The Sunshine State aka Florida is a beloved spring break destination for many people who want to escape their hometown’s freezing, windy weather. The city has everything you want to explore or try out during your spring break: beaches, art galleries, nightclubs, laser tags, water slides and so much more that will make your jaw drop.
Florida is home to many lively and relaxing attractions. And it’s a promise that you will have the best time of your life when you come here for spring break and enjoy some of its most popular spring break destinations.
| Destination | Best For |
| South Beach | Haulover Park |
| Caladesi Island | Kayaking and paddleboarding |
| Clearwater Beach | A budgeted holiday |
| Jacksonville | Camping in Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park |
| Daytona Beach | NASCAR Racing |
| Cocoa Beach | Kennedy Space Center |
| Naples | Shopping at The Village Shop and the Tin City Waterfront Shops |
| Panama City Beach | Nightlife |
| Merritt Island | Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge |
| Bahia Honda State Park | Camping |
| Hollywood Beach | Beaches |
| Key West | Key West Garden Club |
| St. Petersburg | St. Pete Pier |
| Orlando | Outdoor activities |
| Miami | Unique attractions |
Table of Contents
1. South Beach
In Florida and not going to visit South Beach which is renowned for its decorative buildings, glamorous nightlife, and crystal-clear beach? Now, that is no way to spend spring break.
South Beach is one of Florida’s best and favorite spring break destinations. It is beloved by tourists that want to bask under the lazy Florida sun, wants to take a stroll around its aesthetic and chic sidewalk cafes, or explore its buzzing restaurants and fashionable indie shops.
There are tons of activities that you can indulge in while you are in South Beach for your spring break. You can go on boat tours around the city, art galleries, or even segway tours.
Did you know that South Beach boasts several award-winning restaurants? There’s Casa Isola Osteria which is known for Jose Mendin’s take on Italian dishes. Or if you are someone who is particularly a sweet tooth on vacations, you can always rely on True Loaf Bakery, where the owner Tomas Strulovic whips his magic and makes the best croissants and pastries in Miami.
And of course, who can forget Stubborn Seed? It is a one-Michelin star restaurant from Miami’s own Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford and is adored by tourists for its sublime menu.
You can go to Haulover Park for tennis, cycling, golf, and even fishing. If such activities aren’t up to your preferences, you can take a stroll or even go for a run. Yes, indulging in your favorite chocolate pastry is fine but you also need to burn some calories and stay fit.
As for nightclubs, there are various ones such as Cameo Night Club and Mynt Lounge. These are the perfect places to meet new people and expand your social circle.
South Beach never fails in being amazing and it is one of the most preferred spring break destinations in Florida for its plethora of activities and attractions. It will be a big miss for you if you do not add South Beach to your spring break bucket list.
Things to do:
- Dine at one of these famed restaurants: Casa Isola Osteria, True Loaf Bakery, and Stubborn Seed
- Try out cycling, golfing, and fishing
- Go on boat tours around the city
- Visit nightclubs such as Cameo Night Club and Mynt Lounge
2. Caladesi Island
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Caladesi Island is everyone’s dream spring break destination. All holiday destinations, not only spring break.
Caladesi Island State Park is a Florida State Park and is one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States of America. It brags some of the most beautiful beaches that are perfect for a night swim or snorkeling or getting a natural tan from sunbathing.
Caladesi Island is the ideal spring break destination in Florida for nature lovers and even outdoor enthusiasts. The island has some of the most entertaining outdoor activities.
You can always go kayaking if you are short of activity ideas. You can rent a kayak from the locals and paddle your way to the island.
And of course, who won’t want to hike when on Caladesi Island? The island is home to some of the most magnificent views and it will be a huge miss if you do not pay a visit to some of its trails.
Now, the hiking may be a bit tiresome but make sure to carry some snacks and water, preferably coconut water, for your strength and hydration. The trails are not difficult but it’s always better to be equipped with precautions. Nobody wants to spend their holiday crammed up in their room after a hike that isnt even a challenge.
