25 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families, Ranked
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What makes a destination spring break worthy? Is it a tropical getaway? Maybe it’s fresh powder. There’s a lot to consider when you choose where you’re going to go for your time off — even more so when the whole family is involved!
If you’re looking for inspiration for the best spring break destinations for families, check out the top 25 covered here.
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25. Getaway Cabins in Wimberley, Texas
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Population: 3,037
Where to stay: Getaway Austin
Why Families Should Visit Getaway Cabins
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Immerse yourself in nature with the family in tow by way of Getaway. The concept is all about going off the grid, glamping style. Spring break can prove chilly in certain areas, so choose wisely, like the Austin outpost.
Pick the option for queen bunks, which comfortably sleeps up to four adults, or two adults and two kids. Each cabin is equipped with a flushing toilet and hot shower, a kitchen (stovetop, refrigerator), outdoor fire pit, grilling grate, outdoor picnic table and chairs. The cabins in Wimberley are near wooded walks, a natural swimming hole and Old Baldy.
Why Families Should Visit Hilton Head
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Outdoor activities are plentiful in the quaint area of Hilton Head. Spring temperatures hover around the high 70s, beckoning the family to the array of swimmable beaches. Meanwhile, a family day of golfing is a must in the area, where championship courses reign supreme.
Several large family-friendly resorts, including Omni, ensure a relaxing experience as well. Be sure to stroll Main Street Village while in town, where shopping and dining makes for a pleasurable afternoon or evening, and finish off by treating the family with aged steaks at Wise Guys.
Why Families Should Visit Punta Cana
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You could truly spend your entire time at the all-inclusive Hyatt Ziva when visiting Punta Cana, thanks to its dreamy location right on the glittering shores of Juanillo Beach. You can even sign up for a boating excursion that will pick you up at the onsite dock and be whisked away for a day of snorkeling, swimming and exploring nearby beaches.
Scape Park is a perfect family-friendly excursion, where you can hike to and swim in the Hoyo Azul cenote, go ziplining and even get up close and personal with wildlife.
Why Families Should Visit Cabo
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Fishing is what put Cabo San Lucas on the tourism map, making it the perfect place to hop aboard a local charter with the family. Catch Cabo is one of the few companies that customizes tours for kids. When you’re back on land, the dining scene is nothing short of vibrant, including Los Tres Gallos Restaurant, Flora Farms and El Farallon.
Hilton Los Cabos is undoubtedly the best place to check in for your stay. It offers a dreamy stretch of swimmable beach perfect for all levels. Another unique option is Acre Baja, where you can stay in a treehouse, hang with various rescue animals (puppies, donkeys, peacocks, goats, etc.), play bocce ball and more.
Why Families Should Visit Grand Cayman
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The Caribbean beckons spring breakers with its balmy temperatures, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands and offers plenty to do. Visit the Stingray City sandbar where the whole family can snorkel with the friendly creatures.
If the whole family is certified, take them diving to see the intentionally sunk ship at the Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef, or opt for snorkeling at the Cayman Turtle Center. Other musts are a visit to the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery and the Cayman Islands Brewery.
Why Families Should Visit Palm Springs
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Just before the sweltering temperatures of summer hit, Palm Springs offers bright-blue skies, endless sun and 80-degree days. Most hotels offer inviting pools to splash around in, including the swanky and spacious Parker Palm Springs.
Fun things to do with the family in the area include a visit to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, hiking the 54 miles of trails at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, getting a 360-degree view of the Coachella Valley from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and golfing. The food and shopping scene is excellent in Palm Springs, too. Don’t miss out on Birba, Workshop Kitchen + Bar and Rooster and the Pig.
Why Families Should Visit New York
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No matter the time of year, New York City is sure to impress. But there’s something about spring that has the city more alive than any other time of year. The city is full of history, education and entertainment, from a visit to the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, to a day spent in one of the many museums and an evening watching a Broadway show.
