When winter seems never-ending, and you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve scraped ice off your car, the thought of escaping to a warmer, sunnier destination feels like the ultimate cure. Even if you live somewhere that rarely sees snow, the relentless rain and gloomy skies can have you craving a change of scenery—whether that means soaking up the sun on a beach, hiking through blooming landscapes, or embracing a scenic outdoor adventure.
And for those who love to travel with their furry companions, the goal is simple: a getaway that doesn’t require a full post-walk wipe-down every time you step outside.
If you’re looking for an escape that checks all these boxes, here are seven incredible spring destinations that offer beaches, adventure, breathtaking scenery, and even some unexpected surprises to make your trip unforgettable.
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Monterey, California 🌊🐋
Tucked into the curve of Monterey Bay, this once-thriving fishing hub has transformed into a world-class marine science destination, known for its incredible wildlife, scenic coastline, and literary history.
One of its biggest draws? The Monterey Bay Aquarium, celebrating its 40th anniversary with exciting exhibits featuring playful sea otters, gliding sharks, and vibrant jellyfish floating in mesmerizing tanks. If you time it right, you can catch a sea otter feeding session—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Monterey isn’t just about marine life, though. The Artichoke Festival—yes, a whole festival dedicated to artichokes—takes over nearby Castroville every June in a celebration of the region’s most famous crop. And if you’re a John Steinbeck fan, you’ll want to take a stroll down Cannery Row, made famous by his novel of the same name. As you wander through boutique shops and waterfront cafés, keep an eye out for sea lions, otters, and maybe even a whale spouting in the distance.
Speaking of whales, spring brings an incredible migration season, with sightings of humpback, gray, and blue whales all possible from the shore—or, even better, from a guided whale-watching boat tour.
If Monterey looks familiar, it might be because it served as the breathtaking backdrop for HBO’s Big Little Lies. Fans of the show can make the short drive down Highway 1 to Bixby Bridge, a stunning landmark that kicks off the legendary Big Sur road trip.
While landslides have closed portions of the highway, you can still visit McWay Falls, Nepenthe, and Partington Cove, all offering jaw-dropping coastal views.
Where to Stay:
For a resort-style experience, Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa sits on 22 private acres near downtown. With two outdoor pools, an indulgent spa, and a golf course, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, Colorado 🏜️🏂
It might surprise you to learn that the tallest sand dunes in North America aren’t found on a coast, but instead, deep in the high desert of Colorado. These massive dunes—formed over 440,000 years ago when ancient Lake Alamosa dried up—now stretch as high as 750 feet, making them a must-visit for adventure seekers.
Unlike other national parks, where hiking is the main attraction, here the real fun comes from sandboarding—an extreme sport that feels like a mix of snowboarding and surfing on sand. The thrill of sliding down golden dunes at high speeds is enough to make any adult feel like a kid again.
And believe it or not, there’s even a beach in the middle of the dunes. In spring, Medano Creek emerges from the base of the dunes, creating a temporary beach scene with shallow waves perfect for splashing, tubing, and sunbathing. Locals call it "Medano Beach," and while the water is at its highest in April, it’s usually still too chilly for swimming until May.
Beyond the dunes, the San Luis Valley is full of surprises. You’ll find hot springs, ranging from family-friendly water parks to secluded, romantic retreats. And if you visit in early spring, don’t miss the Monte Vista Crane Festival (March 8-10), when thousands of sandhill cranes migrate through the valley in a spectacular natural event.
Where to Stay:
For a retro-chic experience, Mellow Moon Lodge in Del Norte offers mid-century modern décor, free bikes for exploring, and dog-friendly rooms.
Tucson, Arizona 🌵🌮
Just an hour from the Mexico border, Tucson is where desert landscapes meet vibrant culture and world-class food. It’s no surprise that it was named the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the U.S., thanks to its rich culinary history and must-try taco scene.
Beyond the food, spring is the best time to explore Saguaro National Park, home to the iconic giant cacti that define the Southwest. If you visit in April or May, you might even catch the cactus bloom—a rare and breathtaking sight.
Tucson is also home to Mission San Xavier del Bac, a stunning 17th-century Spanish Catholic mission, as well as the Pima Air & Space Museum and the Titan Missile Museum, both offering fascinating insights into aviation and Cold War history.
