5 Underrated Spring Break Destinations for Awesome Adventure and Avoiding Crowds

A woman in front of her Cabana van on a bright sunny day, by the water.

After a year of online or socially-distanced learning, you deserve an awesome Spring Break! If you’re usually planning a trip to the world’s best party beaches or searching for student sales on international flights, planning this year’s spring break could leave you scratching your head.


To take your social bubble on the road this spring, here are 5 destinations for a COVID-safe spring break.



Skiing in WA

The weather may be starting to warm up, but spring is actually an ideal time for skiing in the Pacific Northwest. Most ski areas are open through April, and as the sun starts to break through, a day on the slopes starts to sound all the better.


Snoqualmie Pass is under an hour from Seattle and is the perfect escape for early spring skiing. Purchase a Spring Fling pass at Snoqualmie for all the skiing you need in March and April. If you’re visiting Seattle, Snoqualmie is the perfect location for spending a few days on the slopes and a few days exploring the city.



Death Valley

Dunes in Death Valley (Photo Credit: @finding.jules)

The unique terrain of California’s desert is ripe for adventure. There are sand dunes, badlands, and mountains, all with epic sunrises and sunsets. Plus, there is plenty of room to spread out. 


The wide open spaces make this area the perfect spot for a larger group. You can enjoy drinks around the fire without worrying about making too much noise for the neighbors. If you’re looking for somewhere to meet up with multiple friends and maintain social distance, the desert is ideal.


The Death Valley Stargazing Hipcamp is a great spot right outside the national park for your own miniature desert festival. Park multiple vans in one campsite to create your own Cabana community. If it’s your first visit, check out The Perfect 4-Day Road Trip to Death Valley from Los Angeles for some of the best spots in the park.



Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park (Photo Credi: Ronan Furuta)

For an off the beaten path beach break, Garrapata State Park is a necessary stop. It’s right off Highway 1 between Carmel and Big Sur. What makes this beach perfect for spring? The Calla Lily Valley will be in bloom. 


If you’re road tripping up or down the coast, at least pull over for a wildflower photo op. It’s a magical spot that feels far removed, even though it’s only about a mile hike through to the beach. Stop in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea for wine tasting to finish off a picturesque coastal day. 



Zion

Zion National Park (Photo Credit: Scandinavian Backlash)

Spring is a great time to visit the incredibly popular Zion National Park. It isn’t as crowded as in the summer, and the weather is great. 


If you’re looking for an active spring break adventure, try rock climbing. The Zion region has some of the best rock climbing in the world, but it’s not only for the experts. There are plenty of guided tours to choose from and there are areas for all experience levels.


Whether you’re road tripping from Seattle or LA, the trip to Zion is an ideal distance for making memories on the road and is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure. (For help finding overnight parking along the way, don’t forget to add Cabana Concierge to your booking.)



Cape Kiwanda, Oregon 

Cape Kiwanda (Photo Credit: Zachary Keimig)


The timing is right for whale watching off the Oregon coast! In March, gray whales return to Alaska from Mexico. The weather is nicer than during the whales’ southern migration, so spring is an ideal time to see the magic. 


Hike on Cape Kiwanda to reach a great viewpoint for spotting whales as they make their way to their summer destination. Because you’re able to spot the whales from land, this is one of the best spots for whale watching without disturbing the whales. Plus, you don’t have to worry about boat ride COVID restrictions.


Cape Kiwanda is part of the Three Capes Scenic Loop, which is full of great stops for hiking, views, and camping. Reserve a campsite at Cape Lookout State Park. It was named the most scenic campsite in the West by Outside Magazine for good reason.



It’s no secret that spring is the perfect time to get outdoors, but there is room enough for everyone if you know where to go! Instead of sticking with your usual spring break spots, get off the beaten path for a new adventure.

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