spring break trips not beach

17 Uncrowded Spring Break Destinations for Families in the US.

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Are you struggling to come up with the best spring break destinations for your family? I do every year! We try to avoid the crowds at popular spring break destinations such as Orlando (also, we live there.)

When you have only a week to get away, and everyone else is getting away that same week, you want to get out of town, avoid crowds, but also not have it take forever to get there. These best places for family spring break 2024 are fun, low-key spring break destinations.

These quiet spring break destinations for families are all in the United States, making it easy for you to fly or drive . These spring break ideas are all family-friendly, mostly avoid the crowds, and are a mix of warmth, adventure, outdoor activities, or skiing.

Table of Contents

Ocala, Florida

If you’re not yet familiar with Ocala, Florida, make it a part of your vacation next time you’re on your way to Walt Disney World . Even if you opt for a Disney vacation with the family for spring break, take a few days and get away from the crowds in the small town of Ocala. We had the fortune to visit here last summer, and I do wish it was cooler when we visited. Ocala is one of the least crowded spring break destinations. Plus, it’s only a short drive away from the Orlando area.

Read about our Ocala Vacation here .

One of the best things I love about Ocala is the horse trails. It is the horse capital of the world after all. We were able to take a horseback ride through Ocala at the Canyon Zip Line Adventure Park . This landscape is so different than the rest of Florida. You will be surprised by the steep cliffs, salty ravines, and tall trees. I felt as if we were horseback riding through Tennessee only with palm trees. Other great highlights in Ocala include Rainbow Springs where you’ll find crystal clear waters, waterfalls, and authentic Florida nature. Also, make time to take a glass-bottom boat in Silver Springs.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah Georgia is one of my favorite places to visit. It has that all Southern Charm, amazing food, interesting history, and museums, and it’s easy to get around. This is one of those vacations I would recommend for families with teenagers . You can easily let the teens loose wandering the downtown area. Plus in Savannah, the weather is warm, making it a perfect spring break destination. And you’re not too far away from the beaches if you want to visit Tybee Island.

I do think Savannah has something for everyone, but may not be as enjoyable for families with young children. Save this destination when your children are older. They will enjoy the food, they will enjoy the history, and they will enjoy the kooky things such as a ghost tour.

Favorites in Savannah include The Pirates House, the Riverwalk along the Savannah River, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , and the Prohibition Museum .

Pensacola Beach, Florida

I like the Pensacola Beach area as one of the best spring break destinations for families because it’s relatively accessible without having to drive so far into Florida.

Located on the Gulf in the panhandle, Pensacola has incredibly beautiful beaches and emerald green waters. You may find this is a more popular destination, but you can make it an uncrowded one by renting a vacation home on the beach, rather than stay with the rest of the spring breakers.

Pensacola is a little less crowded than it’s nearby neighbor Panama City Beach.

In addition to the white sand beaches, Pensacola has some incredible aviation history. In fact, you may even catch a Blue Angels practice while in Pensacola. Favorite places include the Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse, which you can climb, and exploring the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

If you want a low key spring break vacation, heading to the beach at Pensacola might be the perfect way to go.

Park City, Utah

If you’re looking to still get in some last bits of skiing for spring break, Park City has you covered.

Utah is high on my bucket list and definitely an exciting vacation for the whole family for spring break. There is still plenty of time to go skiing during spring break.

However, even if you are not a skier, you can still enjoy winter activities in Park City . Because this was an Olympic Destination there are family activities such as the bobsled experience (age 16 and up) at Olympic Park. If your kids are too young to take a bobsled then perhaps a family sleigh ride, dog sledding, or even snowboarding in Park City should be on your agenda. Of course, there’s ice skating and winter tubing as well. Don’t just think of winter for skiing only. Plus, who doesn’t love some hot chocolate at the ski resorts after a long day in the great outdoors?

Washington, DC

Washington DC is one of my favorite places for the entire family. So why not take the kids there for spring break? The collection of Smithsonian museums along the National Mall truly has something for everyone.

Young kids will love the National Air and Space Museum and older kids will enjoy the National Museum of Natural History as well as the National Museum of American History. Pick up this book before you go to give kids things to look for in those three museums.

In addition to walking the National Mall, which is quite large by the way, other things to do in Washington DC include the International Spy Museum , the National Harbor , as well as visits to Presidential homes .

For example, have you ever wondered where is Mount Vernon? It’s not far from DC and this would be a perfect opportunity to visit.

On the Mall, visit the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Martin Luther King, Jr. monument, and many more.

The spring months are a great time to catch the cherry blossoms. They can bloom anywhere from late March to early April, so you may get lucky during your visit to the Nation’s capital.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is a popular place to visit in the summer, however, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, it is the perfect place to visit over spring break.

The National Parks are always a winner in my book when it comes to spring break family vacations . And visiting the iconic Yosemite National Park is a bucket list destination.

I would recommend staying at one of the many lodges in the national park over camping this time of year. However, camping is amazing if you want to bring your own RV Rental or Campervan . Tent camping may be too cold for younger ones.

The lodges are conveniently located in the Yosemite Valley area. Imagine returning to the lodge after a brisk day of hiking Yosemite Falls or Mist Falls and getting cozy in front of the fireplace.

While you’re visiting Yosemite, you can easily drive to visit Sequoia National Park . Both parks are an easy drive from San Francisco airport.

South Dakota

If South Dakota is not on your bucket list now is the time to add it. This incredible state is full of history and natural wonder, in addition to Mount Rushmore National Memorial .

And while most people only think of Mount Rushmore in South Dakota here you can visit what they call the Great Eight. That includes Custer State Park where you will find bison wandering along with elk, mountain goats, and more.

Also, head over to historic Deadwood and walk the Wild, Wild West and learn about the 1870s gold rush town. That’s just some of the things you can experience in South Dakota .

For a family spring break in South Dakota, I’d recommend driving or renting a car to cover as much ground as you can. Better yet rent an RV and stay near the Missouri River or Badlands National Park.

Gatlinburg is a popular year-round destination thanks to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . And while it’s popular, spring break is not as crowded as summer or even fall when the leaves turn colors.

I love this park because it’s free. There are plenty of great hiking trails. But even if hiking isn’t your thing, the Smoky Mountain National park guides will tell you all about scenic drives. Spring Break should just start seeing the leaves peep. You’ll also find lots of wildflowers and animals this time of year.

The surrounding area in Gatlinburg can be a bit touristy, but that just means you’ll find some great prices on hotels and vacation rentals.

Ripley’s Aquarium is an excellent attraction. We also love eating at one of the various pancake houses in Gatlinburg.

Have you thought of San Diego as a spring break destination? Perfect – it’s spring break right now and you can take advantage of low spring break prices and (relatively) uncrowded spring break destinations.

Sightseeing: There is a wide variety of things to do in San Diego, from the world-famous San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Balboa Park, to Seaworld , to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, to the Whaley House (listed in several top ten ghost stories).

But why go spring break when you could go year-round? San Diego is beautiful year-round with its beaches, climate, and attractions. If you prefer warm weather during spring break or another time of year, San Diego has that too.

Accommodations: spring break hotels in San Diego start as low as $50 per person. San Diego has spring break deals year-round–the weather is nearly always spring break perfect and the prices are spring break cheap.

Now you may think, “Yeah but it’s spring break right now so everything will be crowded.”

South Carolina

Myrtle Beach may be a popular choice for spring break in South Carolina, but I encourage you to visit there, plus, Congaree National Park, Charleston, or Beaufort.

Highlights of spring biking at Congaree National Park include spring wildflowers and wetland forests. The spring is an excellent time for canoeing as the weather starts to heat up and the rivers’ water levels tend to be higher.

The spring is also a great time to visit Charleston, where you can enjoy beautiful flowers throughout the spring season. Spring is also a great time for bike tours in Charleston, as the spring flowers start to bloom and roads are relatively clear.

Beaufort, South Carolina is a hidden gem. It’s a coastal town nestled in the Sea Islands between Charleston and Savannah, Georgia. Despite it being a small town, you can find plenty of things to do in Beaufort, SC that are perfect for your spring break.

San Antonio

I recommend visiting San Antonio in the springtime because there is no spring break crowd and it’s awesome year-round! The spring weather is perfect for exploring outdoor activities at local attractions such as SeaWorld , Six Flags Fiesta Texas, The Alamo and Natural Bridge Caverns.

Puerto Rico

I highly recommend spring break travel to Puerto Rico because the spring weather is beautiful! Take advantage of spring temperatures by doing some scuba diving or snorkeling at the coral reefs surrounding the Caribbean island. Or, visit Old San Juan for shopping, dining, and historic sightseeing.

Lake Tahoe in spring offers a great spring break getaway with fun ski and snowboard conditions in the morning and excellent spring biking weather in the afternoon. Besides winter activities, spring is an awesome time of year to hike around Lake Tahoe , take scenic drives along Highway 88 or ski at Heavenly Mountain Resort.

Florida Keys

I recommend spring break travel to the Florida Key s because spring is a great time to explore Florida’s Everglades National Park. The spring weather provides the perfect opportunity for wildlife viewing and dolphin watching, which are both major attractions in springtime at Everglades National Park. I

n addition, spring marks the start of snapper season in the spring, so spring breakers who do a little deep-sea fishing can enjoy fresh snapper for dinner.

South Padre Island

If you are looking for an enjoyable spring getaway, I strongly suggest visiting South Padre Island. During March and April, the climate is perfect and ideal for a beach vacation; additionally, there is less of a tourist influx compared to the high season in the springtime.

South Padre Island is accessible from San Antonio or Houston and is about as south as you can get to Mexico without leaving the United States.

New Orleans

You may not think of New Orleans as an uncrowded spring break destination, but it can be depending on the time of year. If you’re not visiting during Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s day , spring is a lovely time to visit the Big Easy. New Orleans offers ample spring vacation activities, from sightseeing and history tours to visits to the zoo or parks, as well as spring break nightlife, if you’re interested. Venture off the main street

in the French Quarter area. The best times of year for spring break in New Orleans are March and April. In springtime, the weather is mild and there is less of a spring break crowd.

Outer Banks

If you’re looking to get away from spring breakers, head to the Outer Banks of North Carolina in springtime. It’s between spring breaks in the northern and southern US schools, so it’s not too crowded. The spring season begins with the flowers in bloom, and it’s a lovely time to visit the OBX.

You’ll find spring break nightlife in springtime – but not too much spring break nightlife, and the same goes for spring break crowds. It’s still winter in spring on the Outer Banks, but it is not cold and there are plenty of activities to enjoy during spring break.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse near Manteo is a spring break destination in North Carolina if you’re looking for places to go for spring break.

Just looking for some cool places to stay during Spring Break? Check out. these epic Spring Break Vacation Rentals here.

Do you have favorite spring break destinations for your family? I’d love to hear about them. Leave me a comment to be included in a future article.

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10 Less-Crowded Spring Break Destinations Across the U.S.

Lauren Dana

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This spring break, forgo tourist traps (sorry, Miami and NYC — we still love you!) and avoid the crowds in favor of more under-the-radar cities and towns instead. Read on for a few of our favorite less-crowded spring destinations across America: Each packed with a vibrant culture scene, an array of attractions, and, of course, plenty of great food and drink options to choose from. (It is spring break, after all.)  

Editor’s note: As a reminder, the CDC is currently recommending against Spring Break travel . Save these ideas for when it’s safe to travel again, and always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rules and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home. 

Paso Robles, CA (Instead of Napa, CA) 

This central California city features 40,000 acres of rolling vineyards and dozens of wineries, including Eberle Winery and Sculpterra , the latter of which is one-part winery, one-part sculpture garden. Paso Robles is also home to Tablas Creek , the world’s first Regenerative Organic winery. After you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy a meal at The Hatch (which serves up cool comfort food and creative cocktails) or BL Brasserie (where you can enjoy upscale French cuisine). Shopping options abound here: Expect many a chic boutique like Firefly and AndBe . Meanwhile, history buffs can visit the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum . The museum itself displays centuries-old photos and artifacts and is housed in a 19th-century-era schoolhouse and former jail. 

Where to Stay: The Piccolo offers a central downtown location, chic decor, and industrial-chic accommodations. The sleek 24-room property is decorated with custom artwork. There’s also an on-site rooftop bar, wine lounge, and library. 

Pigeon Forge, TN (Instead of Orlando, FL) 

While this mountain town is best known for Dollywood , it’s also home to several other theme parks, like Outdoor Gravity Park and SpeedZone Fun Park . Here, you’ll also find the Titanic Museum , a two-story, ship-shaped structure that’s home to 400-plus historical artifacts. Meanwhile, true crime buffs can visit the Alcatraz East Crime Museum , which takes inspiration from the infamous 19th-century prison and spans 24,000 square feet of exhibit space. Other highlights include The Hollywood Wax Museum and The Island at Pigeon Forge , the latter of which is dotted with countless shops, restaurants, and rides.  

Where to Stay: Transport yourself to the tropics and escape to Margaritaville . Rooms here are spacious and complete with margarita makers (!) plus private balconies. Meanwhile, the outdoor pool and sun deck with stunning mountain views. There’s also dozens of entertainment options — plus a serene on-site spa. 

Providence, RI (Instead of Boston, MA) 

Rhode Island’s capital is full of cosmopolitan charm — sans the city crowds. The city offers plenty to see and do, from Roger Williams Park Zoo to the on-site art museum at the famed Rhode Island School of Design. Other attractions include the Providence Children’s Museum and the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium , along with dozens of historical sites (don’t miss the 1836-era Providence Athenaeum , with its instantly recognizable Greek Revival style facade). Providence also boasts a  flourishing culinary scene, with restaurants like Nick’s on Broadway for upscale and savory bites paired with libations,  Venda Ravioli for — you guessed it — ravioli, and Knead Donuts for dessert or breakfast (you do you). Cap off your trip with a visit to one of the nearby craft breweries. 

Where to Stay: The uber-hip Dean Hotel features 52 sleek accommodations and an arty, industrial-chic aesthetic. The rooms offer fun touches like rotary phones, vintage furnishings, and custom artwork. On-site amenities include three unique drinking and dining venues: a coffee shop, karaoke bar, and an upscale restaurant. 

Greenville, SC (Instead of Charleston, SC)

This scenic southern city offers dozens of (free!) and fun attractions to choose from. Greenville is best known for Liberty Bridge, the only single-suspension bridge in the western hemisphere. Here, you’ll also find lush greenery plus 36 acres of gardens — not to mention awe-inspiring waterfall views. The pedestrian-friendly destination is also known for its up-and-coming food and drink scene, many of which can be found in the city’s Uptown district. (Think: Blackbeard Coffee Roasters for a cup of java, The Breakfast Barn for the most important meal of the day, Molly’s Community Cafe for lunch, and SoCo Grille for dinner). Greenville and its surrounding small towns are dotted with over one-dozen breweries ( 18 total , to be exact) where you can raise a glass and toast to a terrific trip. 

Where to Stay: The Westin Poinsett , which is located in a striking 1920s-era structure in the heart of the city’s bustling downtown area, makes the ideal place to stay when in town. Expect upscale accommodations — there are over 200 elegantly appointed, spacious rooms and suites — plus three on-site eateries, including a coffee shop and piano bar. 

Sarasota, FL (Instead of Miami, FL) 

Beaches, boutiques, and breweries: What more could you ask for in a spring break vacation? Sarasota offers all this and more. It’s also chock-full of galleries, museums, and theaters that are sure to delight and inspire art enthusiasts and culture vultures alike. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art , which happens to be Florida’s official state art museum, is arguably the city’s most famous attraction. Here, you’ll find extravagantly manicured landscapes, a Circus Museum , and an over-the-top, 56-room 20th-century mansion. Sarasota’s vibrant downtown is lined with eclectic eats — including Duval’s for fresh seafood, C’est La Vie for hot pastries, and Bijou Cafe for upscale American fare, Caragiulo’s for old-school Italian , and Drunken Poet for Asian eats in a boho-chic setting — plus dozens of one-of-a-kind shops. No trip is complete without a day at the beach followed by a beer at Sarasota Brewing Company . 

Where to Stay: As its name suggests, the Art Ovation Hotel is an art enthusiast’s oasis and is sure to spark creativity. The unique boutique property also offers an on-site gallery comprised of specially commissioned works. Meanwhile, rooms are outfitted with sketchbooks, colored pencils, and ukuleles. There’s even a rooftop pool and bar with live music.

Tempe, AZ (Instead of Phoenix, AZ)

Tempe may be often overlooked in favor of larger cities like Phoenix and Sedona, but trust us — the destination is certainly worth a detour. Highlights include the Arizona Heritage Center , the Arizona State University Art Museum , and Butterfly Wonderland : the latter of which is home to over 3,000 species. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the 1,500-acre Papago Park — home to several postcard-worthy hiking trails — as well as Tempe Town Lake , where sunbathing, kayaking, biking, and paddleboarding opportunities abound.  Alternatively, art lovers can (and should!) take a self-guided tour of the city’s public artworks . After an action-packed day, head downtown, where you’ll find endless shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.

Where to Stay: The Graduate Tempe takes inspiration from its southwestern surroundings with its vibrant decor and bright color palette. Rooms here have retro-inspired accents like vintage stereos, colorful artwork, and comfy lounge chairs, and patios. After biking around the city (the hotel offers complimentary rentals), sip on margaritas by the outdoor pool or refuel with a hearty meal at the on-site bar and restaurant.

Bellingham, WA (Instead of Seattle, WA)

Whether you prefer exploring the outdoors or pursuing through museums, Bellingham truly offers something for everyone. Popular attractions also include the 250-acre Whatcom Falls Park (nest known for its serene surroundings and hiking trails), the interactive SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention , and the Whatcom Museum (which is housed in the city’s former city hall — an 1892-era structure — and boasts over 200,000 artifacts). Washington State’s best craft breweries, including Chuckanut Brewery and Kitchen , Wander Brewing , and Stones Throw Brewery , are also nearby. Of course, no visit is complete without a stroll down the city’s Historic Fairhaven District, dating back to 1903. Today the district offers cool shops and neat finds like Fairhaven Toy Garden and Village Books , along with restaurants like Skylark’s Hidden Cafe

Where to Stay: Situated across one acre of lush gardens, Sehome Graden Inn features postcard-worthy surroundings and magnificent flora. The modern bed-and-breakfast is housed in a beautiful Mid-Century Modern home complete with stylish accommodations.   

Columbus, OH (Instead of New York, NY) 

The capital city of Ohio is surprisingly chic. In fact, Columbus’ thriving boutique scene comes as no surprise, considering it serves as the headquarters of major fashion brands like Abercrombie and Victoria’s Secret. Visitors can shop the day(s) away at one of the hundreds of locally owned shops, like the Book Loft (books), On Paper (gifts), Thread ( woman’s apparel and accessories), and Homage (vintage clothing). Alternatively, browse the Columbus Museum of Art , stroll through the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens , and explore the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium . Afterward, refuel with a refreshing bite — locally loved favorites include Skillet (which serves farm-to-fork food in a trendy ambiance), Hot Chicken Takeover (where you’ll find Southern-inspired fare), and Guild House (expect upscale eats in a stylish setting). Toast to your trip with a cocktail at Lincoln Social Rooftop , where dazzling city views await. 

Where to Stay: With 149 stylish rooms and suites, Columbus’ Hotel LeVeque is designed to dazzle guests. The property offers a grand lobby, ultra-modern design touches (think statement-making lounge chairs, marble bathrooms, and gold-framed mirrors), and, of course, the 47-story Art Deco exterior. The nightly turndown service is just the icing on the cake. 

Albuquerque, NM (Instead of Santa Fe, NM) 

This southwest city seamlessly mixes old and new. Visitors can expect stunning architecture, incredible art, and swoon-worthy design. Take it all in on a self-guided walking tour of the city. Additionally, The National Hispanic Culture Center hosts 700-plus music, theater, and literary events, while the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is dedicated to preserving Pueblo Indian Culture (as its name suggests). There’s even an on-site restaurant. The seasonal Rail Yards Marketplace , which brings together Albequerque vendors, farmers, and business owners, is ideal for wandering and people-watching. Alternatively, plenty of shopping opportunities await in Downtown Albequerque. Here, you can peruse curated boutiques like Southwest Cactus (which sells, you guessed it, cacti) before noshing on chicken wings or ‘wiches at Happy Chickenzz , or nachos and burritos at Buen Povecho .  Complete your bucket-list-worthy getaway with a hot air balloon ride — after all, Albuquerque is considered the Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town is among the city’s most iconic properties — and it’s easy to see why. Highlights of the historic 188-room hotel include its Old Town locale, rustic design touches, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and six on-site drinking and dining venues (including a flamenco theater and nightclub). 

Savannah, GA (Instead of Atlanta) 

Savannah dates back to 1783. Today, the centuries-old city retains its historic charm, with its oak tree-lined trails, quaint streets, and signature southern hospitality. Bonaventure Cemetery , Jepson Center for the Arts , Cathedral of St. John the Baptist , and Pin Point Heritage are all must-see sites that draw thousands of travelers — and for good reason. The city also has 22 historic districts, including Chippewa Square (made famous by Forrest Gump ). On River Street, you can stroll through shops housed in former cotton warehouses and dine on locally inspired fare at Vic’s on the River , which serves up fresh seafood (think crab cakes, tomato bisque, shrimp and grits) in a historic 19th century-era warehouse. Where to Stay: Located in the city’s historic, now-burgeoning Plant Riverside District — which recently underwent a $375 million redevelopment project — the sprawling JW Marriott Savannah makes a great home base for exploring. Guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, 11 bars and restaurants (including a nightclub, tequila bar, sushi restaurant, and African lounge, to name a few), and a pristine spa. 

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30 Spring Break Destinations To Visit or Avoid

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The Party Periphery

Say "spring break" and raucous parties, crowded beaches, and scantily clad coeds typically come to mind. The boozy annual blowout  is a rite of passage for the college crowd, but for those hoping to steer clear of the frenzy , especially amid the pandemic, Cheapism asked travel experts to weigh in on some of the destinations to avoid from mid-March through early April —  and which warm spring break destinations to visit instead this time of year.

Related: 16 Beautiful Destinations That Are Cheaper in the Spring

Avoid: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

A top spring break party city, Fort Lauderdale is readying for a wild scene come March and April. Student-oriented travel site STA says  thousands will flock to the city's beaches for "the biggest open spring break party anywhere." It's not only the beaches that will be swarmed; bars across the street also transform into party central. Come nightfall, the party gets even more raucous.

Related: Family-Friendly Florida Spring Break Vacation Rentals to Book Now

Instead: Caye Caulker, Belize

For warm weather without the crush of people, Belize may be the perfect alternative. It's an up-and-coming destination and the tiny island of Caye Caulker, in particular, is quite the charmer — a quiet spring break destination where you'll find unforgettable seafood and crystal-clear waters. Belize is also known for being a nature lover's paradise. Top sights include the Belize Barrier Reef and the Great Blue Hole.

Related: 18 Things You Must Do While Traveling Central America

Avoid: Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau offers college students all the ingredients for a textbook spring break: affordable packages, nightclubs, booze cruises, water sports, miles of beaches, and plenty of sunshine. "Rowdy spring breakers descend on Nassau and Paradise Island, one of the Bahamas' most accessible islands, each spring break season," says Molly Fergus, vice president and general manager of TripSavvy. "But that doesn't mean you have to skip the gorgeous country entirely, especially when the country could use the tourism dollars to rebuild" after Hurricane Dorian in September 2019.

Related: 18 Private Islands You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo

Instead: Exumas, Bahamas

The water gets clearer and the crowds get thinner as you head to the outer islands of the Bahamas, of which there are more than 700, Fergus says. Consider the Exumas , a 130-mile-long archipelago known for its untouched beaches, sapphire waters, and memorable snorkeling. The region is made up of more than 350 cays and islands, and on many of them, there's far more nature than people. Great Exuma and Little Exuma are said to be among the most laid-back options here.

Related: These Island Vacations Don't Require a Passport

Avoid: South Padre Island, Texas

Named one of the top spring break destinations by STA Travel, South Padre Island is legendary for its crowds and party scene. But the spring heat in Texas isn't exactly pleasant, and between the temperature and crush of people, maybe it's a destination best avoided.

Related: 23 Amazing Gulf Coast Beach Houses to Rent

Instead: Portland, Oregon

If beach vibes aren't, in fact, your vibe, consider Portland. It's a memorable foodie city and offers a wide assortment of cultural excursions to take advantage of during your next spring break trip. Some of the highlights to put on a must-do list include the city's famous Voodoo Doughnut  and the Japanese Gardens in Washington Park.