If you’re into nightlife, the Agave Heritage Festival (April 18-21) is a four-day celebration of tequila, mezcal, and the ancient history of the agave plant—featuring tastings, educational events, and plenty of opportunities to sip on expertly crafted cocktails.
Where to Stay:
For a true desert luxury escape, Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is just outside the city and offers hiking trails, wellness retreats, and three pools for ultimate relaxation.
Maui, Hawaii 🌺🐳
Springtime in Maui means whale-watching season is at its peak. While last year’s wildfires devastated much of historic Lahaina, visitors can still support the island’s recovery by staying in nearby Kaanapali and Wailea.
The best way to see humpback whales up close? A guided boat tour with hydrophones that let you hear their hauntingly beautiful songs beneath the water.
Maui’s beaches are another big draw, with options ranging from wide, golden sands at Wailea to hidden rocky coves along the Road to Hana. Speaking of which—driving the Road to Hana is a must, where you’ll pass lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
Where to Stay:
Support local recovery efforts by staying at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, which has a special package that includes a donation to wildfire relief efforts.
Moab, Utah 🏜️🚲
If you’re craving an epic road trip, Moab is the ultimate spring escape for outdoor lovers. Located between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, this desert town is the perfect gateway to Utah’s Mighty Five—a stretch of red rock wonderlands that includes Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef.
Spring is the best time to visit, with comfortable daytime temperatures for hiking, biking, and off-roading before the summer heat kicks in. Moab is one of the top mountain biking destinations in the U.S., boasting hundreds of miles of slickrock trails that wind through Mars-like landscapes. Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner, there’s a trail for you—and plenty of bike rental shops to get you set up.
If you’re more into water adventures, you can embark on a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado or Green River, where the breathtaking canyon scenery will make every rapid feel like an adventure straight out of a movie.
Where to Stay:
For a convenient downtown stay, Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn has all the basics, plus bike storage and an outdoor pool. For a true Moab experience, Red Cliffs Lodge offers horseback riding, a Western film museum, and live music four nights a week.
Culebra & Vieques, Puerto Rico 🏝️🌌
For a Caribbean getaway without a passport, Puerto Rico’s tiny, unspoiled islands of Culebra and Vieques offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Unlike the resort-heavy areas of the mainland, these islands are all about slow living, pristine coastlines, and nature at its best.
Culebra’s Flamenco Beach is the star of the show, often ranked among the top beaches in the world with its soft white sand and crystal-clear water. Meanwhile, Playa Carlos Rosario is a snorkeler’s paradise, where you can swim alongside colorful fish and sea turtles.
Vieques, slightly larger, is home to Bahía Mosquito, one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world. An after-dark kayak tour here is an experience like no other—watching glowing blue water swirl around your paddle is pure magic.
Where to Stay:
Skip the resorts and opt for a boutique guesthouse near the beach, where you’ll get a more authentic feel of island life.
South Padre Island, Texas 🏖️🐬
South Padre Island is Texas’ best-kept secret when it comes to spring break destinations. Sitting along the southern Gulf Coast, this barrier island offers warm weather, soft beaches, and a mix of fun and relaxation—perfect for both college students and families.
If you love water sports, this is the place to be. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or Jet Skis, or even try kiteboarding with Air Padre Kiteboarding. Kids (and kids at heart) will love Sea Turtle, Inc., a rehabilitation center where you can see rescued sea turtles up close.
For those looking for nightlife, the island comes alive with beach bars, live music, and DJ sets at spots like Louie’s Backyard. But if you’d rather avoid the party scene, just book a stay outside of March’s peak weeks, and you’ll find a quieter slice of paradise.
Where to Stay:
For something more intimate and off the beaten path, try Lighthouse Boutique Hotel, a charming alternative to the island’s larger resorts.
Plan Your Escape!
Spring is all about new beginnings, blooming landscapes, and shaking off winter’s chill—and there’s no better way to embrace it than with an adventure somewhere new. Whether you’re looking for whale watching, epic sandboarding, hiking among giant cacti, or diving into an incredible food scene, these destinations will reignite your sense of wonder.
So, where’s your perfect spring getaway? Start planning, pack your bags, and get ready to trade winter blues for sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable memories. 🌞✈️
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