Spring Travel Guide: 6 Beach Destinations That Are Better Without the Crowds

Whether you missed the traditional spring break window or just prefer fewer screaming college students crowding the beach, let’s be clear: Spring travel is better without the chaos. Late spring getaways are the secret sweet spot—ideal weather, quieter resorts, and zero lines at the swim-up bar. Ready to swap that puffer for a piña colada? We rounded up the best warm-weather escapes to kickstart your sunny season (minus the frat parties). Whether you're chasing total relaxation, craving a little adventure, or dipping your toes in both, these destinations deliver. Keep reading for where to stay, must-do activities, and all the details you need to travel smarter, not harder.

San Juan, Puerto Rico: Boho Luxury Meets White-Sand Beaches

• Why go: No passport required, private islands, and world-class dining
• Best for: Couples, friend groups, and wellness retreats
• Top spots to stay:
  • Luxury: Condado Vanderbilt
  • Mid-range: Marriott
• Must-do activity: Surfing

Condado Vanderbilt

Forget the crowded, tequila-soaked spring breaks of your college years—Condado Vanderbilt is an upgrade in every sense. Perched right on the ocean, this resort offers views worth waking up for, plush 300-thread-count linens, and a spa-style soaking tub that feels indulgent in the best way. Butler service is the cherry on top, making sure your entire itinerary is tailored exactly to your liking.

Marriott San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Want a little bit of everything? At San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, you can soak up history in charming Old San Juan, lounge poolside under the sun, or hit the tables in the hotel’s lively casino. Surrounded by beaches, mountains, and a bustling downtown, this spot truly covers all bases. Still not relaxed enough? Book a treatment at their wellness center and call it a day. 

Want even more insider tips? Check out our Puerto Rico travel guide.

Miami, Florida: Sun, Style, and Nonstop Energy

• Why go: Perfect mix of beach relaxation, nightlife, and culture
• Best for: Partygoers, foodies, and sun-seekers
• Top spots to stay:
  • Luxury: The Setai Miami Beach (chic and exclusive)
  • Mid-range: Freehand Miami (stylish yet affordable)
• Must-do activities: South Beach lounging, Little Havana food tour, rooftop cocktails at The Goodtime Hotel

The Setai Miami 

Think Zen, but make it Miami-chic. The Setai is seriously glam—but not stuffy glam, like actually relaxing glam. It's the little things: three infinity pools (because one is never enough), a courtyard that’s Instagram gold at sunset, and a spa that’s worth every cent. Honestly, you’ll want to move in.

Freehand Miami

This place has personality—like bunk-beds-and-a-disco-ball-by-the-pool personality. It’s kitschy, it’s quirky, and it’s exactly where you go when you want a great cocktail without refinancing your house. Perfect for a fun getaway with friends that won’t drain your wallet.

For even more recommendations, check out our travel guide to Miami. 

Aruba: The Caribbean's Hidden Gem

• Why go: Year-round sunshine, no rain, stunning beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere
• Best for: Families, couples, and solo travelers
• Top spots to stay:
  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Aruba (high-end relaxation)
  • Mid-range: Divi Aruba All Inclusive (affordable yet stunning beachfront property)
• Must-do activities: Visit Baby Beach, snorkel on The Jolly Pirate, sunset cocktails at MooMba Beach Bar

The Ritz-Carlton Aruba

Luxury literally spills out from every balcony at this place. All 55 suites have ocean views so good they belong in a travel magazine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling are right outside your door, but if you're not the adventuring type, head straight to the 13-room spa (yes, thirteen). And just in case, there’s a casino on-site too, because who doesn't want a little excitement on vacation?

Divi Aruba All Inclusive

Want an easy-breezy, everything-handled vacation? Done. Roll out of bed into a pool, head to the beach, or check out a donkey sanctuary—yes, donkey sanctuary. Butterfly farms and ostrich farms keep the kiddos busy, while five different pools (and plenty of cocktails) keep the adults sane. Weddings and honeymoons are also covered, because romance is not dead.

