20 Best Spring Break Destinations on the East Coast for 2024 (2024)

Last Updated on August 14, 2023

Planning your Spring Break vacation and wondering where to go? Check out some of the best Spring Break destinations on the East Coast this year. From mountain towns to city breaks to beach getaways, discover incredible places to visit during Spring, no matter the type of vacation you’re looking for.

Whether you want to enjoy outdoor activities, spend time at the beach, or explore historic sights, you’ll find the perfect destination for you and your party. This list includes great family-friendly getaways, away from the crowds, as well as great places to visit with friends and party.

Keep on reading to discover the top Spring Break destinations on the East Coast!

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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

By Tori Mitchell from Tori Pines Travels

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the quintessential Spring Break destination for so many reasons. It’s warm here in March and April with many days in the mid-70s. But it’s also one of the most inexpensive places for Spring Break.

So bring the whole family or meet up with a group of friends and enjoy some time on the beach, major relaxation, and a ton of nightlife.

Start at the beach and walk Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk, passing the ferris wheel, arcade, shops, and tons of great restaurants. You can stay entertained here all week. But don’t! There are so many more unique things to do in Myrtle Beach that you have to check out instead.

During April, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans minor league baseball team starts up their season. They have many activities for kids, but for adults, the specials are even better, like Thirsty Thursday and $2 Taco Tuesdays.

The best thing to do in the area is to drive south to the Marsh Walk at Murrells Inlet. This beautiful spot is loaded with amazing restaurants, live music, and animals to watch in the marsh. Visiting with a group of friends? Reserve a Brew Boat and pedal your way around the marsh drinking, listening to music, and watching the sunset.

While you’re in the area, pop into Brookgreen Gardens, it’s especially gorgeous in the spring with millions of flowers in bloom.

To be in the heart of the Spring Break action, stay at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club which has awesome pools and is steps from the boardwalk. Or, try renting a condo in Surfside Beach, just out of reach of the millions of tourists. For a more luxurious option, book a room at the Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes, just north of the city.

Miami, Florida

By Megan from Megan Starr

A top spot for spring breakers in the USA is Miami. Renowned for its world-famous beaches and colorful flair, Miami greets visitors with warm temperatures (in the mid-70s in March and high-70s in April) and a lot to do!

Most people will initially head to South Beach, where you’ll find the famous art deco hotels as well as soft white sand beaches. If you’re looking for a fantastic place to eat, check out Under the Mango Tree, a healthy eatery that specializes in vegan dishes, smoothie bowls, and more.

One of the best things to do in Miami, however, is to head to the Bahamas! You can take a day trip to Bimini island where you will have a full day on the pristine beaches before coming back for a night of partying in Miami.

Wynwood is a famous place in Miami for those looking for art (the Wynwood Walls are a renowned spot), hip eateries, and some incredible coffee shops like Panther Coffee.

If you’re keen to explore the area, you can take a jet ski tour of Biscayne Bay, a day trip to the Everglades, or even head to Key West for a day. Miami is a place that has it all for Spring Break no matter what your travel style is!

A top place to stay in Miami is Esme Hotel on historic Española Way in Miami Beach. It has a rooftop pool and a lot of nightlife close by! You’ll also find many great vacation rentals all over town.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

By Megan from Virginia Travel Tips

The Outer Banks may not be your typical East Coast Spring Break destination, but it might surprise you (as long as you’re not planning to sunbathe and swim in the waters). With March highs in the upper-50s and April highs in the upper-60s, it is the perfect weather to go biking, hiking, and more.

Start your Outer Banks trip up in Corolla where you can head to the rugged beaches to see if the wild horses are hanging out near the water. You can not feed the horses as they are wild, but you can admire them from afar with the Atlantic in the backdrop.

Also, be sure to check out the South Virginia Dare Trail or Bay Drive (in Kill Devil Hills) where you can go walking or biking.