For a reprieve from the crowds and skyscrapers, take a stroll through the sprawling greens of Central Park, which tricks you into feeling like you’re miles away from the city. A stay at The Peninsula is a great family-friendly option. The hotel offers what’s called “Camp Peninsula,” which provides the kids an in-room mini teepee complete with a plush campfire and smores. The package also includes a scavenger hunt that goes all around the hotel.
Why Families Should Visit Newport Beach
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Spring and summer offer bountiful outdoor activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy in Newport Beach. Some of the highlights include riding the Ferris wheel at the Balboa Fun Zone, shopping and listening to live music in Lido Marina Village, hiking and bird watching in the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, spending the day at Crystal Cove State Beach, taking out a duffy boat and signing up for a surf lesson.
For a laid-back-meets-luxury experience, you can have it all at The Resort at Pelican Hill. The resort offers Camp Pelican, a separate facility away from the adults with indoor and outdoor activities and themed days that educate and excite. Meanwhile, the 36 holes of championship golf, Coliseum pool and stunning spa, will keep you plenty busy.
Why Families Should Visit Grenada
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The whole family will appreciate the “Spice Island,” known for its fragrant nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and vanilla. Colorful seaside villages, golden sand and turquoise waters are juxtaposed by the grandiose backdrop of lush mountains — all of which make for a playground of diversity.
Hike to one of the many waterfalls tucked in the rainforest; take a spice tour or tasting; and dive, snorkel or take a glass-bottom boat to visit the Underwater Sculpture Park, where unique sculptures range from Amerindian petroglyphs to life-size figures cast from local children.
Why Families Should Visit Santa Barbara
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Sun-soaked Santa Barbara offers the warmth, laid-back atmosphere and adventure many crave with the family on spring break. Check out the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the Santa Barbara Zoo for fun-filled educational experiences. Hop on beach cruisers to scope the beach city on wheels, or head to the sea by way of Santa Barbara Sailing Center, for whale watching, a relaxing catamaran cruise and more.
When it’s time to eat, you can’t pass up dinner with a view at Toma Restaurant or try one of the many hidden gems like La Paloma Cafe. Hotel Californian offers the ideal location in the booming Funk Zone and is just steps from the waterfront.
15. Aspen, Colorado
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Population: 7,431
Where to stay: The Gant
Why Families Should Visit Aspen
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Price drops and thinner crowds make Aspen ideal for spring travel. Aspen Snowmass features four mountains to ski or snowboard. Time a spring snow storm just right and you can enjoy longer, sunnier days and fresh powder to yourself.
And if the snow isn’t ideal? Good thing the luxe mountain town is beaming with incredible restaurants and après ski opportunities, including the likes of Chica, The Snow Lodge, Clark’s, Bad Harriet and Caribou Club, along with so many unique boutiques to peruse. Check in for a stay at the condo-style lodging of The Gant, where you have access to a host of onsite amenities amid breathtaking mountain views.
Why Families Should Visit Malibu
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Malibu is a slice of paradise that offers both the opportunity to play on the beach as well as hike the hills. Spring in California is perfection, which is why so many cities in the state have made the list. Plus, Malibu’s close proximity to the allure of Hollywood makes it a welcomed reprieve if you’re squeezing in a city trip, too.
A stay at Malibu Beach Inn will put you right on the beach, with the sound of crashing waves soothing you to sleep each night. The whole family can learn to surf, visit the Getty Villa, walk the Malibu Pier and dine at the renowned Malibu Farm, and explore the canyons booming with flowers in the springtime.
Why Families Should Visit Nashville
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Spring in Nashville blooms with possibilities. The weather is comfortable, the flowers are fierce, and the city is alive with things to do. Along with timely celebrations like the annual Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival in April, there’s also so much energy.
Take the whole family to visit historic recording studios, go on backstage tours of world-famous music venues, and even hop on a bus tour serenaded by a local songwriter. When it’s time to eat, skip on over to Prince's Hot Chicken Shack South and indulge in the local flavors for which Nashville is known.