Caladesi Island will be worth every penny if you choose to spend your spring break here. It is Florida’s hidden gem for spring breaks. You will love every bit of your time on Caladesi Island.
Things to do:
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Paddleboarding
- Hiking
- Kayaking
3. Clearwater Beach
Want to relieve your The Summer I Turned Pretty fantasy but on a tight budget? We got your back.
Clearwater Beach is everyone’s favorite spring break destination in Florida. It is an easily affordable place to visit and it has some of the most stunning white sandy beaches in Florida.
It is situated in Pinellas County on the west central coast of Florida and overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. The beach has a very welcoming and small-town ambiance. It is perfect if you are someone who wants a holiday on a budget, wants to go to a less crowded place, and enjoys your time on the beach.
Clearwater Beach has some of the friendliest accommodations. They are family appropriate and also suitable if you come with friends.
The beach has some amazing restaurants with mouthwatering dishes such as Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill and Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar. Besides pampering yourself in restaurants, many activities on the beach will keep you busy. You can go for a rollercoaster ride in Busch Gardens, shop at the Westfield Countryside Mall, or go indoor skydiving at iFLY
And if such activities tire you, you can always go fishing, walk along the famous Pier 60 during the sunset if you are in a romantic mood, or go dolphin watching. You can always laze under the sun and get a tan if you don’t have the energy to step outside your hotel.
Clearwater Beach is the aptest destination in Florida for spring break. You have everything here but on a budget.
Things to do:
- Dine at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill and Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar.
- Rollercoaster ride in Busch Gardens
- Indoor skydiving at iFLY
- Shop at the Westfield Countryside Mall
- Fish or walk along Pier 60.
4. Jacksonville
Jacksonville, also known as “River City by the Sea”, is a must-visit destination in Florida for spring break. The city is known for its bustling crowd, buzzing nightlife, and sandy, tranquil beaches.
It is loved by vacationers as it offers some of the most adventurous activities and beautiful beaches. Not only its activities and beaches but Jacksonville is also loved for its scrumptious food.
There are tons of activities that you can do in Jacksonville while you are there for your spring break. You can surf, hike, camp, and visit zoos.
You can go camping in Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, hike in the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, go skydiving (both indoor and outdoor), and do so much more blood-thrilling activities.
There are activities for the light-hearted as well. You can go dolphin watching, try the trampoline at Flight Fit N Fun Jacksonville, visit the historic Fort Clinch State Park, and go birdwatching at the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Such activities are so tempting to try and to say any more will be the same as giving spoilers.
The city is well-known for its vibrant nightlife. You can hit the dance floor at Myth Nightclub, get tickets to a show at Alhambra Theatre and Dining, or even sample the local beers at Jax Ale Trail Breweries.
The city is an escape for the ones that want a vacation but also want to stay in the city spirits.
Things to do:
- Surf
- Camp at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
- Hike in the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
- Indoor and outdoor skydiving
- Trampoline at Flight Fit N Fun Jacksonville
- Visit Fort Clinch State Park
- Go birdwatching at the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail
- Sample beers at Jax Ale Trail Breweries
- Watch a show at Alhambra Theatre and Dining
- Visit Myth Nightclub
5. Daytona Beach
You are going to be in Florida for your spring break and you aren’t going to visit Daytona Beach? Now, that will be a huge mistake.
Daytona Beach is home to some of the liveliest and most thrilling beaches in Florida for spring break. There are tons of activities that you can try out while you are here for your spring break.
It is famous for being the home of NASCAR racing. It hosts the Daytona 500 NASCAR Race and finds itself amongst thousands of viewers.
You also don’t want to miss Daytona’s nightlife. It is one of the reasons why Daytona Beach is one of the most sought spring break destinations in Florida.
You can hit the dance floor at Razzles, which has one of the biggest dance floors in Florida. There’s Seabreeze Taphouse for its craft beers and 509 Lounge for its colorful yet bubbly cocktails. All you have to do is find your way to these amazing clubs and make new friends and enjoy your time there.