Avoid: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach has a huge assortment of entertainment options for spring break travelers, which is exactly why it attracts thousands of party seekers every year. There's a beachfront boardwalk, countless bars, strip clubs, and low-cost booze, all helping earn Myrtle Beach a spot on Ranker's list  of trashiest spring break destinations.

Related: 33 Amazing East Coast Beach Houses to Rent

Instead: Montreal, Canada

There's also lots to do, including great nightlife, in Montreal. Explore the charming cobblestoned streets of Old Montreal, perhaps stopping to take in the Basilique Notre-Dame (which dates back to 1824), or spend an afternoon strolling among the blooms at the 190-acre Montreal Botanical Gardens, where there are 10 expansive greenhouses and more than 22,000 types of flora. True, there's no beach to be found in Montreal, but there's plenty of history and culture to fill your days instead. And come nightfall, the city's party scene holds its own, offering everything from supper clubs to trendy bars and after-hours venues. Think of it as the best of both worlds.

Related: 15 of the Best Road Trips in Canada

Avoid: Cancun, Mexico

Cancun attracts a fair share of college students year-round, but come spring break, it is easily one of the most visited destinations on the planet. Students are lured by hotels that cater to spring breakers — particularly rowdy groups looking for all-night parties — as well as budget prices  and a seemingly endless number of nightclubs. "Cancun and the Riviera Maya is practically synonymous with spring break crowds and rowdy parties. If that's not your scene, avoid it this time of year," says Fergus from TripSavvy.

Instead: Panama

Explore Panama's historic Casco Viejo (Old Town), marvel at the Panama Canal, and get your beach time in, too, says Fergus from TripSavvy. "Panama offers many of the historic and natural charms of Cancun, without the raucous reputation." There's also plenty of surf, sun, and sand in Panama. If you need your beach fix, head to Bocas del Toro, one of the country's top sun-drenched offerings. The region, made up of a cluster of tropical islands, is legendary for its sandy beaches and pale blue waters. The laid-back atmosphere of Bocas del Toro is an added bonus.

Related: 50 Affordable Vacations to Add to Your Bucket List

Avoid: Las Vegas

Las Vegas  is a perennial favorite among the party crowd — no surprise for a place known as Sin City. Between the raucous pool parties and clubs that allow for dancing the night away, peace and quiet is something you won't find here. "Las Vegas is notorious for getting you to spend money ... and way too much of it! Lunch buffets, drinks every night, and gambling can drain your bank account fast," says Emily Mandagie, a full-time photographer, writer, and creator of The Mandagies  travel and adventure website. "Not only will your money not go far, but this place will be overcrowded, loud, the opposite of anything you could call a break."

Related: Las Vegas Mansions You Can Book as Vacation Rentals

Instead: Palm Springs, California

Between the hot springs, spas, boutiques, art galleries, and abundant hiking, what's not to enjoy about Palm Springs? While this desert destination in Southern California may be known as a playground for the rich and famous, there are also plenty of free and inexpensive entertainment options . Check out VillageFest, an old-fashioned street fair featuring musicians, food, and art happening every Thursday.

Related: 20 Rat Pack Haunts You Can Still Visit

Avoid: Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Another destination on lists of top spring break party spots, Lake Havasu has plenty of appeal  outside of March and April. Visitors are attracted by the endless sunshine, boating, off-roading, hiking trails, and fishing. But come spring break, Lake Havasu is completely overtaken by the college crowd and the ensuing drunken parties.

Instead: Bryce Canyon, Utah

If a beach isn't mandatory for your spring break, Bryce Canyon National Park may be an ideal alternative in the Southwest. The canyon features stunning and unusual red rock formations and endless hiking, camping, and stargazing. There are also free ranger programs year-round, including fascinating geology talks that delve into how the canyon was formed and rim walks that include plant and wildlife stories. The backdrop for all this activity is as peaceful as it gets, thanks to a lack of bars, nightlife, and bikini contests.

Related: Explore the Best National Parks in Every State

Avoid: New Orleans

One of the country's foremost party cities (hello, Mardi Gras) and a regular on lists of trashiest spring break destinations, New Orleans draws legions of college kids with no beach, but a lenient open-container law and plenty of bars selling cheap drinks. If a charming, romantic visit to the French Quarter is your aim, consider scheduling a visit for summer or fall.

Related: 26 Best Cheap or Free Things to Do in New Orleans

Instead: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston gets raves from travelers and is loaded with inexpensive fun . It has sophisticated charm to spare, thanks to antebellum homes, cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and an elegant French Quarter. (Don't miss the Battery district.) The free Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art is also highly recommended. If beaches are an absolute must for your spring break getaway, Charleston has those, too. Just a few minutes from the city is Sullivan's Island, known for its pristine sand.

Avoid: Galveston, Texas

Galveston's exciting beach parties are legendary. The city, just an hour from Houston, is also known for its inexpensive dining and serious nightlife. And did we mention the bikini contests? There's a reason this place has been dubbed the "Playground of the Southwest." Each March, the city turns into a road trip destination for college students from around the region.

Related: Family-Friendly Texas Spring Break Vacation Rentals to Book Now

Instead: Texas Hill Country

Spring marks the beginning of the vibrant wildflower season in the Texas Hill Country, where a road trip will reveal endless fields of bluebonnets as well as old schoolhouses, small towns, and one winery after another. Fun fact: The Texas Hill Country was settled by Germans, so there are plenty of German breweries . Don't miss the Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten in Fredericksburg, which offers a lovely open-air setting in which to enjoy a glass of wine. For a bit of history, make your way to Gruene, a former German farming settlement that has morphed into an art haven and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Avoid: Daytona Beach, Florida

One of the original, legendary spring break locations , Daytona Beach still turns into one massive party scene in March and April. Known for being a good choice for students who want to party on a budget, Daytona has DJs and MCs who run daily shows designed to make for a wild spring break environment.

Instead: Jupiter, Florida

Known for its laid-back lifestyle and casual waterfront restaurants with nightly live music and seafood, Jupiter also offers outdoor recreation, including boating and kayaking, turtle-hatching walks, hiking, and biking the city's many park and beach trails. Jupiter's Abacoa Town Center includes sidewalk dining, weekly events, and live concerts. Don't miss climbing the Jupiter Lighthouse to take in a sweeping view of the area. For baseball fans, Roger Dean Stadium serves as the spring training home for the Florida Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals.

Related: 18 Spectacular Lighthouses to See Across America

Avoid: Breckenridge, Colorado

There's nothing wrong with a little spring break skiing, but you'll probably want to avoid Breckenridge if you want peaceful, quality time on the slopes. In recent years, the mountain town has become ever more popular with the college crowd, attracting a steady stream of spring breakers throughout March.

Instead: Lake Tahoe, California

Known for its gentler winter weather and spectacular scenery, Lake Tahoe offers an alternative to the party scene. Not only does the springtime snow offer plenty of skiing, but there are charming lakefront towns to explore and notable nightlife options for those who need a bit more excitement after a day on the slopes. Don't miss historic downtown Truckee  for exploring art galleries, taking in the music scene, and sampling craft beer at hot spots including Truckee Public House, which offers live music and a creative food menu.

Related: 30 Serene and Secluded Lakes Worth the Drive

Avoid: Gulf Shores, Alabama

Yet another destination making an appearance in the spring break hall of shame, Gulf Shores is loaded with fun, late-night beach bars (Pink Pony Pub and Tacky Jacks among them), many featuring live music. Conveniently enough, Gulf Shores also offers plenty of rentable houses on the beach.

Related: Where to Go for a Budget-Friendly Summer Vacation in All 50 States

Instead: Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a trendy destination with tons to do, Sante Fe is a new spring break go-to. The city offers incredible New Mexican food, a fusion of Pueblan and Mexican cuisine. March is also an excellent time to hit the slopes here. But the art scene is perhaps the biggest draw, beginning with Canyon Road and its many galleries displaying work created by one famous artist after another. Santa Fe's museums are also a treat. History buffs will want to save some time to explore Santa Fe Plaza, which dates back to 1610 and is lined by several notable ancient buildings.

Related: 30 Beautiful Road Trips That Celebrate American History

Avoid: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

With its many beachfront resorts and year-round sun-drenched climate, Punta Cana is a natural choice for the college crowd. The hotel site Oyster  has named the Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana one of the top places to find a spring break party where there will be "great beaches, free-flowing booze, a party atmosphere, and fun activities." In other words, this is probably not the place to go if crowds and drunken beach parties are not your scene.

Instead: Laguna Bacalar, Mexico

For a more relaxing spring break, head to Laguna Bacalar in Mexico. "The shimmering freshwater Lake of Seven Colors offers waterfront villas, overwater swings, and a much more relaxing atmosphere," says Di Minardi, travel blogger and creator of the website Slight North . Bacalar, an up-and-coming destination (read: crowds have not yet descended en masse) was profiled by The New York Times  and is known for being a charming village filled with fishermen's tiny homes and, of course, for being the location of a stunning turquoise lagoon. There's also a local ecotourism park where visitors can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, and boat.

Related: 24 Secluded Beach Paradises Around the World

Avoid: Puerto Vallarta

Another legendary spring break destination, Puerto Vallarta hosts a party that doesn't stop at any point during March and April. It, too, regularly earns a spot on lists of trashy party destinations. That's not to say Puerto Vallarta isn't worth visiting. You just won't want to be here during the height of spring break, when it is known for attracting massive crowds of coeds.

Instead: Colombia

Colombia offers a warm, welcoming climate and vibrant metropolitan cities overflowing with culture and nightlife, according to Jeremy Scott Foster, founding editor of Travel Freak . "It will be a more unique and rewarding experience," he says. "It's also worth mentioning Colombia ... is now considered to be one of the safest countries in South America." Indeed, Colombia is in the midst of something of a renaissance, with tourists beginning to return to the country and giving it rave reviews. There's been a variety of hotel openings and an increase in flights serving the country. Among the most interesting things to see is Caño Cristales, also known as the river of five colors. This visually stunning attraction, which includes waterfalls and natural pools, can be found in Serrania de la Macarena National Park.

Related: 15 Bucket-List Destinations Below the Equator

Avoid: Miami

Miami appears on numerous lists of top spring break party destinations. The steamy, entertainment-rich city attracts 20-somethings from around the world who come for the white sand beaches, trendy cafes, and nonstop nightlife.

Related: 30 Free or Cheap Things to Do in Miami

Instead: Cuba

The experts at Intrepid Travel  recommend Cuba as an alternative. The Caribbean gem oozes charm, with a rich history and its share of exciting nightlife. While you're there, explore Cuba's historical Spanish architecture, which dates back to the 16th century, and the island's rich culture. You can also sample a few legendary cigars, and even visit the farmers who make cigars in the Viñales Valley, a lush, inland region known for its tobacco plantations and striking limestone mountains reminiscent of Vietnam's Halong Bay. Cuba's tourism industry had been struggling amid constantly changing Trump administration regulations, and Biden has made no changes since taking office, but visiting the country is still perfectly legal and very easy under the " support for the Cuban people " visa category.

Related: Best Small Towns to Visit in Spring

15 Quiet Vacation Destinations For Spring Break Without Crowds

While Mexico is a popular spot with parties, travelers can enjoy quiet spring break vacations without crowds instead, from Barbados to Lisbon.

Read update

New and Revamped Crowd-Free Spring Break Destinations

• Cancun may be too crowded, but there are other thrilling and affordable spring break vacations without crowds.
• Consider some of the least-crowded spring break destinations; options like Barbados, Nevis, or Molokai are ideal for peaceful and adventurous getaways.
• Change it up by exploring hidden gems in Europe, the USA, or Canada for a unique spring break experience.

Cancun, Mexico, has always been one of the top vacation destinations for spring breakers . Bordering the Caribbean Sea, this stunning place is known for its non-stop party atmosphere day and night, whether on the beach or out on the water. However, Cancun is also known for its absurd crowds and dodgy areas to avoid during a spring break escape, and with so many vacationers all in one place, it can get a little too rowdy for some travelers.

Those searching for a new place to spend spring break will be glad to know that several destinations are just as thrilling as Cancun - as well as other superb spring break hubs like Miami Beach and Cabo San Lucas - but without the overbearing crowds. Plus, there are plenty of other budget-friendly tropical places to visit other than Mexico, ideal for jet-setters searching for more affordable spring break destinations.

Still, while the Caribbean is a top pick for spring break, travelers should consider changing it up and checking out other fascinating places in the USA, Europe, the Caribbean, and even Canada. So, ditch the usual spring vacation spots this year and check out these crowd-free vacation destinations for spring break.

UPDATE: 2024/02/25 19:39 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

Spring break is the perfect time to travel, unwind, and experience the world's most beautiful, carefree destinations. This list of options has been updated with new and less crowded spring break destinations and includes attractions and average prices that travelers can expect for each.

10 Best Caribbean Cruises For Every Type Of Traveler

15 barbados, soak up gorgeous beaches without rowdy crowds.

Barbados offers plenty of incredible things to do and see , especially beaches perfect for a spring break trip. Bathsheba Beach is a popular beach for surfers with stunning rock formations all around, while Carlisle Bay is perfect for someone looking for calmer waters and a place to swim.

While Barbados is certainly a popular destination in the Caribbean, mid-March is when Barbados tends to be less crowded, making it the perfect destination for spring breakers. Moreover, those hoping to veer off the tourist trail and get away from any crowds can find enough hidden gems in Barbados to keep the spring break retreat even quieter.

• Spring Break Attractions: Rockley Beach, Catamaran snorkel cruise , swimming with turtles
• Average Cost Per Week: $2,632
• Average Hotel Cost: $235

Laid-back Caribbean charm without the hoards of tourists

The little sister of Saint Kitts, Nevis is among the more unpopular spring break destinations because it's one of the Caribbean's most laid-back islands, where a relaxed lifestyle and slow pace of living deliver an irresistibly chill and crowd-free retreat. Considered too quiet and chill for most party-hunting spring breakers, this perfect little island remains mostly untouched, offering holidaymakers a serene, peaceful vacation away from the hustle and bustle seen on many other Caribbean islands.

Plus, along with the zen-like culture and friendly locals here, the nation's tasty local food alone is a good enough reason to spend a quality break here.

• Spring Break Attractions: Pinneys Beach, Nevis Peak , Lime Beach Bar
• Average Cost Per Week: $2,172
• Average Hotel Cost: $208

13 Cannon Beach, Oregon

This pacific northwest gem is a peaceful spring break spot.

March is considered the shoulder season and is the perfect time to visit Oregon and the rest of the Pacific Northwest as spring starts to bloom and the winter snow begins to melt away.

For spring breakers in Oregon, Cannon Beach is the best, low-key spring break destination. Known for its towering Haystack Rock and gorgeous natural beauty, Cannon Beach is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and nightlife chasers alike. Enjoy Cannon Beach's small, beach-town cafés and breweries, take a picnic at Ecola State Park, or try to spot some gray whales from the shoreline!

• Spring Break Attractions: Haystack Rock, Pelican Brewing , migrating gray whales at Ecola State Park
• Average Cost Per Week: $2,089
• Average Hotel Cost: $145

12 Vancouver Island, Canada

British columbia is perfect for families and friends during spring break.

Craving adventure and looking to connect with nature over spring break? Fancy some serene views and stunning coastlines? Consider visiting Vancouver Island in Canada's British Columbia this year. Vancouver Island is definitely a quiet and unconventional spring break destination but worth it for travelers who are looking for a more adventurous vacation.

Travelers can spend their time road-tripping around the island enjoying the wildlife, cliffs, and beaches, and spending the night in Vancouver Island's fabulous cabin rentals . If spring breakers are looking to stay in one place, Nanaimo is the perfect home base to travel to and from.

• Spring Break Attractions: Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , Chesterman Beach, Mount Washington Skiing Alpine Resort
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,007
• Average Hotel Cost: $88

Discover Vancouver Island's Devil's Bath: One Of The Largest Cenotes In Canada

11 lisbon, portugal, energetic nightlife and warm weather are the perfect spring break scene.

Heading across the Atlantic to Europe, one of the most relaxing spring break destinations students can find is in Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon is the friendliest and most budget-friendly European city to travel to and its colorful streets, lively energy, and savory dishes are the perfect setting for a memorable spring break vacation.

Travelers can enjoy Lisbon's many historic sites and warm beaches and walk down the streets lined with live performers and cafés filled with people without spending more than $1,000. Lisbon is easily one of the most underrated spring break destinations since it's less about partying and more about enjoying quiet beaches, enchanting historic sites, and old-world streets that bustle with shops and cafes.

• Spring Break Attractions: Pink Street, Galapinhos Beach, boat tours
• Average Cost Per Week: $988
• Average Hotel Cost: $63

10 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Low-key but has a lot to offer.

Hilton Head Island's Atlantic Ocean beaches are pristine, mostly uncrowded, and a great place for families to relax and soak in the sun during spring break. For a typical seaside scene, visitors should make their way to Coligny Beach Park , which features many restaurants, attractions, and shops.

Hilton Head Island is the perfect getaway for both school friends and families. The vibe in Hilton Head is laid-back, the humidity is low this time of year, and there are plenty of beaches and beach parks that everyone will enjoy.

• Spring Break Attractions: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina , Fish Haul Beach Park , Folly Field Beach Park
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,703
• Average Hotel Cost: $129

March in Bermuda means zero crowds

Visitors looking for less crowded destinations for spring break with more natural landscapes and pretty beaches should consider a trip to Bermuda. The island is known for its picturesque Horseshoe Bay Beach and blend of British and American culture, which you'll find in Hamilton, the capital of Bermuda.

Crowds in Bermuda during March are typically low, which also means lower hotel prices and fantastic weather to enjoy. Those who are looking for exciting outdoor adventures will love Bermuda's shipwreck diving sites, some of which are said to be haunted . Plus travelers can enjoy sailing and exploring the stunning Crystal Caves .

• Spring Break Attractions: Crystal and Fantasy Caves , Warwick Long Bay, Horseshoe Bay
• Average Cost Per Week: $2,144
• Average Hotel Cost: $144

8 Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is quieter in the spring but full of fun.

If travelers don't like hanging out in the blistering heat all day, they should consider a trip to Dublin, Ireland. There are countless things to do in Dublin for a day or a full week, including partying in the iconic Temple Bar , visiting the Guinness Storehouse Factory , and visiting several striking castles and cathedrals.

For outdoor enthusiasts, travelers must make their way to The Cliffs of Moher or take a road trip along the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way. If travelers are lucky enough to be in Dublin on March 17th, they'll get to witness the epic Dublin-wide St. Patrick's Day festivities!

• Spring Break Attractions: Temple Bar pub, St. Patrick's Day Parade, Dublin Castle
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,054
• Average Hotel Cost: $71

Tasting Dublin: A Foodie's Guide To The 10 Best Places To Eat In The City

7 molokai, hawaii, springbreakers will find peace and serenity in molokai.

Hawaii's most popular cities, like Honolulu, and islands, like Oahu, can have too many commercial attractions, but the island of Molokai, the second-smallest inhabited island in Hawaii , is where travelers will find plenty of outdoor adventure and stunning natural landscapes.

Travelers looking to escape the crowds of Honolulu will find beautiful sea cliffs, quiet white sand beaches, and lush rainforests all prime for photography and exploration on the beautiful island of Molokai. For a super quiet and crowd-free spring break beach vacation, visit Papohaku Beach Park on Molokai , home to pristine beaches that are mostly free of crowds.

• Spring Break Attractions: Hālawa Valley , Kumimi Beach, Papohaku Beach Park
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,877
• Average Hotel Cost: $118

6 Destin, Florida

Beautiful sandy beaches and terrific nightlife.

Destin, Florida, is a great option for spring breakers who are looking for quiet and underrated beaches and a vacation destination away from rowdy Miami. Destin is easily one of the many places in Florida that look like the Caribbean ; it has beautiful white-sand beaches with numerous water activities like parasailing, fishing, and snorkeling.

Nightlife in this city is just as good, with piano bars, live music, and a plethora of restaurants. Destin undoubtedly offers a fun and exciting spring break experience that is sure to create lasting memories.

• Spring Break Attractions: Destin Harbor Boardwalk , HarborWalk Village , James Lee Beach
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,342
• Average Hotel Cost: $111

5 Grand Cayman

Perfect beaches and every shopaholic's dream.

Famed for its powder-white palm-fringed beaches and warm blue ocean, Grand Cayman delivers an idyllic Caribbean spring break getaway and is full of sumptuous seafood restaurants, colorful marine life, awesome scuba diving, and incredible island hopping experiences. Plus, spring breakers with cash to splash will also be kept happy with the abundance of duty-free, high-end shops all selling designed brands at discounted prices.

A particular favorite spring break spot is Seven Mile Beach , where, in between lazing on the sands and swimming in the sea, guests can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, or try their hand at other beach activities like water-skiing and sailing. Furthermore, one of the very best free things to do on the island is to jump off the popular Smith's Cove Cliff.

• Spring Break Attractions: Governor's Beach, Camana Bay , Cemetery Beach
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,499
• Average Hotel Cost: $149

4 Phoenix, Arizona

A great alternative spring break destination for outdoorsy types.

Travelers will find sun year-round in Phoenix, Arizona, a city known for the Desert Botanical Garden with its plethora of cacti, the iconic hike on Camelback Mountain, and popular spa resorts. Tourists will also find a bunch of unique museums and the Phoenix Zoo, which is home to over 1,400 animals.

While March typically means Phoenix is one of the quiet spring break destinations in the US, seeing as it's not exactly peak season, visitors still have plenty to do and see; they can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning desert landscape that Phoenix has become famous for. Vacationing in Phoenix in March is usually lively yet free of crowds and is filled with an energetic spirit that spring breakers will love.

Moreover, there are lots of scenic drives near Phoenix ideal for spring break road trips, not to mention vacationers will also find a number of alternative cities within driving distance of Phoenix that they can check out as part of a longer spring break getaway in the area.

• Spring Break Attractions: Papago Park , Camelback Mountain , South Mountain Park and Preserve
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,664

10 Top-Rated Waterfall Hikes In Arizona On AllTrails

A nature lover's paradise.

Belize is rather small, but it has a ton of things to offer for someone looking to do something other than party in Miami Beach. Belize is one of the greatest places for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, especially along Hol Chan Marine Reserve , with over 4,000 acres of coral reef, and the famous Great Blue Hole , with its underwater tunnels and caverns.

March is a great time to visit Belize for spring breakers because the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and it's Belize's dry season. Looking to take a break from adrenaline-pumping activities? Take a day to explore Belize's ancient Mayan ruins .

• Spring Break Attractions: Flyover tour of the Great Blue Hole, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve , Cave tubing tours
• Average Cost Per Week: $736
• Average Hotel Cost: $46

2 Montreal, Canada

Terrific nightlife and surprisingly affordable.

Spring breakers should make their way north to Montreal, Canada, where they'll find loads of museums, shopping, and terrific nightlife. Tourists will find many great local breweries , bars with amazing DJs, and restaurants that move their tables and chairs to create fun parties when it gets dark.

Whether travelers are looking for a cocktail bar or want to dance to live music, it's all here. March is Montreal's low season, so spring breakers will enjoy all of Montreal's charms without the hassle of crowds.

• Spring Break Attractions: Saint-Laurent Boulevard , Montreal En Lumière , Old Montreal
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,492
• Average Hotel Cost: $134

This island in the Caribbean affords life's finer things

Last but not least, Antigua is the ultimate spring break destination for travelers who savor life's finer things and adore a rich mix of sun, sand, and sea blended with charming towns and rich history. Somewhat pricey and very romantic with no lack of honeymoon retreats, this pristine paradise is thus free of crowds, and home to some of the most luxurious resorts and hotels in the region as well as some of the best beaches in the Caribbean .

Well worth the cost for spring breakers who can afford it, a spring break vacation here will be unlike any other; think fine dining restaurants, beach barbecues, unforgettable ocean adventures, and even interesting historical attractions such as Fort Barrington and its sweeping bay views, along with Nelson's Dockyard - an elite UNESCO World Heritage Site that charms even the most seasoned historians that think they've seen it all.

• Spring Break Attractions: Stingray City Antigua , Devil's Bridge National Park , Pigeon Point Beach
• Average Cost Per Week: $1,167
• Average Hotel Cost: $74

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Elaine Glusac,

According to the online travel agency Expedia, travelers in 2024 will check into rentals with  pickleball courts , voyage to places where their  favorite TV series are set , and visit “destination dupes” — vacation spots that duplicate the features of well-traveled attractions but draw fewer crowds and offer more savings.

