TOP 10 EPIC COLLEGE SPRING BREAK CRUISE DESTINATIONS
Published on February 1, 2020
Cruise to some of the most popular spring break destinations with your whole gang. From the Bahamas to Ibiza, there are once-in-a-lifetime epic spring break experiences waiting for you at each of these 10 amazing Spring Break destinations. Whether you and your friends are looking for the ultimate nightlife experience or a chilled-out beach vacation, you really can't go wrong with one of these spots.
1. Nassau, Bahamas
Escaping to the Caribbean is a wonderful way to spend your spring break. The Bahamas is made up of more than 700 islands, so you're sure to find something here for every member of your spring break crew. Cruise from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, you can get the party started early — just don't forget to save some energy for the main event.
The Bahamas are beautiful any time of year but in March, Nassau is filled with fellow spring breakers ready to party. There are a lot of different things to experience while you're here. Some of the most epic parties are found on moonlight party cruises and you'll find plenty of clubs and beach parties right in the city. If you're looking to get out on the water during the day, a snorkel excursion is one of the many must-have experiences the Bahamas has to offer. For the experience of a lifetime, consider booking a day trip to visit the swimming pigs, who live in the Exuma Cays.
2. Cancun, Mexico
Mexico tops the list of the ultimate college spring break party destination and for good reason. If you're looking to fiesta like there's no manana, Cancun is for you. Here you'll find epic pool parties, beach parties and nightlife. Coco Bongo is one of the most popular places in Cancun to spend your nights. Some describe it as where Las Vegas meets Cirque du Soleil. There are live bands, confetti cannons, acrobats and dance performances that last until 2 am.
Aside from that, Cancun offers plenty of activities and excursions that will fill your days and cure your hangover. Be sure to visit the cenotes, or natural sinkholes. Ik Kil Cenote is one of the most picturesque in Mexico. Pro tip: When you pay a visit to the Mayan ruins called Chichen Itza, many tours offer an excursion to Ik Il Cenote as an add-on.
3. Negril, Jamaica
Many parts of Jamaica have nonstop parties through the area's peak season but Negril comes particularly alive during college spring break.
No visit to Negril is complete without a visit to Seven Mile Beach, where you can sip on rum punch and float in warm waters. If you stay until sundown, you'll find the rum punch is still flowing and is now joined by the beat of live reggae bands and steel drum performances. Other places to pay a visit to are Rick's Café for cliff-diving, snorkeling in Pirates' Cave, taking a pontoon boat tour of Black River or taking a water taxi to Floyd's Pelican bar, a tiny bar made out of driftwood that stands on a sandbar.
Once you've got your adventure fix, the nightlife is one-of-a-kind. Some Negril musts for the ultimate college spring break are experiencing the music scene at Risky Business, enjoying live music at Alfred's Ocean Palace or unleashing your inner animal at The Jungle Nightclub.
4. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has a wide range of experiences and activities you can enjoy, all without leaving the U.S. From sandy beaches to rainforest excursions to wild nightlife, there is something for everyone. The lively atmosphere and vibrant, friendly locals make it a special spring break destination.
During the day, walk around the cobblestone streets, which are lined with colorful buildings, and look up at the fortified city walls. You'll feel like you're in the 16th century when you explore places like the forts Castillo San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro, San Jose Church or the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, where the remains of the explorer Ponce de Leon currently reside.
There are also plenty of day trips to try in San Juan. One stop you should add is El Yunque Rainforest, as it is the only tropical rainforest that is part of the United States National Forest Service. Venture out on those turquoise waters for a snorkeling day trip to one of the surrounding islands and, before you head out for the evening, be sure to pay a visit to the bioluminescent bay, Mosquito Bay. It's located in Vieques Bay and was called the brightest bay in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records.
When you're ready to let loose, San Juan has plenty of nightlife. Club Kronos, La Factoria and Funky Buddha are a few of the spots you simply can't miss.
5. Miami, Florida
The hub for so many cruises, Miami, is also one of the most popular college spring break destinations. Outside of Las Vegas, Miami might have some of the wildest nightlife in the country. Just looking to relax? It's perfect for that, too — choose among several beautiful beaches to lounge on, like Surfside Beach or Haulover Beach.
By day, shop along the iconic Lincoln Road and pay a visit to Wynwood, the area known for its collection of giant murals and hipster coffee shops. Walk along Ocean Drive, which is lined with art deco buildings, classic cars and shops. Or you can rent a bike and coast through the Miami Beach Boardwalk.
As the sun starts to set, the party begins. The Rooftop Bar at 1 Hotel in South Beach is the place to be. With frosé on tap and endless ocean views, you'll want to begin your night here. Afterward, head to Nikki Beach, named "The Sexiest Place on Earth" by The London Observer. E11EVEN is the 24/7/365 party palace and is not to be missed. You'll spot dancers and ballerinas that are worthy of being in the Cirque du Soleil, a dance floor that's spread across two floors, and a DJ booth spinning out the hottest tracks by some of the world's most popular DJs.