In Kitty Hawk, you can admire the Wright Brothers’ Memorial and, not too far away, is Jockey’s Ridge State Park. This North Carolina state park is home to the highest sand dune on the East Coast… and it is far too hot to visit in the summer months, making spring ideal!

If you’re looking for some history, check out Roanoke Island and learn more about the lost colony.

Alternatively, you can visit the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and walk through the trails or take a kayaking tour. This is the northernmost part of the US to see alligators in the wild! While they are not in large numbers there, this is the largest concentration of black bears on the East Coast, so you may get a glimpse of one when visiting.

For those looking for a delicious cup of coffee, Roots & Leaves Food Truck is located down in Avon and offers some of the best oat milk lattes you can get your hands on in the OBX.

The Outer Banks is more famous for its housing rentals and not its hotels and motels. These rentals will be far cheaper during the spring than in the summer months.

Charleston, South Carolina

By Yukti from Travel With Me 24 x 7

Charleston, SC, is the perfect destination for Spring Break due to its lovely weather, historic vibes, beaches, colorful houses, and green plantations. For all interests, there are many exciting things to do in Charleston, SC.

The first thing is to spot Wisteria blooming all around. The streets are filled with scents of jasmine during spring as Charleston downtown is full of historic houses loaded with shrubs, trees, and ornamental plants. And also, Charleston hosts the Annual Festival of Houses and Gardens, which is a beautiful event to attend there (from March 15, 2023,to April 16, 2023).

The most important thing to do is visit Rainbow row, Pineapple fountain, and The Battery for vibrant and historic vibes. For nature lovers, it would be great to visit Myrtle beach, Folly Beach, and Hilton Head nearby. The weather on beaches is perfect for water lovers.

Special concerts related to art, music, and brewery are held during spring, so it is an ideal time to enjoy all those events. Make sure to check the city’s event calendar.

You can also go on a day trip to visit some plantations like the Drayton House, the Magnolia plantations, and the Boone plantation and its stunning gardens.

The best place to stay in Charleston is in its Historic downtown. The Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District is an excellent place to stay, with a lovely breakfast and a good location. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals around town.

Tips:Charleston’s historic downtown is walkable, with colorful houses all around. Or you can take a free shuttle bus from Charleston Visitor Center to catch the vibes of the whole city.

Orlando, Florida

By Shannon from Adventuring With Shannon

Orlando is easily one of the best Spring Break destinations in the eastern USA because of its perfect weather and huge list of attractions. Orlando is famous for being home to Disney World and the Disney World Resort, but there are so many other things to enjoy on a Spring Break in Orlando as well.

Orlando is home to both Disney World and Universal Studios which means that you can enjoy the magic of Disney and the magic of Harry Potter World on the same trip! If theme parks aren’t your thing then you can take a day trip out to one of the nearby beaches. Because Orlando is centrally located in Florida, both Tampa and Cocoa Beach are easy day trips from the city.

If you are looking for a more active Spring Break, there are 19 natural springs near Orlando that are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and even diving! The natural springs are home to both crystal clear water and many different species of natural wildlife such as manatees and alligators.

If you are looking to stay somewhere in the heart of the Orlando attractions, check out the hotels located on International Drive. By staying on I-Drive, you will be located close to Universal Studios, Icon Park, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, and hundreds of restaurants.

If you are looking for a more upscale Disney-themed Spring Break, then consider staying at a resort in one of the many Disney hotels.

You can also rent a vacation home or condo in a quieter area or closer to the coast.

Brooklyn, New York

By Dee from Vanilla Papers

With its sprawling city parks, great foodie scene, and innovative museums, Brooklyn is a perfect artsy destination for a Spring Break getaway.

This eclectic borough has a thriving art community, fun food trucks, and lots of green parks with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

Head to Brooklyn Botanic Garden to unwind in the heart of the bustling city. This 52-acre garden boasts more than 14,000 taxa of plants, including stunning cherry trees that bloom in the spring. Don’t miss the Cherry Esplanade with its 200 vibrant cherry trees that are in full flower during Spring Break.