The Bahamas: Crystal Waters and Island Adventures

• Why go: A tropical paradise just a short flight from the U.S.
• Best for: Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, couples
• Top spots to stay:
  • Luxury: Rosewood Baha Mar (secluded and ultra-luxe)
  • Mid-range: Meliá Nassau Beach (all-inclusive with great beach access)
• Must-do activities: Swim with pigs in Exuma, relax at Pink Sands Beach, go scuba diving in the Blue Hole

Rosewood Baha Mar

This is luxury, but without all the chaos and crowds that usually come with it. Hidden away on a pristine beach in Nassau, this hotel offers tequila tastings, afternoon tea, margarita-making classes—basically everything you never knew you needed. Kids are entertained at the Baha Bay Water Park or through the Rosewood Explorers program, so you can truly unwind without a care in the world. 

Meliá Nassau Beach

Seven sprawling acres of prime beachfront property means you'll never have to compete for a lounge chair again. With almost 700 rooms, three pools featuring waterfalls, and a swim-up bar for cocktails, this place understands vacation mode. Feeling adventurous? Grab the complimentary snorkeling gear, a kayak, or even a sailboat and make the most of your time in paradise.

Costa Rica: Jungle Meets Beach Bliss

• Why go: A mix of eco-tourism, adventure, and beautiful beaches
• Best for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, surfers
• Top spots to stay:
  • Luxury: Four Seasons Costa Rica (lush jungle with ocean views)
  • Mid-range: Selina Tamarindo (hostel-meets-boutique hotel for budget travelers)
• Must-do activities: Zip-line through the rainforest, visit Arenal Volcano, surf in Tamarindo

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: Stunning Views and Luxe Resorts

• Why go: Dramatic coastlines, top-tier resorts, and fun nightlife
• Best for: Luxury travelers, bachelorette parties, golfers
• Top spots to stay:
  • Luxury: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos (ocean views, top-rated spa)
  • Mid-range: Hotel El Ganzo (boutique, artsy, and beachfront)
• Must-do activities: Boat tour to El Arco, snorkel at Santa Maria Bay, dine at Flora Farms

Waldorf Asotria Los Cabos

The Waldorf Astoria is the kind of place that makes you forget you have a return flight. Perfectly nestled between the beach and desert—yes, literally the best of both worlds—the resort hits all the right notes, from authentic Mexican cuisine to wellness treatments inspired by Baja’s lunar cycles. Don't miss the spa: it’s one of those rare spots where you’ll actually leave feeling like a new person.

Hotel El Ganzo

El Ganzo isn’t just a hotel; it’s a creative oasis by the ocean. Every room is a mini art exhibit with spectacular ocean views, so no fighting over who got the good room—because they're all good. Sustainability meets creativity here, with a full-on recording studio that musicians from around the globe seek out. If you've ever wanted to channel your inner rock star, this is your moment.

Final Thoughts: Set Your OOO Now

Still haven't booked your trip? It’s beyond time. Whether you're looking to lounge in a beachfront cabana or dive head-first into local culture (or preferably both), these warm-weather spots are exactly what your OOO was made for. Want even more travel inspiration? Dive into Bethenny’s expert travel tips and check out her must-have travel essentials for making your next getaway truly unforgettable.

FAQ

• What is the best warm-weather destination for spring break?
  • Depends on what your scene is. If you’re craving luxe vibes and Instagram-worthy hotels, Cabo or Tulum have your name on them. Want adventure and rainforest drama? Costa Rica is calling. Need nightlife and amazing food? Miami never lets anyone down.
• What are the best budget-friendly tropical destinations?
  • Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic are your go-to spots. Think chic boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts that don’t feel like college spring break, and beautiful beaches—without draining your savings.
• How far in advance should I book a spring break trip?
  • Two to three months is your sweet spot for good deals. But if you’re spontaneous (or procrastinated), don’t panic. Sometimes last-minute planning scores the best steals.
• What should I pack for a spring break beach vacation?
  • Swimsuits (obviously), something cute and easy for dinner, SPF, sandals you can actually walk in, sunglasses you won’t lose immediately, and a good read for when your phone inevitably overheats.
• What’s the best destination for a couples’ getaway?
  • Aruba, Tulum, and the Bahamas. All romantic, scenic, and chill enough to actually relax. (Also, they're perfect if you need to reignite the spark without kids or chaos.)