As for activities, you can go go-karting, set sail on the Atlantic with a sailing tour, or even kayaking. There are also activities for introverts. You can play detective in an escape room, soak in the fresh Floridian air at Smyrna Dunes Park, or simply hit the beach and sunbathe.
There is a reason why the city is called “The World’s Most Famous Beach”. It has everything from adventurous activities to the tranquility of its beaches.
Things to do:
- Watch the NASCAR racing
- Hit the dance floor at Razzles
- Visit Seabreeze Taphouse and 509 Lounge
- Go-karting, sailing tours, and kayaking
- Play detective in an escape room
6. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is known for its serene ambiance. Not only that, but space geeks also visit Cocoa Beach for the Kennedy Space Center.
It is one of the most underrated spring break destinations in Florida. Visitors that come here always hesitate to go to the hustle back home as they form a spiritual connection with the place.
Surfing is one of the most common activities at Cocoa Beach. Other than that, it is famous for its hiking trails that lead to some of the most breathtaking yet serene views ever. If you are in a get-out-of-the-city-hustle mood, take a stroll along the world-famous pier and feel the buzz in your mind hush down as the wind calms down your nerves.
There are souvenir shops that will keep you busy and manage to empty your wallets. You can also get to see a launch at the Kennedy Space Center or even try out one of the spaceflight simulators. There are also numerous art galleries and studious that will keep you occupied.
Things to do:
- Visit Kennedy Space Center
- Surf
- Visit art galleries
7. Naples
Spring breaks are to ease the tensions off your shoulders. And Naples is one of the best spring break destinations in Florida that will not disappoint you at all.
Naples is an elegant and sophisticated city in Florida that has some of the most beloved shopping places and award-winning restaurants. Naples has some of the most exquisite beaches that are renowned for their breathtaking views and exciting activities.
And if these aren’t enough to tempt you to visit Naples during your spring break, just know that Naples is famous for its shops that make your wallet small.
The first thing to do when you go to Naples is to sink your feet in its blue waters and take a deep breath while the salty air takes off all your troubles. Then make a list of activities and things that you want to do in Naples.
You can start by visiting its famous breweries such as Naples Beach Brewery and Riptide Brewery. Once you are done with that, you can visit The Naples Botanical Gardens.
We know you are desperate for any activity that keeps your adrenaline rushing. For such demanding activities, you can choose from hiking to kayaking to paddleboarding to riding a high-speed jet ski. Or you can try something even more daring: deep-sea diving.
If you are terrified of thrilling activities, we have some activities that do not make your heart beat fast. You can go on segway tours around the city, go for spas (Ritz-Carlton in Naples has the best relaxation therapy) or go golfing at Coral Cay Adventure Golf.
Now, time to talk about Naples’s decadent, mouth-watering restaurants. USS Nemo Restaurant is adored by visitors for its top-notch seafood. If seafood isn’t your thing during spring break, there is Watermark Grille which is famous for its steak, and there is also Vergina Restaurant for world-class Italian cuisine.
Everyone follows the “Shop Till You Drop” motto when they visit Naples during spring break. You can shop at The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, or the Tin City Waterfront Shops. Keep your wallet fat before going there and be prepared for the upcoming shopping spree that you will go into.
Things to do:
- Visit Riptide Brewery and Naples Beach Brewery
- Visit The Naples Botanical Gardens
- Hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, riding a high-speed jet ski, and deep sea diving.
- Go on segway tours around the city
- Go for spas at Ritz-Carlton
- Golfing at Coral Cay Adventure Golf
- Dine at USS Nemo Restaurant, Watermark Grille, and Vergina Restaurant
- Shop at The Village Shops and the Tin City Waterfront Shops.
8. Panama City Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Florida is Panama City Beach. It is one of Florida’s busiest and sought spring break destinations.