For lunch, stroll over to Dumbo – a tiny neighborhood at the base of the Brooklyn Bridge that’s packed with trendy microbreweries and flea markets. Head to Westville for great bargain comfort food and some tempting vegetarian and vegan options. Sweetgreen is another great choice for fresh and delicious salads and hearty warm bowls.

Finish with a visit to the Brooklyn Museum with its massive collection of daring American art inside a historic Beaux-Arts building. This eclectic museum has everything from Ancient Egyptian and Indigenous art to Van Goghs and mixed media works by rock singer Nick Cave.

And don’t miss Coney Island with its carnival rides and sandy beaches that are perfect for a city break. A visit to the island is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn. Munch on some cotton candy and take the kids to Luna Park for a great family springtime vacation.

Book a room at the Williamsburg Hotel for great views of the city. And don’t miss their rooftop pool along with three ultra-modern bars to choose from. Alternatively, book a condo in the heart of town.

Long Island, New York

By Laura from Wine Travelista

If you’re looking for a Spring Break destination that’s not your typical beach vacation, check out Long Island. You may know it as the second home of New York City’s elite, but there’s so much more to it. Spring is a great time to visit before the summer crowds hit.

If you’re a wine lover, head to the North Fork. Here you’ll find nearly 50 wineries producing everything from Merlot to Pinot Noir to Chardonnay. For the best wines and unique tasting experiences, visit Lenz Winery, McCall Wines, Bedell Cellars, and Castello di Borghese. And if you’re a fan of bubbly, don’t miss Sparkling Pointe.

On the South Fork, head out to Montauk to see the oldest lighthouse in New York State. Climb up to the top for panoramic views. Then, walk the trails in Camp Hero State Park for more spectacular ocean vistas.

Any guide to Long Island wouldn’t be complete without mentioning The Hamptons. For window shopping and celebrity spotting, you can spend an afternoon strolling the downtown areas of East Hampton or Southampton. If you’re an art lover, check out Guild Hall and Parrish Art Museum.

The seaside town of Greenport is a great home base on Long Island with plenty of restaurant options and vacation rentals. For a hotel stay, you can’t go wrong with The Menhaden, a cozy boutique hotel with North Fork’s only roof deck.

St. Augustine, Florida

By Candice from CS Ginger

St. Augustine is a beautiful city located in northeastern Florida, right on the coast. The city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture as well as its sandy beaches and stunning views. Visitors can explore the old city, visit the many museums and art galleries, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

One of the best things to do in St. Augustine is to tour Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The fort was built by the Spanish in the 1600s and is one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the country. Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds, learn about its history, and take in the stunning views from its ramparts.

Another fun thing to do is visit Anastasia State Park. The park is located just a short drive from downtown St. Augustine and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the Florida coastline. The park has miles of hiking and biking trails, a beach, and a nature center. This is one of the best family beaches in Florida.

There are also plenty of great places to stay, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts to vacation homes. One of the best places to stay in St. Augustine is the Renaissance St. Augustine Resort, which offers stunning views of the city and its iconic Bridge of Lions. If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, the Hampton Inn & Suites St. Augustine Historic District is a great option.

So whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the city’s history, or just enjoy some great food and shopping, St. Augustine is the perfect Spring Break destination for you.

Savannah, Georgia

Savanah is the perfect blend of entertainment, cultural activities, historic sights, and outdoor activities, making it one of the best Spring Break destinations on the East Coast. Whether you want to party with your friend or spend some quality time with your family, you’ll find plenty of things to do for everyone.

First, start by taking a walking tour of the historic district to easily see all of the top sights and learn more about the city’s past. If walking is not your thing, take a hop-on hop-off trolley tour instead. You’ll find all sorts of tours available, from regular ones to spooky ones to tours for foodies.

