15 Best Family Spring Break Destinations (2024)
As spring break approaches, you may find yourself wondering where you should take your family...
Well, look no further! Get your whole family excited to visit any of these 15 incredible spring break destinations that are perfect for families! Choose from 6 international destinations, or stay closer to home with any of the 9 destinations in the U.S.A.
No matter which trip you plan to take, it's sure to be Worth Every Trip when you are having a blast as a family!
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International Destinations
1. Puerto Rico
One of the very best family spring break spots is Puerto Rico. It’s a tropical oasis offering a lot for traveling families. Choose an area to enjoy or stay in multiple for a little variety over spring break.
History lovers will enjoy the ancient city with amazing architecture. Visit Old San Juan to explore the 500-year old fort, Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Kids will be exposed to Spanish Colonial streets which feel more European than American, a treat for those who haven’t yet explored Europe. The Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel has a perfect set-up for kids too, including a pool.
For active families, enjoy hiking, ziplining, and horseback riding at El Yunque National Forest. Explore old observation towers, waterfalls, natural pools, and scenic drives for days of adventure!
Families who just want to relax at the beach absolutely must visit Culebra. It’s a tiny island off mainland Puerto Rico where the sand is bright white, the turquoise water is incredibly clear, and the family-friendly waves are perfect for swimming. Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico is regularly rated one of the top in the USA – and the Caribbean, so you know it’s good!
Contributed by Nikki of She Saves She Travels
2. Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Located a mere 13 kilometers from Cancun, Isla Mujeres offers fun in the sun without the party vibe. The island's name translates to "Island of Women," after the Mayan temple built on Punta Sur at the southernmost point of the island. While some people go for a day trip during a Cancun vacation, there's plenty to do there to keep visitors busy for days on end.
From renting a golf cart to tour the 8-kilometer long island to lounging on the pristine beaches of North Beach (called Playa Norte), there is something for everyone. The top-rated activities in Isla Mujeres are snorkeling at a nearby reef, visiting the Mayan ruins on Punta Sur, and eating at one of the many restaurants. Isla Mujeres has become a foodie paradise in recent years.
From burger places with artisanal horchatas and breakfast restaurants with expansive menus to microbreweries and scrumptious street food on the zocalo (town square), there is a meal for every palate and every budget. Rooster in Centro has amazing chilaquiles and baked goods.
For a small island, the challenge is not looking for things to do. The real struggle is choosing which activities and restaurants must be skipped when visitors run out of time.
Contributed by Brodi Cole of Our Offbeat Life
3. Tamarindo, Costa Rica
One of the best family spring break destinations in the world is in the incredible country of Costa Rica. The small beach town of Tamarindo is nestled comfortably on the Pacific Coast and is a hidden gem without the crowds.
Families will find plenty of things to do in Tamarindo, no matter what your ages or interests are. Beach lovers can relax in the miles of soft sand, take a swim in the calm coves, or even learn to surf in the waves. Nature lovers can go on a wildlife safari to look for sloths, toucans, turtles, and even monkeys! Adrenaline junkies can take to the trees with ziplining or head under the water and go scuba diving at the Las Catalinas Islands. The Pacific Manta Rays call this area home, and they are not dangerous to humans.
Hotel Tamarindo Diria is located in downtown Tamarindo within walking distance of downtown. In the heart of downtown, there is an outdoor food market featuring a variety of foods from around the world - so no worries for picky eaters - everyone can find something to eat!
Contributed by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler
4. Curacao
There are so many wonderful things to do in Curacao as a family, making it an ideal spring break destination. This Dutch Caribbean island gem experiences sunshine all year long and is the perfect vacation for beach-loving households. In particular, families can enjoy quality time together while swimming with turtles at Playa Piskadó, scoping out beach pigs at Playa Porto Mari, or swinging above the ocean at Kokomo Beach!
Beyond the beach scene, families can create unforgettable memories swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Academy, one of the rare facilities that interacts with these incredible creatures in the open ocean! In addition, kids will love the Curacao Sea Aquarium, where they can feed lobsters and nurse sharks, snorkel with sea creatures, and interact with sea lions.
When the clan is hungry, take the kids to the Pirate Bay Beach Club & Restaurant, a pirate-themed beachfront restaurant that’s fun for the whole family.
