The 5 Most Awesome, Tropical, Panda-tastic Spring Break Destinations Hannah Winsten March 5, 2015 Beach Vacations, Interests Spring break is right around the corner, folks. And you know what that means! It’s time to ditch your winter coat, grab that bathing suit you haven’t looked at in almost a year, and go on vacation. Take a break! It’s springtime—or at least, almost— and schools are collectively closing. Take a week, set aside your responsibilities, and sink your toes into the sand. Where should you jet off to this year? We’ll make this easy for you. Here are five of the most beautiful, relaxing, stress-free places to spend your spring break. You’re welcome. 1.) Cancún – Mexico Svetlana Bogomolova/Shutterstuck We’ll bet you’ve already heard of this spot on the Southeastern coast of Mexico—it’s basically the quintessential spring break destination. If you want to party hard without going broke, this is the place to go. You can enjoy beachside perfection for around $600 per person at all-inclusive resorts in Cancún, which gives it some serious points in our book. If this isn’t the definition of luxury for less, we don’t know what is. And! Cancún is not just a swarm of broke college students dancing late into the night. (Although that is, admittedly, a part of its charm.) When you’re done jetskiing and parasailing, catch an acrobatic-dance show at Coco Bongo Cancún, or take a daytrip over to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Who knew Cancún was so cool? 2.) San Diego, California Dancestrokes/Shutterstock California’s second largest city, it’s got warm weather, plenty of sunshine, and gorgeous beaches. The foundational cornerstones of a successful spring break are all intact. But it doesn’t stop there! In addition to the surfing, tanning, and seaside strolling, you can also check out one of the nation’s most beloved zoos. You’ll finally be able to see those legendary pandas in real life. When you’ve had your fill of furry adorableness, you can head out on the town for a night in the city. San Diego’s got a vibrant nightlife and an epic food scene, thanks in large part to its proximity to neighboring Mexico. Whether you’re visiting on your own or with the family, San Diego’s sure to please everyone. 3.) Miami, Florida PHOTOSVIT/Shutterstock Traveling with kids? Miami will be a hit. Childfree and looking to party? Miami’s where you want to go. Architecture nerd, art lover, shopaholic? You’ll love Miami. Seriously, this city on the Southern tip of Florida—also known as the American Riviera—has got it all. Head to North Miami Beach if you’re traveling with the family. This strip of sand is more kid-friendly, and the hotels and restaurants surrounding it are more affordable. Plus, the best Art Deco architecture in town is up here, so ogle away. If you’re not toting a mess of kids along with you, hang out at South Beach. This is a younger, more energetic crowd, and when the sun sets, it turns into a chic spot for nightlife. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can make an appearance at the art galleries or shop in the high-end stores. But if you’re just looking for a good time, soak up the sun during the day and dance your little heart out after sundown. 4.) Puerto Vallarta – Mexico Barna Tanko/Shutterstock Another Mexican sweet spot, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect spring break getaway for those of you looking for some extra culture in your vacation. Of course, this coastal retreat is filled to the brim with flawless beaches, gorgeous scenery, delicious restaurants, and luxury resorts. But what really sets Puerto Vallarta apart is its art scene. The city’s filled with incredible sand sculptures, mosaics, and gorgeous ceramic work. Make sure to explore the local art galleries, or—if you’re in town on a Wednesday night—take an Old Town Art Walk. Bonus: Puerto Vallarta has a reputation for being the most LGBT-friendly vacation spot in Mexico. Hit El Centro for a night on the town, then check into one of the adorable gay-friendly B&B’s. 5.) Denver, Colorado bikeriderlondon/Shutterstock Apparently, some folks like to go skiing on their spring vacations? You winter-loving people are a mystery to me, but nevertheless, I tracked down the best place to get your snow on while bringing in the spring. If it’s a winter wonderland you seek, pop over to Denver, Colorado. Bundle up at Winter Park for some good, old-fashioned, ski resort fun, complete with a tubing hill and restaurant options galore. If it’s a snow-laden party you seek, make your way to Aspen for Snowmass, a two-week music festival and ski/snowboarding competition. You’ll be chilly, but you’ll have a blast. Where are you spending spring break this year? Blow it up in the comments!