Some of the best places to visit in Savannah include Forsyth Park, the city market, the Owens-Thomas House, the Telfair Museum, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist – among many others.

Another fun thing to do is to take a riverboat cruise, many feature food and entertainment, and are a nice way to see the sights located along the river.

If you want to spend some time at the beach, head to Tybee island for the day. Water temperature averages 66°F in April but can sometimes climb as high as 73°F.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy spending some time hiking and bird-watching at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. For a blend of nature and history, head to Fort McAllister State Park where you can hike and visit one of the best-preserved confederacy forts.

Savannah is filled with stunning inns and bed and breakfasts, comfortable chain hotels, and vacation rentals, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for you and your party. The Catherine Ward House Inn and the Drayton Hotel are two of the best-rated accommodation options in Savannah.

Augusta, Georgia

Located on the Georgia/South Carolina border, Augusta is an awesome Spring Break destination if you are looking for a blend of outdoor activities and historic sights.

Rent a kayak to explore the waterways along theSerene 18 paddle trail or at theAugusta Canal National Historic Area Headgates, ride bikes along theAugustaRiverwalk, and go for a hike throughPhinizy Swamp Nature Park.

Tour theAugusta Canal National Heritage Areamuseum to learn more about life in 1845 and then ride one of theAugusta Canal Petersburg boats. You’ll see Civil War powder works, 1880-era mills, and abundant wildlife, on weekends you might also go on a music cruise, sunset tour, or Civil War history tour.

You can also stop by theBoyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson, the Meadow Garden, and the Historic Farm House of George Walton.

If you like museums, visit theAugusta Museum of History to learn more about the city’s history, from the native Americans to the present days. You can also stop by the Morris Museum of Art or the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art.

When it comes to places to stay, if you don’t mind not staying downtown, you’ll find a couple of nice and really affordable options, like the Augusta Best Inn. For something with charm and character and well located, check out the Olde Town Inn. Otherwise, you’ll find plenty of beautiful vacation homes available around town.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is one of the best Spring Break destinations on the East Coast, especially for people who want to spend time outdoors. Spring is an ideal time to visit as the temperatures are just right and you have a plethora of options when it comes to outdoor activities.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, stop along the way for short hikes and don’t miss the many overlooks with gorgeous views of the mountains. You can also head to the Great Smokey Mountains National Park where you can hike surrounded by thousands of blooming wildflowers.

You’ll find hundreds of miles of hiking trails around Asheville, from easy strolls to arduous day hikes. You can hike at Mt. Mitchell State Park to the highest mountain peak in the Eastern US.

There are plenty of other outdoor activities to be had this time of the year, you can go mountain biking, kayaking, white water rafting, ziplining, swimming, stand-up paddling…

In town, explore Asheville’s walkable downtown area where you’ll find independent shops, craft breweries, and some of the best dining options in the southeast. Don’t miss the street performances, goon a hop-on-hop-offtrolley tour, and take a stroll through the Urban Trail.

Another must-see in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate and its gardens. Tour this iconic mansion, the largest privately owned house in the United States, from the 19th century, then stroll around Biltmore Village.

If looking for a place to stay, theHotel Indigo Asheville Downtown, in the heart of the River Arts District, is a good option. If you don’t want to stay in the city, but still be near everything, consider the well-ratedNorth Lodge on Oakland Bed and Breakfastor theReynolds Mansion.

You can alsobook a vacation rental, from condos in the downtown area to cottages offering stunning views of the mountains.

Williamsburg, Virginia

History buffs will love visiting the city of Williamsburg, one of the best Spring Break destinations on the East Coast to learn more about America’s past. Part of theHistoric Triangle Area, Williamsburg is ideal to discover early US history and its colonial past. You can even plan a spring road trip and visit Jamestown and Yorktown as well.