Dozens of people from all over the nation come here to spend their spring break. The beaches, the streets, and even the bars and clubs. Everything screams that Panama City Beach is one of the best spring break destinations in Florida. Read more to find out why.
The nightlife in Panama City Beach is so glamorous that you will think you are living a movie life. And not to forget their infamous cocktails that taste so good along with the scenic view of the beach.
There is Club La Vela, where everyone parties til sunrise. You can also go to Ms. Newby’s and always meet new people and extend your social circle; it is very popular amongst tourists.
As for the activities, you can go skydiving and parasailing and catch a glimpse of the magnificent city from above. You can also go for horseriding, paddleboarding, bike tours around the city, or simply go to Swampy Jack’s Wongo Adventure, which is an entire package itself, with activities ranging from travel-themed thrill rides to go-karts to arcade and so much more.
There is also another daring activity that is not for weak-hearted people and that is axe throwing. You will enjoy every bit of it and be assured as they offer lessons or tips for beginners.
And how can you forget about scuba diving? Scuba diving is a must in Panama City Beach for spring break.
You can always go to the beach and have a picnic of your own. Some people help you to arrange beach picnics.
The Pier Park Mall is known for attracting tons of people that love to shop. As we always love to say, it is not a shopping spree, it is retail therapy.
Once you reach Panama City Beach, you will find yourself in a short of days for the tremendous amount of activities that you want to try and the places that you want to visit. Make sure to clear out your itinerary when visiting Panama City Beach for spring break. You are going to love it!!
Things to do:
- Visit Club La Vela and Ms. Newby’s.
- Skydiving, parasailing, paddleboarding, horseriding, bike tours around the city, scuba diving, and axe throwing
- Visit Swampy Jack’s Wongo Adventure.
- Arrange a beach picnic.
- Shop at the Pier Park Mall
9. Merritt Island
Merritt Island is one of the geekiest spring break destinations in Florida. Now, why is that so?
It is home to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. While manned rockets are no longer launched from the island, the place remains a major tourist attraction for several people that want to gain intellect even during vacation.
Other than that, its untroubled nature plays a huge role in the popularity of this island. The island is home to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a 140,000-acre nature sanctuary, which is home to a diverse range of fauna and flora.
But if you belong to a group that needs to do a hardcore activity on vacation, you can go surfing or skiing.
Merritt Island is notable for its serene nature and rich culture and history. The place is similar to being in meditation and many people who come here, go home in a calm and composed mental state.
Things to do:
- Visit NASA Kennedy Space Center
- Visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
- Surfing
- Skiing
10. Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is a tropical paradise for spring break vacationers in Florida. It has crystal blue waters and stunning white sandy beaches that make you awe in wonder if a place like that could exist in real life.
There are so many activities to keep you occupied while you are there. Although you will find yourself more focused on the island’s idyllic nature.
You can go kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, and scuba-diving. And when these activities seem exhausting to you, you can simply opt for birdwatching or even a stroll on the beach.
You can also camp at the Bahia Honda State Park but you will have to make reservations 11 months earlier.
The hotels are known to be very deft with cocktails and other drinks. After all, what’s a vacation with tropical drinks?
But make sure to take time out of the activities and indulge in some self-care to give yourself a break from your daily life.
Things to do:
- Kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, scuba diving, and birdwatching
- Camp at the Bahia Honda State Park
11. Hollywood Beach
Now, who names a place “Hollywood Beach”? And why did they name it?
You will understand that once you visit Hollywood Beach for spring break. Once you visit it, you will see why it is the most aesthetic spring break destination in Florida.
Hollywood Beach features some of the classic architecture from the 1900s. The beach has a one-of-a-kind oceanfront promenade, popularly known as the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, which is a favorite among tourists for the picturesque view that it adds.
It attracts millions of tourists every year, especially during spring break. They love Hollywood Beach for its scenic view, the pastels, and blues on every house, the blue sky and crystal clear water, and cobbled streets -everything about Hollywood Beach screams a scene from a movie.
