Spring break is maybe the only bit of peace college students get before summer comes around. Of course, this means that every major city has a sudden influx of hot, young people filling the streets and hitting the beach. While that’s all great, these parties can be overwhelmingly straight.
Here’s a guide for anyone that’s trying to have a fabulous spring break without breaking the bank—too much, at least.
Top five spring break destinations:
Key West
It’s no secret that Key West is a spring break hotspot—everyone wants to party it up on the island. The month of March, and half of April, is pretty much one big party with college students, not only from Florida’s universities making the trip but from all over the country. Everyone wants to be where the sun is warmer.
There are quite a few LGBTQ+ hotels and resorts in Key West. However, most will cost you a pretty penny. For those that have plenty of cash to spare, we recommend Alexander’s Guesthouse, which is all LGBTQ+ and clothing optional. However, the most budget-friendly option is the NYAH Hostel. It has 36 rooms that each sleep about four people. They also have private bungalows. ON top of that, they have three pools, two Jacuzzis, and a bar with a daily happy hour.
The Pink Triangle is where you’ll want to be as far as parties go. It’s a packed cluster of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs off Duval Street, the center of Key West nightlife. 801 Bourbon, Bobby’s Monkey Bar, and Aqua are going to be where much of the action is. They’re all immensely popular bars and pack in a tight crowd, especially during spring break.
Miami
Miami is another obvious choice for spring break. It’s got all the fun of Key West–that is beach and parties–for a fraction of the cost. Luckily, Miami Beach Pride also happens around the same time as spring break. This means that it’ll probably be the gayest spring break destination around.
Miami Beach Pride week takes place April 1-April 10, 2022. It includes beach parties, Ballroom performances, and a queer art showcase. Not to mention the Pride Parade on April 10, 2022. If you need a gay getaway for spring break, this is one you’ll want to check out immediately.
If you’re looking to splurge, W South Beach is a fabulous spa resort. But for those looking to save a few—okay, more than a few—bucks, check out Hotel Gaythering. Travel tip: When accommodations have fewer rooms on the property, that usually means you won’t be saddled with a giant “resort fee” when booking.
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NEXT PAGE: Los Angeles, Puerto Vallarta and more
Los Angeles
Okay, LA may not seem like an obvious choice for a spring break trip, but hear us out. It’s got several popular beaches, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica. It’s also a short drive away from all the sun and sand that Malibu has to offer. More than anything, the dates of spring break match up with this year’s Los Angeles Leather Pride.
Leather Pride LA is exactly what it sounds like. Leather lovers gather for ten days of events, including several parties, from March 17-March 26, 2022. Between the rapidly warming days, and the steamy evening events, you won’t have to worry about keeping warm.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, we recommend Le Montrose Suites, a quiet hotel near the WeHo nightlife scene. It’s near all the best West Hollywood nightclubs and has a saltwater pool. However, if you’re trying to be more conscious of your wallet, The Beverly Laurel Hotel is a great option. It’s on Beverly Boulevard near some great shopping at the Grove and the Beverly Center, and a short drive–or not so short walk–from West Hollywood’s best nightlife spots.
Puerto Vallarta
There are a lot of places in Mexico you can check out for a spring break vacation. Cancun, Tulum, and Cabo San Lucas are all options we considered. However, Puerto Vallarta has one thing that puts it above the rest: the Almar Resort.
To explain, the Almar is a luxury, beachfront hotel in Puerto Vallarta, and during spring break, or Semana Santa, they’re having five days of beach and pool parties. From April 13-April 17, 2022, their party tower, the Mantamar will be the place to be in PV.
Despite its luxury and acclaim, the rooms here will only set you back a couple hundred a night—not bad when you consider all the events and amenities you get access to.
Phuket, Thailand
Last on this list is the priciest, but only because of the plane ticket. Getting to Phuket Island isn’t cheap, but it may be worth it if you can. This year, the spring break season lines up with Song Kran, the Thai New Year. Party organizer Proudly is throwing their four-day long Song Kran G Circuit party. All you party bunnies will no doubt love the series of night-long circuit parties that they’re throwing.
The host hotel is the five-star Mövenpick Myth. Despite all the amenities, and the rating, rooms start at under one hundred dollars. For all that, it’s worth the price.
Don’t want too long to decide on where to go! Spring break is headed to a close soon, so soak in the presummer sun and party it up while you have the chance.
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