The main draw is Colonial Williamsburg, an open-air museum where you can learn about life in the 18th century and partake in daily activities from the past, with crafts demonstrations and actors dressed in traditional clothing. It’s the largest living history museum in the US and everyone stays in character 24/7.

Visit nearbyHistoricJamestowne, where the original colony was, and don’t miss the museum onVirginian and Native American culture, the fort, the recreatedPowhatan Indian Village, and the ships’ replicas.

Visit the battlefield where the British surrendered inYorktown and the museum with itsinteractive exhibits, films, and outdoor living history.

If you are visiting with kids, spend some time atBusch Gardens Williamsburg, a theme park with many fun activities for children.

If you like outdoor activities, spring is the perfect time to visit, you’ll find many hiking and biking trails nearby as well as places for water activities. You can bike the 52-mile path connecting Jamestown to Richmond, spend some time at the beach at Yorktown or Jamestown, or hike at one of the many nearby parks.

There are plenty of places to stay in Williamsburg for all budgets. The historic Wedmore Place is a great place to stay with on-site dining, a full-service spa, and a pool.

If you’re traveling with kids, the Vacation Village at Williamsburgfeatures indoor and outdoor pools, a playground, a big garden, and spacious rooms. Booking a vacation rental can also be a good option.

Damascus, Virginia

Located along the Appalachian Trail, Damascus is a small town in Virginia’s high country, surrounded by stunning scenery. It’s an ideal Spring Break destination if you like the outdoors. The town is known as Trail Town USA, as seven well-known trails pass by Damascus, making it an ideal vacation spot for hiking and biking.

Bike along the 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, passing through dense forests, open meadows, and streams. Hike part of the Appalachian Trail or kayak at Whitetop Laurel Creek. You’ll find plenty of outdoor recreation options around town.

For something more relaxed, drive the 60-mile Mount Rogers Scenic Byway.

In town, shop at the many handicraft and antique stores before stopping by the Damascus Brewery for lunch and a cold beer.

You won’t find many hotels in town, so consider booking a vacation rental. Otherwise, you can book a room at the cozy Millsap-Baker Estate set in a historic house.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Located close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a great Spring Break destination for outdoor lovers. Spring is the best time to visit as temperatures are still moderate and everything is blooming everywhere.

Gatlinburg is an awesome vacation spot for families as you’ll find many amusem*nt parks there and kid-friendly museums and attractions. Don’t miss Dollywood and Anakeesta!

There’s also plenty of outdoor fun to be had at any age. During spring you can go hiking, biking, ziplining, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, but also plan a road trip for something more relaxing.

In town, don’t miss the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park to reach stunning views over the mountains. For something quite unique, tour the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum, then head to Ole Smoky Moonshine where you can take a tour and sample some rustic corn whiskey.

When it comes to places to stay, you’ll find many cabins and cottages available for rent. If you’d rather stay at a hotel, check out the Greystone Lodge on the River with free breakfast, a great location, a pool, and family rooms.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

If you are looking to spend your Spring Break at a peaceful beach destination, then Rehoboth Beach in Delaware is a great option. Most businesses will be open and it won’t attract large crowds like other popular Spring Break beach destinations.

Spend some time strolling on the beach, go for a swim if you’re brave enough, enjoy the food scene, and take day trips to explore the coast.

You can take a ferry ride over to Cape May for a day trip. Make sure to book ahead and leave early as the ferries don’t run as late as during summer.

You’ll also find a couple of nice trails to go hiking or biking. Check out the Thompson Island Trailhead, the Junction & Breakwater Trailhead, and Burton Island Trailhead. You can also spend some time exploring the Delaware Seashore State Park where you can hike and kayak.

If you want to stay right by the beach, book a room at the beachfront Boardwalk Plaza Hotel with a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness center, and a bar. You can also check out the vacation rentals, you’ll find great deals this time of year.