We know Hollywood Beach is famous for its sandy beach with turquoise water but wait until you have heard of the things that you can do over there.
You can go kayaking in West Lake Park. You can start from the marina to the watery pathways that lead to the mangroves. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or even a paddleboard for this experience. The park has some exquisite creatures such as alligators, iguanas, and herons.
Other than this, there are trails in Anne Kolb Nature Center that you can explore. There’s ArtsPark at Young Center, which is a popular tourist attraction. It has an amphitheater, playground, and even a Splash pad. How cool is that!
Hollywood Beach is popular for its picturesque places. You can click some really cool pictures in Downtown Hollywood Mural Project or at Anniversary Park, which is drop-dead gorgeous.
Hollywood Beach is a favorite spring break destination in Florida amongst tourists and many even come here multiple times a year, even if it is a staycation or weekend getaway.
Things to do:
- Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding
- Explore trails in Anne Kolb Nature Center
- Visit ArtsPark Young Center, Downtown Hollywood Mural Project, and Anniversary Park.
12. Key West
Key West is one of the most diverse spring break destinations in Florida. Now, you may ask, why is that so?
You want to party and make new friends? Come to Key West as it is the heart of all the parties in the entire Sunshine State.
It lies approximately 90 miles north of Cuba. Key West is a sweetheart to all tourists for its conch-style, pastel-hued houses, and luxurious lifestyle.
You can start with Mallory Square, where “Sunset Celebration” is one of the most popular things in Key West. Hundreds of tourists gather here every day two hours before sunset to feast their eyes on the best sunset ever. And to also see arts and crafts stalls, taste the local food, and also see street performers like clowns, jugglers, magicians, and local musicians.
There is Key West Garden Club, which is famous for its tropical garden. There are lush tropical plants such as bromeliads and orchids along with a water lily pond and even a waterfall. You can also click beautiful pictures in the garden’s white gazebos.
As for the fun activities, you can go snorkeling, fishing, dolphin watching, or backcountry exploring. You can even explore caves and bays around Key West by renting a boat.
You can also rent a bike and go on a tour by yourself in the streets of Key West. That way you will get to spend time with yourself as well.
There are tons of places in Key West that party really hard. Some parties even last until 5 am in the morning.
You can hit downtown Duval Street for its dance floors and sunset celebrations, or Bourbon Street Pubs for their vibrancy.
Things to do:
- Visit Mallory Square, Key West Garden Club
- Snorkeling, fishing, dolphin watching, or backcountry exploring.
- Go on bike tours
- Explore caves and bays around Key West
- Party at Bourbon Street Pubs and downtown Duval Street.
13. St. Petersburg
Probably the last spring break destination in your mind but St. Petersburg is actually one of the rare gems of Florida. It is a really mesmerizing spring break destination in Florida.
The palm trees, the turquoise waters, the salty air. Everything about St. Petersburg is about escaping the chaos of the city and embracing the tranquility of the sea.
Now, since it is spring break, you will want entertaining activities. You are in luck as St.Petersburg is the home for everything fun.
You have to go to St. Pete Pier, the newest recreation center in the city. You will discover spots that are really good for shopping, eating, and also for sports. There is also a Splash Pad, which kids can enjoy while adults are busy exploring other activities on the pier.
And of course, how can we forget hiking and camping? Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is an excellent place for hiking while The Terry Tomalin Campground offers unspoiled nature for camping.
Note: go hiking at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve at night and get to see a breathtaking sunrise.
If you want to tour the entire St.Petersburg in a short span of time, you can always go on a helicopter tour over St.Petersburg and Tampa Bay. Take a glimpse of the glistening waters of Tampa Bay and also other famous landmarks such as St. Pete’s Pier, John’s Pass, and Treasure Island.
For the ones that love crafts and creativity, they can explore the Chihuly Collection at More Arts Center. It features the amazing work of Dale Chihuly, who is the master of abstract and colorful glass constructions and pioneered the production methods of elaborate glass artworks during his career.
