Forget the Jello Shots, We’re Talking Bubble Hotels, Wine Country and Elevated Glamping
We all remember how iconic MTV’s spring break coverage used to be. Bikini- and boardshort-clad kids running around a beach for a week of fun in the sun. The stamina. The Sambuca shots. The sunburns. What a time to be alive! Not a care in the world and not a hangover in sight. Bless those youthful genetics. But just because we aren’t in college anymore doesn’t mean we can’t set sail on an equally epic adventure. Thirties are the new 20s, after all (as quoted by a 30-something-year-old), and we have 10 top-notch choices for a spring break that would make your teenage self jealous.
All Aboard
Cruise the Newport Beach Harbor
Looking to stay local this spring break? No worries, that’s why we live in a perma-vacation place. Rent a Vision Electric Boat out of Lido Marina Village and get ready to booze cruise. Depart at 10 a.m. on the weekends for their early bird special and receive 50% off. You can grab a cheese platter from Zinqué and some to-go cocktails from Malibu Farm—we highly recommend making those a double. And if you find yourself out on the water more often than not, a membership through Vision Electric Boats is very well worth it. Members receive unlimited use of the electric boat, and don’t have to worry about maintenance, storage or cleaning! Plus, any new member who signs up for monthly memberships before April 30, 2023 receives a free month. Throw on your favorite throwback college tunes and pretend you’re back on semester at sea this spring. Just don’t go overboard!
Local Insight: Any new member who signs up for monthly memberships before April 30, 2023 receives a waived initiation fee of $1000 and a free month!
4/25
Bubble Break
Campera Hotel Burbuja
Campera Hotel Burbuja, located in the heart of Baja California wine country, is just about one of the most unique spring breaks you can sign up for. We recommend ditching the kids so you can drink properly on this trip a la your old college days. Guests are given their own personal bubble-boasting heat/air, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi and, most importantly, 180-degree views of the Valle de Guadalupe landscapes. There is a high-end restaurant on site called DOCE, which features farm-fresh cuisine perfect for pairing with your favorite DOCEPIEDRAS varietal. This exquisitely maintained working vineyard offers guests a chance to gallivant through the groves, play the private nine-hole golf course or channel their inner royal with a game of croquet.
5/1
Vino How To Party
Road Trip to Napa Valley
Nothing screams adult playground quite like Napa. Its sophistication-meets-silly with plenty of sips in between. A road trip up to tannin country is only a day’s trek and, if you take the scenic route, you can score some of California’s most spectacular views in the process. Napa is home to some of the world’s best hotels with three Auberge resorts, a wide range of four- and five-star stays and plenty of unique boutique options. Napa consists of three main parts: St. Helena, Calistoga and Yountville. All of these areas offer their own unique charm, and each hosts a variety of vineyards to explore. Calistoga, for example, is home to an array of natural hot springs perfect for a day of recovering after a whirlwind of imbibing in wine. One of Auberge’s new properties, Stanly Ranch, sits on a 712-acre plot of land filled with great food, great views and great offers like a fourth night free or daily credits for a farm-fresh breakfast for two. Some wineries that are a must-visit are Frogs Leap, Del Dotto, Nickle and Nickle, Far Niente, Stags Leap and Schramsberg or Domaine Chandon for something bubbly. There are also some incredible eateries in town, such as Charter Oak and Farmstead. You might be out of college, but you don’t have to act like it when you’re in wine country.
5/20
Zion the Prize
Glamping With Under Canvas
Under Canvas is one of the most unique glamping experiences in the United States and also one of the OG’s to offer such a thing. With upscale accommodations in all-natural settings, this opportunity to spend the night in a canyon near Zion National Park will become a core memory. Allowing overnights from March through November, this is a great spot to spring break for couples looking to reconnect or families looking for adventure. Tents sleep up to six people and amenities include on-site dining, high-end furnishing and finishes and complimentary activities like live music, morning yoga and kids-centric stuff.
4/23
New Boot Goofin’
Stagecoach With Your Mom Crew
Stagecoach is the Coachella of country music. It hosts some of the industry’s most popular artists and lots of the best up-and-comers. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get out to Palm Springs and party the weekend away! Grab your best gals and make it a moms weekend out. Be sure to book your rental in advance and get those reservations on lock. If you opt for the suite life, check out the Sands Hotel & Spa in Indian Wells, which is Instagram-ready from the pink exterior to the retro tiling scattered throughout the property. Their on-site restaurant, Pink Cabana, screams girls trip; their drinks make for the perfect pregame to a night listening to Thomas Rhett, Carrie Underwood or Luke Combs—we recommend sipping on the Hot to Trot or the Pushing Buttons.
3/27
Be-Spoke Break
Bike on the Beach
Did you know that you can bike from Newport Beach all the way to Huntington Beach and beyond on the boardwalk path? It’s a scenic cruise, featuring some of the best views money can buy. Grab the whole family or make it a date night and hop on your favorite beach cruisers to head up the coast. You can even strap on a cooler of snacks and sips to boot. End your adventure with a bonfire on the beach. If it’s Saturday or Sunday, hit up SeaLegs for a burger, bowl or bucket—and definitely a beverage!
Relax and Unwind
Staycay at Hotel Joaquin
Hotel Joaquin is just about the trendiest boutique hotel south of Los Angeles. Located in the ever-charming city of Laguna Beach, this staycation destination is ideal for locals looking to get away without the hassle of air travel. The decor pairs midcentury with maritime, giving it a super-cool coastal vibe that is funky and fresh. They offer private yoga sessions, tequila tastings and sound baths, so you can make the most out of your Pacific Coast Highway hideaway. Oh, and don’t miss out on the free breakfast at Saline—the rawnola is ridiculous.
Adios All-Inclusive, Hola Upscale Escape
Head South to Cabo
We all remember the spring break Cabo classic filled with Jose Cuervo shots and Squid Roe shenanigans. But what if we told you Cabo has a different side: a more refined version filled with farm-fresh fare, handcrafted cocktails and upscale amenities? Yes, you heard us. Gone are the days of push-up contests at The Office. This spring break is all about pool lounging, beach bumming and maybe a trip or two to the spa. The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is as five-star as it gets—from check in to check out. It is also extremely kid-friendly for those crazy enough to want to shell out for the children to join. We always recommend the trek to Flora Farms or Acre if you can manage the bumpy ride because, trust us, the farmaritas are worth it.
Retreat Yourself
Big Sur Retreat
You know you’re getting older when a retreat sounds like the ideal spring break. Esalen is not just any retreat though—this is a transformational opportunity to grow, learn and find your potential. Through various modalities including body work, brain healing and plant medicine, trained specialists help guests work through whatever it is that is holding them back from their best, most intuitive and high-vibe selves. The property itself features natural hot springs that have healing characteristics, an art barn for self-expression, a farm and garden to connect with the land and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Esalen works with you to personalize your experience and tailor it to your exact needs. This is a spring break that will build you back up.
Mid-Mod It Up
Stay at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale
Scottsdale, anyone? The retro-chic Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale boasts mid century modern design and luxurious amenities, making it a perfect escape for adults looking for a sophisticated and upscale getaway. The hotel features two swimming pools, a full-service spa and multiple dining options, including a rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views of the Camelback Mountains. In addition to the hotel’s amenities, Scottsdale offers a variety of activities for spring breakers, including hiking, biking, golfing and shopping. With Hotel Valley Ho’s prime location in Old Town Scottsdale, guests can easily explore the area’s art galleries, boutiques and nightlife.