Woodstock, Vermont

Nestled in the heart of Vermont, surrounded by peaceful scenery, Woodstock makes for a convenient Spring Break destination close to Boston and New York. Spend some time outdoors, stroll through the historic district, and take the time to relax.

In town, take the time to visit the historic district spread across Central Street and Elm Street, stop by some of the cute stores, and gaze at the grand Georgian, Federal Style, and Greek Revival houses.

If you like cheese, head to Quechee Gorge Village to sample some local cheese or visit Sugarbush Farm for some maple syrup tasting. Another thing Vermont is known for is beer, you can head to theLong Trail Brewery to sample some local brews.

If you want to go hiking, head to Quechee State Park, hike to the top of Mount Tom, or visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

The Woodstock Inn & Resort is one of the places to stay in town, close to the historic district and with great amenities. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals, either in town, or a bit farther out if you want something more secluded, surrounded by nature.

Portland, Maine

Portland will make a perfect off-beat Spring Break destination for people who want to avoid the crowds and prefer milder temperatures. In the spring, temperatures average between 45 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for hiking and biking. Always wear layers, so you’re ready for any temperature changes.

You can drive along the coast, stopping along the way to visit a few lighthouses (don’t miss the famous Portland Head Light and Bug Light) and take in the scenery.

Spring is also a good time to take a boat cruise, the Minkie whales, Atlantic porpoises, harbor seals, and native seabirds are often spotted this time of year. You can also take a day trip to some of the neighboring islands.

Walk around town stopping by art galleries and sampling some local food, you can also take a guided walking tour to learn more about Portland’s history. There’s abeautiful walking trail along the harbor’s edge, leading to the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad from where you can ride a train along the stunning Casco Bay.

Foodies will love going on a food tour, you can even go on a donut food tour if you have a sweet tooth! Art lovers can tour the Portland Museum of Art featuring American, European, and contemporary art pieces as well as pieces from local artists.

If you like hiking and biking, you’ll find plenty of trails that start from Portland or nearby. Popular trails include the ones at Fore River Sanctuary, Presumpscot River Preserve, and Robinson Woods Preserve. If you want to try to spot wildlife, head to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park and Mackworth Island State Park.

You’ll find plenty of charming inns and bed and breakfasts around town as well as a couple of chain hotels. The Canopy By Hilton Portland Waterfront is well-rated and conveniently located with some rooms offering waterfront views. For something more intimate, the West End Inn is a great option, especially for couples.

Alternatively, you can rent a vacation home either in town or a bit further out on the coast for something more secluded.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

Spring is a gorgeous time to visit Plymouth and you’ll avoid the summer crowds. It’s ideal if you don’t mind the mild weather and not being able to enjoy the beaches fully. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy as well as many historic sights you can visit.

The highlight of a trip to Plymouth is touring the Plimoth Plantation and the many historic buildings and museums around town. The Plimoth Plantationis a replica of the original historic settlement depicting the 17th-century Plymouth Colony.

Jabez Howland House, built in 1667, is also worth seeing, tours are only available during summer, but you can see the house from outside. You can also check out the Jenney Museum and see about the pilgrim-focused tour they offer. The Mayflower Society House – a historic 18th-century home is also a must-visit, it’s now closed for renovation (but might be open by Spring Break). Their Colonial Revival Garden is worth a stroll as well.

Don’t miss the iconic National Monument to the Forefathers and the Pilgrim Hall Museum (opens on April 1ft). There are plenty of other historic houses and buildings worth checking out around town, it’s a good idea to take a guided tour to discover all about them.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy taking a cruise to explore the coast from the ocean and maybe spot some wildlife. For hiking trails, head to Myles Standish State Forest, Massasoit State Park, Ellisville Harbor State Park, or stroll around Brewster Gardens. If the weather is nice, you can also visit some of the beaches in the area.

If you want to treat yourself, book a room in the manor house at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa – Plymouth. If you want to stay near the beach and city center, it’s recommended to book a vacation rental.

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