Although the notion of alternatives isn’t new, dupe mania is rooted in recent  overtourism . “People have been flocking to popular destinations in record numbers, which is driving an uptick in travelers who are seeking less crowded and  less obvious alternatives  to these popular vacation spots that still offer all the charm,” says Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations. 

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Nearly 60 percent of travelers surveyed by the market research firm Future Partners agreed with the finding that dupes will grow.

“Even more than the  lower price , a dupe holds out the promise of a great experience,” says Arnie Weissmann, the editor in chief of  Travel Weekly , a travel business publication. “Chief among the risks that can ruin a trip are your fellow travelers — other travelers are competitors for the same resources you’re looking for, from an upgraded room to a good table at a fine restaurant.”

Consider the following five destination dupes to help you make the most of spring break.

Popular pick: Florida

Dupe destination: riviera nayarit, mexico.

From Pensacola to the Keys, Florida is a perennial spring break beach destination. Sun and sand lovers will find an alternative in Riviera Nayarit, the Pacific coast stretch of Mexico’s state of Nayarit just north of well-known  Puerto Vallarta . The beach town of Sayulita offers the bohemian appeal of Key West — easy to navigate on foot and full of fishing charters and small hotels — with the beachcombing access of the Florida Panhandle and surfing akin to New Smyrna Beach. It’s more expensive to stay at a beachfront resort such as Amor Boutique Hotel compared with a town option such as El Pueblito Sayulita, but both are walking distance to the water where waves are gentle enough for beginners to take a swimming lesson. Travelers renting a car can explore even quieter beaches in the nearby towns of San Francisco (a.k.a. San Pancho) and Lo de Marcos.

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Popular pick: South Padre Island, Texas

Dupe destination: miches, dominican republic.

If you’re looking for the long strands associated with South Padre Island, consider Miches on the northeast coast of the  Dominican Republic . About 90 minutes from the Punta Cana airport, the developing town of Miches offers more than 30 miles of beach, including Playa Esmeralda, a palm-fringed strand lapped by inviting turquoise waters. Birders looking to swap coastal Texas  birding sites  will find many different water birds and migrating land birds at nearby Limón Lagoon. Adventure travelers and photographers can take excursions to plunging waterfalls, including Salto de la Jalda and the mountain viewpoint Montaña Redonda. All-inclusive resorts are springing up along the coast, but there are more budget-friendly options closer around town, including condo rentals, homes and eco-friendly glamping-style dome tents.

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Popular pick: Vail, Colorado

Dupe destination: sandpoint, idaho.

Ski towns are popular with spring breakers looking for fun in the snow. Travelers who want a  mountain destination and great savings  should turn their attention to the northern Rockies where Sandpoint, situated on Lake Pend Oreille, offers a charming downtown and access to Schweitzer, the largest ski area in Idaho and Washington. The region has plenty of winter hiking and cross-country ski trails, as well as old-fashioned sleigh rides at the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch. Bargain lodging options range from the Outdoors Inn, a classic motel updated with woodsy decor, to cabin rentals from Twin Cedars. Similar to other great ski towns, Sandpoint has cozy coffee houses such as Monarch Mountain Coffee, craft beers and burgers at Matchwood Brewing Co. and films and concerts at the 1927-vintage Panida Theater — all within walking distance of each other.

Popular pick: Palm Springs, California

Dupe destination: truth or consequences, new mexico.

If a desert climate, hot springs and distinctive architecture suggest visiting tony  Palm Springs  in Southern California, look for similar appeal in Truth or Consequences in southern New Mexico. Originally named Hot Springs, the town renamed itself after a popular television game show in 1950. But the hot springs remain, generated by a 50 million-year-old rift along the Rio Grande, surfacing mineralized water ranging from 98 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Soak in history at Hoosier Hot Springs, founded in 1937, bathe riverside at Riverbend Hot Springs or overnight at Fire Water Lodge to have your own in-room geothermal mineral hot tub. Instead of mid-century modern architecture, downtown offers Southwestern adobe buildings housing cafés and galleries, and visitors can take day trips to surrounding 19th-century ghost towns.

Popular pick: Nashville, Tennessee

Dupe destination: memphis, tennessee.

On the Cumberland River, Nashville embodies the glamour of  country music .  Memphis , about 212 miles west, trades country swagger for soulful blues on the mighty Mississippi River, where downtown’s new Tom Lee Park reinvents the waterfront with walkways and sunset-viewing decks. Musically, Memphis’ story starts on nearby  Beale Street , a magnet for blues musicians since the 19th century, now home to live music venues including B.B. King’s Blues Club. Rent a hotel room at Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Memphis to be close to the music. Tour the original home of Stax Records, re-created at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and groove to its legendary artists, including Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes. Memphis, of course, draws music pilgrims to Elvis Presley’s former estate Graceland, neighbor to the concert venue Graceland Soundstage. 

Chicago-based freelancer Elaine Glusac writes the Frugal Traveler column for  The New York Times .

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5 Non-Beach Spring Break Destinations

By Emma Sarran Webster

The phrase “Spring Break” calls to mind images of white sand beaches, chic swimwear, and naps in the sun. It calls to mind places like Mexico, Florida, and the Bahamas. All of that is great — nay, it’s amazing ...as long as you’re a “beach person.” But if you’re not; if you prefer to be active, or explore a city, or if you’ve had your fill of lazing-around-in-the-sun trips for now and want to try something different, you can still take an amazing Spring Break trip. As you begin your planning, consider these six destinations that will have nary a beach umbrella in site.

Park City, Utah As a skiier or snowboarder, you’d be hard-pressed to get bored in Park City, Utah. The area boasts hundreds of trails — like those at skiiers-only Deer Valley Resort (which still maintains ski runs leftover by the 2002 Winter Olympics ) and Park City Mountain Resort (which combined with Canyons Resort last year to create the largest ski resort in North America) — with “The Greatest Snow On Earth.”

But, you don’t have to be an elite athlete to enjoy Park City. Take some beginner’s lessons; try out snowshoeing or dog sledding, or get off the slopes altogether. Park City’s downtown area is small, but quaint, and packed with plenty of restaurants, shops, art galleries, and more to keep you busy for the week.

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Reykjavik, Iceland Iceland has certainly been a travel hot-spot as of late (perhaps in part because of Iceland Air’s marketing push and addition of the Stopover , which lets travelers stay in the country for up to seven nights while traveling between Europe and the U.S. and Canada for no additional fee), and for good reason. Reykjavik is a picture-perfect, quaint European town, with brightly-colored buildings, cozy restaurants, and uniquely Nordic shops. But what makes it an even more appealing destination is the fact that it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning natural beauty you can find — including glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, black sand beaches, and more.

You can stay in the city, but book a tour (or more) that’ll take you outside of Reykjavik to explore areas like the Golden Circle and the beautiful South Coast . If you’re up for some adventure, you can snorkel between two continents or go inside a glacier ; and animal fans can go whale watching or horseback riding (or simply enjoy seeing the unique Icelandic horses grazing on the sides of the roads.

About 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik is the famed Blue Lagoon , a relaxing sanctuary of warm water and revitalizing, white mud. And if you’re lucky, you may be able to catch the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis (better known as the Northern Lights) while outside of Reykjavik. You can check the nightly forecast to get an idea of when they might appear, or book a Northern Lights tour to seek them out with a guide.

Austin, Texas Austin gives you the chance for a warm-weather spring break vacation without the beach. The trendy Texas city is home to the massively popular SXSW (which occurs March 10-17 of this year) and Austin City Limits (which is in October) festivals, but there’s far more to this destination than that. In fact, it’s kind of one of those “something for everyone” type destinations.

There are the beautiful, natural Barton Springs and Hamilton pools; there’s the vast live music scene; the hikeable Mount Bonnell ; the famous Texas BBQ , the bustling 2nd Street District , and more.

By Ashleigh Carter

Chiang Mai, Thailand If you’re willing to make the long trek to Asia (or perhaps have the chance to extend your trip), Chiang Mai is definitely a worthy destination. The northern Thailand city is far less crowded and chaotic than the country’s capital, Bangkok, but there’s no lack of things to do and see. Enjoy the more relaxed vibe as you wander the neighborhoods both inside and outside the Old City walls; browse and shop for food and crafts at the many markets (like the bustling Night Bazaar ); and enjoy a meal (or more) at a restaurant on the Ping River. Head up to the sacred, mountain-top temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for a close-up look at stunning Thai architecture; birds-eye views of the city; and, at sunset, the evening chanting of the monks.

For an extra special adventure, book a day (or overnight) visit to Elephant Nature Park , a sanctuary and rescue center for elephants. There, you’ll learn about the elephants at the park and around the world, get up close to the animals, hear their individual stories, and feed and bathe the gentle giants. What you won’t do? Ride the elephants. The act itself, as well as the treatment of the elephants subjected to it, is inhumane ; so skip any elephant parks touting shows and rides.

Niagara Falls, New York/Niagara Falls, Canada Looking for somewhere to go for just a couple days? Niagara Falls, which is situated right on the border of the United States (Buffalo, New York) and Canada (Ontario), is the perfect option. You can stay on either country’s side (if you have a passport to get into Canada, of course); the real attraction is the falls themselves — which include the iconic Horseshoe Falls as well as the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls — and they really are stunning and mesmerizing. If you want to get up close and personal, you may be able to take a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist (from the U.S. side) or the Hornblower (from the Canadian side), both of which take you into the mouth of the Horsehoe Falls (ponchos are provided, but expect to get wet!) and may be open during the later Spring Break dates, weather permitting.

Related: This $213 Cross Country Train Trip Goes From New York to San Francisco

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10 Affordable Spring Break Destinations in the U.S. and Mexico

These are the most affordable places to visit for spring break this year, according to Priceline.

Jeff Yount/Getty Images

Craving a spring break escape? Join the club: According to a recent study , more than one in 10 Americans are planning a spring break trip this year. That said, your vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, travelers can score some incredible deals in locales across North America. To help take the stress out of planning, we teamed up with Priceline to round up the most affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. and Mexico based on average nightly hotel rates.

And even though spring break is around the corner, it’s not too late to snag savings. According to Maria Beehner , a travel agent at Marvelous Mouse Travels, booking a last-minute deal may just be the way to go this spring break — as long as you can “be flexible with the destination.” What’s more, she says, “while you might not get the hotel or resort you had your heart set on,” you might be able to score a last-minute bargain with a deep discount. It’s also a good idea to research free or low-cost activities and look into multi-attraction passes in each destination to save money during your trip.  

From beautiful beach retreats to eclectic urban escapes, here are the 10 most affordable places to go for spring break in the U.S. and Mexico this year, according to the average nightly hotel rates pulled by Priceline.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Ron Buskirk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $117 

For a family-friendly escape that won’t break the bank, look no further than Pigeon Forge, which is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The small city is best known for being the home of Dollywood , Dolly Parton’s resort complex, with a theme park, water park, two hotels, and a seemingly endless amount of live music and entertainment offerings. Other family-friendly attractions in the area include the WonderWorks indoor amusement park, The Island in Pigeon Forge (a sprawling entertainment, dining, and shopping complex complete with a 200-foot-high observation wheel), and the thrilling Rocky Top Mountain Coaster .

Guadalajara, Mexico

Sergio Mendoza Hochmann/Getty Images

Guadalajara is the only Mexican destination on this list. And while many folks equate spring break in Mexico with Cancun or Cabo, this underrated city — Mexico’s second-largest by population, which is also considered the country’s cultural center — can certainly hold its own. What’s more, Guadalajara is famous for its rich history, tequila, mariachi music (which is said to have originated here), and its vibrant design and food scenes. Speaking of the latter, must-visit spots include Birriería las 9 Esquinas for birria and La Postrería for exquisite desserts.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Tanveer Badal

Average nightly hotel rate: $130 

Don’t sleep on Oklahoma City, where cowboy culture reigns supreme thanks to a bevy of attractions like the National Cowboy Museum , horse shows , cattle auctions , and indoor rodeos and bull riding . Downtown, the opulent First National Center offers a selection of buzzy bars and restaurants like the swanky Stock & Bond steakhouse and The Library of Distilled Spirits (a cocktail bar housed inside the building’s old bank vault), and a luxury hotel , aptly named The National . So, what are you waiting for? Pick up a pair of cowboy boots at Little Joe's Boots , snag a custom hat at Shorty's Caboy Hattery , and hit the ground running. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Travelview/Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $142

While Vegas may seem like a vacation destination exclusively reserved for high-rollers, it can be enjoyed on a budget thanks to an abundance of free things to do , including catching the show at the Fountains of Bellagio , admiring gallery-worthy art at the Aria , or taking a self-guided tour of a chocolate factory . Plus, extravagant Vegas buffets , such as Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan , offer great bang for your buck with all-day brunch from $47 per adult. Pro tip: Pick a hotel with a pool so you can spend days soaking up the sun without having to spend any money. According to Priceline, Las Vegas is also one of the most affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. and Mexico based on airfare, with round-trip flights clocking in at $303, on average.

Kissimmee, Florida

Dianette Garcia/Getty Images

Budget-conscious travelers looking to visit the theme parks without breaking the bank may opt to make their base here, just south of Orlando. Beyond the theme parks, the city offers its fair share of noteworthy attractions, including the nostalgia-inducing Old Town entertainment district and the lush Kissimmee Lakefront Park, where biking, hiking, and fishing opportunities abound. To get here, you’ll fly into Orlando, which also made Priceline’s list of the most affordable spring break destinations based on airfare, with round-trip flights coming in at $298, on average.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Average nightly hotel rate: $150

This beloved family vacation destination gets more than 200 days of sunshine per year . Beautiful weather combined with 60 miles of shoreline make Myrtle Beach one of America’s best beach getaways. Beyond the sand, travelers can ride the 200-foot-tall SkyWheel, stroll the boardwalk, go golfing or mini-golfing (there are dozens of courses to choose from), and check out shopping and entertainment complexes like Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing.

Portland, Oregon

Tim Newman/Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $151

This eclectic Oregon city is known for biking (there are hundreds of miles of greenways, bike lanes, and dedicated paths) and brews (travelers can choose from roughly 70 breweries). Spring is among the best times to visit since the weather is mild (think: highs in the low 60s and lows in the mid-40s, depending on the month), and there are fewer crowds — not to mention cheaper hotel rates — compared to the summer high season. Beautiful blooms, which can be found at spots like the International Rose Test Garden and the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden , are just the icing on the cake. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of ample scenic hiking areas such as Forest Park , Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge , and the Instagram-worthy Multnomah Falls , about a half-hour drive from downtown.

Houston, Texas

Mark Mulligan/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $152

Houston offers so much to see and do for every type of traveler, making it an excellent pick for an affordable long weekend escape. Of course, no trip to Space City is complete without a visit to the Space Center, which offers access to astronaut training facilities, the Starship Gallery (home to multiple spacecraft), an epic collection of spacesuits, and Independence Plaza (where you can go inside a shuttle replica). Then, continue on to the massive Museum of Natural Science before shopping at The Galleria or retreating to the outdoors at the tranquil Hermann Park, Discovery Green, or McGovern Centennial Gardens. Finally, when hunger calls, options abound: As America’s most diverse city, Houston is home to an abundance of different cuisines — from West African staples at ChópnBlok to Korean-Mexican fusion at Coreanos — making it one of the top food cities in America .

Dallas, Texas

Paul Torres/Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Average nightly hotel rate: $161

Dallas truly shines in the spring, with sunny, warm (read: not humid or sweltering) weather. During this time, travelers can attend outdoor events such as Dallas Blooms , which neighbors the expansive and beloved White Rock Lake, or enjoy an afternoon at Klyde Warren Park downtown. Other must-visit attractions include the fun-for-all-ages and highly interactive Perot Museum of Nature and Science as well as The Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy some tacos from Revolver Taco Lounge and Taco y Vino or Texas barbecue at Terry Black's and Lockhart Smokehouse . We also recommend exploring beyond downtown: In fact, the city and surrounding areas are home to some truly dynamic spots like the ever-evolving Bishop Arts District in the Oak Cliff neighborhood and the newest location for the intriguingly popular art exhibition-meets-amusement park, Meow Wolf's The Real Unreal , in Grapevine (a short drive from Dallas near the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport). 

Denver, Colorado

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Average nightly hotel rate: $164

From state-of-the-art breweries and world-class museums to top-notch sporting events and outdoor adventure, it’s pretty much impossible to be bored in Colorado’s capital city. Art enthusiasts need not miss the Denver Art Museum, which boasts over 70,000 works, while beer lovers can check out the Denver Beer Trail . Work up a sweat hiking Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre — or at the very least, catch a show here — or wander the Denver Botanic Gardens. Larimer Square is the beating heart of downtown Denver, with many shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings.

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Best inexpensive spring break destinations.

Spring breakers don't need to shell out a fortune to spend a week enjoying life in the sunshine. To get you all of the fun without all of the fees, U.S. News carefully considered lodging costs, atmosphere, free things to do and traveler votes (among other factors) to bring you the best inexpensive spring break destinations. Check out the full list below and vote for your favorites to help determine next year's ranking.

Panama City Beach

New orleans, south padre island, playa del carmen, outer banks, daytona beach, grand canyon national park, myrtle beach.

If you're willing to make the drive from Miami (you'll score cheaper flights into this airport), Key West can be an affordable place to spend spring break. This small island in the Florida Keys is known for its quirky residents and premier snorkeling opportunities. While you'll find plenty of spots for partying along rowdy Duval Street, you can also soak up some culture at the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. For free attractions, check out the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery and the Southernmost Point. Plus, Key West offers several budget-friendly vacation rentals, so you can save your cash for bars and boat tours.

Panama City Beach – or PCB, for short – is a tried-and-true Florida spring break location that is sure to please the masses. Scope out a spot across the town's 27 miles of white sand beaches to sunbathe, play volleyball or scan the horizon for bottlenose dolphins. You'll no doubt have to contend with hordes of college students while on your trip, but hotel prices are reasonable if you book your accommodations in advance. Just note: This town in northwest Florida bans alcohol consumption on the beach during March, so you'll have to enjoy your adult beverages elsewhere.

New Orleans is a prime spring break destination for those seeking epic nightlife mixed with tasty Southern comfort food . While airfare can be a bit expensive, hotel and vacation rental deals are available – especially if you stay a bit removed from the action of the French Quarter. Check the calendar to see when Mardi Gras occurs (the celebration falls 47 days before Easter every year) and try to plan your vacation around it. The popular event, which sometimes takes place during spring break season in early March, often causes airfare and lodging expenses to increase.

With hotels offering nightly rates around $200 or less and DJs and celebrities holding court at nightclubs, South Padre Island, Texas, is a hot spring break destination for college students. This South Texas locale is only about 30 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, meaning you'll get to enjoy warm weather without having to leave the country (average daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s in spring). As an added bonus, the island offers a free public shuttle system, so budget-conscious travelers won't have to worry about spending money on a rental car.

Situated on Mexico's eastern coast about 40 miles south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers multiple stretches of white sand, a lively nightlife scene and average highs in the mid-80s, making it perfect for a fun-filled yet relaxing spring break trip. Though you may have to deal with some crowds since it's such a popular destination come spring, you will at least be safe from the dreaded hurricane season, which takes place from June to September. Search for specific spring break all-inclusive resort deals for the best value lodging rates.

With sprawling beaches and ample low-cost accommodation options, the Outer Banks in North Carolina is an attractive spring break vacation spot. The limited hotel choices are all pretty affordable, and this area is known for its large vacation rental homes – including some that can accommodate 15 or more guests – which makes it a cost-effective option for large groups. Spring weather here varies: While it's often sunny, average temperatures can be anywhere in the 60s to low 70s. Cheap and fun activities on this chain of family-friendly barrier islands include mini-golf, fishing and relaxing on the beach.

Daytona Beach's spring break draw has to do with its ample amount of hotels (position yourself away from the shore or a few miles outside of the city for the best deals), its trademark Florida weather (which climbs into the 70s and 80s throughout March and April) and its 23 miles of beaches. Though you'll miss the city's main event, the Daytona 500, you can still take part in some smaller, more affordable racing-themed festivities, including several that are part of Daytona Bike Week, which takes place from early to mid-March.

As the first (and longest) island of the Florida Keys, Key Largo appeals to spring breakers who want a getaway that feels off-the-beaten-track without having to travel too far to get it. Sitting less than 60 miles south of Miami (don't miss a stop at Everglades National Park along the way), this idyllic island enjoys little precipitation and balmy temperatures in the 70s in March, perfect for exploring John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on a snorkeling excursion. While March's influx of tourists drives up hotel prices, you can save some coin by splitting the room rate with friends and booking your accommodations far in advance.

For West Coast spring breakers looking to relax in the sun without paying an arm and a leg for airfare, San Diego is a great place to vacation on a budget. It's home to 70 miles of beaches , gorgeous parks and pockets of nightlife, plus scenic neighborhoods like La Jolla and Seaport Village that are free to explore. March and April weather is mild (average temperatures hover in the 60s during the day), but hotel rates won't yet be at their priciest. You'll also get to experience Instagram-worthy flower fields blooming all across the city, from Balboa Park to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Outdoor lovers who are looking for an alternative spring break experience can plan a budget-friendly trip to Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park. Accommodations here are cheap: You can camp for a nominal fee or rent an affordable cabin or recreational vehicle that can accommodate a large group. However, you'll want to book well in advance for this popular time of year. Spring is also an excellent time to see this impressive natural wonder thanks to comfortable daytime temps that fluctuate between the 50s and 70s in March and April. Visitors can enjoy everything from hiking to biking around the South Rim.

Thanks to its plethora of affordable oceanfront hotels, 60 miles of beaches (though the ocean will still be too chilly for swimming) and proximity to many major East Coast cities, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. From lively nightlife options to parties hosted by big-name DJs, this South Carolina town offers the classic spring break experience. If you're traveling with a large group, consider renting a house for more space and a full-size kitchen. Use the money you save on accommodations to purchase a Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach day pass or catch a show at the Alabama Theatre.

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Beyond the Bahamas and Mexico: 10 domestic spring break destinations where you don’t have to mess with COVID-19 tests

When it comes to spring break, tropical Caribbean getaways rank at the top of many bucket lists. But with lingering COVID-19 restrictions, including a required viral test (regardless of vaccination status or citizenship) no more than one day before you return to the U.S., many people aren't quite ready to make the leap to international travel.

Fortunately, there are plenty of domestic cities where mild weather, thrilling activities, outdoor adventures and, in some cases, even sunny beaches offer a fun-filled escape in March and April. We've rounded up 10 of the best destinations in the country where you can play hooky.

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Portland, Oregon

Spring in Portland is marked by rising temperatures (expect somewhere between the mid-40s and upper 60s) and blossoming cherry trees, azaleas, rhododendrons and roses throughout the city's many beautiful parks and gardens. Some of the best places to enjoy peak bloom season in this outdoors-focused hub include the lush Lan Su Chinese Garden, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden and Portland Japanese Garden, where you can also indulge in traditional Japanese tea and sweets. While Oregon's nearby beaches aren't ideal for swimming, they are a hot spot for whale watching this time of year when as many as 20,000 gray whales migrate between Alaska and Mexico.

With flowers, of course, come showers, so plan for indoor activities during rainy mornings. Head to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, one of the country's leading science centers, which has a planetarium, giant-screen theater and a retired U.S. Navy submarine, the USS Blueback, that you can even spend the night on with prior reservations.

Where to stay: Portland is full of funky, independent hotels, but it also has its share of points properties. Check into the kid-friendly Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel, which boasts a bedtime butler who delivers treats for adults and kids, for as little as 37,000 IHG Rewards points per night. The Nines, A Luxury Collection Hotel, located in a landmark building that housed the Meier & Frank department store where Clark Gable once worked, is available for just 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: Not just for hipsters: Portland, Oregon, with kids

Santa Fe, New Mexico

With ski season over and mild, cloudless weather reaching into the 70s, spring is a perfect time to visit this Southwest city (and take advantage of off-peak prices). The oldest state capital in the U.S., Santa Fe offers a slew of fascinating activities, from outdoor adventures to culinary experiences. Learn about a local legend at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, which displays over 1,000 of the late artist's works, and discover the area's rich cultural heritage at Museum Hill where you'll find the insightful Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art and the International Folk Art Market. For a look at some contemporary art the whole family will love, stop by Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return, a multimedia experience that's best described as a combination of a jungle gym, children's museum and immersive art exhibit. To step back into the past, explore Santa Fe Plaza, the city's vibrant center and a National Historic Landmark, or arrange a trip outside town to visit Bandelier National Monument, home to some of the most fascinating ancient cliff dwellings in the region, or Chimayo, a historic village with a robust arts and crafts heritage.

