Corpus Christi, TX

Flip flops and board shorts are the uniform of choice for this coastal Texas getaway. Plant a beach umbrella in the warm sand and take a snooze under the afternoon sun. There’s no better time than Spring Break to brave the waves by taking a surfing lesson, offered daily by South Coast Kiteboarding. For low-key water action, head to the Texas State Aquarium, where more than 300 species are housed and a hands-on stingray exhibit awaits.

To be close to the city action, stay downtown at the bayfront Omni Corpus Christi, which is near the must-see USS Lexington Museum and is walking distance from restaurants and nightlife. To get maximum Gulf Coast views, opt for a condo on the beach. El Constante has two-bedroom rentals and considers April 1 to be the start of the off-season, which means lower rates.