Safest Spring Break Travel Destinations

Image: Lake Tahoe is calling spring break travelers. (Photo Credit: Zach/Adobe Stock)
Image: Lake Tahoe is calling spring break travelers. (Photo Credit: Zach/Adobe Stock)
Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 5:00 PM ET, Tue February 20, 2024

The spring break travel season is quickly approaching as we enter the final month of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

While travelers have no shortage of incredible destinations to choose from this year, some stand out when it comes to offering a safe and secure getaway.

Here are some of the most exciting places to visit without compromising safety this spring.

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

With relatively low crime rates, Lake Tahoe is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the U.S. and spring break travelers can't go wrong here.

The spring season is a beautiful time to visit as melting snow gives way to colorful wildflowers. Ideal for active travelers, this destination boasts awesome hiking and mountain biking trails where you can take in gorgeous views of scenic sites like Emerald Bay.

Visitors can also hit Lake Tahoe's many beaches, head out on the water in a kayak or paddleboard or unwind at the newly-opened Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe.

A woman hiking the Hooker Valley Track, New Zealand.

A woman hiking the Hooker Valley Track, New Zealand. (Photo Credit: Goway Travel/naruedom/Adobe stock)

New Zealand

New Zealand continues to be one of the safest countries in the world, ranking top five on the Global Peace Index for 2023. And because the seasons are reversed, spring break travelers can experience fall in this lovely destination.

Visitors can look forward to long days with comfortable temperatures ideal for spending time outdoors. Whether hiking or heading out on the water, travelers will beat the crowds this time of year.

Other highlights of an autumn visit to New Zealand include experiencing a handful of food and culture festivals, taking in fall colors, touring spectacular national parks and sampling splendid wines.

Hawaii

Spring is one of the best times to visit Hawaii, a safe and exotic destination that doesn't require a passport for Americans. The arrival of the dry season means thinning crowds and exciting events like the Kona Brewers Festival.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach in Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Claudette Covey)

What's more, travelers can navigate colorful reefs on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure, enjoy some of the best stargazing on the planet and take a scenic drive on the unrivaled Hana Highway.

Iceland

Iceland has ranked first on the Global Peace Index every year since 2008 because of its low crime rates, minimal military spending and conflict avoidance. That's excellent news for spring break travelers searching for epic nature and culture.

There's so many cool things to do in Iceland. When visitors aren't learning about the island country's fascinating Viking history they can explore its many scenic waterfalls, lava fields and lakes and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation in the country's iconic Blue Lagoon thermal baths.

Cancun and Los Cabos, Mexico

For a quintessential spring break getaway, consider the Mexican resort destinations of Cancun and Los Cabos.

Evening falls in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico

Evening falls in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Lark Gould)

These perennial favorites won't be short on crowds this time of year but travelers can visit with peace of mind as both boast impressive tourism infrastructure in the form or award-winning resorts, trusted tour operators and secure historic, natural and cultural sites.

Whether spending a few days at an oceanfront all-inclusive or getting out to explore Cabo San Lucas or the ruins of Tulum, these sun-kissed destinations are ideal for kicking off spring.

Banff, Alberta, Canada

Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Wintertime at Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. (photo by Patrick Clarke)

For a final taste of winter, head to the Canadian Rockies, specifically Alberta's Banff National Park for unparalleled scenery and seasonal experiences. Visitors can look forward to skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and dog sledding.

As the temperatures begin to warm, bears will come out of hibernation and visitors will have numerous wildlife viewing opportunities in addition to touring historic sites and taking in the views while taking a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Spring break travelers can also take part in special Indigenous experiences at attractions like the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum, the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies and the Buffalo Trading Post where they can hear stories of the First Nations People, view Indigenous artwork and shop items made by local Indigenous craftsmen.

The Florida Keys

The ever-evolving Florida Keys are the perfect spring break escape for those looking to escape the cold and kick back from the daily grind.

Mallory Square, Key West

The sunsets are glorious from Mallory Square in Key West. (Photo by Theresa Norton)

One of the best ways to explore this paradise is to fly into one of South Florida's many airports and rent a car. From there, you can safely cruise through Key Largo and Marathon and over the epic Seven Mile Bridge on your way to Key West.

Take as little or as much time as you want on your journey depending on your interests. After all, there's something for everyone in the Keys, including nature and wildlife enthusiasts, beach bums, history buffs, adrenaline junkies and more.


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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