Where to stay: Set up your home base in the middle of the action at Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, located just two blocks from Santa Fe Plaza. Rates start at 40,000 Hilton Honors points per night at this Category 6 property.

Related: Escape on a budget: 13 domestic destinations with an international feel

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Dreaming of a beach vacation but not sure you can handle the rowdy spring break crowds? Gulf Shores just might be what you're looking for. For the sixth year in a row, the destination is banning alcohol on the beach until April 18. Along the miles of soft, white sand, you can enjoy a plethora of watersports, including parasailing and snorkeling. Just be aware that in March and April temperatures range from the high 60s to the low 80s — so the water may be a bit chilly. Not to worry: There's more than enough to do on boats and on dry land, including fishing, dolphin watching and golfing. You can also visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, look for gators in Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and go fishing on Gulf State Park Pier.

Where to stay: Nature will be at your doorstep at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a waterside retreat you can book for around 43,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: 5 easy New Orleans escapes you can get to in 3 hours or less

Vero Beach, Florida

In Florida, summers can be oppressively hot and humid — not to mention rainy — making spring one of the best times to visit. Skip the more popular destinations in favor of a vacation to less-touristy (but no less sunny) Vero Beach on the state's so-called Treasure Coast and enjoy lazy days swimming, beachcombing and lounging. Any one of the area's beaches is perfect for enjoying the beautiful weather in the area known as "the gateway to the tropics." With the longest boardwalk in Vero Beach, Jaycee Park is great for a stroll and a picnic, while Humiston Park is within walking distance of the bustling shopping district. Craving an adventure? Go on a snorkel or dive excursion to see the shallow-water shipwreck SS Breconshire. Meanwhile, at Round Island Park, a favorite spot for locals and visitors to kayak or canoe, you're also almost guaranteed to see a manatee.

Where to stay: With ocean views and gorgeous rooms, the Kimpton Vero Beach Resort & Spa is undoubtedly the best luxury pick in town, but that comes at a price: 120,000 IHG Rewards points per night. A more modest option is the new Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Vero Beach, where rooms will cost you around 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: 13 of the best beaches in Florida

Shake off your winter blues during a spring break getaway to Music City. While the weather can be unpredictable — look out for lows in the mid-40s, highs in the low 70s and a decent amount of rain — there's a lot to keep you busy indoors. Explore music history at the new National Museum of African American Music or the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry or one of the city's many dance halls, or learn about rare cars at the Lane Motor Museum. If it's sunny, head to Centennial Park to admire the full-scale replica of the Parthenon built for Tennessee's 1897 Centennial and International Exposition, take a horseback riding lesson in Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park or drive to Chattanooga for a daytrip.

Where to stay: Nashville has no shortage of points hotels , including the ultra stylish Thompson Nashville, where rooms feature hardwood floors, barn doors and floor-to-ceiling windows. A Category 6 property in the World of Hyatt program, you can check in for 21,000-29,000 points per night.

Related: 9 of the most Instagrammable places in Nashville

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

A popular multigenerational retreat, Hilton Head Island boasts lovely weather and some of the warmest water on the Eastern Seaboard in the spring. With temperatures reaching the high 70s and sparser crowds than in the summer, it's an ideal time to wander the island's 12 miles of beaches and ride bikes along the shoreline. If you get antsy, choose from a variety of other activities like fishing, golfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and zip lining, or visit the Audubon Newhall Preserve and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Hilton Head is also home to a thriving arts community. Browse some galleries or visit the Gullah Museum for an immersive presentation of the customs, traditions and stories of the local Gullah people.

Where to stay: If you want a big beachfront resort, look no further than the Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa, which can be booked for around 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related : 7 reasons why your next vacation should be on Hilton Head Island

Galveston, Texas

With an astounding 32 miles of shoreline, it's all about the beach in Galveston. March and April are warm, but not sweltering, so even if the water hasn't quite reached bathtub temperature, you should still be able to splash and swim in the Gulf Coast's waves. Family-friendly Stewart Beach (where alcohol isn't permitted) hosts a number of activities throughout the year, including sports competitions, yoga on the beach, drive-in movies and sandcastle-building lessons. Located at the far eastern tip of the island, East Beach has a boardwalk and stage where you can find concessions and festivals. There's lots of entertainment away from the water, too. Go golfing at Moody Gardens, ride the coaster at historic Pleasure Pier and explore the city's 40-block residential historic district.

Where to stay: Enjoy an oceanfront location and poolside cabanas at the Hilton Galveston Island Resort, where you can book a room for as little as 61,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: 9 underrated US beaches to visit this summer

Savannah, Georgia

Take advantage of Savannah's glorious springtime weather, when temperatures creep into the high 70s and the city's botanical gardens bloom, and spend the week wandering Georgia's oldest city. Seek out local history through a number of historic homes that are open for tours, including the Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home, the home of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low and the Mercer Williams House, which was the scene of the crime in "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Savannah also has a thriving arts scene on display at the Telfair Museums and the SCAD Museum of Art. Conveniently located on the coast, Savannah has easy access to nearby beaches and barrier islands. Nature lovers can journey to Tybee Island, less than an hour away, to search for seashells and climb Georgia's oldest lighthouse.

Where to stay: The Andaz Savannah on Ellis Square is mere steps from City Market and its surrounding shops and restaurants. Grab a room at the World of Hyatt Category 4 property for just 12,000-18,000 points per night.

Related: Maximizing points and miles on a trip to Savannah, Georgia

Catalina Island, California

If you have your heart set on an island getaway, consider California's subtropical paradise of Catalina Island, just 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles. With warm temperatures year-round, you'll have no trouble diving right into outdoor activities like paddleboarding in Avalon Bay, kayaking to Frog Rock, snorkeling at Descanso Beach or embarking on an undersea cruise in a roomy, climate-controlled cabin of a semisubmarine where you'll come face-to-face with colorful fish and other marine life. On dry land, explore the wild, pristine interior of the island by golf cart — be sure to snap Instagram-worthy views of the bay and city — and challenge the family to a game of miniature golf at Catalina Island's Golf Gardens. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers are sure to love the Catalina Climbing Wall and Zip Line Eco-Tour, which offers jaw-dropping views from 600 feet above sea level.

Where to stay: Catalina Island is populated with quaint boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, including the charming Catalina Canyon Inn (the former Holiday Inn Resort Catalina Island).

Related: Catalina Island: What families should see and do, and where to stay

Austin, Texas

This funky, crowd-pleasing city shines in spring when temperatures peak in the 80s. Soak up the sunshine by renting a stand-up paddleboard or kayak on Lady Bird Lake or taking a dip in Barton Springs, one of the most popular spots in town for locals and tourists alike. While searching for the best barbecue in town, stop for a photo op at one of the city's quirky and colorful murals, including the "Greetings from Austin" mural located where South First Street and West Annie Street intersect. No visit is complete without stopping by the city's bustling downtown area. Walk to the State Capitol building, delve into Texas history at the Bob Bullock Museum and watch 1.5 million bats emerge every night from March through October at the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Where to stay: Check in to the Driskill Hotel in downtown Austin, one of the city's most historic and best boutique properties . Part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection, rooms go for just 17,000-20,000 points a night.

Related: Planning a family trip to Austin

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12 Fun-Filled Spring Break Destinations That Aren't In Florida

Sunny Southern locales to plant your beach chair for spring break

South Carolina

North carolina.

Courtesy of Grand Isle Resort & Spa

Florida has long been the go-to spring break retreat , and for good reason. With its vast, tranquil beaches , fun-filled theme parks, and alluring nightlife, it's no wonder throngs of college students and families flock to the Sunshine State for a mid-semester vacation. But, if you're ready for a change in scenery and some much-needed rest and relaxation, you don't have to travel to the Southernmost state to brave those crowded shores.

When you're ready to ditch the jam-packed sandy beaches in Florida, journey to these 12 under-the-radar locales for a warm-weather getaway not too far away from home.

David Garrison / Getty Images

South Padre Island

Every year the island is transformed into spring break central for college kids, complete with parties and DJs. But, there's more than enough family-friendly activities to take part in both on the beach and in Corpus Christi, including windsurfing, camping, sailing, dolphin watching, and kayaking, and Sea Turtle Inc , an interactive center dedicated to preserving marine turtles.

You're probably well aware that the Texas state capital boasts a boot-tapping live music scene like no other city, as well as sweeping raceways and plenty of green space. But, Austin's very own Barton Springs Pool is the reason it topped our list of spring destinations . The man-made recreational pool, filled with water from one of the largest springs in all of Texas, is the perfect swimming hole in springtime. For more aquatic adventures like canoeing and kayaking, head to Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

At the heart of the Grand Strand , sits one of the most popular tourist destinations for beachgoers. Myrtle Beach attracts millions of people each year, particularly during summer, but spring is the perfect time to visit . In April and early May, you don't have to worry about high humidity or navigating the city in congested traffic.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

This surf town , just 15 minutes away from Charleston, is sought after because of its expansive beaches, rich history, cozy cottages, and casual atmosphere. Take in the expansive views from the Folly Beach Fishing Pier (which stretches over 1,000 feet into the ocean), and you'll soon discover why the locals refer to this barrier island as the "Edge of America."

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head is where adventure meets luxury. Known as the golfer's paradise, the beautiful resort town rounds out South Carolina's coastline. While the attractive destination is heavy on sports and outdoor recreation, there are plenty of restaurants, boutiques, museums, and beaches to lure you to this Lowcountry favorite for spring.

Grand Isle, Louisiana

Most vacationers will be in the lively city of New Orleans during April to attend the annual Jazz Fest, but Grand Isle , located about 100 miles south, offers a scenic swath of sandy beaches and water sporting activities at Wakeboard Park.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Searching for a bit of coastal rustic charm after visiting the bustling cities of Savannah, Atlanta, or Charleston? Well, look no further than the east of Savannah, where the long stretches of beaches and salt marshes of Tybee Island await you. Experience local history at the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum , Georgia's oldest lighthouse that dates back to 1736, and browse the Tybee Island Farmers' and Artisans' Market.

Golden Isles, Georgia

The ocean's the draw for Georgia's Golden Isles , which consists of coastal destinations such as St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons Island. But the four small barrier islands are also home to a historic lighthouse, the Bloody Marsh Battle Site, Driftwood Beach, golf and tennis, sailing, dirt track racing, and beautiful shops.

Lake Lanier Islands, Georgia

You only need to make a 45-minute drive to sneak away to Georgia's lake oasis , just outside of Atlanta. Once home to the 1996 Olympic water sporting events, the 1,500-acre resort offers a glimpse of nature in its full glory. Here, you can hike, bike, or walk around the shore of Lake Lanier. But, you can also visit the busy waterpark, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, which houses Georgia's largest wave pool, waterslides, and a mile-long beach.

Chincoteague, Virginia

Nestled on the coast of Virginia's Eastern Shore region, surrounded comfortably on either side by the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, lies Chincoteague Island . Whether you circle the island on a pontoon boat or on a guided trip, you're going to want to pack your binoculars. This island offers an up close and personal view of marshes, bays, and the wild ponies made famous in the novel Misty of Chincoteague .

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Just south of Mobile rests Gulf Shores and Orange Beach , a little-known retreat on Alabama's Gulf Coast. For a blissful Southern escape with lots of great food and outdoor recreation, it doesn't get much better than these shoreline towns. Each April, you can get in on the action like a local at the International Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast's Greatest Beach Party . Speaking of fish, there's no shortage of seafood along the powder white beaches here.

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Surf, sand, and sun. Those are the three things that come to mind when thinking of a spring vacation spent on the Crystal Coast's Atlantic Beach . The beach opportunities are endless–rent a Jet Ski, book a fishing charter, or go tubing. When you're ready to take a break from the water, you can rent bikes to peddle around the Rachel Carson Reserve , where you just might see a few ponies galloping down the shore.

Related Articles

• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

17 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families – Kid Friendly Ideas!

Excited for the spring break season?

Do you already have a plan on where to take your kids for their much-deserved break from school?

If not, I’m here to help you plan your escape.

As we know, spring comes and goes on a whim.

It’s the perfect way to escape from the everyday routine and come out as a different person after.

But with so many things to consider and prepare for, choosing the right destination can understandably feel overwhelming.

As a parent who goes through this every year, I can relate to the struggle.

So, I want to help you discover the best spring break destinations for families by sharing my experience.

I will compare each destination’s pros and cons and use a set of criteria to ensure a fair review.

Pack your bags, and hit the road.

Discover the best spring break ideas for your family below.

Spring Break Ideas For Families Compared

Get ready for an unforgettable spring break experience with the whole family. 

Here are some destination ideas for the best spring break vacation:

Editor’s Choice

Delton Grand Resort and Spa

Delton Grand Resort and Spa is the perfect spring break destination for families.

• Affordability: 4/5
• Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 4.5/5
• Ease of Access: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach offers everything you need for a fun spring break holiday.

• Affordability: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5
• Ease of Access: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Banyan Tree is a tropical paradise where luxury meets nature. 

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5

Here are the top 17 spring break destinations for families.

1.  Delton Grand Resort and Spa (Editor’s Choice)

670 E Lake Ave Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 (608) 253-6049 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Beautiful lakefront views
• Luxurious spa and wellness center
• Some malfunctioning amenities

You can’t go wrong with a luxury condominium resort for spring break.

Get front views of the spectacular Lake Delton right from your private villa.

You and your kids will enjoy a fun swim at the resort’s lakeside heated pools.

If you’re in the mood for a beach day, it also provides easy access to sandy beaches.

Or, explore the local scene with the resort’s location nearby major attractions, including theme parks and ski hills.

After a full day of fun, relax your muscles at the waterfront Rhapsody Spa.

Also See: Best Hotels in The Caribbean Best Beaches in The Caribbean What to Do in The Caribbean

2. Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

11127 Front Beach Rd Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-4080 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning beachfront location
• Various activities for kids and families
• Rooms and facilities are in need of an update

Relax on a private beach with stunning sugar-white sands.

Watch your kids splash and paddle in the hotel’s lagoon-style pool with a beautiful waterfall.

The little ones will also love playing with other kids at the resort’s water playground, complete with slides, sprinklers, and splash buckets.

Want to have some adult-only fun?

Drop the kids off at the Under the Sea Activities Center for an arts and craft adventure.

You and your beau can relax in the oversized hot tub with a picture-perfect view of the Gulf Coast.

End the day by indulging in a delicious family dinner at SeaGlass Bar & Chips Seafood Grille.

Related: Restaurants: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Also See: Fun Family Vacations in Wisconsin Top Beaches in Wisconsin Best Water Park Hotels in Wisconsin

3. Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Carretera Federal Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 298 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo México, CP 77710 (984) 877-3699 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Luxurious villas with private pools
• Lush forest backdrop
• Costly accommodation

I remember stepping foot in Banyan Tree Mayakoba, feeling a sense of awe and serenity wash over me. 

Every corner was a snapshot of tropical paradise; lush greenery, serene waterways, and the refreshing vibe of Mexico’s Riviera Maya. 

We stayed in one of their elegant villas, my kids loved the private pool, and the outdoor living area became our hub for laughter and games. 

And oh, the spa. 

An unforgettable experience of traditional Asian therapies, it was an absolute treat for me after the fun-filled days. 

Not just a trip, it was an immersive experience that still brings a smile to my face.

So, you’re torn between Delton Grand Resort and Banyan Tree Mayakoba? 

Let me give you the lowdown. 

Delton Grand is a blissful retreat where you get to soak up lakefront views while savoring the luxuries of a wellness spa. 

Banyan Tree, on the other hand, is a tropical paradise where luxury meets nature. 

Think private villas and serene waterways. 

If you’re on a budget and crave a serene waterfront, Delton is your spot. 

But if you’re ready to splurge on a luxurious tropical getaway, Banyan Tree will make your heart sing. 

Remember, both will create unforgettable family memories.

Also See: Things to Do in Panama City Beach with Kids Best Hotels in Panama City Beach

4. Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman

2221 Queens Hwy East End, KY (888) 232-0541 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With gorgeous white sands and crystal clear waters, Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman is an outstanding alternative to Delton Grand Resort and Spa and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

Enjoy water sports fun just steps outside your beach-nestled suite or villa right.

The resort’s secluded East End location is perfect for a quiet and peaceful spring break escape.

Explore the beauty of the area through the resort’s family-friendly excursions.

No trip is complete without swimming with the magnificent stingrays on the Stingray City Tour.

Parents will enjoy a full body massage and facial at the full-service spa overlooking the beach.

Watch out for the resort’s kids’ activities, including art, music, movie nights, and more.

Also See: Things to Do in Indianapolis with Kids Best Hotels in Indianapolis Top Family Resorts Near Indianapolis Best Beaches Near Indianapolis

5. Mayakoba, Mexico

77730 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (984) 873-4900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for a small, secluded destination for your spring break vacation, you might want to consider the beautiful gated community of Mayakoba in Mexico.

It is along the Riviera Maya and is 45 minutes south of Cancun’s International Airport.

Mayakoba means the ‘village of water’ and is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Caribbean’.

It lives up to that name with its network of canals, freshwater lagoons and, of course, gorgeous beaches .

The jungles and lagoons are spread over 620 acres of land.

You will also find some excellent resort options for your stay and it is all done while preserving the natural habitat of the place.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the local cuisine and some golf and beach clubs that only add to the landscape.

Recommended Hotel: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Also See: Best Restaurants in The Riviera Maya Best Hotels in Riviera Maya Riviera Maya All Inclusive Family Resorts

6. Grand Cayman, Caribbean

Grand Cayman, Caribbean (345) 949-0623 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The gorgeous beaches of Grand Cayman, Caribbean are always inviting you to plan trips with kids.

This place has a familiar touch of home which is only one of the reasons a lot of folks like to go here.

The roads are easy to navigate even though they drive on the left-hand side.

There are a ton of familiar hotel chains and restaurants around George Town.

The Seven Mile Beach is a pretty amazing place for those who love white sand and blue waters.

Head towards the north of the island and you will find Rum Point.

We’ll leave it to you to find out what to do there.

You can also go on a tour in a boat with a glass bottom.

Visit the famous Stingray City Sandbar to snorkel with the friendly southern creatures.

Recommended Hotel: Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman

Also See: Top All Inclusive Waterpark Resorts in The Caribbean Best Luxury Family Resorts in The Caribbean Best Caribbean Resorts for Families Top All Inclusive Family Resorts in The Caribbean

7. Ogden, UT

Ogden, UT (800) 255-8824 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If skiing is your thing then you have to go to Ogden, Utah.

It’s 30 minutes north of Salt Lake City and has resorts which offer skiing programs for children.

There are three resorts that have about 11,600 acres for skiing alone.

You can also go hiking or mountain biking here.

Ogden offers a lot of options for shopping, dining and has exciting nightlife, especially along 25th Street.

The Wasatch Mountain Range is a visual treat while other parts of the town are rugged and rustic.

There are many hotels and out-of-the-way campgrounds here if you’re not a family of ski bunnies.

While the kids are busy, maybe you could hit the spa or check out Ogden’s fascinating history and perhaps catch some art at the local community theatre.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Ogden

Also See: Best Family Beaches in Utah Best Family Vacations in Utah Best Waterpark Hotels in Utah Utah Family Resorts

8. Titusville, FL

Titusville, FL (321) 567-3775 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’ve never heard of Titusville, that’s probably because the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, a few miles away, usually hogs the attention.

If you’re looking for ideas for places to go during the spring break, Florida’s Space Coast is highly recommended.

It has some of the most beautiful beaches along the Canaveral National Seashore.

It gives you a peek into Florida’s nature along the Indian River Lagoon.

The whole family could go into the lagoon.

While the toddlers spot manatees and dolphins, you will be paddling away.

Or strap on a lifejacket and go kayaking.

These tours are available at night too in the spring months and the water glows with comb jelly bioluminescence.

You can also try star gazing if you’re lucky enough to be around when a rocket blasts off in the night sky.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center

Related: Spring Break Ideas for Families on A Budget

Related: Places to Visit in May in the USA

Also See: Best Hotels for Kids in Florida Hotels with Water Parks in Florida

9. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico (787) 710-8280 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you can’t decide where to go this spring, picture this.

A place where the Old World meets the new and the result is a small island filled with immense beauty and you don’t need a passport .

That’s beachy Puerto Rico for you.

It is back in the game after the devastating Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Whether you want diving lessons in the west coast or walk on bike trails in the Cabo Rojo Salt Flats, Puerto Rico won’t disappoint you.

You can also head to the National Wildlife Refuge if you like bird watching.

And don’t skip exploring the rich history of old San Juan and the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, while you’re there.

Culture and cuisine here are exceptional.

The mountains pack both adventure and serenity making this a Caribbean paradise.

Recommended Hotel: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Also See: Best Beaches in Puerto Rico Best Hotels in Puerto Rico Puerto Rico All Inclusive Family Resorts Puerto Rico with Kids

10. Florida Keys, FL

Florida Keys, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Florida Keys is a great place all year long. But in spring, the islands are a refreshing break from the mainland.

Set up your base in Key Largo or Key West and float around the islands in between.

At the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, children get to see sea turtles in a rehab.

In Bahia Honda State Park, you will find the best waterfront tent sites.

Try snorkeling at the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary which is home to some of the best-preserved reefs.

And top it off with a trolley tour in Key West.

You could also enjoy watching fishermen at work and maybe you’ll stumble upon a wedding.

Florida Keys is a great place to get a cocktail and relax while the little ones enjoy the sun and sand.

Recommended Hotel: Sunset Key Cottages

Related: Best Places to Travel in the US in March

Also See: Best Hotels in The Florida Keys Best Beaches in The Florida Keys

11. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC (800) 523-3373 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to see what the tweens are up to on their spring break, head to Myrtle Beach but if you want quality family time, you want to go to Hilton Head .

It is just off the coast of South Carolina with 14 miles of beaches , 100 miles of biking paths and world-class golf courses.

It’s the perfect destination to find some peace and quiet.

But don’t worry, there’s plenty of activities to keep your babies engaged.

There are family-friendly hotels and beachside resorts that can take care of your needs.

Or you could rent a car and take a trip to Savannah or Charleston to experience the rich history of the Old South.

The family could go crabbing or spotting bottlenose dolphins.

Either way, it’s an excellent choice.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Related: Places to Eat in Hilton Head, SC

Also See: Best Hotels in Hilton Head Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids Myrtle Beach Activities for Kids

12. San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX (210) 244-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With its world-famous River Walk, San Antonio is now a popular holiday hotspot for families .

The shops and restaurants here make for interesting pit stops while you explore one of the five San Antonio missions, all of which are UNESCO heritage sites.

It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about the cultures of Texas and Mexico.

And for fun, you can take them to SeaWorld or check out the many thrill rides and shows at Six Flags.

Don’t forget to stop by the Barney Smith Toilet Seat Art Museum just outside the city.

That’s right, a toilet museum.

San Antonio is also home to the world’s first amusement park for those with special needs, Morgan’s Wonderland.

It has a lot of parks and green spaces where you can rest while planning your itinerary for the many seasonal events. When looking for things to do with kids in San Antonio , you’ll never be at a loss of fun activities to choose from.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Hyatt San Antonio

Also See: Best Hotels in San Antonio Best Restaurants in San Antonio Family Restaurants in San Antonio San Antonio Water Parks

13. New York City, NY

New York City, NY (212) 639-9675 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Summer, spring or winter, there’s nothing quite like a vacation in the Big Apple .

But since we’re looking at spring break, the city that never sleeps is a pretty perfect choice.

Kids will love its iconic landmarks and entertainment options.

The Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty?

You don’t have to choose.

Central Park or Time Square?

It’s all there.

American Museum of Natural History or a Broadway musical?

You will get to see both.

By the way, you can get a “Night At the Museum” experience with a sleepover.

Whether you want to go shopping or explore the nightlife and whether the kids want to check out the local attractions or sporting events, you will run out of time but not things to do because this is New York City.

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental New York

Related: NYC: Best Restaurants

Also See: Things to Do in NYC with Kids Beaches in NYC Best Hotels in New York City for Families Family Resorts Near NYC

14. Carlsbad, CA

Carlsbad, CA (760) 434-6093 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Beaches, parks, zoos, museums and sunny California .

