6 overlooked, outside the box spring break destinations

Looking to get away this spring but tired of the same predictable spring break destinations, or the thought of another trip spent waiting in line at an overcrowded theme park? Fortunately, travel writer-photographer duo Hannah & Adam of travel blog GettingStamped.com curated this list of six destinations that will break you out of your same old spring travel routine.

Related: Florida’s most chilled out beaches

Peaceful Beach in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

#1 – Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Escape to Costa Rica’s lesser visited Caribbean shores and set your beach blanket down in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. The name Puerto Viejo translates to old port, but don’t let that fool you—this beach town is one of CostaRica’s up and coming hotspots. Puerto Viejo has a very laid back, healthy, kale-smoothie-drinking-wellness vibe. Numerous self-improvement getaways can be found on the beaches or tucked into the jungles around Puerto Viejo. Book a yoga retreat at Samasati Retreat and Rainforest Sanctuary and stretch out on the peaceful under-the-radar beaches of Puerto Viejo.

When to go: All Spring; summers bring frequent rains

Tulip Field in Bloom – Photo by Paul Schultz CC by

#2 – Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Often overshadowed by European favorites like Paris, the Netherlands is a perfect spring-time travel destination. As the temperatures warm, the city of Amsterdam comes to life. Boats fill the canals and the bridges are abuzz with bicycles. Rent a bicycle for the day and take a leisurely ride around the countryside. You’re sure to see the country’s famous windmills, not to mention a sea of color created by the endless fields of flower farms just outside Amsterdam. Be sure to take in the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, which is planted every year with more than 7 million flower bulbs. For the true floral enthusiast, stay right in the town of Lisse at the Hotel de Duif just outside the gardens.

When to go: Late March through mid-May to see the famous tulips in bloom

Boats parked at a small island of the coast of Belize

#3- Ambergris Caye, Belize

Situated just south of Mexico’s spring break favorites, Belize is a place that misses the travel list of most. The pace of life on Ambergris Caye perfect for relaxing spring break vacation. The main mode of transport for the island are golf carts and flop flips are the favored footwear. A short boat ride from the dock will bring you to the 2nd largest reef in the world which is home to world class diving and the bucket list worthy blue hole. Finds yourself on a beach chair at the La Beliza Resort and have a unique getaway this spring.

When to go: All spring

Cape Town, South Africa – Cityscape

#4 – Cape Town, South Africa

Spring in the northern hemisphere means it’s fall in South Africa. Autumn brings warm, comfortable temperatures and the wine harvest season. Cape Town is stunning in all seasons, but truly shines this time of year. Be sure to take the cableway to the tops of Table Mountain for stunning views of the city and beyond. Camps Bay is a luxurious hideaway with easy access to explore the city from. The hills of Camps Bay are lined with luxurious hotels like the Primi Royal with views of the sandy beaches and Lion’s Head. For the wine enthusiast, split your time between Cape Town and the regions premier wine region, Stellenbosh. Sleep among the grapes at the Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate just outside of Stellenbosch.

When to go: March and early April; late spring can have more rain in the forecast

Dubrovnik City Walls at Sunset

#5 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

The beautiful walled city of Dubrovnik is still an under-the-radar spring break destination. With influences from Romans, Greeks, and the Venetians, the city of Dubrovnik is the best of all worlds. Walk the 12th-century walls of the old city at sunset or jump in a kayak and paddle around them for a unique view of the city. Beat the summer cruise ship crowds and visit in spring. Stay right in the heart of the walled city at The Pucic Palace.

When to go: April-May the temperatures will be comfortable and you’ll still avoid the summer crowds.

Tulum Ruins Overlooking the Sea in the Yucatan Penisula

#6 – Tulum, Mexico

Right down the road from spring break favorite Cancun, Tulum couldn’t be more different. Trade big resorts and night clubs for beach bars and small boutique hotels such as My Way. Spring is the best time to visit Tulum with warm temperatures and dry forecasts. Tulum is best known for it’s Mayan ruins perched high above the turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea. Take a walk along miles of powder white sand and swim in the electric blue waters of Tulum. In addition to the beach, famous sites like Chichen Itza and quaint Spanish colonial towns like Valladolid make for amazing day trips.

When to go: All Spring, summer temperatures increase and more rainy days.

Tagged: Caribbean, Destinations, Europe, Mexico