Spring break in Texas typically occurs in the month of March, when the weather is warm, and the bluebonnets are in bloom. There are plenty of great Texas cities to visit during spring break, no matter if you want a booze-filled party scene, a live music hot spot, or a great place to pitch your tent. From the alluring Texas Hill Country to the Texas coast, these are the best places to spend spring break in Texas.
South Padre Island
Every spring break, loads of college students head to the coastal gem South Padre Island for a week of partying on the beach. This spring break destination has a reputation for wild parties, and if that’s exactly what you are seeking for your spring break, then South Padre is most definitely your spot. Expect concerts, booze, and plenty of beach time during a South Padre spring break.
Lake Texoma
Located on the Oklahoma-Texas border, Lake Texoma is a lake oasis that has become a popular spring break destination among Texans and Oklahomans alike. Only an hour north of Dallas, Lake Texoma spans a whopping 89,000 acres. If you’re looking for a party, head to Fobb Bottom for a party on the banks. However, if you’re simply looking for peace and serenity, there are plenty of spots along the lake’s bank to fish and picnic. Camping and hiking can be found in the area too.
Galveston Island
Another great beach destination for spring break is Galveston Island. Galveston is one of the best coastal cities in the Lone Star State. Therefore, many flock here for a little sun and beach fun every spring break. Relax on Galveston’s sandy beaches, stroll down the Seawall, hit up Schlitterbahn Water Park, or explore the exhibits and attractions at Moody Gardens. There is plenty to see and do in this coastal Texas town.
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Explore Dinosaur Valley State Park this spring break. This unique state park where dinosaurs once roamed is only a two-hour drive from Dallas. One of the best state parks in Texas, it features dinosaur tracks actually created by prehistoric creatures. Although the dinosaur remnants are truly a remarkable attraction drawing visitors to this park, that is not all Dinosaur Valley State Park has to offer. Camp, hike, mountain bike, and even swim in the Paluxy River during your spring break stay here.
Corpus Christi
Come to Corpus Christi for the beach, but stay for the other exciting attractions found here. This spring break destination is perfect for those wanting to get in some beach time but also hoping to experience other unique attractions off the beach too. Corpus Christi is home to the Texas State Aquarium, South Texas Botanical Gardens, and the USS Lexington, all of which are great places to explore during your week-long stay in this coastal Texas city.
San Marcos
Home to Texas State University, the town of San Marcos is a great place to spend spring break if you don’t mind the college crowd. Floating the San Marcos River is most definitely a top spring break activity. Part of this spring-fed river even runs through the city. Since the San Marcos River is spring-fed, it stays at a cool temperature even during Texas’ hot weather. After some time spent floating the river, visit the museums in the areas, such as the LBJ Museum, or the numerous restaurants and shops too.
Port Aransas
Known as “Port A” by locals, Port Aransas offers spring breakers great beaches, and perfect fishing spots. Now, this coastal city may not be as popular as South Padre for college coeds, but you’ll still see plenty of young spring breakers on Mustang Beach. With miles of beach perfect for building sandcastles, sunbathing, fishing, bird watching, and shell hunting, Port Aransas offers a long list of fun outdoor activities to add to your spring break itinerary.
Austin
Texas’ eclectic capital city makes for a fun spring break full of live music and great food. Now during the month of March, the three-week festival known as SXSW occurs. The music week of the festival typically coincides with spring break for most universities in the area. This festival turns the entire city into a music venue, where free and cheap live music performances can be found all over Austin. Although Austin is the “live music capital of the world,” there is also plenty of other attractions to explore here, too, such as outdoor recreation at the Barton Creek Greenbelt or a tour of the Texas State Capitol.
San Antonio
San Antonio has both a great city vibe and awesome outdoor recreation nearby. Although it may not have a big spring break party scene, it’s still an awesome city with plenty of attractions to visit. Explore the Alamo by day and hit the River Walk at night for an excellent dinner. Or pitch your tent at Government Canyon State Natural Area for a secluded spring break in nature.
New Braunfels
This Hill Country town is perfect for beer lovers on spring break. Indulge in a craft beer tour of all the New Braunfels microbreweries. Thrill-seekers and fun lovers alike can spend a day tubing down the Comal River or enjoy visiting Schlitterbahn Waterpark. If you’re looking for some live music or a lively dance hall, visit Gruene, where live music occurs almost daily. Since New Braunfels also is just a short drive away from other popular Hill Country destinations like Fredericksburg and Luckenbach, the city makes for a great home base while traveling in the area.