Carlsbad has all of that and more for its visitors.

Carlsbad is a highly recommended spot for a family vacation .

It’s just 30 minutes from San Diego and has the choicest places for snacks and shopping.

And for that, get started with Carlsbad Village.

If you want sun and sea, head to the Carlsbad State Beach.

Make sure you reserve a day for your kids to spend at LEGOLAND and the San Diego Zoo.

Take the Carlsbad Coaster and head to the zoo which is filled with pandas.

You can get up close and interact with them, among other animals, if you go early in the morning, before the park opens.

Carlsbad has seven miles of coastline, which is lined-up with nine rather amazing breweries and restaurants that offer some unforgettable dishes.

Recommended Hotel: Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa

Also See: Best Hotels in Carlsbad Best Restaurants in Carlsbad Fun Things to Do in Carlsbad with Kids

15. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA (619) 232-3101 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you have some time left after Carlsbad, you should head to San Diego .

The blue skies and a welcoming vibe are a great boost to the soul.

And for the tots, SeaWorld is just the tip of the fun iceberg.

Stop at the San Diego Zoo and peep into safari park in Escondido.

San Diego has 70 miles of coastline filled with activities throughout the year.

Get some sun at Mission Beach or Pacific Beach or La Jolla .

If you want to take a walk, head to Coronado Beach.

There’s also some pretty spectacular Mexican food that you shouldn’t miss.

Also, don’t forget to spare a day for the 1,200-acre Balboa Park.

It is famous for its natural vegetation zones, gardens, museums, theaters, apart from the San Diego Zoo.

Recommended Hotel: The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Related: Nice Restaurants: San Diego

Also See: Best Hotels in San Diego Top San Diego Attractions Things to Do in San Diego with Kids All Inclusive Resorts in San Diego

16. Yosemite, CA

Yosemite, CA (866) 425-3366 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No American is a stranger to the incredible beauty of Yosemite National Park.

With towering waterfalls, Sequoia trees, daunting cliffs and some unique rock formations, it is 1,200 square miles of awesomeness.

You could visit Half Dome and El Capitan, the more popular landmarks of the national park.

You will also find some amazing hiking trails here.

There are guided tours and if you’re feeling young and insane, you can take climbing lessons too.

The eight square miles of Yosemite Valley gets about 4 million visitors every year.

You should also check out the Tunnel View Outlook which is the gateway to the many attractions in Yosemite.

Check out Glacier Point while you’re here.

It’s on the south wall of Yosemite Valley at an elevation of over 7,000 feet.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel at Black Oak Casino Resort

17. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI (800) 464-2924 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s the largest city in Hawaii and the scenery is more than reason enough to visit.

Go to Oahu if you want a blend of luxury and nature.

You will be thrilled to find many historical sites like the Iolani Palace and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Keep an eye out for the USS Arizona Memorial.

The Waikiki neighborhood is decorated with a skyline of resorts and sandy beaches at ground level.

Head to the North Shore and let the young ones see rural Hawaii.

The blue waters and hiking trails will leave them spellbound.

You can try the exquisite cuisine at any restaurant in town .

The city also has a very busy social calendar.

So don’t forget to check it, no matter what time of the year you plan your trip.

Recommended Hotel: The Modern Honolulu By Diamond Resorts

Related: Restaurants: Oahu, Hawaii

Also See: Resorts in Honolulu for Families Best Restaurants in Waikiki Hawaii with Kids Things to Do on The Big Island

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

There are endless destinations for a fun spring break getaway with the family.

A thorough evaluation of the pros and cons of your options is key to choosing the right one for you.

Let’s dive into some comparisons. 

Delton Grand Resort is like a serene lakeside retreat, perfect for peace, while Banyan Tree Mayakoba gives you a lush, tropical luxury getaway. 

And if you’re a beach bum, Holiday Inn Resort in Panama City and Wyndham Reef Resort in Grand Cayman are your go-to spots. 

Each spot shines in its unique way, so really think about what your family craves this spring break. 

Is it serene lakes, lush tropics, or the inviting ocean? 

Remember, the best choice is the one that will make your family’s hearts sing.

How I Picked The Destinations

Here’s the scoop, my friend: I want you to have the best family getaway ever. 

That’s why I’ve dug deep, consulting local experts, scouring travel blogs, and even chatting up friendly locals during my own visits. 

From the hidden gems in Wisconsin Dells to the best time to visit Mayakoba, I’ve got the insider info you won’t find in your usual travel guides. 

Remember, it’s not just about the destination but the memories you’ll create. 

So let’s make your next spring break not just good but extraordinary. 

You deserve it.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Affordability: This criterion evaluates how budget-friendly the location is. Does it offer free activities? What about the accommodations and meals? Are they expensive? I ask myself these questions when rating affordability.   
• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to assess the availability and quality of kid-friendly activities in every destination. Does it offer amusement parks and interactive museums? Are there parks and beaches? These questions are essential when evaluating this criterion. 
• Safety: This criterion assesses the overall security of the destination. Does it have a low crime rate? Is it a generally safe environment? Will families feel comfortable and secure throughout their trip? I consider these factors to rate safety. 
• Accommodation Options: This is used to rate the accommodation options available in the area. Are there budget-friendly hotels? Does it have vacation rentals and homey options? Does it offer family-friendly options? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess accommodation options. 
• Ease of Access: I use this to evaluate the accessibility of every location. Does it have good transportation options? Is it located near airports or major highways? Are there restaurants and local attractions within walking distance? I ask these questions to evaluate the accessibility of the destination. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where do most people go for spring break in the us.

The most popular destinations for spring break can vary each year, but some consistently popular choices include beach destinations like Cancun, Miami, and Panama City Beach.

What Are The Best Resorts To Visit During Spring Break For Families?

The best resorts to visit during spring break for families include Delton Grand Resort and Spa, Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach, and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the best spring break destinations for families in Wisconsin, Florida, Mexico, and Grand Cayman.

During our most recent spring break family trip, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach.

The kids had a blast at the colorful, action-packed water playground and showed off their craft skills at Under the Sea Activities Center.

My partner and I saved up for a luxurious stay at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

And I can assure you that the unforgettable paradise experience is worth every single dime.

We also had a lovely time snorkeling and diving at Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman.

But the grandest of them all was the Delton Grand Resort and Spa.

We had the perfect spring break at the resort with its stunning lake views and a cozy condo stay.

Home | Seasonal vacations | Spring | 7 best spring break beach destinations

• Smathers Beach
• Seven Mile Beach
• South Beach
• Daytona Beach
• Chincoteague Island
• Montego Bay

7 best spring break beach destinations

In many parts of the world, March means beautiful beach weather. Welcome the changing seasons with a spring break beach vacation. But where to? Here are our picks for the best spring break beaches!

Smathers Beach , Key West, FL

Who wouldn’t love spring break in glorious sun-baked Key West – the southernmost point in the continental United States. The probable inspiration for Jimmy Buffet’s song Margaritaville, Key West is a decidedly scenic 90-minute drive (rent a convertible!) from Miami. This is the kind of handsome sun-dappled hamlet that everyone falls in love with the moment they arrive. Ernest Hemingway did some of his best writing (and cocktailing) here, and you can too! During the day, soak up the hot sunshine at Smathers Beach, longest in the Keys. Then join other spring breakers at Sunset Pier, just off Mallory Square, to enjoy the daily sunset celebration. Follow this with dinner at Santiago’s Bodega, or Blue Heaven. Then sample authentic mojitos and margaritas at jaunty pubs like Rick’s Tree Bar, the Schooner Wharf Bar, or the Green Parrot

Stay near the Smathers Beach >

Seven Mile Beach , Grand Cayman

The largest of the three Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is the ideal place to enjoy an exotic spring break beach holiday. Though it’s British territory – complete with all the pukka trappings – a British colonial governor and British colonial flag – Americans visiting the Caribbean for the first will feel right at home, as US currency is accepted everywhere, and North Americans don’t need a visa. The island’s petite pastel-painted capital, Georgetown, is a popular port-of-call for cruise ships, and within walking distance of the gorgeous world-famous Seven Mile Beach. Away from glam Seven Mile Beach, rental cars will bring you past small rural settlements like West Bay, East End and Rum Point. But Grand Cayman’s most compelling attraction is surely Stingray City – which is not a city, but an amazing sandbar which rises out of North Sound, where visitors can wade in gin-clear, hip-deep water to hand-feed gentle Southern stingrays.

Stay near Seven Mile Beach >

South Beach , Miami, FL

The grand-daddy of all upmarket spring break destinations – Miami’s one of a kind South Beach has it all. Like an amusement park for adults (without an entrance fee), good looking people flock here from all over the globe to have a good time under the hot Florida sun. They sip mojitos at sidewalk cafés beneath swaying palm trees, as beautiful bikinied bodies in Ray-Bans walk by, waving at handsome hunks in cherry-red convertibles. Movies and television have made South Beach’s charming Art Deco buildings famous, but the unique vibe is best felt in the district’s many lively bars and pubs, unique restaurants, cafes and clubs. And, yes, it’s all just a few footsteps from the soft sands of one of the best beaches in the world, with the warm Atlantic waters always in sight. A South Beach spring break will likely create memories lasting a lifetime.

Stay near South Beach >

Alamitos Bay, Long Beach , CA

Ever since the 1960s, Long Beach has been the siren call for spring breakers on the West Coast. And the image of sun-bronzed boys and bikini-clad girls along the eight-mile beach is authentic. Alamitos Bay is one of the nicest beaches here, and you’ll see a lot of locals renting kayaks or kiteboarding. Long Beach also has a spirited nightlife scene, including everything from Latin lounges to jazz clubs. Away from the beach, downtown Long Beach has undergone a mega transformation in recent years. Trendy new restaurants attract the young and young at heart. With a rental car, fun day-trips are dead-easy to do to nearby places like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica. And in April, don’t miss the thrilling Long Beach Grand Prix Formula One race!

Stay in Long Beach >

Daytona Beach , FL

This family-friendly, wallet-friendly beach town first gained fame for its annual Daytona 500 stock car race, which took place right on the beach. Even today parts of the 23-mile long white-sand strand are free to drive on – though it’s best to do so in an SUV. These days the balmy resort town is renowned as spring break heaven for young people keen to escape the long northern winter. Once here, they party hearty before returning to school or work. Attractions include everything from para-sailing and jet-skis, to sailing and beach volleyball. And after dark, spring break dance parties often run till dawn. Among the most popular night spots include the Bank Blues Club and the Ocean Deck Club – with its funky Reggie Bar right on the beach. And Florida’s mega theme parks in Orlando are just an hour’s drive inland.

Stay in Daytona Beach >

Chincoteague Island , VA

For a genuinely unique spring beach break for families with kids, look no further than the charming little island called Chincoteague (pronounced ‘chinka-teak’). Located a morning’s drive from Washington DC, Chincoteague booms during the summer months. But its natural beauty can also be enjoyed in spring, before the crowds arrive. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is open all year. And linked by a small bridge is amazing Assateague Island – a 37-mile long barrier island facing the Atlantic, much of which makes up the 800-acre Assateague State Park – some of the last rural undeveloped shoreline on the East Coast. The kids will love seeing the abundant wildlife here, including wild deer, blue herons, snowy egrets and even bald eagles. But the most enticing creatures are herds of feral free-roaming ponies, made famous by the children’s book, Misty of Chincoteague. The sweet-natured ponies, which number several hundred, graze in the open fields and are often seen ambling along the roads of both Chincoteague and Assateague islands.

Stay on Chincoteague Island >

Montego Bay , Jamaica

What’s not to love about a spring break in Bob Marley’s astonishing beautiful tropical island – “where the sun shines daily on the mountain top”? Jamaica’s most celebrated destination is illustrious Montego Bay (first made famous in the pop song) on the island’s stunningly scenic north coast, just a short drive from the main airport. The best beach in ‘Mo Bay’ is Doctor’s Cave Beach. Though small – about 1,000 feet long, it has calm crystal clear waters and has an engaging vibe where locals and visitors happily mingle. Small boats can take you out for good snorkeling. What’s more, it’s a stone’s throw from the town’s ‘hip strip,’ more formally known as Gloucester Avenue – where there are lots of lively restaurants and pubs. And visitors can listen to live reggae bands while sampling Jamaica’s excellent Red Stripe beer, and try the island’s beloved jerked chicken). In addition, there’s both upmarket duty-free shopping and friendly vendors hawking cheap and cheery locally made T-shirts and sun hats. Attractions near Montego Bay include tours of Rose Hall, a beautifully preserved 17th century house. Another must-do, for families or romantic couples, is leisurely floating down the gentle Martha Brae River on comfortable ingeniously-built bamboo rafts, with an expert oarsman steering at the back.

Stay in Montego Bay >

Related Articles

6 easy family road trips across the southern us, spring break for adults: 10 beautiful and budget-friendly b&b escapes, 5 fairy tale b&b cottages for spring, 7 spring break destinations for the whole family, discover the best places to go for spring break this year, a destination guide to cheap spring break trips.

35 Cheap Spring Break Trips for Families (Fun Spots that are Actually Affordable)

Posted on Published: January 2, 2023  - Last updated: February 28, 2024

Woo-hoo! Spring break! Ready to go somewhere awesome? But are you also watching your spending? #storyofmylife Well here are 35 amazing cheap spring break trips for families that are actually fun!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

So whether you’re looking to kick back and relax on a beach, take in some history and go for high adventure, this list has a bit of everything.

As someone who’s actively crossing off travel bucket list destinations, I’ve been a lot of places. But obviously not everywhere so I called in back-up! To create the most comprehensive list possible, some travel blogger friends of mine helped out in creating this list of best family destinations for spring break.

And we’re covering the globe with this list! We’ll start in the USA, then head on over to Asia, Europe, the Caribbean and more!

Map of the best spring break destinations for families

If you’re a visual person, here’s a map to help you plan a vacation your family will not soon forget! Pinch an zoom on this world map since there’s destinations in nearly every region that are attainable on a budget.

Spring break family vacations

Since this list is so vast, we’re going to start in the USA and then follow other regions like Europe, Caribbean and more. Be sure to follow the tips and tricks for how to do each spot on a budget!

Here are the best cheap spring break trips for families. Let’s do this!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Best spring break destinations in the US for families

The USA is a big place with lots of phenomenal options. So we’re going to focus on affordable vacation spots in the west first, then make our way across the country.

1. Phoenix, Arizona

Warm weather and budget-friendly activities make Phoenix the perfect spot for a family spring break trip! 

Avoid expensive resorts, and stay at a vacation rental property. The nightly rate won’t break the bank, and you can save money by cooking your own meals. Rent a home with a pool and splash around without worrying about crowds or resort fees. 

Explore incredible hiking locations around the greater Phoenix area. Admire cacti and sunset views at Papago Park as you trek through the red butte formations. It’s perfect for hikers of all ages. Older kids and adults can enjoy a more challenging hike up Camelback Mountain while taking in phenomenal 360-degree views. 

Attend Major League Baseball Spring Training any day of the week from late February to the end of March. It’s free to watch batting practice and get autographs from up-and-coming stars. And most stadiums offer single-digit ticket prices for your family to relax picnic-style on their outfield lawn and take in the ball game. 

Don’t forget…Phoenix is only a day trip away from the world-famous Grand Canyon and magical Sedona. Make memories with under the Arizona sun, as Phoenix is the spring break destination for families !

Recommended by Abby of Worth Every Trip

READ MORE: Perfect Phoenix Itinerary

2. Utah National Parks road trip (a favorite on this list of cheap spring break trips for families)

One of the best ideas for cheap spring break trips is to see the Mighty 5 in Utah – Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. By taking a  Utah national parks road trip , you’ll be able to spend time outdoors, which is one of the cheapest ways to vacation.

If you live in Western USA, you may be able to drive to Utah to start your road trip. If you’re not very close, your family can fly into Salt Lake City and enjoy the sights for a day or two, including these wildflower hikes in Salt Lake City – perfect for springtime. From there, you can visit the 5 national parks, then depart from Las Vegas.

Visiting 5 national parks, you’ll want to save money by purchasing an America the Beautiful pass . It gets you unlimited national park and federally preserved lands for one fee, instead of paying for each, saving you lots of money.

See massive views at Canyonlands National Park near Moab. Witness unreal landscapes with over 2,000 stone arches at Arches National Park. This park has many short hikes, perfect for young kids!

Then, head west within Utah to Capitol Reef National Park. All ages will love the  Hickman Bridge Trial ! From there, visit the impressive Bryce Canyon and the crazy hoodoos as far as the eye can see. Be sure to hike the Queens Garden Trail to experience the hoodoos up close.

The last of the Mighty 5 in Utah is Zion. One of the most popular national parks in the country, spring break is a great time to visit. There will be less crowds than in the summer and fall, yet the weather is better than wintertime. 

Your family will have fun with so many things to do in  Zion with kids ! Don’t miss hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail , Riverside Walk and the Mt. Carmel Highway scenic drive.

There are so many ways to save money on this trip, including camping or finding budget hotels along the way. The Utah national parks is by far one of the best cheap spring break trips for families!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

3. Estes Park, Colorado

If you are looking for affordable spring break trips for families, then you should definitely consider visiting Estes Park, Colorado.  Located at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, this small town is big on personality.

There are so many affordable  things to do in Estes Park, CO  that you and your family will be entertained for days! 

The most popular attraction in this area is Rocky Mountain National Park. You can spend days hiking the many trails and discovering all of the fabulous wildlife that calls Rocky Mountain National Park home. 

In order to save some money on entry, be sure to buy an annual National Park Pass. This pass will allow you entry to all U.S. National Parks for an entire year!

You can also take the kids to do some stargazing at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory , which is free to enter! Or grab a fishing pole and do some fishing at Lake Estes. After all of this, be sure to take some time to explore the downtown area with all of the great shops and restaurants.

Estes Park, Colorado truly is a great destination for families!

Recommended by Michelle of That Texas Couple

Related read: Colorado Road Trip Itinerary – 22 Stops You’ll Love

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Thanks to the outdoor activities and affordable options for camping and hotels, Joshua Tree makes for a great spring break destination for families!

Spring is the perfect time for a day trip to Joshua Tree as part of a California road trip or a longer stay to really explore the park. The weather makes it an ideal time to visit with cooler mornings and evenings and perfect temperatures for hiking in the day time.

To keep Joshua Tree affordable, your best option is to camp for your accommodations. Campsites start at $15 a night and go up to $25 a night. Make sure to make a reservation in advance if you are visiting in the spring.

For those who don’t enjoy camping, there are plenty of affordable hotels near the park as well if you are willing to drive about 20 – 30 minutes to get to the park.

As far as visiting Joshua Tree, entry to the park is $30 for a 7-day pass. If you already have an America the Beautiful pass, entry is free. If not, it might be worth the $80 if you plan to visit other National Parks during the next 12 months.

Once you are in the park, the activities are free. Many of the hiking trails are perfect for kids as they are mostly flat, well-marked, and not too difficult. Joshua Tree is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors for an unforgettable time with your family.

Start in LA and head to Joshua Tree, just about 130 miles away, which is one of the best US road trips for your family!

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Related: 28 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in Summer

5. Sedona, Arizona

Consider Sedona at the top of the list of spring break ideas for families on a budget! The weather is warm but not too hot and there are endless possibilities of free things to do .

Sedona is perfect for outdoor activities and taking in the beautiful red rocks the area is known for. The best hikes in Sedona are great for families, including kids young and old!

One of the best places to visit is Oak Creek Canyon and then into Slide Rock State Park. For the adventurous family, head to Oak Creek for rafting, kayaking or tubing and then over to Slide Rock to check out the pools and sandstone rocks.

Hiking in Sedona is a great way to see the scenery and for a $5 Red Rock Pass, you will have access to several different hikes in the area.  

One of the most popular hikes is Devil’s Bridge. This is a 4 mile easy hike that takes you to a natural red rock bridge in the area. If you have a 4×4 this hike is only a two mile hike, making it even easier for kids. Make sure you bring plenty of water and go early!

Sedona also has affordable places to stay.  You can check out these incredible  Airbnbs in Sedona  for some family friendly accommodations.

Sedona is one of the best spring break destinations for families , with it’s outdoor adventure, great weather and affordable accommodations.

Recommended by Nicole of American SW Obsessed

6. Yosemite National Park, California

The vast Yosemite National Park is an outdoor destination situated in the green heartland of Central California. It’s truly one of the top spring break destinations in the US!

Famous for its plethora of natural attractions, a  guide to Yosemite National Park  is one of the easiest ways to make the most of your time in the park.

There’s the iconic Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and El Capitan which soars over the valley. Make a quick pit stop at the numerous lookout points such as Tunnel View or Glacier Point, to marvel at the geological wonders of the park.

Stay dry and warm as you explore Yosemite during the spring. Snow is melting, flowers are in full bloom and waterfalls are cascading from the mountainside snow. Enjoy Bridalveil Falls, (0.5 miles out and back), or witness Yosemite Falls (1 mile loop), the tallest waterfall in North America.

Take the family on an easy level hike through Mirror Lake, or venture toward the backcountry to explore Cathedral Peak and Lakes for a more moderate to strenuous hike. Pack a picnic, snacks and extra water for a more budget friendly trip while visiting Yosemite.

Consider camping in the valley to save on time and to wake up amongst the giant oak trees. The cool morning breeze and fresh oak smell is truly an amazing feeling.

Yosemite is by far one of the best family destinations for spring break!

Recommended by Ciara from Wellness Travel Diaries

Cheap spring break trips for families in the US

Next let’s look at the center part of the United States. The middle states of the Midwest and South Central region are some of the most affordable spring break family vacations! Don’t be fooled by these ‘flyover states’ as they can make for excellent destinations.

Let’s dive back in!

7. Omaha, Nebraska (underrated and one of the best spring break destinations for families)

If you’re looking for great spot for spring break destination for families, look no further than the middle of the country! With family-oriented values, Omaha is a fantastic spot to vacation.

Nebraska’s #1 tourist attraction is the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . It regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the top zoo in the country!

With plenty of indoor exhibits like the jungle, desert dome, butterfly house and aquarium, you can enjoy a day – or more – at the zoo, regardless of the weather. Head on over to feed the giraffes, hear the lions roar or watch the elephants and zebras meandering among their large habitat. It’s truly a spectacular zoo!

Other kid-friendly Omaha attractions include the Lauritzen Gardens, Durham Museum, Joslyn Art Museum, Fontenelle Forest, just to name a few. Also make sure to walk the Bob Kerry Pedestrian bridge. It’s the first bridge to connect 2 states together. So you’ll get to see Iowa while in Omaha.

The downtown area is probably the most touristy spot in the city to stay, which makes it a little more pricey too. Finding a vacation rental property or staying in a hotel further from downtown will help to keep your price down.

But do make sure to visit the historic Old Market , as you’ll find some of the most Instagrammable spots in Omaha , not to mention some amazing restaurants.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is one of the most underrated destinations in the country when it comes to celebrating a spring break getaway.

Most people think of the city as pricey and a party city. However, you would be surprised to know that t he city is a top cultural destination and has many budget-friendly attractions for families . 

Spring Break is a relatively quiet time in the city. The festivities of Mardi Gras are just over and the city enjoys a lull between parades and summer tourists. That’s why during spring break, you can find really good hotel deals in New Orleans . 

Take a free walking tour of the French Quarter , enjoy free jazz music at the Preservation Hall, take a hike on the swamps at Barataria Preserve, and spot an alligator. Take a ghost tour of the city to keep teens happy or an airboat tour of the swamps.

Enjoy the many culinary delights in the city and enjoy a break with your family. 

Recommended by Ketki of Dotted Globe

Read next: 21 Best Beaches in Florida for Families

9. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

What is there to do in South Dakota for families? Well, a ton, actually! But for starters, there’s Badlands National Park in southwestern South Dakota, which is one of the best cheap spring break trips for families.

One of the most underrated national parks in the USA Badlands National Park can be explored without long lines of cars and overcrowded spaces.

There’s a ton of things to do in Badlands National Park , but my family’s favorite was hiking. From easy boardwalk trails to challenging terrain, there’s a variety of options for every family, age and skill level.

While there are plenty of designated trails, Badlands National Park is also an open hike park, meaning you can freely explore the park off-trail. Just use caution if doing this, as some of the scenery can be disorienting!

