The time has come to put schoolwork aside, shed those extra layers of clothes and relax underneath the California sun.

Halfway through the semester, students start to feel like school work is sucking the life out of them, and a much needed breath of fresh air is given — spring break.

Many students have long ago planned their perfect getaway to Cancun, Las Vegas, Florida and even further. But for those students who have to stay in the Valley, all is not lost.

Fresno is conveniently located in the middle of the state which makes traveling to many beautiful destinations affordable and a breeze.

Coastal destinations

The most popular spring break destinations for college students include the beach, and luckily for Fresno State students the drive is only a couple hours.

According to Times.com, Santa Monica Beach, Santa Cruz, Venice Beach and Mission Beach are some of the top-visited beaches in the nation this spring break.

The Monterey and Big Sur area provide many recreational activities within close proximity.

In Monterey, students can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf and Del Monte shopping center. Spending the day kayaking, scuba diving, surfing, whale watching, beach-going and shopping are only a few ways to enjoy the coastline.

This area is also home to one of the most scenic drives in the world, the 17-Mile Drive. Running through Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach, this coastal landmark offers an awe-inspiring view of The Lone Cypress, Carmel Bay and the Pebble Beach golf course.

A few miles south of Monterey, Big Sur provides ten beaches, sandy hiking trails and campgrounds for those that like to stay overnight.

Mountainous Destinations

If students are looking for an outdoorsy experience, Yosemite offers another array of activities. Students can meet the world-known El Capitan and Half Dome, go horseback riding, camping, hiking and water skiing.

Sequoia National Park, located south of Yosemite, is famous for its sky-piercing Giant Sequoias, is yet another destination to converge with nature.

Closer to Fresno, Millerton Lake and Shaver Lake provide a relaxed environment for those that just want to get away from the city without having to travel too far.

Fresno Area

Students who have no choice but to stay in Fresno need not feel bleak. The city provides many interesting ways to free your mind from stress.

Woodward Park is a piece of paradise within the city and even offers activities like frisbee golf. The day can also be spent with a picnic, watching hundreds of birds in the ponds.

Spring break is a week to relax and de-stress from the usual student lifestyle.