Every year, colleges and universities send students and faculty off on a week-long break from the tedium of educational activities. It is known as Spring Break. And while school faculty may use the time to relax, reflect and revitalize, college students look at this period as “wild time.”

Spring Break has become an annual ritual and over the years certain destinations have gained popularity with those students who are looking for fun in the sun. Currently, the top Spring Break destinations are in Florida and Mexico, Texas, too. Here are some of the very best places to go:

Cancun, Mexico

This Mexican Riviera resort city promises surf, sun and lots and lots of fun. As is true for some of the other Mexican beach resorts that made this list, the cost for this vacation can be a little expensive. As such, it attracts fewer college students than destinations in America. But it’s still loads of fun.

Acapulco, Mexico

One of the older, more established beach resorts on Mexico’s Riviera, but still lush, plush and beautiful. College students have rediscovered this tropical paradise in the last few years and it is rapidly gaining in popularity.
Mazatlan, Mexico

One more beautiful stops on the Mexican Riviera, and one of the most popular resorts, as well. Beautiful sandy beaches, great accommodations  and plenty of cold, cold adult beverages. It’s a great place to go for a week of non-stop fun.

Daytona Beach, Florida

College students have been coming here for many, many years. There are great beaches, countless affordable beachfront hotels and motels, and the local police and civic authorities are open-minded. They let their Spring Break guests party hearty, make plenty of noise, and have a great time, as long as they remain law-abiding.

Panama City, Florida

This is one of the rowdiest and wildest destinations for college kids every Spring Break. It’s a non-stop party – from early morning on the beautiful beach to late night at one of the countless clubs along Panama City’s main thoroughfare. Police try to remain lenient and tolerant, but some students occasionally get a little too rowdy. They end up getting tickets, too.

South Padre Island, Texas

This is one of the newer “fun-in-the-sun” destinations for America’s college kids. As is true for the other resorts, the beaches are beautiful, the fun is non-stop and the authorities are happy to have the young vacationers in their town.

There are, of course, other great Spring Break destinations, including Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Costa Rica, New Orleans, Louisiana (The Big Easy) and more. Whichever resort you elect to visit, one thing is certain: you will have a very, very good time.

Keep this in mind: if you’re a college student, Spring Break is your time to cut loose, get wild, have fun, act your age and show your attitude – you are young and fun matters. Go for it and enjoy yourself, but always recognize your limits. Party hard and party responsibly.