Close to Badlands National Park is Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills of South Dakota. Custer State Park is a phenomenal park to experience with families, too.

So if you’re looking for spring break ideas for families on a budget, the Badlands and Black Hills in South Dakota is a really good option!

More spring break destination for families in the US

Heading toward the eastern part of the country, here are the top picks for cheap spring break trips for families.

10. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson River Valley, north of New York City, is a great spring destination for families on a budget who want to experience the American northeast. 

The area has plenty of awesome hikes that the whole family can do. It costs just $10/ car to visit Minnewaska State Park for the day. Find adventure with easy hikes around a lake and to a waterfall. 

There are also  plenty of hikes  you can do for free, including:

• Poets’ Walk – great views of the Catskill Mountains and the Kingston-Rhinebeck Bridge
• Black Creek Preserve – stunning views of the Hudson River and a tiny beach
• Stony Kill Falls – a beautiful waterfall
• Shaupeneak Ridge Trails – a lake with lily ponds, fern groves and a small waterfall 

For a splurge, you can take a 2-hour sightseeing cruise down the river from Kingston. The river has a couple of lighthouses that kids will love and is lined with trees that are especially beautiful in spring.

There are also many farms open for spring fruit picking such as strawberries and apricots. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

Many farms have petting zoos, but another great opportunity for kids to see farm animals is the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary (admission by donation), which is home to dozens of rescued farm animals. 

The area has fun for the whole family that costs very little! It’s one of the leading cheap spring break trips for families, and one to seriously consider.

Recommended by James Ian at Travel Collecting

11. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is the perfect spring break destination for a fun, relaxing getaway and an educational, historical adventure. There’s so much to do in Charleston that the whole family will enjoy – from exploring the city’s famous landmarks to enjoying delicious, authentic southern food.

Tips for traveling to Charleston on a budget

• Stay on James Island or Mount Pleasant, just outside of Downtown Charleston for more affordable lodging.
• Rent a car to save on rideshare costs and take advantage of the incredible day trips from Charleston .
• Dining in Charleston can be pricey, save on lunch costs by eating a heart brunch that will satisfy your family until dinner.

Charleston is full of family-friendly activities, and many of them are free!

Enjoy these fun family activities

• Dive under the sea at the South Carolina Aquarium .
• See where the Civil War began at Fort Sumter National Monument.
• Step onboard the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, USS Laffey Destroyer, and USS Clamagore Submarine at Patriot’s Point.
• Admire the pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park.
• Learn how tea is made at North America’s only tea plantation, the Charleston Tea Garden .
• Relax on the beach at Kiawah Island or Folly Beach.

Recommended by Brittany of Travel by Brit

12. Gulf Shores, Alabama (one of the best spring break destinations US)

Wow, it’s hard to believe this is the first beach spot on this list of best spring break destinations for families! But that’s because so many of them aren’t affordable, especially over spring break.

But Gulf Shores, Alabama is the perfect vacation spot for kids. Perhaps the biggest draw to the Gulf Shores and neighboring Orange Beach is the crisp, white sand beach and turquoise water of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s truly stunning!

Beach days are awesome, but there’s so much more to do in Gulf Shores with kids !

Family-freindly activities in Gulf Shores

• Hiking or biking through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trials
• Hunting sand crabs at night
• Free light show at The Wharf at Orange Beach
• Taking a sand castle building class
• Dolphin cruising

And don’t forget to check out all the fun places to eat in Gulf Shores . There are so many family-friendly options, this is definitely one of the best spring break destinations with kids!

For the most affordability, search for accommodations in Gulf Shores or the nearby Orange Beach that are away from the beach. You’ll find inexpensive vacation rentals and hotels that are perfect for your beachy getaway.

For best results, book your stay at minimum a few months in advance. Gulf Shores absolutely deserves a spot on this list of cheap spring break trips for families – it’s truly awesome!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

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13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A fantastic family-friendly destination is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Visiting Philadelphia during spring break can be an important educational experience. The City of Brotherly Love is filled with history and culture, making it both fun and educational for children of all ages.

The city of Philadelphia is the birthplace of America and an important historical destination. The U.S. Constitution was conceived and signed here. General George Washington made his headquarters here. And this was the first capital of the United States of America.

For families on spring break, visiting the Old City is essential. Here visitors can explore the Constitution Center, Betsy Ross’ house, the first hospital in America, and many of Ben Franklin’s important sites. Just outside of the city, there’s Valley Forge National Park where the Continental Army spent several famous winters.

The Germantown neighborhood is one of the most important African American communities in the country and a critical stop on the Underground Railroad. Beyond the history, Philly is a great cultural destination. Younger children will love the Please Touch Museum.

Many of the historical attractions are free or very affordable. Hotels in the center of the city can be a little pricey, but accommodations in the suburbs can be very affordable.

Recommended by Lance and Laura of Guide to Philly

14. Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is a great family-friendly spring break destination that can definitely be done on a budget!  Families can explore all that D.C. has to offer in a budget-friendly way by taking advantage of all of the free activities within the city. 

The Smithsonian museums, most of which line the National Mall, are interactive, suit visitors of all ages, and are all free of charge. Popular Smithsonian museums include the Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of American History. 

The National Zoo is also free and is one of 4 zoos in the U.S. that houses giant pandas.  In addition to visiting the Smithsonian museums, there is much to explore on the National Mall including the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. 

Free tours can also be arranged in advance for the White House and the Capitol Building. For more ideas on how to spend your time in D.C., check out this 3-day itinerary .  Washington D.C. is often overlooked but is one of the best spring break destinations in the US!

Recommended by Sarah of Roadmaps and Restaurants

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

15. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is a wonderful spring break family vacations on the East Coast with so many affordable options!  The jewel of Virginia Beach is its 28 miles of beautiful sandy public beaches.

All public beaches are free and are easily accessible from the downtown hotels at a variety of price points . At a lot of beach destinations, only the high-end hotels and resorts are on the beach, but at Virginia Beach, there are many hotels at all levels.

Budget tip:  check out hotels or rentals with a kitchenette to save money on making meals in the room.

There are tons of great kid-friendly attractions right on the 3-mile Boardwalk! Try the Bike and Surrey Rentals, the King Neptune Statue, fishing on the pier, 31 st  Street Park and a wonderful Grommet Island playground right on the beach!

Off the Boardwalk, check out the famous Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Cape Henry Lighthouse and First Landing State Park. All affordable family fun for kids of all ages!

Spring break tip:  if you want to pair a trip to the beach with a trip to Capital City, it’s only a 3-hour drive north to Washington, DC. There is so much to explore in DC with kids, including the Smithsonian Museums for kids. 

Recommended by Jennifer of Family Trip Guides

Cheap spring break trips for families in Asia

Next, let’s head to Asia! A nice, long spring break is the perfect time to go overseas. Some of the best family destinations for spring break can be found in Asia. It’s culturally rich and full of adventure for the whole family.

Asia is a continent that’s widely affordable , once you get there! Check out these budget travel tips to find the best deals on flights.

16. Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao, an island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a fantastic place to visit for an affordable spring break. This tropical paradise is an amazing place to visit this time of the year for the whole family and this does not have to cost a fortune.

A great option on this list of spring break ideas for families on a budget, Koh Tao is known for blue skies, hot and sunny weather and crystal clear warm water. This is the dry season and both air and water temperature hover at 30 degrees Celsius.

Scuba diving is good in the Gulf of Thailand all year round and March and April is fantastic with the biggest fish in the world, Whale Sharks, being present this time of the year. Swimming with these magnificent docile creatures is an unreal, safe activity.

The dive schools on Koh Tao are known as some of the best and most affordable in the world. If you are not a diver, snorkeling trips around Koh Tao is very popular for all ages , visiting several islands including the magnificent Koh Nang Yuan with some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand.

You can go on a full day or half day snorkeling trip, going around Koh Tao visiting several coral reefs where you can see turtles, reef sharks and many fish.

With high temperatures and humidity, Sairee Beach is a great place to stay. There are many dive centers, restaurants, nice swimming beaches and accommodation to suit all budgets close to the sea with a nice ocean breeze to cool you down.

Recommended by Campbell and Alya of Stingy Nomads

17. Cebu, Philippines (amazing and cheap spring break trips for families)

Cebu is amongst the top 10 largest islands in the Philippines with 196 kilometers from north to south and 32 kilometers across its widest point. It’s also one of the most popular destinations in the country because getting to Cebu is easy. This makes Cebu an affordable spring break destination with kids.

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located close to Cebu City, connects this island to different cities in Asia and major cities around the world. 

Generally, the Philippines is a cheap country where you can easily find affordable luxury hotels and budget accommodation. Eating out in Cebu is relatively cheap, you can go for fine dining by spending only $12 for your meal. 

While in Cebu City , make sure to check out Sirao Flower Garden and take a day trip to Bohol Island. 

The best time to visit the Philippines is in dry seasons, from December to May. Most tourists travel to Cebu in wintertime. That means the island is less busy during the springs while the weather is still pleasant and dry.

Recommended by Mansoureh of Travel With Mansoureh

18. Bali, Indonesia

A picturesque Indonesian island filled with white sand beaches, gorgeous rice terraces and forests, unique temples, and an exotic  Balinese culture , Bali is just the perfect spring break trip for families.

There’s a lot to do in Bali with your little ones. Apart from relaxing at one of Bali’s many beaches, you can check out the monkeys at Ubud’s Monkey Forest, interact with feathered friends at Bali Bird Park and learn all about protecting sea turtles at Bali Sea Turtle Society.

When in Ubud, do not forget to check out the Royal Palace and Hindu temples that are great examples of traditional Balinese architecture. You can also shop for souvenirs at the Ubud Art Market. End your day with a magical sunset at the temple of Tanah Lot, located on a cliff by the sea.

Bali is an ideal destination for budget travelers. Accommodation is cheap and you can even find private villas with stunning views at seriously low prices. Avoid hiring taxis if possible and rent motorbikes instead to get around.

Bali is certainly full of adventure, and one of the most fun cheap spring break trips for families!

Recommended by Soumya from Stories by Soumya

19. Penang, Malaysia

Penang, a UNESCO Word Heritage Site island off Malaysia’s northwestern coast, is one of the best family destinations for spring break.

There are plenty of  things to do in Penang , and most are perfect for families, too. First of all, with 1 USD being equivalent to 4 Malaysian Ringgit (the price of a meal in one of the islands famous hawker food centers), you’ll have everything on a budget. Accommodation, restaurants, transport and entry admissions are all affordable.

Start in George Town, taking in the UNESCO-listed old town and trying all the food you can fancy. Not far away are the Botanic Gardens, a perfect place for families to stroll and unwind appreciating the local nature.

If it’s beach that you want, mind well that Penang doesn’t have amazing clear waters, but the resort-strewn coast near Batu Ferringhi, with its night market and plenty of shops and beach-facing restaurants, is great for tucking toes in the sand.

If your kids are young, a visit to KOMTAR, the island’s highest building, is great as it’s filled with theme-park-alike attractions and at about 15$ per head to enter, makes for very good value.

Recommended by Marco Ferrarese of Penang Insider

20. Sri Lanka

The cultural triangle in Sri Lanka is a great budget destination for families in during spring break. When you think of Sri Lanka you probably think of its beautiful palm-fringed beaches, but Sri Lanka is much more!

Once you go inland there’s a different world of jungles teeming with wildlife and ancient Buddhist temples. With such a variety of things to do there is something for everyone and for every age.

The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka lies in the center of the island and it’s a place where history, culture and nature meet. It’s name refers to the 3 former royal cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla.

All of them left behind well preserved ruins of temples, palaces and Buddhist statues. Most impressive are the colorful Dambulla cave temples and the mysterious Sigiriya Rock.  The Sigiriya Rock is a tough climb with young children, but the views are very rewarding.

In the other places you can rent a bicycle or tuk tuk for more comfort. One thing you will notice is that for the local population these places are still very holy and active places of worship. Another thing you will notice is that the cities are surrounded by thick jungle.

Children will love the opportunity to go on a safari to meet monkeys and elephants up close. Spring is considered to be one of the best times to visit the island’s cultural triangle with dry and sunny weather.

Recommended by Ellis of Backpack Adventures

Europe – spring break destination for families

Let’s check out the best that Europe has to offer for spring break! These spots are the best for families who are looking to travel on a budget. From historically significant cities to beautiful, wide open spaces, Europe has so much to offer families!

21. Athens, Greece (another favorite on this list of spring break destinations with kids)

Athens is a great option if you’re looking for cheap family spring break trips. The city is the capital of Greece and there is plenty to do and see for families here.

Athens is much cheaper than many other European cities, so that’s very convenient. Moreover, Athens has a good metro system so you could also stay a bit further from the city center and save money while still being able to fully experience Athens.

One of the things to do for families includes going to the Acropolis Museum. This is one of the best museums of Greece and is all about the Acropolis. The Acropolis is an old citadel from Ancient Greece located on a hill that you can see from all parts of the city. Here you find the famous Parthenon.

Another thing to do is seeing the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament. Guards dressed up in traditional clothing perform a ceremony where they change shifts.

Besides that, walking through Plaka is a must when you go to Athens . Plaka is the oldest part of Athens with many shops and restaurants. What’s great is that most streets are completely car-free, so kids can run around safely.

Recommended by Dymphe of Dymabroad

22. Rome, Italy

The historic capital of Italy, Rome is an incredible budget spring break destination for families. During this time of the year, the crowds are lighter versus the peak season of summer, and the weather is also quite perfect (50-80°F).

If you have a week in Italy, I’d recommend at least a 3-day Rome itinerary so that you and your family can cover all the main highlights of the city. The historic center of Rome is super family-friendly and an amazing place to take a stroll. Make sure to stop by the Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps.

Kids will also love Piazza Navona, which is home to lots of artists, street performers, and clowns. Be sure to also stop by Villa Borghese for a fun afternoon at the park. Lots of local families go there to relax, and you can also rent a 4-people quadricycle and ride around this charming park.

One great way to budget in Rome is to eat the amazing local specialty of pizza al taglio , which can cost as low as €3 ($3.50) per person per meal. You can find tons of pizzerias around town to try it in. You can also find plenty of great budget accommodations for €7-22 ($8-26 USD) a night !

Recommended by Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

23. Gdansk, Poland

For the best cheap spring break trips for families in Europe, Gdansk is a wonderful place for vacation! There is no shortage of fun but also educational activities for  what to do in Gdansk , with one of Europe’s biggest old towns jam-packed with attractions.

Most of the city was destroyed during World War II, but the Poles have done an amazing job in rebuilding it. Go to Westerplatte which was ground zero for World War II, discover the Museum of the Second World War, which also has a children’s section, or go on a tall ship adventure in the Motlawa River.

For the best city views, climb the Clock Tower of the Main Town Hall. The unique houses of Gdansk Old Town almost look like doll houses from above. From there you also get a good bird’s eye view of St. Mary’s Church, which is the city’s most prominent building and one of the largest brick churches in the world.

Gdansk, like the rest of Poland, is extremely cheap and you can find deals on luxury hotels for hardly nothing . To save money on transportation, take the bus or train, or download the app FreeNow which is a cheaper version of Uber.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

24. Montenegro

Montenegro is still relatively hidden gem on the Adriatic Sea coast. The country is perfect for families looking for a relaxing or even adventurous spring break vacation on a budget.

Montenegro has a wide ray of different attractions from spectacular mountains, crystal clear lakes to all-inclusive beach resorts, waterparks and stunning beaches. You can explore 2,500-year-old Budva old town or get lost in Kotor’s Old Town which was built like a maze. You can even take your kids on a fun miniature train ride to Lipa Cave.

Montenegro has the coastal beauty of neighboring Croatia but remains more affordable for family vacations. It’s surprisingly easy to stay under budget when accommodation and attractions cost half of the price of what you’d expect to pay.

For the even more budget-friendly trip, choose self-catering accommodations. If you want to visit Kotor Bay, staying further away from the town center will save you money, as well as choosing nearby villages rather than the most popular spots in the country.

Recommended by Leta of Blogger & Owner of The Nerdy Me

25. Alsace, France (an underrated region for spring break destination for families)

Alsace, in Eastern France, is a good destination for spring break family vacation. This region, at the border with Germany has picturesque villages, beautiful forests, intriguing medieval fortresses, and 2 exciting cities great for sightseeing.

Alsace is cheaper than Paris and other French regions, so you are set for a fun and affordable vacation in France.

Strasburg is a beautiful city, great for a couple of days sightseeing. From Strasbourg, we recommend hiring a car to explore the rest of the region on an  Alsace road trip . The distances are short, and you can explore many different places in a short time.

While in Alsace, don’t miss the local cuisine with typical dishes like choucroute or tarte flambée (a kind of local pizza). The best places to eat are the winstubs, a popular and affordable restaurant typical of Alsace serving delicious local food in a very traditional atmosphere.

Alsace’s capital is Strasbourg, a city well connected to Paris and other European cities by train. Enjoy the ride around European destinations by packing the right train travel essentials for your family. What an adventure over spring break!

Recommended by Elisa of France Bucket List

26. Himara, Albania

Just a ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and in between Montenegro and Greece, Albania is an extremely affordable spring destination for families. Being in such proximity, Albania has strong Greek and Italian influences, but without the high costs.

In Albania, there is one of the best  hidden gems in Europe ; a small, quaint village along the Ionian Sea with the beautiful Ceraunian Mountain range behind it. The charming beachside town of Himara is 2 hours north of Saranda when driving along the Albanian Riviera.

Himara is perfect for a spring break trip since it has mild Mediterranean weather and even boasts of 300 days of sunshine a year. Even though accommodation is already considered affordable, going for spring break will be during the off-season making prices even more affordable.

Families can have a peaceful and relaxing getaway in Himara. They can enjoy authentic Italian pizza or fresh, locally caught fish at affordable prices in Albanian LEK and there are plenty of family activities available. Try doing a boat tour or kayaking to secret sea caves, hiking to nearby castles and forts, and visiting secluded beaches.

Recommended by Maria of Maptrekking

27. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is the perfect spring break destination with kids. It’s much cheaper than its immediate neighbors, and some of the prices there are the cheapest in Europe.

It’s perfect for spring when the cafes along the river open for hot chocolate and you can sit with a blanket over your knees and watch the world go by. It’s close enough to Venice to get some of the cheap flights in to Italy and drive over or get the coach between the cities.

Once there, kids will love the House of Illusions, or take a trip up to the castle for spectacular views. If you’re planning a  Slovenia family holiday   the hotels in Ljubljana are really well priced and it’s easy to find one with a pool or other child friendly amenities.

Take a boat trip through the center to really appreciate the beautiful architecture and then head to a nearby thermal pool for an afternoon of fun in the warm waters. Ljubljana is relatively undiscovered and it’s a European city that has so much charm.

Recommended by Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Caribbean: spring break ideas for families on a budget

Gah! The gorgeous Caribbean is up next on this list of best family destinations for spring break. Known for it’s affordability, there are lots of options within the Caribbean for a family vacation.

Here are a few favorites…

28. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

When looking for affordable spring break trips for the family, Mexico offers some unique destinations that you simply can’t ignore. Avoid all the spring break party crowd by heading over to Playa del Carmen and staying at one of the family-friendly resorts.

The beaches are beautiful and you can cut costs by staying in one of the many budget hotels . Or find a self-service apartment that will allow you to cook and eat out at much cheaper prices than you would find in places like Cancun’s hotel zone.

From Playa del Carmen, you can easily access the plethora of  things to do in the Rivieria Maya  region, which in many cases, are perfectly suited to family trips. One place to visit is the Xaman-Ha Bird Sanctuary which is a great place to learn about local wildlife and is free for children.

Playa del Carmen has something for any family who is looking for an entertaining beach getaway.  

Recommended by Daniel of Layer Culture

29. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the perfect spot for spring break family vacations, as it’s one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean! If your family is up for unforgettable adventures, pristine beaches and lots of fun in the unspoiled nature, consider renting a car and plan a road-trip in the Dominican Republic .

Book an affordable apartment within walking distance to the beach (for as low as $60 per night for a family of 4) on the Samaná peninsula. It’s one of the most beautiful regions in the Dominican Republic and guarantees you’ll be away from all the spring break crowd.

Furthermore, you can count on stunning and authentic kid-friendly experiences, such as exploring waterfalls, horseback riding along the beach or ziplining over the tropical vegetation.

If you shop at local markets and buy regional produce, you can lower your travel costs significantly, as most food prices are at least half or less compared to the United States. If you feel that you just want to relax and get pampered, you can consider an all-inclusive resort instead. While Punta Cana has the biggest selection of resorts, it might be worth considering Puerto Plata on the north coast.

Those resorts are a bit cheaper than Punta Cana, starting from $130 per night for a family of 4 including an all-inclusive meal plan. Additionally, you will avoid the spring break crowds of Punta Cana, which tend to be predominant in some of the resorts during this time.

If you don’t find flights to Puerto Plata, consider flying into Santiago, which is just an hour away from Puerto Plata.

Recommended by Christian of Punta Cana Travel Blog

30. Belize (another favorite on this list of cheap spring break trips for families)

One of the best spring break destinations for families has absolutely got to be Belize! It’s easy to keep it low cost while spending a week in this tropical paradise. Here’s an exact cost breakdown on how to do Belize on a budget .

If staying on the beach is a must, consider staying in Placencia, San Pedro or Caye Caulker. However if your family is up for adventure, staying further inland in San Ignacio might be right for you.

From visiting ancient ruins to learning how to make chocolate like the Mayans to taking a snorkeling trip to a private island, there’s plenty of things to do in Belize for your family.

Your family will love visiting this culturally-rich country!

More of the best spring break destinations for families

There’s still a few left on this list! Here are a few more spots around the globe that are worth considering for your family!

31. Guatemala

Popular with backpackers and – surprisingly – cruise ships, Guatemala remains relatively undiscovered by families. Which is shame, because this Central American country is the perfect place for a family spring break vacation on a budget.

This is a country filled with mysterious ruins, colourful Colonial cities, lots of volcanoes and even more adventures. Start your holiday in Antigua, pretty town filled with cobblestones streets and painted homes. Affordable hotels are plentiful but you can also rent a house here and many people do, choosing to stay for weeks, or even months, to learn Spanish.

Other places you must visit include Chichicastenango. Located in the Guatemalan highlands, this towns is famous for its weekly market, one of the largest and busiest in Central America.

Lake Antigua, once described as “the most beautiful lake in the world” is another one of the country’s highlights. There are lots of towns dotted around the lake, many of them offering budget accommodation and food options.

Guatemala’s star attraction, however, is Tikal. You can drive from Guatemala City to Flores, the gateway to Tikal, by car. This route takes around 8 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Guatemala City to Flores, although this will be more expensive. However, you choose to travel, however, don’t miss these most magical of Mayan ruins when visiting  Guatemala with kids .

Recommended by Katja of Globe Totting

Related read: Visiting Tikal: Everything You Need to Know About the Tikal Ruins

32. Costa Rica

A super fun, not to mention inexpensive spring break trip for families is Costa Rica! This Central American country is a few hours flight from Southern US locations (like Miami, Houston or Los Angeles).

Pro tip: set up a flight alert from your home airport to San Jose, Costa Rica on Google Flights to find the best deals. If you can be a little flexible with your dates (like a Wednesday – Wednesday trip), you’ll find better pricing.

Despite being a small footprint, Costa Rica has many regions to visit. If you want resorts, beaches and shopping, head to Tamarindo. For outdoor adventures and nature, you’ll want to explore all the best things to do in Monteverde .

My family love the beach, so we’re all about the best beaches in Manuel Antonio . This region also offers abundant wildlife and cheap activities like visiting the Manuel Antonio National Park, bringing your own snorkeling gear and snorkeling off the beach, and visiting waterfalls.

To further reduce your cost and make this an amazing cheap spring break trip, rent a vacation property that includes a kitchen and make some or most of your meals. For families, it’s cheaper to rent a car than to get transfers from the airport to different areas.

Costa Rica is one of the best family destinations for spring break, and one you’ll want to check flights prices ASAP!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

33. Ecuador (unexpected and cheap family spring break trip)

While many travelers are initially drawn to visit Ecuador because of the Galapagos, a notoriously expensive destination, mainland Ecuador is extremely budget friendly, with plenty of natural beauty and adventure activities perfect for a family getaway.

So skip the Galapagos and visit the mainland Ecuador if you’re looking for spring break ideas for families on a budget!