As far as accommodations go, families should consider a stay at Coral Estate Luxury Resort, located on the northern side of the island. This family-friendly property has a seafront swimming pool, wonderful on-site restaurants, and even its own diving school!
Contributed by Elena Pappalardo of The Carry-On Chronicles
5. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a dream destination any time of the year, but spring break might just be the best time to visit for families. The island will be far less crowded during that time, and prices tend to be lower as the high season hasn’t yet begun. If you’re looking for an affordable but decent hotel head to the Chaya Hotel in Legian which has a central location and a nice pool.
A great family activity is to head to Ubud for the day to visit the Monkey Forest, which is one of Bali’s most popular attractions. Plus it’s great for kids.
Of course, you can’t go to Bali without spending a day by the beach and enjoying Bali’s beautiful nature. Older kids might want to learn how to surf, which is affordable and safe in Bali. But even the younger ones will love playing in the shallow waters. Ulutwatu definitely has the best beaches and most beautiful scenery.
Contributed by Victoria of Guide Your Travel
6. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne Australia is one of the best places to spend your spring break after you make the marathon trek down under!
Melbourne has been voted many times as the world’s most liveable city and for good reason too. With large open green spaces, world-famous food, unforgettable natural landmarks, and street art that rivals any city in the world there is something for everyone in Melbourne.
For families visiting Melbourne, there are a plethora of activities both in the city and if you decide to experience some day trips from Melbourne. In Melbourne, you can choose to stay in any of the luxurious hotels like Crown or the Langham along Southbank. This will give you great access to some of the top restaurants there, but you may have a longer walk into the central business district (CBD). Hotels like the Atlantis and the YHA hostel are more centrally located, which may be better for little legs if you are traveling to Melbourne with small children.
Melbourne has a city tram you can ride for free, but if you plan on visiting St Kilda for Luna Park or the Melbourne Zoo you will need to purchase a Myki card that you use to ride the public transport in Victoria. They are easy to use and can be ordered before you leave home, so you have them ready to use once you arrive. If you prefer to stay in the city center you can visit Melbourne Sealife Aquarium and Queen Victoria Market. Another great activity for families in Melbourne is to watch an AFL (Aussie rules football) game.
For day trips from Melbourne for families, you will need a car to get the best pout of the magical scenery. The Great Ocean Road is one of the top natural wonders of the world and is high on the list for anyone visiting Melbourne. A visit to Ballarat and Sovereign Hill is a great activity for families to learn about the early colonial era in Australia, and a trip to Echuca will have you seeing the amazing new must-do silo art trail. These amazing silos are painted by local artists and are bringing once struggling regional towns alive.
Melbourne is a beautiful city and one that should be on your spring break vacation destination list.
Contributed by Bec of Explore Victoria
USA Destinations
7. Oahu, Hawaii
Given its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, Oahu is the perfect place to take an adventurous family getaway. Spring is considered Hawaii’s shoulder season, so the prices of flights and accommodations are generally more affordable, while crowds are thinner than usual.
For families looking for something adventurous, there are plenty of hikes that provide incredible views of the island–from the easy Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, overlooking the island’s eastern shoreline, to the more challenging Lanikai Pillbox Hike, providing sweeping views of Oahu’s sandy beaches below.
Want to get up close and personal with Hawaii’s waters? Check out Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, located just 10 miles east of Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital city. This marine reserve, once a former volcanic crater, is now home to over 400 species of fish and offers some of the best snorkeling in Oahu.
Another excellent spot to snorkel is along Oahu’s famed North Shore. Not only is this a great place to spot sea turtles, but there are countless other fun family activities to do– think watching big wave surfers ride the waves on the Banzai Pipeline or hiking to the Waimea Valley waterfall, which you can swim in!
For a change of pace from the North Shore’s laidback vibes, consider a stay at the Turtle Bay Resort, an upscale hotel with its very own lagoon that also has excellent snorkeling.
Contributed by Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler
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8. Disneyland, California
The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California is a great option for spring break. The weather is mild, the parks are unique, and it doesn’t come with the chaos that Disney World in Orlando inevitably brings. It has the added bonus of being within driving distance of both San Diego and Los Angeles, so you can combine your visit to Disneyland with other tourist attractions.
