As No. 1 Spring Break Destination, FL Braces For Influx Of Visitors

FLORIDA — The Sunshine State is seemingly the primary attraction for spring breakers this year, according to new AAA travel booking data.

The travel agency said Florida is 2024's No. 1 spring break destination with its Atlantic and Gulf Coast beaches, family-friendly attractions and cruise ports.

According to AAA, March and April cruise bookings increased by 28 percent compared to 2023. The agency reported a 60 percent influx in cruises departing from south Florida.

“Orlando is the top choice for spring break travelers, while Fort Lauderdale and Miami are the two most popular domestic cruise ports,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release. “Many travelers are looking for warm weather, pools and beaches, and outdoor adventures this time of year, and cruise vacations check all those boxes.”

Fox 13 Tampa Bay said beaches in Pinellas, Sarasota and Manatee counties are among those that will be visited.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office reminded visitors with a Facebook reel that the St. Pete Beach forbids the presence of alcohol, dogs, littering and glass.

"The season of spring break is at the door. Make sure to check up on beach rules and ordinances before you visit. We all want to keep the beaches safe and clean for everyone to enjoy. ... Keep Pinellas clean and safe," authorities said in the reel's caption.

Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed the need to ensure safety and showed support for local law enforcement during a recent sheriffs conference, Fox 13 reported.

"We’ve seen some of the things that have happened in Miami Beach. We have resources available. We want to work proactively with the local jurisdictions," he said.

"Spring break is what it is, but it should not be impeding the functioning of businesses in the area. It should not be impacting the quality of life of our residents. So, you have our support at the state level to do what you need to do to make sure the quality of life of your residents are maintained and order in the streets is maintained and businesses are able to function appropriately like they should."