these pristine islands, where small-town charm meets outdoor adventures. Sanibel is famously known as the “Shelling Capital of the World,” with over 300 species of shells regularly washing up on its shore. You can stroll its shoreline to discover perfect pastel coquinas, conch shells, and sand dollar shells, or hike scenic trails and spot local wildlife such as herons, ospreys, and crocodiles at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Visit nearby Lovers Key State Park for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing on its quiet coastline.
Check official resources for availability, as Captiva & Sanibel Islands were significantly impacted by Hurricane Ian.