Disneyland has two theme parks, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Both parks are within walking distance to Downtown Disney, an area with lots of dining and shopping.
Disneyland has three on-property resorts, all of which are within walking distance to the parks. Grand Californian, the most upscale of the three, has an entrance directly from the hotel into California Adventure. While the prices are steep, you can save a substantial amount by renting Disney Vacation Club points.
The Disneyland theme parks have a ton for families to do together. Most of the rides are slow-moving dark rides with no height requirement. These are mild enough for everyone to ride, from infants to grandparents. Some highlights include Star Wars Land, Pixar Pier, and Cars Land. Don’t miss the Haunted Mansion and Peter Pan rides with young kids.
The theme parks also feature shows, character meet and greets, a parade, and fireworks. There’s nonstop fun for the whole family!
Contributed by Adriane of Put on Your Party Pants
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9. San Diego, California
Families will love the beautiful beaches, warm weather, and outdoor activities that make San Diego a prime spot for a spring break vacation.
Explore the 70 miles of coastline full of beach fun for all ages. Watch cute little seals at La Jolla Cove. Play beach volleyball at Mission Beach. Hike along the cliffs at Torrey Pines State Beach. Or catch a wave at Swami’s Beach.
Embrace all the beauty of the ocean by staying a few nights at the Hotel Del Coronado or Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. Let the sound of the waves lull you to sleep as you rest up for another day full of adventure.
Kids (and adults) will absolutely love the world-famous San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. They put all other zoos to shame with over 4,000 animals and lush vegetation around every corner.
Looking for more adventure? Swim with dolphins at SeaWorld San Diego or ride the rollercoasters at LEGOLAND.
Soak in the gorgeous buildings and gardens all over Balboa Park. End your day with a picnic and a breathtaking view at Sunset Cliffs.
No matter what spring break ideas you have, San Diego has endless possibilities for the whole family!
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10. Phoenix, Arizona
While “The Valley of the Sun” can get to blistering temperatures in the summer months, springtime is the best time to visit Phoenix, Arizona. Spend a weekend in Phoenix exploring the beauty of Papago Park and all of its cool sights, while also checking out Major League Baseball spring training.
Papago Park straddles the cities of Phoenix and Tempe and is chock full of things to do. From hiking up Hole in the Rock to checking out the Sonoran Desert in Desert Botanical Garden to getting up close with animals at the Phoenix Zoo to fishing in the Papago Ponds, there is something for everyone.
Throughout the month of March is Major League Baseball’s spring training program. You can catch many MLB teams’ games in the Phoenix area, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, and the Texas Rangers.
One of the best places to stay in Phoenix is the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Phoenix Airport. Located near the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, it’s near Papago Park, making it the perfect basecamp to explore everything Papago Park has to offer.
Contributed by Constance of The Adventures of Panda Bear
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11. Moab, Utah
Easily one of the top family spring break destinations is Moab, Utah! This small Utah town is located in the northeastern part of the state and is a short drive from both Salt Lake City and Grand Junction.
Moab is the perfect place for a family over spring break because there are so many incredible outdoor adventures waiting to be had. Within an hour’s drive of Moab, visitors can head to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and even Dead Horse Point State Park–all of which can’t be missed!
Some of the best things to do in Moab for families include hiking to Mesa Arch in Canyonlands and taking in the view of Dead Horse Point. Another great thing to do is to marvel at Delicate Arch from Delicate Arch Viewpoint, which is one of the best easy hikes in Arches!
The best place to stay in Moab, especially for a family who wants to experience the outdoors, is Element Moab. It’s a super short drive from Arches and is right near the road that leads to both Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point State Park. Plus, breakfast is included, and the rooms are large!
Contributed by Krystianna of Volumes & Voyages
12. Walt Disney World, Florida
Beyond the traditional parks (which are totally awesome), Walt Disney World has so much to offer for a family spring break vacation. Themed resorts, delicious dining, refreshing pools, and plenty of shopping and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
Disney Resorts contain endless delights. Book a savannah view room at Animal Kingdom Lodge where your little ones can eat a balcony breakfast as they watch giraffes and zebras do the same. Stay at the Yacht Club or Beach Club for the best sand-bottom pool with an epic water slide and lazy river. Head to the Boardwalk where you can enjoy nightly entertainment along the water.