Ecuador’s major cities perched in the Andes like Quito offer breathtaking views and plenty to see and do for all ages. A favorite of the top things to do in Quito includes the Teleferico cable car that whisks visitors to the top of a dormant volcano for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding valleys.

A visit to Ecuador’s beautiful jungle, just a few hours north of Quito, is the perfect affordable and memorable getaway for parents and adults alike.   Visit Mindo, Ecuador  in the cloud forest for plenty of inexpensive adventure travel experiences perfect for children.

There are countless ways for children to meet wildlife in the jungle, including visiting a butterfly sanctuary and watching hummingbirds. A popular tubing excursion along a gentle bubbling river is both exhilarating enough for children to enjoy and relaxing and safe enough for parents as well.

Easy waterfall hikes to swimming holes are another way for families to enjoy Ecuador’s natural beauty together.  

To the south of Quito is one of the most gorgeous landscapes, and a hike to get there! The Quilotoa Lake hike and Quilotoa Loop is one of the most incredible adventures you can have as a family. Adventurous souls only!

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana

34. New Zealand

New Zealand is the perfect place to visit with a family. It’s safe, exciting, and contrary to popular belief, super affordable! Plus, during spring break it’s the end of summer in New Zealand which makes for the perfect weather for exploring the great outdoors. 

The best way to travel New Zealand on a budget is to go on a family road trip in a motorhome. This way, you can camp for free (or very cheap) each night as well as cook your own meals. Simply rent a motorhome and start your journey from where you fly in (Auckland is the cheapest destination to fly to in NZ.) Avoiding domestic flights will be a big budget saver as well! 

On top of that, the best activities in New Zealand are free too. National Parks are free to visit and all of the most amazing places are natural attractions.

Even in tourist hot-spots like  Queenstown, there are tons of things to do  and many of them are family-friendly and budget-friendly. Stick to hikes, waterfalls, lakes, natural hot pools, beaches, and you’ll be sure to have one of the best spring break vacations possible! 

Recommended by Bailey of My Queenstown Diary

35. Cape Town, South Africa

If this is your  first time travelling in South Africa , you’ll be surprised by how friendly and accessible Cape Town is, especially if you’re from an English-speaking country. Spring break is a particularly good time to visit for families , as the weather is wonderful, but the summer rush (Dec-Feb in the southern hemisphere) has largely died down.

Visit the touristy V&A Waterfront for great views of the harbour and Table Mountain, then make your way to Sea Point or Camps Bay for more affordable meals and beautiful views.

Going up Table Mountain is a must. Take the cable car or, if you have older children, hike up the mountain instead. The views at the top are spectacular.

Hire a car to get the most out of Cape Town. The drive over Chapman’s Peak is stunning!

Go to Cape Point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, stopping for a picnic on the way. Keep out for baboons – they have a nasty habit of trying to steal your food. Also visit Boulders Beach, a sheltered cove with huge rocks and a large colony of penguins.

Other activities of note are the beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens , the Two Oceans Aquarium, and visiting the fishing villages and beaches near False Bay.

Recommended by Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

Cheap spring break trips for families

Alright so which one will it be? Which is the perfect and affordable spring break vacation spot for your family? From national parks to beaches, hiking adventures and historic cities, this list has something for every vacation style.

Let’s recap those options again, in a quick list!

Best family destinations for spring break

• Phoenix, Arizona
• Utah National Parks road trip
• Estes Park, Colorado
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Sedona, Arizona
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Omaha, Nebraska
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Hudson Valley, New York
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Gulf Shores, Alabama
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Koh Tao, Thailand
• Cebu, Philippines
• Bali, Indonesia
• Penang, Malaysia
• Athens, Greece
• Rome, Italy
• Gdansk, Poland
• Alsace, France
• Himara, Albania
• Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Playa del Carmen, Mexico
• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Cape Town, South Africa

I hope this list has been helpful for you as you plan your spring break getaway. And maybe you’ve even found inspiration for your travel bucket list, too! 🙂

Related content you won’t want to miss: 21 Best Beaches for Families in Florida You’ll Love 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 21 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in May You Can’t Miss 21 Stunning and Affordable Island Vacations 26 Gulf Coast Beaches You Can’t Miss 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the US 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Spots You’ll Love

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Lisa | Waves and Cobblestones

Sunday 8th of January 2023

So many bucket list travel destinations! It's great to se budget-friendly options and tips for visiting these great locations!

Monday 9th of January 2023

Thanks Lisa, it was a fun list to put together. Gotta love a budget-friendly getaway :)

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Love this guide to affordable spring break destinations for families. We especially loved our family vacation to Arizona.

Oh nice! Arizona is so awesome over spring break. :)

My husband and I got married in March and spent our honeymoon in Playa del Carmen, it was wonderful! It wasn't too much of a crazy party area like Cancun but it was lively enough, and we spent hours swimming in the beach! And I loved how affordable everything was!

Yayyyy! That's AWESOME Hannah! Sounds like a fabulous honeymoon! Glad you found it budget-friendly, too. :)

Thursday 5th of January 2023

Fabulous list - and so great to see Europe on there too! You've certainly given me some ideas - would love to visit Alsace one day!!

So happy you found inspiration here. Europe is a fabulous destination for spring break, that's for sure!

Wednesday 4th of January 2023

I live in AZ and can say that yes, Spring Break is a great time to visit Phoenix and Sedona. Utah would also be lovely then too. Loved this very thorough and informative list! Thanks for sharing. Saving for future travel planning!

Oh that's awesome Yvonne! Glad you found it helpful and agree that Arizona is a great spot for a spring getaway :)

20 Best Spring Break Beach Destinations For Families

Posted on January 30, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on January 9, 2024

Planning your next Spring Break family trip and wondering where to go? Escape to the beach to enjoy some sun, warm breeze, and fresh air. Whether you’re into tropical getaways featuring pristine beaches and awe-inspiring scenery or are looking for something closer to home, we have listed below some of the best beach vacation spots in the US and abroad that are perfect for a spring vacation with your loved ones.

Keep on reading to discover the best Spring Break beach destinations for families !

HELPFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Best Spring Break Beach Destinations for Families in the USA

Huntington beach, california.

By Haley from Fernweh Foreigner

Huntington Beach, California is one of the best beach destinations to visit in the United States and a great option for families during spring break . Orange County beaches , like Huntington Beach, are a bit calmer and more family-friendly than Los Angeles County beaches, a little further north up the coast and the close-by John Wayne Airport typically provides a much smoother experience over the very busy LAX Airport.

The weather is a little bit cooler during the spring, with typically only a high in the mid-60s , which makes the Pacific Ocean water temperatures feel extra cold, but with a wetsuit, you can still enjoy getting in the water . If you’re traveling with older kids, Huntington Beach is known as Surf City USA so taking a surf lesson (with a wetsuit) is one of the best things to do in this little beach town. 

There are also plenty of other great outdoor activities to participate in like hiking , visiting the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve , letting your furry family members run around on Dog Beach, running, biking, rollerblading, or skating on the boardwalk, playing volleyball on the beach, having an evening bonfire on the beach , and kayaking or paddle boarding out on the water. 

The best place to stay in Huntington Beach is at any of the hotels that sit along PCH 1, just across the street from the beach. If you’re looking for more affordable options, there are some good hotels just off the 405 and it is only about a 15-minute drive from there down to the beach, but know you will have to pay for parking at the beach. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals within walking distance of the beach.

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

By Ashton from It’s Aaallgood

Emerald Isle, NC is one of the best family Spring Break beach destinations on the East Coast! It’s a great place to relax, slow down, and enjoy spending time together as a family. You’ll likely spend each day walking on the 12 miles of beach , kayaking the protected Bogue Sound , and enjoying the sunset together. (Fun Fact- since the island is one of the few South-facing beaches the sun sets on the beach in the winter months and on the sound in the winter!)

Thanks to the Gulf Stream proximity, the water is much warmer than many Northern beaches, ranging from the 60s in the winter to the low 80s in the summer. While peak season is June-August, spring can be perfect as well with milder weather and fewer people on the beach!

The town focuses on family fun, protecting a large portion of the island as wildlife trails , and limiting large buildings which makes the area a haven for wildlife. If you get tired of too much fun in the sun, you can also visit Fort Macon , a 17th-century fort, race each other at go-karts , or play a game of mini-golf.

There are so many hidden gems in the area  you’ll want to explore including wild horses on nearby islands and a lighthouse!

While there are a few good oceanfront hotels in the area, like the Islander Hotel , consider renting a vacation house , so you’ll have space to spread out and spend time together. Even if you decide to rent a house and cook your own meals, be sure to visit some of the area’s waterfront dining locations, like Surf’s Up , right by the Emerald Isle Pier!

Rockport, Texas

By Allison from Renovating Life

The Gulf Coast of Texas attracts thousands of Spring Breakers every year. You may have heard of South Padre Island or Port Aransas, but one of the most family-friendly beaches in the area is in Rockport, Texas. This small South Texas vacation spot boasts beautiful scenery, a robust food scene, and tons of kid-friendly attractions. 

Walk through the historic downtown and shop at the local vendors . Visit the Texas Maritime Museum where you can learn about Gulf Coast maritime history, including pirates! In early March, the town hosts one of its two annual fairs— Oysterfest . Don’t let the name fool you. Complete with carnival rides and games , plenty of delicious food options, and live music, if your spring break dates coincide, it’s definitely worth checking out.  

And of course, you have to go to the beach! At Texas’ first Blue Wave Beach , you can count on cleanliness and safety year-round. Additionally, the beach has three different accessible swimming areas . There’s the main beach which is approximately 3/4 of a mile long and offers a flat walking path, the saltwater pool which is located at the end of the beach behind one of the two pavilions that offer bathrooms, picnic tables, and event space, and Little Bay, which offers a boat ramp and ski basin.

The water is generally calm and shallow so it’s great for kids . Make sure you bring sunscreen and adequate sun protection as the weather is quite hot and humid most of the year.

Entry to the beach costs $10 per day, or you can buy an annual pass for $40 if you plan to be in town for the week. Walking or biking in is free . Cars are only allowed in designated parking areas, which keeps the beach clean and safe. As mentioned, there are two pavilions that offer bathroom facilities , and sometimes there are food trucks around. And don’t miss the children’s playground , the kids will love it!

Across the street from the beach, you’ll find several hotels including a Days Inn by Wyndham and a Holiday Inn Express which are popular options among families. You can also check out the many vacation rentals available near the beach.

Vero Beach, Florida

By Jenn from Those Johnson Boys

You might be looking for a beach vacation instead of a Disney World vacation, but when visiting Vero Beach, Florida, you can get a little Disney magic thanks to Disney’s Vero Beach Resort .

The resort is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast . And resort guests have private beach access, which means you’ll be just steps away from relaxing with your toes in the sand. For spring break in March or April, you can expect great beach weather with high temperatures anywhere from 78-81 degrees.

Plus, Vero Beach isn’t just a place where your family can have fun playing or swimming. It’s also a popular sea turtle nesting habitat. If your spring break is on the latter side, you may just be able to catch a glimpse of a sea turtle nest or a sea turtle hatchling making its way to the ocean thanks to Disney’s strong conservation effort at the resort.

Beyond the beach, there are plenty of activities offered at the resort to keep you busy. You’ll find a pool with a two-story water slide, a splash pad, a variety of rentals (beach, water, sports, and bicycle), and nightly activities including a campfire.

When you’re ready to venture off property, check out downtown Vero Beach , visit the McKee Botanical Gardens , take a walk on one of the many nature trails, or learn about the area’s wildlife at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge.

With so much to do at the resort and the surrounding area, you’ll find something for everyone in your family to enjoy when visiting Vero Beach.  

30A, Florida

By Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Dubbed the ‘Hamptons of the South’, 30A, is one of Florida’s best hidden gems and is a great beach destination to spend Spring Break with your family.

There are 26 miles of pristine beaches that make up 30A, but they are split into 16 distinct beachside neighborhoods , all catering to different types of travelers. Couples love Rosemary Beach, adventurers are suited to Santa Rosa Beach, and families often flock to Watercolor Beach.

Stay at the Watercolor Inn , and enjoy the beachfront family suites and Camp Watercolor – which has two pools with slides, a lazy river, a basketball court, and a playground, as well as access to their own private beach , where you can swim, sunbathe or do water sports.

Other things to do in 30A as a family, include boutique shopping, visiting the studios of famous local artists such as Justin Gaffrey , cycling the Timpoochee Trail , hiking in Point Washington State Forest , or paddle boarding on the coastal dune lakes at Grayton Beach.

The temperature during Spring Break is in the mid-70s to 80s, and is very pleasant for enjoying all the activities on offer, which can be more difficult to do in the summer heat.

30A is located along the Florida Panhandle, and is a 30min drive from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach. 

Kona, Hawaii

By Anu from Destination Checkoff

The historic coastal town of Kona in Big Island, Hawaii, is popular for its beautiful beaches and makes a great spring break beach destination . There are plenty of activities and attractions in Kona ideal for families visiting during spring break. 

March and April are ideal months to visit Kona with warm waters and great weather .

There are several beaches here ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Kona is world famous for snorkeling with manta rays . Spring break is also towards the end of whale watching season in Hawaii and Kona is a great place to spot whales. Some of the popular beaches here are Maniniowali Beach, Makalawena Beach, Two Step beach, and Kanakahonu beach. 

Kona is on the drier side of Big Island and it gets less rain, making it ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and other activities. The hike to the Captain Cook Monument is a popular hike to do in Kona. Make sure to visit the  Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park to learn about the history of Hawaii and to enjoy some excellent ocean views. You might even spot some turtles resting there! 

King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel is a great place to stay for families with beach access and a prime location in downtown Kona. You’ll also find many nice vacation rentals available in the area.  

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

By Mari from Mari On The Map

If a low-key spring break is more your vibe, check out Ocean Isle Beach, NC . Perfect for families, the water is calm and the sand is soft. The east-facing beach boasts beautiful sunrises , so take advantage of the beautiful view if your kids are early risers.

If your crew loves animals, Ocean Isle Beach is home to one of the largest populations of nesting sea turtles . Learn more about the local sea turtle population, including their nesting cycles and locations with the Ocean Isle Beach Sea Turtle Protection Organization.

For a great family night, River Country Mini Golf is also a popular spot on the island, so popular, in fact, families have been seen playing in the rain.

Vacation home rentals are your best bet for lodging, and many can be found right at the beachfront with pools included.

For dining, Ocean Isle Fish Company is a great spot for babies, toddlers, and kids. The covered roof deck is an ideal spot to watch the boats going up and down the coastal waterways. If you want to get out on the coastal waterways yourself, you can rent a boat right at the dock where the Ocean Isle Fish Company is situated.

St Thomas, USVI 

By Shelly from Almost There Adventures

St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is a great spring break beach destination for families. The weather is often sunny and in the mid-80s with crystal clear water that is warm and swimmable. 

For US citizens, no passport is required to visit but remember they do drive on the left. It’s also considered the gateway to the Caribbean making it an easy home base to explore other islands and cays in the Caribbean.

A great resort to consider staying at is the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove as they have two and three-bedroom villas for families.

The beaches here are definitely the most popular attraction. There are over 40 beaches on St Thomas and you can take a ferry to nearby St John or other islands in the surrounding area.

Magen’s Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the world known for its mile-long beach and great swimming . There are chair rentals, restaurants, and changing areas to make this an easy beach stop with a family. Coki Beach is also a great location for snorkeling where you can experience colorful reefs, turtles, and rays.

There is so much to offer when planning a trip to St Thomas USVI for spring break!

Honolulu, Hawaii

By Sydney from A World in Reach

With beautiful beaches, delicious food, and plenty of fun things to do, Honolulu, Hawaii is the perfect spring break destination that will satisfy all of your family members.

Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and largest city, is on Oahu, the most popular Hawaiian island for tourists. Spring break is the perfect time to visit Honolulu, as the temperatures average in the low 80s and there are fewer crowds than in the busy summer months. 

As a bonus, spring break falls right in the middle of whale season , when the majestic humpback whales migrate to the warm waters surrounding Oahu to breed and give birth. Many of the best Oahu hikes , like the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, have viewpoints where you might be able to spot a whale or two!

The Hilton Hawaiian Village is the perfect place to stay for families . Located right on Waikiki Beach, the resort features five pools, beach access, and nightly activities including the famous Waikiki Starlight Luau. The resort is also a short walk from some of Honolulu’s best restaurants and shops.

Other things to do around Honolulu include taking a day trip to Pearl Harbor , hiking Diamond Head for sweeping views of Waikiki, and taking a day trip to the North Shore where you can watch professional surfers catch waves and lounge on some of the island’s prettiest beaches.

Big Sur, California

By Alyssa from An Apple A Plane

Looking for a unique family beach vacation with mountain views in the United States?  There are limitless things to do in Big Sur, California !  Big Sur comprises a 90-mile scenic stretch along Highway 1 on California’s Pacific coast . Explore mountains, beaches, hiking, and iconic views on your spring break trip to Big Sur.  

Big Sur’s north end begins in California’s famous towns of Monterey and Carmel. Many visitors choose to spend an entire vacation here. 

Point Lobos Natural Reserve is an incredible first stop on this road trip , a 10-minute drive down Big Sur. Turquoise waters along cliffsides and hidden beaches lead to breathtaking views and a variety of hikes for all skill levels. 

Other beloved state parks along Big Sur include Limekiln, Garrapata, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns. 

Consider staying near Garrapata State Park for 2 miles of scenic beaches and relaxation.  Hyatt Carmel Highlands provides a 4-star waterfront hotel experience. Consider staying here for fine dining, breathtaking views, and a heated pool.  

Consider dining at the highly-rated Nepenthe Restaurant for a meal with views.  

Other scenic beaches along Big Sur’s famous coastal stretch include Sand Dollar Beach, Andres Molera State Park, and Pfeiffer Beach.  

Outer Banks, North Carolina

By Denise from Chef Denise

The Outer Banks, North Carolina is a great beach destination for families on Spring Break . Temperatures during March and April are usually in the 60s but can hit the low 70s. The water temps of the Atlantic are similar which means it may be a little too cool for swimming. But don’t fret, there’s still so much to do. 

The best part about the Outer Banks is that they are actually barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. So in addition to the ocean, they create a bay on the west side. Since the widest point is just over 3 miles, you can easily go from coast to coast multiple times in one day. And see the sunrise over the Atlantic and then set over the bay.

The bay can be a little warmer and there’s always a wetsuit if you’d like to try stand-up paddling or kite surfing on the calm waters. The sandy Outer Banks beaches are wide, long, and pristine . Perfect for family games and relaxing.

If you want to keep the kids sharp, throw in a history lesson at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk. Or head to Buxton, for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse , the tallest brick lighthouse in the USA. Everyone will be happy with a stop for an apple ugly and the best breakfast in OBX at the nearby Orange Blossom Cafe . Make sure you go early to beat the lines, also, they close at 11:00 am.

Spring is a great time to hike on the islands and the National Wildlife Refuge in Manteo is the best place to do it. They also have a kayak trail there. It’s a wonderful way to spend the day surrounded by nature.

Stay at the Inn on Pamlico Sound and your family will have free bikes to explore the island or book a vacation rental for more privacy and access to a kitchen.

Lake Tahoe, California

By Meg from Fox in the Forest

If you’re searching for one of the best spring break beach destinations for families then you can’t beat Lake Tahoe, California.

After all, this amazing alpine lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains has a ton of family-friendly activities for you to add to your Lake Tahoe itinerary .

Spring is also a great time to visit since the weather is getting warmer , the trails are opening back up, and spring is typically off-season. Therefore, prices will be reduced and local attractions will be a lot less crowded.

So, start by grabbing a kayak and paddling through the bright blue waters of King’s Beach to Speed Boat Beach.

Alternatively, if you have smaller kids then you can always hop aboard an old-world paddlewheel boat and cruise past the natural beauty of Emerald Lake.

Next, shop til you drop in downtown Truckee before having a casual meal at Moody’s . It’s a fun and vibrant spot that is perfect for kids since they feature live entertainment.

And while you can take a scenic walk along many of the area’s idyllic beaches , I wouldn’t swim since daily highs really only get up to 58F while daily lows can go down to 37F.

But, it’s still a great time to visit if you want to get outside and hike to Eagle Falls in the Sierra Nevadas.

Just be sure to check the weather and trail conditions before you set out on a hike since snow can linger in the area.

Finally, spend the night at Hilton Vacation Club Lake Tahoe Resort. It’s a great family-friendly resort that features its very own indoor pool.

Puerto Rico

By Meghan from Meghan The Traveling Teacher

Puerto Rico has a rich history and culture, pristine beaches, rainforests, and mountains to explore, relaxation, and adventure… it truly has something for everyone on a family trip ! The beaches in Puerto Rico are stunning, with the pristine Caribbean blue water to enjoy all over the island.

One of the best parts of the island for beachgoers who want a mix of activities and beaches is Rincon . This is a little beach town located on the western side of Puerto Rico. Rincon has some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the Caribbean.

At Domes Beach , you’ll find surfing is a popular sport, with people there from sunrise to sunset riding the waves. You can take a family surf lesson  here or at various other beaches in Rincon. When visiting this beach, make sure you check out the lighthouse.

If you’re looking for calm waters and relaxation, head to Tres Palmas Marine Reserve. This nature reserve includes three different beaches – Dogman Beach, Malibu, and Steps Beach. Steps Beach is the most popular , but all three offer a chill beach day and an opportunity for snorkeling and seeing wildlife.

Look out for sea turtles while here as they are known for visiting this area! You can grab snorkel gear from Rincon Diving & Snorkeling for a decent price right by Hotel Villa Cofresi.

Hotel Villa Cofresi is a great place for families to stay. It’s known for amazing sunsets on the water and has direct access to the beach . It has gated entry with great concierge service to ensure everything is taken care of. Plus, there’s a pool, game room, and restaurant onsite , making hanging out as a family easy and safe!

Puerto Rico is the perfect spot for a Spring Break family trip!

Cocoa Beach, Florida

By Christine from Live Love Run Travel

Cocoa Beach, Florida, is one of the best Spring Break beach destinations for families in the USA . Located just 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida, along Interstate 95, it is an easy destination to access but not too crowded.

Spring Break is a popular time in Florida, but Cocoa Beach is known as being more of the locals’ beach. The weather is warm with highs in the 70s and 80s and lows in the 60s . Because the Gulf Stream surrounds the state of Florida, the water is warm enough to swim and enjoy during Spring Break.

When visiting Cocoa Beach, keep an eye on the sky for rocket launches . NASA is nearby and makes for a great experience if you choose to visit. Even if you don’t, you’ll be able to enjoy the launches from the beach or the Cocoa Beach Pier (or really anywhere in Cocoa Beach). Check the launch schedule and then check it again because launches are frequently delayed.

Near the Cocoa Beach Pier, you can rent an umbrella and chairs , take a walk along the beach, or even learn to surf where Kelly Slater got his start. Nearby you’ll find mini golf, shops, and Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures where you can zipline and try the ropes course.

For dining, there are lots of options on the Cocoa Beach Pier including the tiki bar at the end of the pier. Take a short drive down to Jetty Park and enjoy a meal at Grills while watching the cruise ships (and often dolphins) go by.

Cocoa Beach Pier is owned by Westgate Resorts , and their Cocoa Beach Resort is great for families. With a l azy river, pool, and small water park plus two bedroom suites for every room, you’ll find it has something for everyone. Plus you can use their bikes to ride on the beach, enjoy a private beach cabana, and take the free shuttle to the pier.

When looking for your next Spring Breach beach trip, consider Cocoa Beach, Florida, for a fun-filled family vacation!

International Spring Break Beach Destinations

By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

For the perfect Spring Break beach getaway head to the tropical island paradise of Fiji! Easily reachable on direct flights from the West Coast, you’ll be spoilt for choice for fun things to keep the kids entertained here! Plus, it’s an ideal time to visit, with sunny days and tropical temperatures of around 84F during March/April and far fewer crowds.

Whilst the resorts in Fiji can be very expensive, one down-to-earth resort that constantly proves a hit with families is Fiji Beachouse, the best budget Fiji resort ! Fiji Beachouse lies in a beautiful location with its own private beach, pool, beach swing, kayaks, surfboards, bamboo raft, day trips to waterfalls, markets, and secluded islands – the kids will love it and you’ll be able to enjoy some R&R time too!

In addition, there are so many day trips catered for families in Fiji. For the best family sailboat day trip , check out South Sea Sailing where you can sail off to a paradise sandbank. Slide down the waterslide straight into the crystal clear sea and swim to the sandbank where there’ll be beach chairs and drinks waiting for you!

