Many students are traveling to tropical locations for the fast approaching spring break, but this year’s hot spots offer more than your typical partier’s paradise of week-long bingeing.

The hot spots for spring break travelers in 2008 are Cancun, Jamaica, Costa Rica, California and Florida, said Jacob Spath, travel adviser at STA Travel, 2526 Lincoln Way.

Costa Rica

“One of the most up-and-coming spring break hot spots is Costa Rica,” Spath said. “Our company alone has seen a 21 percent growth in spring break travel to Costa Rica.”

Costa Rica is a must-see for adrenaline junkies, who can participate in the surf culture or explore the jungles of the area.

“If you’re more [of the] adventurous type, you can spend a whole week trekking though the jungle and camping,” Spath said.

Cancun

Despite its MTV spring break stigma, Cancun has more to offer than concerts, nightclubs and wet T-shirt contests. The history of Cancun offers many cultural experiences with breathtaking scenery.

“Take a step back from the beach and you’re hiking among 2,000-plus-year-old Mayan ruins,” Spath said.

Water sports, including windsurfing, jet skiing and snorkeling in crystal-clear water, are offered at every skill level.

Jamie Ruba, senior in graphic design, remembers her experience parasailing last year during spring break.

“It was one of the highlights of the trip and one of the things I remember,” Ruba said. “If you’re drinking the whole time, you might not remember everything.”

Jamaica

“Jamaica is well known for its incredible beaches,” Spath said.

The aesthetics of Jamaica may be a point of interest, since the country has a law stating that buildings can’t be taller than the nearest palm tree. The result is rows of buildings no taller than three stories, Spath said.

Plus, who doesn’t want to see Bob Marley’s birthplace in Saint Ann, Jamaica?

California

The idea of catching your favorite movie star in a café or shop attracts many students to California for spring break.

“Students tend to enjoy the typical tourist scene in Hollywood, star tours or the Walk of Fame,” Spath said.

A road trip to the coast with friends can provide a memorable spring break in itself. Visiting Disneyland, Seaworld or Alcatraz, or seeing a major league sporting event are more options for the domestic traveler.

Florida

The wildlife of Florida is a must-see in the Sunshine State.

“A trip into the Everglades or a visit to a crocodile farm should be at the top of everyone’s list,” Spath said.

Everglades National Park is largest subtropical wilderness area in the country, and visitors are promised a unique experience in seeing Florida wildlife through kayaking, walking and boating tours.

Alligator and crocodile farms are abundant in the state. The Everglades Alligator Farm in Florida City, Fla., is home to about 2,000 alligators and crocodiles of all sizes. Feeding time is the main event at the alligator farm, according to its Web site.

The appeal of most spring break hot spots is usually the weather, and being outdoors and enjoying the scenery is an option in all spring break locales.

“One option that I think most people would enjoy is renting a scooter or bike and just seeing the town you visit – sometimes you can find the hidden treasures you were looking for,” Spath said.