Spring Break Destinations For a Calm, Not Crazed, Vacation

Tucked away in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville's electric art scene and historic architecture can certainly compare to those of metropolitan areas. The Biltmore Estate, originally George Vanderbilt's country home, was built in 1895 and seems to be even more enchanting today than it was over 100 years ago. Relax on the property's 8,000 acres of lush greenery, attend tastings at the winery, or enjoy seasonal farm-to-table dining.

Antelope Canyon has become Page's main draw, but there's much more to this city than its stunning sandstone. Venture to Horseshoe Bend to avoid entrance fees and lay your eyes on this magnificent meander of the Colorado River. Continue to explore the area by visiting Rainbow Bridge National Monument, known as one of the world's largest (and undoubtedly most beautiful) natural bridges.

Whale watching is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Bar Harbor is just the place to do so. As the weather gets warmer, the whales begin to make their way to Maine's coast, and there's no sight more exciting than a humpback playfully slapping its tail against the water. The area also neighbors Acadia National Park, full of breathtaking hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and more.

Bury your toes in the soft white sand of Alabama's Gulf State Park. If the weather is warm and you're feeling adventurous, bring your tent and set up camp or rent an RV or cabin for a more cushioned stay in the park. If you would rather book a room, the town of Gulf Shores is full of options. The one thing you can't leave without? Fresh gulf seafood. Stop by The Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails or DeSoto's Seafood Kitchen for delicious oysters, shrimp, and more.

A hidden gem between Los Angeles and San Diego, Carlsbad is a serene surf town know for its Tamarack Beach. Spend the day at this popular surf spot or head to quieter Terramar Beach, where locals go to escape the crowds on busy days. After you're all surfed out, head into town and catch a show at the New Village Arts Theater or grab a bite at Twenty/20 Grill.

Looking for the perfect mix of cowboy and cosmopolitan? Jackson is the place for you. Nestled in Jackson Hole Valley, this town sits more than 1.2 miles above sea level and is surrounded by mountains like you've only seen in movies. Go hiking in Grand Teton National Park or explore nearby Yellowstone, the oldest national park in the world. Jackson's location makes it easy to visit both of these natural paradises in just one trip.

If your goal is to stray from the norm and chase the snow instead of the sun, the slopes at Breckenridge are calling your name. Whether you want to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or sled, the Breckenridge Ski Resort has what you're longing for. Mixing Western hospitality and Victorian charm, the town of Breckenridge came to be during the Gold Rush, making it as historic as it is scenic. When the slopes wear you out, take a yoga, painting, or photography class at Breckenridge Creative Arts, which has helped to put the area on the map as a creative and cultural destination.

Olympic National Park truly has it all, from glacier-capped mountains to wild Pacific coast to temperate rain forest. Hoh Rainforest and Lake Crescent are two of the park's most popular attractions, but Port Angeles also has a range of activities to add to your trip. Bring your bike and explore the 130-mile Olympic Discovery Trail or take a detour and check out Hollywood Beach, which runs adjacent to the trail.

Just north of the ever popular South Padre Island lies less known Padre Island, the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. This national seashore protects 70 miles of coastline. Grab a kayak or canoe and explore the area by water or bike down the beach to get to know the shore. Camp in the park or reserve a room in Corpus Christi, where there's no shortage of boutiques, eateries, galleries, and more.

Slow life down to island pace by traveling to the southernmost point in the US. For many years, the island's turquoise waters served as Ernest Hemingway's daily inspiration. Visit his former home, now a museum, to step inside of the life of one of our country's greatest authors. As the sun begins to set, stroll into Mallory Square to take part in the daily sunset celebration and watch the sky come to life through color.

Dare to wonder off the beaten path by traveling to the Hawaiian island of Lanai. Acres of rolling countryside, minimal paved roads, and absolutely no stoplights have led this to be known as "Hawaii's most enticing island." Perhaps the most beautiful beach on the island (if it's possible to choose) is Hulopoe Bay. Go snorkeling in crystal-clear water or take a short hike along the cliffs that line the tide pools. Later, trek to Keahiakawelo, or Garden of the Gods, to experience the surreal rock garden that legend says was the product of a contest between two priests.

Just a 30-minute drive outside of Savannah is Georgia's Tybee Island, where you can step back in time and experience beach living before it became plagued with high rises and hotels. It's hard to believe this cottage-filled, nature-friendly, bike-welcoming town lies just outside of Savannah's growing urban atmosphere. Pack a picnic and walk along the Tybee Island Pier for a sunset dinner on the water or leave the kitchenwork to the professionals and grab a seat at CoCo's Sunset Grille.