Sun to scenery: Top 5 hidden getaways for East Coast spring breakers
This time of year can be draining. The exciting holiday season is over, and summer seems so far away. It’s easy to become frustrated with almost anything during this dull time. Luckily, spring break is right around the corner. East Coast families are beginning to plan trips and many hidden gems are just a quick road trip away!
Sunset in
Finger Lakes, New York
Sunset on the lake.
- Finger Lakes – NY
If you enjoy lake days, the Finger Lakes is the spot for you. The Finger Lakes consist of 11 different lakes from central to western New York. Common things to do when visiting are swimming in the lakes, visiting the natural waterfalls, hiking in the state parks, and kayaking. It has places to stay for as low as $73. The majority of the lakes and parks have no entry fee. The drive to Finger Lakes can be as quick as four hours and 10 minutes, the quickest route being on I-81 North.
Horses during sunset
On Assateague Island, Maryland
Horses strolling on the beach during sunset.
- 2. Assateague Island – MD
This 37-mile-long island is a great spot for a boat day, as well as being known as a perfect swimming and fishing location. Most people stay on the Chesapeake Bay side of the island due to its calmer waters, but it also reaches the Atlantic Ocean, where waters are rougher. This island also has wild horses roaming around, but they are not a threat. Assateague is only a few miles from Ocean City, Maryland (OCMD). OCMD is a great family location with places to stay for as low as $70. There is no entry fee to get onto the island. OCMD is a three -and-a-half-hour drive from Bucks County when you take DE-1 South. From OCMD you would take a boat to the island, where you can enjoy a spring break filled with fun in the water.
A person swims with a manatee
In Crystal River, Florida
Snorkeler swimming with a manatee in clear waters.
- Crystal River – FL
The visit to these bright blue waters is worthwhile. It’s seven miles long and has many activities. Crystal River is known for its opportunity of allowing people to swim with wild manatees, as well as being a great fishing, kayaking, and air boating location. The entry fee for access is $8.75 for adults and $3.75 for children. Other excursions have an extra fee that depends on the activity. The river is surrounded by many great hotel spots starting from $90. Crystal River is a 16-hour car ride from Bucks County when taking I-95 South.
Boats sitting
In Bar Harbor, Maine
Boats sailed during a calm day in the Harbor
- Bar Harbor – Maine
Bar Harbor is a beautiful place to visit. It is often remembered for its scenic views. Bar Harbor has much to offer, like going on yachts, fishing, swimming in the warm waters, and hiking. Hikers tend to visit Bar Harbor because the trails are right along the coast, a lovely sight to see. A main tourist attraction in Bar Harbor is the Acadia National Park, which contains many memorable hiking trails and swimming holes. Tourists can stay in Bar Harbor for as low as $80. Bar Harbor is a 9-and-a-half-hour drive from Bucks County when taking I-95 N.
The beach
On Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Photo by: C Leinbach
Waves crashing on a sunny beach
- Ocracoke Island – North Carolina
Ocracoke is worth a visit this spring. It has beautiful beaches with clear water all around the island. The island also has boat and fishing rentals. Ocracoke is also less populated than many other travel spots. Fortunately, there is a bridge connecting Ocracoke to the mainland. Hotel room prices start from $105. The drive to Ocracoke from Bucks County is 10 hours when taking US-13 South.
From hiking to swimming, these locations have a lot to offer. When looking for spring break locations, consider these spots!