You will love every bit of time spent in St. Petersburg. After all, it is one of the most breathtaking spring break destinations in Florida.
Things to do:
- Visit St. Pete Pier
- Hike at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
- Camp at The Terry Tomalin Campground
- Explore the Chihuly Collection at More Arts Center
- Helicopter tour over St. Petersburg
14. Orlando
Orlando offers a myriad of activities and attractions in Florida. In fact, “fun” is synonymous with Orlando in Florida, and why will it not be? It is one of the most popular spots spring break destinations in Florida for its activities and attractions.
Let’s start with activities. You can go for go-karting and rollercoasters in Fun Spot America, get to see magic at The Great Magic Hall, explore mangrove tunnels across Everglades grasslands, paddleboard at Wekiva Island or Lake Killarney, or swim with dolphins with Florida Dolphin Tours.
Once you are done with these activities, take a back seat and go for a stroll around Lake Eola Park or pack a picnic at the Disney Wilderness Preserve.
And who can forget about shopping during spring break? You will find popular brands at an affordable price at the Orlando Premium Outlets. If you are not satisfied with Orlando Premium Outlets, you can go to The Florida Mall, which is the most popular mall in entire Florida.
Now, have your mind changed, or do you still need to be convinced to visit Orlando during spring break? Don’t visit Orlando during the spring break and consider it as your biggest mistake ever.
Things to do:
- Go-karting and rollercoasters in Fun Spot America
- Visit The Great Magic Hall
- Explore mangrove tunnels at Everglades grasslands
- Paddleboarding
- Swimming with dolphins
- Shop at The Florida Mall and Orlando Premium Outlets
15. Miami
Miami -the heart of Florida. Miami is one of the go-to spring break destinations in Florida. And it is not only for regular college students, even celebrities come to Miami for vacation.
Miami has some of the busiest and most bustling beaches in the United States. You can arrange a picnic with your friends and family or get a tan by lazily lying on the beach.
When it comes to activities, you can go jet-skiing, seaplane tours, ride a bike, snorkeling, windsurfing, parasailing, or the coolest one: flyboarding. These activities are the most popular activities in Miami.
You can also feast your eyes on the Miamis coastline by going on a helicopter tour.
There are activities even for kids. You can take your children to feed giraffes at Zoo Miami or spend some time with them at the Jungle Island eco-park.
Miami is also well-known for its diverse culture. You can visit Perez Art Museum, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Coral Castle, or Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park to learn more about the history of Miami.
For some really quirky pictures, you can visit the Museum of Illusions, where you will be tricked by 40 amazing 3D illusions.
There’s also a place for Stranger Things fans. You can visit Stranger Things: The Official Store and bring out your inner nerd. Buy souvenirs from the reconstructed Starcourt Mall or dodge a few Demogorgons.
There will be some really extravagant parties at LA Epic Club Crawls, which you have to go to. Every vacationer makes sure to go to these parties at least once and you will see why.
If you are looking for an affordable shopping place, look no further as you can go to Bayside Marketplace. Buy plenty of things from the stores and call it a day by finishing off a glass of beer from one of the beachfront bars.
Miami is the wildest spring break destination in Florida and it lives beyond the expectations of every vacationer.
Things to do:
- Jet-skiing, seaplane tours, riding a bike, snorkeling, windsurfing, parasailing, and flyboarding.
- Visit Zoo Miami, Perez Art Museum, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Coral Castle, and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
- Visit Stranger Things: The Official Store
- Party at LA Epic Club
- Shop at Bayside Marketplace
- Visit Museum of Illusions
Conclusion
Now, you will have to decide where in Florida you will be going for your spring break. The Sunshine State is home to some of the most breathtaking destinations and it is a good escape from the freezy weather of your hometown.
The beaches, the palm trees, and the waters call out your name. By now, some of you are probably booking your tickets to one of these spring break destinations in Florida.
Be assured as you are making the best decision in your life. Happy spring break!!
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