Everyone should visit California at least once in their lifetime. The scenery, the nightlife, the beach parties, and the occasional run-ins with celebrities are well worth the trip.
If you’re thinking of going to the Golden State during your spring break, check out some of the best places to party hard with your college friends or unwind with your family.
Top California Destinations:
- Lake Tahoe
- Santa Monica
- San Diego
- Yosemite National Park
- Laguna Beach
- Venice Beach
Lake Tahoe
One of the coolest places to visit during your spring break is Lake Tahoe. If you’re a party animal, the ski resorts and beachside barbecues should be enough to wear you down.
If you’re looking for some relaxation, there are plenty of resorts and cabin rental places that offer a quiet environment. Whichever side of Lake Tahoe you prefer, Northstar or lakeside, there’s enough entertainment for younger crowds and families.
Flights to Lake Tahoe, CA under $60 round-trip
Santa Monica
It would be a shame to miss out on an opportunity to visit the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and ride the Ferris Wheel and other iconic amusement rides. Of course, Pacific Park is not your only choice of entertainment.
Santa Monica Beach has plenty of fast food stands, trinket shops, and bars to visit. However, if you’re looking for the young party crowd, downtown LA is where the action is. The nightlife is legendary and if you want to party in some luxurious clubs, that’s where you want to be.
Check here for cheap flights into LAX. Santa Monica is just an 8-minute ride away.
San Diego
San Diego can cater to college students looking to party hard and also those looking for a tamer California spring break. LEGOLAND and the San Diego Zoo are great places to visit for all ages. But for even more family fun, be sure to check out La Jolla Beach.
It’s the place to be if you’re looking to avoid the usual college parties and if you want to go kayaking. Old Town San Diego is another hot tourist spot due to its many museums, rich history, and the ever-entertaining haunted house, The Whaley House.
Cheap Flights to San Diego, CA
Yosemite National Park
Not everyone wants to go on a drinking binge during spring break. This is one of the best places in the country for a quiet getaway. The rental cabins offer you peace and quiet and incredible views.
Another great thing about making Yosemite National Park your California spring break destination? – It’s not buzzing with tourists during the spring. Most people go during the summer season. Still, you are in California which means the weather is still perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, whitewater rafting, and boating. Interested in making a trip to Yosemite National Park? You can then rent a car and drive a little over an hour to Yosemite.
Flights to Yosemite, CA under $100 round-trip
Laguna Beach
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Laguna Beach. Once there, you get your confirmation that dreams do come true. It’s a paradise for college students looking to challenge themselves in team sports and have a few drinks surrounded by like-minded people. Laguna boasts a laid back lifestyle where you can cruise up and down the shore and take in the majestic views of the Pacific ocean.
The fresh air, long shores, and clear blue waters make Laguna Beach one of the top destinations for college students. It’s a non-stop party during spring break. But there’s also a good supply of fine dining restaurants and high-end boutiques The John Wayne Airport in Orange County is just 16 miles away from Laguna Beach.
Flights to Laguna Beach, CA
Venice Beach
Venice Beach with its great scenery is a popular spot for party animals. The nightlife scene is great all-year-round and the party never stops during spring break.
Pfeifer Beach is by far the area’s most popular beach. It’s not known for the most amazing waves but it has crystal clear water and gorgeous scenery.
You have your choice of classic dive bars or upscale lounges. If you have a fondness for fresh seafood, fruity cocktails, and a good selection of live music and comedy shows, Venice Beach is the place to come for spring break.
If you’re set on sampling the nightlife there, click here for flight information to Los Angeles.
Cheap flights to LAX – Under $70 round-trip
Wrapping Up
By no means is this the complete list of spring break destinations in California. However, these are some great go-to spots for families or college students looking to have fun in their off time.
California has lots of other high-traffic vacation spots and secluded places just waiting to be discovered. Book your trip to California today!
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