Where the wild things go: Top ten college Spring Break destinations

By: Jeniece Gibbs

Posted: 2/2/06

With the countdown at just a little over four weeks until spring break, many students are getting the itch to kick up their feet and relax in the sun.

Many websites, including Askmen.com, Vacationhomes.com, and Travel.discovery.com, have compiled lists of their top ten spring break hot spots. These sites listed many of the same spring break destinations, but the Travel Channel seemed to assemble the best top ten college list. According to the Travel Channel, here are a few destinations that have, and always will be, the ultimate college spring break hot spots.

10. The Bahamas. Tropical weather, clear blue water, and sugary sand make this spring break hot spot a highly desirable destination. Coconut and other fruity drinks are popular and can be brought to you as you bathe in the sun and dig your feet in the sand.

9.Rosarito Beach/Ensenada, California. This location is for the more mature spring breaker, offering both fun and relaxation on gorgeous beaches. One downside to this hot spot is the rough waters along the coast, but this doesn't deter spring breakers as they find other activities to keep them busy. One popular activity is horseback riding.

8. Key West, Florida, also known as Jimmy Buffet's original Margarita-ville. Key West is a great place to go if you're looking for more cultural and sexual diversity. Scuba diving is also said to be an incredible experience in the Keys.

7. Daytona Beach, Florida.If you're looking for a place where you can drive your car up to where the ocean meets the land, then Daytona Beach, Fla., is your getaway. While Daytona Beach isn't necessarily a luxury destination, it still attracts quite the party-going crowd, which could be due to the fact that accommodations are relatively affordable and it can be reached by car.

6. Mazatlan, Mexico. The translation of this city's name, "the land of party," speaks for itself. Mazatlan is known for its bullfighting, which is something to see when you'd prefer to take in the scenery of something other than the pristine beaches.

5. Jamaica. Jamaica offers not one, but two popular spring break destinations within a few miles. The two prime destinations in Jamaica are Negril, which offers a more laid back atmosphere, and Montego Bay, which offers a fast-paced city experience. The colorful beaches and reggae music add to Jamaica's popularity.

4. Lake Havasu, Arizona. A destination complete without sand or the ocean, Lake Havasu is a popular destination because of its prime access to rock climbing, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting. Houseboats are also popular to rent and take out on the lake.

3. South Padre Island, Texas. Just miles away from the Mexican border, South Padre Island allows college spring breakers to switch up their travel plans. South Padre Island offers a five-mile stretch of stunning beaches, inviting guests to sun bathe, play volleyball, and take a dip in the ocean.

2. Cancun, Mexico. The partying is non-stop and continues from dusk until dawn. Cancun is filled with nightclubs and bars galore, and encourages spring breakers to live by the motto, "what happens in Mexico, stays in Mexico."

And finally, number one on the list of ultimate college spring break hot spots is Panama City, Florida. Typically known for its alcohol-filled beaches, Panama City has long been the destination for students looking for a week to remember, or to forget. Five star lodging is not something you will find in Panama City, as years and years of college spring breakers have ruined any chance of finding a room that doesn't reek of alcohol or urine.

Even if your ideal vacation spot isn't on this list, you better start booking your trip. Spring break is just 29 glorious days away.