This guest post was written by regular contributor Alicia Lawrence. 

After months of suffering through the snow, ice and freezing temperatures of the winter season, many college students and working professionals take a well-deserved spring vacation. There are many different ways to spend your spring break. Traditionally, travelers sit on sunny beaches with a tropical drink in hand, but you don’t necessarily need to be ocean-side for a great spring break. Outdoorsy types may also enjoy hiking, skiing, rafting or camping. You may also want to bring your kids, and in that case you’ll want to choose more family friendly options. Whether you’re looking at a traditional spring break or another kind of vacation, here are some of the best destinations.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin may not be your first thought for spring break, but it’s the perfect destination if you love water slides. Wisconsin Dells has over 125,000 square feet of indoor water attractions. Whether you want to zip down a slide or lay back in the lazy river, there’s something for everyone.

One of the best parts of vacationing at an indoor water park is that it’s climate controlled. You don’t have to worry about getting sunburn or becoming overheated. Also, if you need a break from water you can check out the indoor amusement park, which features an arcade and Ferris wheel.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

If you’re looking for a calmer alternative to Cancún, Playa del Carmen is a great option. The beach has many of the same amenities, and accommodations are rather affordable. There are still options for night life, but in general the town is less crowded and more laid back than its noisier cousin. There are plenty of quaint boutiques if you’re interested in shopping, and the bars and restaurants are great too. The beaches are also beautiful and ideal for catching some rays and relaxing.

Costa Rica

As a spring break destination, Costa Rica has it all — perfect weather, beaches and outings for the adventurous vacationer. The Central American nation has plenty for travelers to see — there are rain forests, white sand beaches and even plantation tours. There’s so much to see that many travelers decide to take guided tours around the country. When going on a tour, vacationers often start at San Jose and work their way out into the countryside. From there, you can hike around the Arenal Volcano and spot beautiful flora and fauna in the lush, misty forests. Foodies can also tour banana plantations and sugar mills and sample the local fare at artisan coffee shops. If you’d rather sit back and relax, you can sit at the beach and see where the turtles lay their eggs.

Captiva Island, Florida

This hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast is a wonderful spring break destination. The beaches are pristine, unspoiled and quiet, making them perfect spots for rest and relaxation. Captiva Island also has plenty of exciting outdoor sports and activities. You can kayak through estuaries, sail in the harbor or hike through the serene natural surroundings. It’s rare that you’ll find another destination as secluded and peaceful as Captiva Island.

Miami Beach, Florida

If you’re looking for a more diverse scene, complete with exciting night life, Miami Beach may be the perfect place for you. Miami Beach also really knows how to throw a spring break party. The beach is lined with clubs and bars, so it’s easy to have a good time at night. During the day, you can explore the town, which has a lot of public art and museums, or just relax on the beach. Also, don’t forget to try the food, particularly if you enjoy spicy or Hispanic varieties.

Any one of these spots would be a fantastic choice for your spring break. Whether you use a travel agent or prefer to plan your own trip, start researching your vacation today.