Believe it or not, spring break is underway right now in some parts of the country.

The Space Coast is anticipating huge numbers of travelers visiting the beaches, Port Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center.

It also means businesses are hiring.

Tourism leaders are forecasting a 2 percent to 3 percent increase this spring break in the Cocoa Beach area. The increase is based on hotel occupancy numbers.

The occupancy rate for the Cocoa Beach area is expected to be around 86 percent in March, and 91 percent for Melbourne and the south beaches.

But why the uptick?

Tourism leaders point to an improving economy, continued growth in the cruise business and the weather elsewhere in the country.

“Traditionally, when you have very cold winters up north, we see that people really want to get out and enjoy some of the Florida sunshine, so we expect to see that same pattern of people really wanting to get down here and get to the beach,” said Heather Lewis, the marketing director for Ron Jon Surf Shop.

Places like Ron Jon Surf Shop are hiring seasonal staff as well.

Restaurants and hotels are also looking for help during the busy season.