Spring Break 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Panama City Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and Destin
Spring Break is just around the corner, and Florida’s Emerald Coast is ready to welcome thousands of students and families looking to soak up the sun, relax on the sugar-white sands, and enjoy the region’s world-famous nightlife and activities. With a lineup of universities and schools hitting the beaches from early March through late April, Panama City Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and Destin are gearing up for an unforgettable season.
Spring Break by the WeeksMarch 3 – March 7
Kickstarting Spring Break 2025, students from Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, and Mississippi will flock to the coast. Schools like Lovett School (GA), Westminster School (GA), Mercer University (GA), and the University of Georgia (GA) will be joined by Tulane University (LA), Ball State (IN), and the University of New Orleans (LA), bringing energy to the shores. Expect early celebrations with live music, beach parties, and the first wave of Spring Break specials at bars and clubs.
March 10 – March 14
The second week brings a surge of college students and high schoolers from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas. With powerhouse schools like Auburn University (AL), Florida State University (FL), Ohio State University (OH), University of Texas-Austin (TX), and Texas A&M University (TX), the party scene will be in full swing.
Panama City Beach will see packed beachfront bars, while Destin’s HarborWalk Village will be buzzing with live entertainment and water excursions. Santa Rosa Beach offers a slightly more laid-back alternative with stunning scenic beaches and upscale dining options.
March 17 – March 21
This week is one of the busiest, with massive crowds from Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Indiana, Missouri, and Tennessee. Expect an influx from the University of Florida (FL), University of Central Florida (FL), Georgia Tech (GA), University of Kentucky (KY), and Missouri State University (MO).
Okaloosa and Walton County Schools will also be on break, making it a prime time for family-friendly activities. Attractions like Big Kahuna’s Water Park in Destin and Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach will be packed with visitors enjoying the warm Gulf waters.
March 24 – March 28
Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, and Missouri schools take over the beaches, with students from the University of Arkansas (AR) and Arkansas State University (AR) adding to the energy. Downtown Panama City Beach will be a hotspot for parties, while Santa Rosa Beach will continue attracting visitors seeking a more tranquil beach escape.
March 31 – April 4
The crowds continue with students from Georgia and Louisiana, including Louisiana State University (LA). As April approaches, more families begin arriving, creating a mix of lively beach parties and family-friendly entertainment.
April 7 – April 11
Atlanta schools like Cobb County (GA), Gwinnett County (GA), and Dekalb County (GA) will be on break, along with students from Kentucky and Indiana. This is a perfect time to enjoy Destin’s famous Crab Island or a scenic drive along 30A’s picturesque coastal communities.
April 14 – April 18
Alabama and Louisiana students hit the beaches, including those from Loyola University New Orleans (LA) and Southeastern Louisiana University (LA). This period is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed Spring Break experience with fewer crowds and great weather.
April 21 – April 25
The final wave of Spring Breakers arrives from Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi, including Mobile County Public Schools (AL) and Biloxi Public Schools (MS). This is the last chance to catch the Spring Break vibe before the season transitions into summer tourism.
What to Expect & Must-Do Activities
Panama City Beach: Known as the Spring Break Capital of the World, PCB offers legendary beach parties, concerts, and vibrant nightlife at clubs like Club La Vela and Harpoon Harry’s.
Santa Rosa Beach & 30A: A more laid-back option with stunning beach towns, upscale dining, and beautiful state parks for outdoor adventures.
Destin: The ultimate spot for water activities like parasailing, deep-sea fishing, and the iconic Crab Island sandbar parties.
Excursions & Day Trips: Explore Shell Island, take a dolphin cruise, or go on a sunset sail.
Live Music & Festivals: Many beachfront venues and bars will host DJs, live bands, and themed events throughout the season.
Final Tips for Spring Breakers
Book Early: Hotels, vacation rentals, and campsites fill up fast, so reserve your spot as soon as possible.
Stay Safe: Have a plan, drink responsibly, and follow beach safety guidelines.
Respect the Locals: While Spring Break is about having fun, being mindful of the communities and their regulations ensures a great experience for everyone. Check for Seaside curfews, No Alcohol on the PCB beaches and some 30A Private property communities
Whether you’re looking for non-stop beach parties or a scenic getaway, Panama City Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and Destin offer something for every type of Spring Breaker. Get ready to make memories on Florida’s Emerald Coast this Spring Break 2025!