Ready to do some shopping or dining? Head over to Disney Springs for a wide selection. You can eat at a food truck, watch live music, ride an amphicar, or indulge in a Ghirardelli sundae. Spend a couple of hours or an entire afternoon enjoying all the Disney magic without entering a park.
And of course, you can take your kids to any of the 4 theme parks at Disney World! Quintessential magic? Visit Magic Kingdom. Global travel vibes? Check out EPCOT. Action and movie lovers? Head to Hollywood Studios. Animal enthusiasts? Explore Animal Kingdom.
Whether you want to spend your days full of rides or lay by the pool all afternoon or resort hop for entertainment, there is something fun for everyone to enjoy on spring break at Walt Disney World.
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13. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans isn’t always thought of as a family destination, but that would be a mistake. For sure there are places that are best avoided if you are traveling as a family, but there are so many other things to do and see which makes New Orleans an ideal family vacation spot.
Spring break is a fantastic time to go. The weather is beautiful with average high temperatures in the mid 70s - a great time to explore the city.
You should make sure that you visit the French Quarter. Consider taking one of the many walking tours of the area that will highlight the Creole, French, Spanish and African influences on its architecture, food, and culture. There should be lots of street performers to enjoy along the way. (Depending on the age of your children, you might want to avoid the French Quarter at night as it is filled with drunk revelers every day of the week.)
A must-see museum is the National WWII Museum. This is an interactive museum that takes you through hundreds of exhibits explaining the United State’s role during WWII in both Europe and Asia. No matter your age or interest in history, this museum will stimulate everyone’s imagination and grab everyone’s attention.
For something totally different, head out to the bayou for a swamp tour. Nothing is quite like hopping on a boat and heading deep into rivers and swamps looking for feral hogs, alligators, and all sorts of exotic birds.
Contributed by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close
14. Savannah, Georgia
Located right on the border of Georgia and South Carolina and easy to get to via I-95 or I-16, Savannah offers families plenty to do during spring break. With April temperatures ranging around 65-70 degrees, it may not be the best swimming weather, but beach-combing, walking, and many outdoor activities are perfect.
Kids have a wide range of things to do in this comfortable climate. From exploring the stunning historic district during the day or night to visiting a hands-on museum or park, they’ll be happily kept busy.
Some of the best places to visit with kids are:
The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace - a museum about the Girl Scouts
Beach-combing on Tybee Island
Exploring the stores and architecture of the Historic District - including the 100-year-old Leopold’s Ice Cream and Spanky’s Pizza Parlor and Saloon
The Savannah Children’s Museum
Old Fort Jackson - stay for the cannon firings…sure to be a blast!
One of the best places to stay in Savannah for kids is the Marriott Savannah Riverfront, which has a pool to wear the kids out after a long day of exploring.
Contributed by Corinne Vail of Grannies Go Digital
15. St. Augustine, Florida
If you're looking for an awesome place for spring break, then you have got to check out St. Augustine, Florida. It's America's oldest city with over 450 years of history to explore.
The city has something for everyone in the family from exploring the historic downtown to riding waves on the beach to discovering the fabled Fountain of Youth.
Even if you visit the area once or twice a year, there is always something new to discover. The historic downtown has hundreds of shops and art galleries to wander through, and it's something that kids get into as well. Seeing the different art in each gallery is like a roller coaster for their imagination.
Just outside the historic downtown is the St. Augustine Alligator farm and zoological park. This place is incredible. The deadly animals are like something out of a Jurassic Park movie for the kids.
But if the city doesn't do it for your kids, the beaches definitely will. St. Augustine has 42 miles of beach and public access points every few blocks. St. Augustine has some of the best white sand beaches on the Atlantic coast and several other cool beach attractions like the pier with its volleyball courts, splash pad, and more.
This spring break, when you're looking for a place to relax on the beach and still give the kids an experience to tell their class, head down to Florida. Just skip the theme parks and tourist traps, and explore some of the nation's most amazing history.
Contributed by David N Brace of www.DavidNBrace.com