6. Costa Rica
Costa Rica has an area of about 20,000 square miles and a chain of volcanoes that runs the entire length of the country. The popular destination is divided into seven provinces, each unique in its own way. One of the best spots for spring breakers? Guanacaste. Located on the "Gold Coast," it's home to lovely beaches and some of the best surfing and sportfishing around.
As you can imagine, there are countless experiences to be had both on and off the water. Surfing, kayaking, kite surfing, whitewater rafting, diving and snorkeling are some of the most popular water experiences. And back on land, well, the world is your oyster. There's horseback riding, zip-lining, hiking, waterfall exploring, rock climbing, cycling, golf and hot air ballooning over locations that will take your breath away. If you're looking for nightlife, Tamarindo, a popular beach town in Guanacaste, is the central hub for the province.
7. Ibiza
While you will have no problem partying all day and night in Ibiza, if that's what you're looking for, don't forget that it's also a natural paradise waiting to be explored. Dalt Vila, located in Ibiza Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its old, narrow streets and neighborhoods are great for walking through during the day. There are plenty of shops, hidden courtyards and local architecture waiting to be discovered.
To get a local feel, dine at Cala Mastella (El Bigotes) and try bullit de peix, a mix of fish, potatoes and rice. Enjoy sunset at the oceanfront Café del Mar with a cocktail in hand or at Es Vedra, where you can get the best views from Torre de Savinar or Sa Pedra. If you're looking to get out on the water, Cala Comte, Cala Xarraca and Cala Boix are all good spots for snorkeling. And while Ibiza is known for its beaches, hiking Sa Talaia, the highest point on Ibiza, provides beautiful views.
For the spring breakers that like to party, well, you've come to the right place. In Ibiza, the party never ends. By day, you can take advantage of a boat, beach or pool party and then head to some of the island's famous clubs at night. Amnesia is one of the best party spots on the island and can host 5,000 people. Pacha and Privilege are also popular for those looking for a night to remember.
8. Malta
Malta, a top contender for the ultimate college spring break, has been influenced by many cultures over the centuries. It's brimming with life and with 300 days that feel like summer a year, you can bank on paradise.
A quick ferry ride to Comino island will take you to arguably the most beautiful location in Malta: the Blue Lagoon. Famous for its clear water, this is a very popular spot amongst tourists and locals so aim to catch the earliest ferry. There's plenty of food and drink available, including pineapples filled with your cocktail of choice.
Mellieħa Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa and Golden Bay are also some popular seaside escapes in Malta. At the tip of Malta, overlooking Gozo, you will find the smaller, more intimate beaches. Paradise Bay and Armier are where the locals hang and it is a little less touristy. Spend the day wandering the winding streets and alleys of Malta's capital city, Valetta, and don't forget to visit the Popeye Village, where the 1980 movie was filmed.
In true European fashion, the nightlife in Malta is exceptional. An area known as Paceville is considered the nightlife capital. Here you'll find people flooding the streets until all hours of the night. There are endless clubs, beach and rooftop bars, pubs, and casinos to choose from. Havana 808 and the Sky Club are among the favorites.
9. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Located on the Pacific coast of the country, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico's ultimate college spring break destinations. Here, you'll find authentic Mexican culture, cuisine and unforgettable nightlife.
The Centro neighborhood, the downtown area, is home to bars, restaurants and nightclubs and the well-known oceanfront boardwalk, Malecon. Next to Centro is Olas Altas, the Old Town area. This neighborhood is known for its delicious food and live music. The Pier and Los Muertos Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Old Town, can't be missed.
If you're looking for a more low-key vacation, popular beaches include Conchas Chinas, Las Gemelas and Punta Negra. Some beach resorts offer day passes for purchase too. Looking for adventure? Take a guided tour and go snorkeling, whale watching, zip-lining or off-roading. If you want to head out for the night, two of the most popular Puerto Vallarta clubs are Strana and Mandala Puerto Vallarta.
10. Aruba
Just 15 miles from Venezuela, Aruba awaits. The island is 20 miles long and just six miles wide and with the annual temperature coming in at a mild 82 degrees, you could say it's summer year-round here. Even more conveniently, most places accept U.S. dollars, so you don't have to worry about exchanging money.
Though this island is small, there is so much to do here. Spending the day (or even just a morning) at the Renaissance Hotel's Private Island is a must. Featuring bright pink flamingos and a stunning white beach, this day trip is worth the splurge. Hop on a UTV tour to see all of the historic spots like the Natural Pool, Alto Vista Chapel and Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. Arikok National Park covers almost 20% of the island and contains several unique geologic formations like a natural bridge, the Fontein Cave, and Quadirikiri Cave along with several secluded beaches.
With many international influences, the nightclubs in Aruba are well-known for their music and dancing. You'll find a favorite whether you prefer salsa, nae nae, waltz, merengue, scant or the Carlton. Bars can also be found around nearly every corner so there are many opportunities to try out different cocktails. The real fun doesn't start until midnight, so plan accordingly.
