Spring break is the perfect time to recharge and celebrate time
off from school, work or other life responsibilities. Safety, however, remains
a top priority for many travelers. Given recent geopolitical escalations such
as the war in Iran and the death of Mexican cartel leader El Mencho, travelers
are rethinking their plans for destinations that may
feel safer.
Whether you’re drawn to peaceful coastal towns, culturally
rich historic cities, nature retreats or vibrant sand and sun locations,
choosing a destination known for safety can help ensure spring break is
relaxing, fun, memorable and worry-free.
Here are some destinations to consider when planning your spring
break getaway.
San Diego
America’s finest city has it all- the sun, the sand, the
sea, and lots of great activities for all ages. And to boot, it has a very low
crime rate, making it a great choice for students and families alike.
San Diego offers magnificent beaches dotting the Southern
California coastline, a myriad of outdoor activities, a vibrant night life and some
of the best weather in the world. And let’s not forget the world-famous and
unforgettable San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
MS Dixie cruise on Lake Tahoe. (photo courtesy of Aramark Destinations)
Lake Tahoe
An outdoor lover’s nirvana, Lake Tahoe is located high in
the Sierra Nevada on the border between California and Nevada.
One of the most famous alpine lakes in North America and the
second deepest lake in the U.S. is known for its breathtaking views, clear
azure water, surrounding mountains and year-round outdoor recreation with
safety depending more on nature, weather and outdoor conditions rather than
crime. Spring is an ideal time to visit, as the snow begins to melt and the wildflowers
begin to bloom and given that it’s shoulder season, visitors can still hit the
slopes minus the crowds.
Four Seasons Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Four Seasons)
Puerto Rico
This lovely destination tends to be safer than many
Caribbean destinations as it’s a U.S. territory with U.S. laws, infrastructure
and emergency services on hand.
Travelers come for the tropical beaches, Spanish colonial
history, rainforests, vibrant culture and Caribbean food and music, all located
in one island. With easy travel from the U.S., Puerto Rico offers paradise
without having to pack a passport or wait in a long customs and immigration
line on arrival.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Dominican Republic
When you see local families out and about enjoying life on a
magical Santa Domingo evening, it’s easy to feel safe in this historic colonial
Caribbean capital city.
The Dominican Republic offers a diversity of experiences
across the country. If you’re into the beach, Punta Cana offers a myriad of all-inclusive
resorts with white sand beaches and tourmaline waters, ideal for swimming,
snorkeling and diving along with zip-lining, jungle tours, and cave swimming. It’s
no wonder that photos from this region look like picture-perfect postcard
scenes.
Breckenridge, Colorado (Photo via Noreen Kompanik)
Breckenridge
Known for its stunning mountain scenery and ski resorts,
Breckenridge, Colorado provides a range of outdoor activities, including
skiing, hiking and mountain biking in a friendly, secure environment.
The ski resort town typically stays open through mid-April
and sometimes into May on good snow years. March is great for classic winter
skiing while April offers fun spring skiing for those ok with softer snow. Trails
start opening in late April or early May for hiking and mountain biking, rivers
flow stronger after spring snowmelt, making for great rafting and fishing and
early wildflowers bloom in the valleys.
Waikolohe Stream at Disney's Aulani Resort (Photo via Disney Aulani)
Hawaiian Islands
Though any of the Hawaiian Islands offer incredible and
unique opportunities for fun, culture and exploration, Oahu has the most
choices for spring break travelers overall.
The island is one of the safest and most fun spring break
destinations in the U.S. with its mix of beaches, culture and adventure. Spring
is actually an ideal time to vacation here as the weather is warm and sunny,
and not as crowded as the summer months.
Oahu sports outdoor adventures including hikes and
waterfalls, postcard-perfect beaches, Waikiki nightlife, traditional luau
experiences and lots of amazing island food.
Hilton Head Island
With 12 miles of beaches, bike trails and nature preserves, this
safe and low-crime family-friendly South Carolina coastal destination has it
all. If you’re into activities versus the typical wild spring break beach party
spots, Hilton Head is a great alternative. Kayaking, dolphin tours, parasailing
and fishing are popular here. With outstanding restaurants and nightlife,
Hilton Head offers a versatile spring break spot without the summer crowds.
Hilton Head beach (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Siesta Key
This barrier island on the Gulf Coast of Florida just
offshore from Sarasota not only ranks among the best beaches in the U.S. but
its crime rates are 67 percent lower than the country’s average. In addition,
the destination sports a lively atmosphere without the chaos or the massive
crowds of popular Florida spring break destinations such as South Beach and
Panama City Beach.
Siesta Key offers a family-friendly vibe with lifeguards on
duty and well-maintained beaches featuring gorgeous and soft white quartz sand
that stays cool even in the heat of the day, and calm, clear waters ideal for
swimming and paddleboarding.
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