If you’re after an authentic Fijian cultural experience that’s fun for all the family, head to River Tubing Fiji . You’ll visit a traditional Fijian highland village, swim in a beautiful waterfall, and go tubing through the river rapids!

Or head to Tivua Island – where timid baby reef sharks grace the shallows and you can get the chance to go snorkeling and plant some coral reef with a marine biologist!

Also, check out Malamala Beach Club – the world’s first island beach club ! Kids are welcome here, and you can drink out of coconuts in the infinity pool, kayak around the whole island in 7 minutes, and snorkel amongst the fantastic reef!

By Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

If you’re looking for both a fabulous spring break vacation and an island getaway , then consider visiting the lovely island of Tahiti! This island is part of French Polynesia and allows you to fully unplug! And although the island is on the smaller side, the island offers tons of exhilarating and fun activities that you can partake in!

For example, an adventurous activity that’s great for experienced hikers is trekking through Tahiti’s green interior to Fautaua Waterfall. But, if you’re traveling with little kids, a much easier waterfall hike is to Twin Waterfalls .

Alternatively, if you prefer to spend your time near the ocean, consider surfing the famous waves that can be found at many beaches around the island ! Or, check out Plage Publique de Papehue , which is better suited for kids playing in the sand or setting up a picnic.

And of course, it’s a must to try the delicious local cuisine . To taste some of the local fruits, vegetables, and dishes, make your way to Papeete Market! You’ll discover lots of food stands and locals selling their hand-crafted goods.

Visitors interested in vacationing in Tahiti can expect humid tropical climates with average high temperatures in the mid-80s °F . For housing accommodations, consider staying at the awesome Te Moana Tahiti Resort , which is located right along the beach!

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

By Jessie from Jessie on a Journey

Families looking for an unforgettable spring break beach destination should definitely get Punta Cana on their radar . The main beach of Punta Cana is 12 miles long, and this is where you’ll likely spend most of your time. 

In fact, it’s recommended to book one of the numerous beachfront all-inclusive resorts . Many of these resorts cater to families with specific programming and amenities, like the  Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort , which has family suites and an aqua park that kids will surely fall in love with.

In terms of things to do, no  Punta Cana itinerary would be complete without a few beach adventures. Book a snorkeling trip , do some kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding , or go on a day cruise to Saona Island — the Dominican Republic ‘s largest coastal island and a true paradise with soft white sand and clear turquoise-hued waters.

Another fun thing to do is visit the Ojos Indígenas Ecological Reserve , a 1,500-acre private reserve featuring birds, walking trails, and 12 freshwater lagoons. It’s said that the Indigenous Taíno peoples called these lagoons “ojos” (eyes) due to their shape. You can actually swim in a few of these lagoons, like Guamá Lagoon, which also has a diving platform!

While there is a lot to do in Punta Cana, the truth is families can also have an unforgettable trip simply relaxing at the resort, taking part in the daily activities, and enjoying one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the world. 

Antigua , Antigua & Barbuda

Beautiful beaches, outdoor excursions, delicious seafood, and relaxing resorts are just a few of the many reasons Antigua is the perfect place for a Spring Break family trip.

First of all, Antigua & Barbuda is famous for being home to 365 beaches — one for every day of the year! It’s tough to choose the best ones, though a few standouts include Valley Church Beach, Darkwood Beach, and Half Moon Bay.

If you’re looking to enjoy some Antigua adventures , the island has many, from snorkeling trips to kayaking and beyond. Families also shouldn’t miss hiking in  Wallings Nature Reserve — particularly to Signal Hill, which takes you through the rainforest and offers 360-degree views.

If you want to do something truly unique, book a scooter snorkeling experience . This involves holding onto a small contraption that looks like a fan, and letting it pull you through the water!

Hungry? Don’t miss the famous  Shirley Heights Sunday BBQ , complete with delicious food and live music. You’ll also be able to take in a gorgeous vista over the English and Falmouth Harbours from the Shirley Heights Lookout.

In terms of where to stay, there are loads of great options for families. For instance,  The Verandah Resort & Spa has a beach, swimming pools, and a schedule of fun daily activities. 

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

By Daria from Explore Baja California

Cabo San Lucas is a perfect spring break destination for families that offers great outdoor opportunities like hiking and diving, delicious food in restaurants, and amazing nightlife. 

Spring breakers love Cabo’s sunny climate and plenty of activities from exploring the beaches to snorkeling, diving and hiking, and wildlife watching. 

Cabo San Lucas is also home to Land’s End , which can be easily recognized by the sandstone arch. This area separates the Sea of Cortez from the Pacific Ocean on both sides of the Baja California Peninsula. Many tours bring people to see the iconic rock formation , but you can also enjoy activities like kayaking or swimming near Lover’s Beach where you can get dropped off by your boat, or walk toward Divorce Beach on the other side. 

You can book a boat for a sunset cruise or a tour that includes various stops and comes with food and drinks, and is a perfect option to enjoy a spring break with your family. 

Another popular activity in Cabo San Lucas is whale watching . From December through early April, you can spot gray whales, humpbacks, blue whales, and whale sharks , all around the peninsula. You will need to depart from different destinations in the region depending on what kind of species you want to see.

If you want to see some of the most incredible gems in the region, rent a car in Cabo San Lucas to explore nearby places like Todos Santos, La Paz, and Cabo Pulmo. 

Nobu Hotel Los Cabos is a popular resort among families thanks to its direct beach access, 3 pools, large family rooms, and a plethora of amenities and activities for kids.

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

By Jessica from UpRooted Traveler

Manuel Antonio, along the Pacific coastline of Costa Rica, is mainly known for its national park, brimming with sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds . But it’s also home to some stunning beaches , perfect for a spring break getaway for the family. 

There are so many things to do in Manuel Antonio , for example, you can do a variety of activities on the main beach in the town, Playa Espadilla, like ride jet skis or banana boats, take a surf lesson, or go parasailing . No matter what you do, make sure to plan a visit around sunset, it’s absolutely jaw-dropping on the beach!

Alternatively, the main attraction in town is Manuel Antonio National Park , home to hundreds of different species of animals. You can hike on a number of hiking trails here, as howler monkeys roar overhead. There are also three beaches here, which tend to be a bit more secluded and low-key than Playa Espadilla- perfect for lounging, soaking up the sun, and keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife. 

The weather will be perfect for enjoying the beach, with highs in the low to mid-80s each day . And while you may encounter some rain (it is, after all, a rainforest), it’s unlikely to last for more than a couple of hours at a time.

Consider making Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio your home base during your visit. This family-friendly resort is perched on a hill, with magnificent views of the surrounding jungle and ocean, and offers stellar amenities, like an infinity pool, beach access, and an onsite restaurant.

By Renee from Dream Plan Experience

Escape to the pink sand beaches of Bermuda !

Bermuda, a tiny island in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, is the most accessible of the North American islands. Most assume this pretty little island is part of the Caribbean, but it’s not. It lies very close to North Carolina. That means it’s perfect for a quick getaway and is a budget-friendly beach destination ideal for families.

Bermuda is considered semitropical with a milder climate. In March, the average temperature is 70°F (or 21°C). That means the ocean temperature at Spring Break is a little cool, but not that deters kids from enjoying it! Fortunately, most resorts on the island have heated pools! One of the top hotels in Bermuda is Fairmont’s Hamilton Princess & Beach Club .  

The pink sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise water are the biggest draw to Bermuda . Relax with a good book, and go snorkeling, cliff jumping, or surfing . Visit the popular Crystal & Fantasy Caves – formed during the ice age creating these cool hidden limestone caves. Rent bikes and ride along the former railway coastal trail stretching from one end of Bermuda to the other. 

Another fun way to get around Bermuda is to rent a Twizy . A Twizy is a two-seater electric vehicle. In fact, it’s the only way non-Bermuda residents can get around the island as car rentals are not available.

Make Bermuda your fun family getaway this Spring Break.

Save it for later on Pinterest – Best Spring Break Beach Destinations for Families:

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Wondering what to do in Delaware on spring break? How to have a fun staycation at home

Spring break is a great time to decompress from the woes of work, school and life, but sometimes shelling out cash for an elaborate vacation is a bit overrated.  

Whether you’re trying to save money or prefer to kick it like a homebody, there are plenty of ways to make your spring break staycation here in Delaware a blast, too.  

From local day trips to activities to do solo or with your pals, here’s all the fun you can get into at home this spring break. 

Visit Delaware beach towns  

Delaware beaches are a blast in the summer, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t fun to be had in local beach towns during the offseason, too.   

Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Dewey Beach, Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach are home to an ample amount of outlet stores and small businesses and plenty of restaurants serving local cuisine. And there are plenty of lesser-known beaches to finally explore, too. 

Spend a weekend trying a new brunch spot you didn’t get a chance to visit during the summer before perusing nearby shops and ending your day with a sunset walk along the beach or boardwalk. Another perk of visiting Delaware beach towns outside of summer? Fewer crowds and more parking available.   

The best part is that there’s so much to do in Delaware’s coastal towns that you’ll more than likely want to come back during another day of spring break. 

Buy a ticket for Longwood Gardens  

It’s not an island getaway flush with tropical plants, but  Longwood Gardens is a local option for seeing seasonal florals to get you into the spring spirit, and if you’re someone who has yet to see what the botanical garden is all about, spring break is the perfect time to visit. 

Open year-round, Longwood Gardens near Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, features more than 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands and meadows. Longwood is known to present the latest innovations in horticulture with marvelous, themed displays throughout the grounds, featuring mesmerizing lighting, holiday décor, seasonal nods and much more.   

Botanical installations you can enjoy this spring break include: 

• Winter Wonder , open from Jan. 20 to March 24, features nearly 200 acres of winter’s beauty in an outdoor arrangement, followed by a warm, colorful display in the grand conservatory.     
• Spring Blooms , open from March 30 to May 5, teases early spring blooms, flowering trees and vibrant tulips in the gardens this year, an ode to springtime warmth and splendor.

For more information, visit  longwoodgardens.org . 

Hike around Delaware  

Instead of becoming a couch potato this spring break, how about hiking through Delaware’s plush forests, sandy beaches and historical areas? 

The state boasts 17 state parks filled with plenty of opportunities to fit your hobbies and fitness level, from paved walking paths to rugged trails to fishing at local ponds to kayaking on the water.  

No matter where you call home in Delaware, the state’s parks system features locations in each county with various ways to get into some recreational and educational fun.  

Check out White Clay Creek State Park in Newark, Killens Pond State Park in Felton or Delaware Seashore State Park in Rehoboth Beach, among many others.

Channel your inner artist or historian  

Delaware has no shortage of museums throughout the state, and there’s guaranteed to be a local exhibit for you and your crowd if you’re chilling at home on spring break.   

Bring the kids to the  Delaware Children’s Museum  in Wilmington, have a family day at the  Air Mobility Command Museum  at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, visit the  Discoversea Shipwreck Museum  in Fenwick Island, walk around the  Delaware Art Museum  in Wilmington or spend the afternoon at the  Rehoboth Beach Historical Society & Museum  in Rehoboth.   

After your museum adventures, explore the area by shopping at local businesses and checking out nearby restaurants.  

Spend a few hours at the zoo  

For those needing family-friendly entertainment, especially for younger children already driving parents bonkers on day two of spring break, the zoo is the perfect adventure.  

The  Brandywine Zoo  in Wilmington features animals from the tropical and temperate areas of North America, South America, Asia and Africa, ranging from common species to those that are highly endangered. Animals you can find are the Florida bobcat, red pandas, toco toucans, a western burrowing owl, a radiated tortoise, a scarlet ibis, a prehensile-tailed skink a green tree python and more. 

Not only will visitors get to enjoy the animals on exhibit in natural settings, a trip to the zoo is also a great way to get some educational fun in through a normal visit or participation in one of the zoo's many special events. And who could pass up seeing the pudu fawn and crowned lemur born at the zoo in 2023? 

The Brandywine Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed on Christmas Day) and is free to enter from Dec. 1 to March 15 due to limited visibility of some animals on exhibit. From March 16 to March 31, prices will be as follows:  

• Members and children under 3 years old get in for free.  
• Children between ages 3 and 17 get in for $5.  
• Adults between ages 18 and 61 get in for $7.  
• Seniors aged 62 and above get in for $6.  

After April 1 the following pricing will last until Oct. 31: 

• Children between ages 3 and 17 get in for $7.  
• Adults between ages 18 and 61 get in for $9.  
• Seniors aged 62 and above get in for $8. 

The zoo is wheelchair and stroller accessible. For more information, visit  brandywinezoo.org/.   

In Townsend, 3 Palms Zoo & Education Center is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays.  

Animals at the zoo are most active earlier in the day, when temperatures are cooler, so staff members advise planning a visit for as early as possible. This also will give you a chance to chat with animal keepers and ask questions about their zoo friends! 

MORE TO DO: Here are 14 New Jersey day trips to take over spring break

Admission during the day is $6 per person no matter the age and $1 per scoop of petting zoo food. Kids under 1 are free before 12 p.m. with two or more paid admissions.   

For more information about the zoo, visit  3palmszoo.org/.  

Ride the ferry to Cape May  

Just because you’re kicking it at home this spring break doesn’t mean you have to stay home the entire time, and luckily for Delaware, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry accommodates those seeking wallet-friendly and fast travel to a nearby beach town.   

The ferry sets sail from Lewes for a short trip across the Delaware Bay to Cape May. Passengers can travel by vehicle, bicycle or on foot to meet Cape May’s shores in about 85 minutes.   

Enjoy the open waters and breathtaking views along the 17-mile journey, along with visits from animal friends along the way like dolphins, seals, bald eagles and whales, before docking at Cape May and starting your adventure.  

While in  Cape May , you can visit Cape May Point State Park, the Cape May Lighthouse, Washington Street Mall, the Lobster House, Cape May Brewery, Beach Plum Farm and much more.   

Cape May (and Lewes) have electric bikes available for rental during your trip that can help expand your exploration of the area and give you a workout!   

More Cape May area attractions include the Cold Spring Village, Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation, Cape May County Park and Zoo, Willow Creek Winery and Farm, Emlen Physick Estate (a historic Victorian house and museum) and many annual events.  

The 2023–2024 fall/winter scheduling and fare began on Nov. 1 and remains in effect until March 31, 2024.   

According to the  winter fare , adults, ages 14 to 61 years old, pay $8 for a one-way ticket and $14 for a round trip. Seniors, ages 62 years old and up, pay $6 for a one-way ticket and $11 for a round trip. Children ages 13 years old and younger ride for free.    

Daily departure times  from both the Cape May and Lewes terminals vary based on day. Consult the winter schedule for more information about arrival and departure times. 

Go shopping  

Maybe you want to use spring break to get a head start on your summer wardrobe or need to stock up on workwear for your upcoming internship. 

Whatever you’re looking for, spending the day at the mall is a worthwhile activity fit for college students, families and adults alike.  

You can browse the books at Barnes & Noble, grab lunch in the food court or at one of the restaurants in the Christiana Fashion Center, buy new pantry organizers at the Container Store and revamp your vanity with new makeup from Sephora.   

Even if you don’t feel like buying anything, maybe you’ll find some apartment décor inspiration while getting your steps in at the same time. 

Take the train out of town  

Sometimes your city can get a bit boring, and after sitting at home for a few days during spring break, you might start feeling a bit stir-crazy. 

 If you’re hankering to get out of town for a quick trip or want to catch up with some pals in other college towns, take the train elsewhere for a quick trip.   

Not only does Amtrak eliminate the dreaded middle seat dilemma by offering two seats per row, but the company also allows you to travel in green style by producing 72% less carbon emissions than flying and 83% less carbon emissions than driving, according to Amtrak.    

Trains also are a much cheaper option than flying if your wallet is still on the rebound from holiday and back-to-school purchases for spring semester.  

Delaware has Amtrak stations in  Wilmington  and  Newark  with passenger trains traveling through major cities like Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; Providence, Rhode Island; Boston, Massachusetts and more.  Other passenger trains like the Carolinian can take you to one of 24 destinations located between New York City and Charlotte, North Carolina.    

Bowl, jump and play for your inner child  

Whether you’ve got bored kids to entertain or are looking for a throwback to childhood with your college friends, checking out local arcades and events or sports centers is an easy way to occupy a few hours of a day during spring break.  

Across Delaware, there’s a plethora of bowling lanes, family arcades, trampoline parks and escape rooms to check out depending on what vibe you’re feeling.  

Plus, there’s something about the neon lighting, funky music and wacky designs of arcades and events centers that always feels welcoming, along with the inevitable junk food you’re sure to indulge in.  

Here are some places you can bowl, jump and play your way through for your inner child (or actual child) in Delaware:  

Family Fun Galaxy  at Mid County Lanes in Middletown has a laser tag arena, indoor bumper cars, arcade games and more for everyone in your household to enjoy.   

Main Event  in Christiana has a gravity ropes indoor course, laser tag, pool, bowling, arcade games and tasty eats. 

Xbos  in Smyrna has an arcade, bowling, a trampoline park and an indoor playground. Bring the little ones to play while you relax at the café.   

In Bethany Beach,  Shore Fun Family Fun Center  offers pinball machines, Skee-Ball, air hockey, arcade games, crane games and more.   

And for those of you who are a part of the “pictures or it didn’t happen” crowd, you can snap some pictures at the photo booth before you leave.   

New Castle’s  Xtreme Zone  features indoor go-karting, ax throwing and virtual reality fun.   

New coffee shop in town: Coffee house opens in Odessa in former gas station on busy corner, vacant for years

Take a scenic train ride  

If a train ride out of town for spring break isn’t the type of fun you’re looking for, how about a train ride through Delaware? 

The  Wilmington & Western Railroad  in Prices Corner operates steam- and diesel-powered tourist trains on 10 miles of track in the Red Clay Valley between Greenbank and Hockessin. 

That means you get to cruise through beautiful state views without doing any work or dealing with crowds of travelers at regional train stations. Pack your lunch to enjoy on the ride or just sit back and relax.   

Coming up, Wilmington & Western Railroad has two events in March.  

Brews on Board is a 21+ event on Friday, March 15, at 7 p.m. celebrating St. Patrick’s Day that takes passengers on a 2-hour round-trip through the valley, powered by a historic first-generation diesel locomotive, and supplies libations and snacks on board.

A ticket for the event includes two 12-ounce pours of your choice and a complimentary beer mug. Additional pours will be available aboard the train for $5 cash each.  

Reservations are required and table seating is $80 for a two-person table or $160 for a four-person table. 

The Easter Bunny Express is a family-friendly, 1 ½-hour round-trip ride to Ashland aboard a historic first-generation diesel locomotive, with the Easter Bunny as a special guest. The Easter Bunny will visit everyone onboard and pose for pictures, and all kids in attendance will receive a special treat.  

The Easter Bunny Express will operate on Saturday, March 23; Sunday, March 24; Saturday, March 29; and Sunday, March 23, with each day offering a 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. timeslot.  

Tickets are free for children under 2 years of age, $25 for children between ages 2 and 12, $27 for adults and $26 for seniors aged 60 and above. Reservations are required and seating is assigned for this event. 

Dine out at new restaurants 

It’s easy to get stuck in the routine of making those same frozen meals at your apartment every week, and if you’ve spent the semester so far solely eating dining hall food, well, we know what you’ve been through.  

While you have a bit of free time to venture off campus during spring break, treat yourself by checking out new restaurants around the state. 

Not only are new eateries popping up on every corner, but Delaware also has restaurants that were recently ranked as some of the best restaurants in the nation .

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Where to see the total solar eclipse: Want to head out of town for a better view of the April solar eclipse? Here's where to go

Giving back to the game: How Smyrna and UD QB Nolan Henderson became a go-to mechanics coach in Delaware

If you’re a parent working with a tight budget or dealing with children who are picky eaters, don’t worry. There are plenty of other restaurants around Delaware that cater to diners of all tastes and ages, and you just might come across a few chefs who have competed in food competitions on Netflix and the Food Network .

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at  [email protected] .   

Weather dampen your beach day? 15 rainy day things to do for spring break in Myrtle Beach

M ar. 22—It's true that much of what the Myrtle Beach area is known for happens outside. There are the miles of sandy beaches, boating, fishing and of course, golfing.

And while we all wish there will be continuous sunny days, the weather can be at times unpredictable, which means there will be rainy days.

If you're coming to the Myrtle Beach area for vacation, don't be surprised if at least one of those days is stormy.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, North Carolina, is calling for heavy rain and possible thunderstorms Friday and into early Saturday. But the sun will come back on Sunday and Monday with cooler temps in the 60s.

But there are many things to do on those not so great beach days.

Here's a guide to some of them:

Places for the whole family

— Stars and Strikes. Located at the Coastal Grand Mall, 600 Coastal Grand Circle, the entertainment center boasts 24 bowling lanes, large arcade, multi-story laser tag arena and axe throwing. There's also a restaurant and bar.

— 810 Billiards and Bowling. With three locations along the Grand Strand, this entertainment center offers a little something for everyone from bowling, billiard tables, corn hole, ping pong, darts and mini golf. With a restaurant as well, you could spend the entire day here.

— Ripley's Aquarium. See many different animals, including a tunnel that allows you to walk under a tank of sharks, penguins, touch a stingray, slow down with the sloths or have breakfast with a mermaid. The aquarium, 110 Celebrity Circle, allows you to experience ocean animals as well as other creatures.

— Hollywood Wax Museum. The museum, 1808 21st Ave. N., gives visitors a chance to get up close with their favorite stars. And while they are the wax versions, the likeness is just like standing next to the real person. Stars include everyone from Beyonce, to Elvis, to Bruno Mars, to getting beamed up aboard the USS Enterprise with "Star Trek's" Spock. There are also props to help make things more interactive and fun. Bring your cameras for those selfies.

Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show. Watch pirates battle on land and in water aboard ships, mermaids and acrobatic feats while you enjoy a four-course meal. 8907 N. Kings Highway.

Alabama Theatre. The theatre, 4750 Highway 17 S. in North Myrtle Beach, offers several variety shows that include everything from country, comedy and guest artists, such as The Oak Ridge Boys and The Beach Boys.

House of Blues. This North Myrtle Beach music venue, 4640 Highway 17 S., offers a variety of concerts and shows throughout the year. You can make it a night by grabbing dinner at the restaurant and bar.

The Carolina Opry Theater. The theater was the first live theater to open in Myrtle Beach and offers up a variety of shows and concerts at its location at 8901 N. Kings Highway. There are also guest artists, including country singer Clint Black, magician Lance Burton and several tribute artist shows.

For the kids (and big kids)

— Big Air Trampoline Park. If your children or adults are bouncing off the walls, then you can help them burn off that energy at this indoor trampoline park at 3820 S. Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach. The trampoline park offers jumping dodgeball courts, slam dunk courts, ninja-warrior courses, foam pits and a climbing wall.

— SkyZone. Another indoor trampoline park at 2200 N. Oak St. in Myrtle Beach offers visitors a place to jump and activities. It is also offering spring break passes.

— WonderWorks. A science-focused indoor amusement park that combines education with entertainment at 1313 Celebrity Circle in Myrtle Beach. It has more than 100 hands-on exhibits, including the Hurricane Shack, a Bubble Lab and the Astronaut Training Gyro that lets you experience zero gravity.

— Boardwalk Arcade. For those who have been coming to Myrtle Beach for some time, there's a great chance that you have visited this nostalgic arcade at 912 N. Ocean Blvd. that has been in business since the 1930s. Located along the Boardwalk downtown, it offers up old-timey games, as well as newer games.

— The Bowery. Dubbed the "8th Wonder of the World," which has been trademarked we're told, this iconic bar and restaurant located at 110 9th Ave. N., is just steps from the ocean and is where the country group Alabama got its start. Thousands come to party and enjoy music and food. It's been open since 1944.

Player 1 Up. It's Horry County's only arcade bar and restaurant that features classic pinball machines, video games, pool and skeeball. After 9 p.m., the location at 3264 US 17 Business in Murrells Inlet is for ages 21 and older.

— Gay Dolphin Gift Cove. Another long-standing and iconic Myrtle Beach landmark is the Gay Dolphin at 916 N. Ocean Blvd. It is the premiere place to get a vacation souvenir to bring back home. You could spend hours in this shop, which is one of the most visited attractions in the Grand Strand and has been in business for more than 70 years.

(c)2024 The Sun News (Myrtle Beach, S.C.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.