Sure, it's still winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but for teenagers and college students it's just about time to start planning (or at least dreaming about) that blessed one-week reprieve from classes, homework, and cold weather: spring break! For those who find the traditional spring break cliché of booze, bikinis, and nonstop partying to be not quite up their alley, we've got a few alternative ideas for the eco-adventurer, the animal lover and conservationist, and the surfer. So read on and get ready to green your spring break!
(Note: All the businesses we feature have made a demonstrated commitment to protecting the environment and supporting local communities. More info)
There's tons of adventure and fun to be had for those who love the great outdoors. Buena Vista Lodge is a hacienda in northern Costa Rica bordering Rincón de la Vieja National Park, with more than 1,000 acres of protected forest on its property. Hike or horseback ride to three waterfalls--the first has a sulfur pit inside of it, the second has a natural water slide inside the mountain that falls into small pond, and the last is the biggest, most spectacular of them all.
Other activities include zipline canopy tours, Tarzan swings, natural hot springs, and a volcanic mud bath! Guests stay in comfortable wooden cabins with private bathrooms and hot water for about $40-50 per person per night. You have the option of cabins near the pool, bar, and restaurants, or more secluded cabins with beautiful lake or mountain views.
Nicaragua may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think "spring break," but the eco-adventurer has no fear of traveling off the beaten path, right? Totoco Eco-lodge is located at the edge of a cloud forest on the island of Ometepe, known for its twin volcanoes and surrounded by the magnificent Lake Nicaragua.
Climb to the rim of the active Concepción volcano and peer down into the crater, or kayak the Istian River and see monkeys, turtles, aquatic birds, and caimans in their natural habitat. You can also hike through sustainable coffee plantations, or go on fishing trips with locals who will show you all the best spots. Discover the last traces of the pre-Columbian Nahuatl Indians through the mysterious petroglyphs (stone carvings) they left behind in the forest. Cabins are $30-45 per person per night, while dormitory beds are $10.
For the Animal Lover and Conservationist
SEE Turtles Mexico & SEE Turtles Costa Rica are volunteer programs for travelers who want to participate in hands-on conservation efforts to save majestic sea turtles. Did you know that all seven species of sea turtles are currently listed as threatened or endangered? SEE Turtles has programs in Baja California Sur, Mexico and several locations in Costa Rica where travelers and volunteers can get up close and personal with these amazing creatures while contributing to important conservation efforts in key habitat areas. This one's a win-win, because these areas also happen to be some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Perfect for spring breakers looking to have some fun and give back. Trip prices range from $1,100 to $1,900 per person, including all ground costs (food, lodging, transport, guides, activities, and a donation to local conservation efforts), but not including airfare.
For the Surfer (or Surfing Newbie!)
You've always wanted to join the ranks of the surfer dudes and dudettes – so what better time to learn than spring break? If you're a seasoned surfer, you're probably already trying to figure out how to maximize the hours you spend in the ocean between your last class before break and your first one coming back (and skipping one class never hurt anyone, right?). Whether you're a seasoned vet or a surfing newbie, make your surf trip a sustainable one and you'll help to conserve the beautiful beach you'll be enjoying.
For the beginners who want to get their fundamentals down, Bodhi Surf School's knowledgeable instructors will have you standing up on the first day and well on your way to becoming a life-long surfer by the end of the week. It also doesn't hurt that the school is located in gorgeous Bahia Ballena, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, where the beach and the rainforest meet.
The more experienced surfer might want to check out Tamarindo, one of the most famous surf spots in the world. Hotel Villa Baula is right on the beachfront at Playa Grande, and at $23-$30 per person, there will be plenty of money left to explore the bars and restaurants this fun town has to offer.
Have more sustainable spring break ideas? Share them with us in the comments!