Why Families Should Visit Bend
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Mt. Bachelor’s ski season runs until Memorial Day, meaning you can enjoy a spring ski break with warmer temps and slashed prices. The Snowblast Tubing Park and Nordic center offer even more snowy adventures. Meanwhile, you can kayak the Deschutes River, head out into the desert for an opportunity to get underground on a cave tour or even take the family golfing.
Downtown Bend is filled with top-notch restaurants and shopping as well. Be sure to check out Wild Rose, a local favorite that offers large portions of authentic cuisine from Northern Thailand.
Why Families Should Visit Key West
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Relaxing, warm and absolutely gorgeous, Key West will put you on island time — just what the family needs for a successful spring break. Laze or play on one of the pristine beaches, or hop aboard the Dolphin Safari, a six-passenger boat that gives you a front-row seat to dolphins playing in the water.
Along the way, you’ll also see manatees, sea turtles and stingrays. Snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing and jet skiing offer even more fun on the water. The aquarium, butterfly and nature conservatory, shipwreck museum and conch tour train provide on-land adventure.
Why Families Should Visit Whistler
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If skiing is on the brain, finding a destination that promises prime powder is important. With a 200-day ski season, Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America and averages 33 inches of snowfall in April and an additional 8 inches in May.
Whistler also offers ziplining, golfing, kayaking, horseback riding, bear viewing and so many more outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy. The restaurant scene is nothing to scoff at either, with the likes of Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Crepe Montagne and Purebread sure to impress.
Why Families Should Visit Scottsdale
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A family spring break getaway in Scottsdale is rich in adventure, both indoor and out. Rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, stunning spring exhibitions at the Desert Botanical Garden and plenty of public art impress.
Meanwhile, a stay at the luxe Westin Kierland offers a lazy river, surf simulation experience and 110-foot-long water slide ideal for the kids as well as a spa, salon and golf experiences the adults will love.
Why Families Should Visit Rancho de los Caballeros
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If you’ve gathered anything from this list, it’s that taking a spring vacation can mean many things, whether that’s skiing or suntanning. For a truly unique experience, head to Rancho de los Caballeros. The old-school dude ranch is an activity-packed destination for the whole family, featuring 13,300 rideable acres, an award-winning golf course, peaceful spa oasis, trap/skeet shooting, archery and much, much more.
The resort even has a children’s club that allows the option for kids to connect while enjoying various activities like swimming, hiking and scavenger hunts.
Why Families Should Visit Maldives
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\The Maldives may be known as a honeymooners’ paradise, but let’s not forget how inclusive the area is, especially when it comes to families. There are many customized kids’ clubs to choose from, including the five-star Joali Maldives, where events like scavenger hunts and programs focused on culture, oceanography, cooking and the creative arts offer educational opportunities. All of the activities are complimentary, too.
Of course, the boating, swimming and snorkeling opportunities in the breathtakingly blue waters of the Maldives also make for an otherworldly experience.
Why Families Should Visit Savannah
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Savannah in the springtime means temperatures in the mid- to high-70s, perfect for spending time by the beach on nearby Tybee Island, where 3 miles of beautiful beaches, locally caught seafood and historic sites set the scene.
The weather in Savannah makes al fresco exploring ideal as well. Take a historic home tour or a haunted house tour if the family is up for it. Stroll Savannah’s waterfront with the family, too, where old cobblestone streets set the scene for historic buildings, housing shops and award-winning restaurants.
5. Zion National Park in Utah
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Population: 346
Where to stay: LaFave Zion
Why Families Should Visit Zion National Park
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If the family has hunkered down indoors all winter, getting active outdoors is the way to go come spring. The snow thawing makes way for magical waterfalls by April in Zion. Cottonwood trees are in full bloom, wildflowers paint the grounds with vivid hues, and wildlife is in full display.
After immersing yourself in nature all day, taking in the unique beauty of Zion Canyon’s steep red cliffs, head back to the luxe digs of LaFave, which is located in Springdale, Utah, the gateway town into Zion.
Why Families Should Visit Puerto Vallarta
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For parents craving a secluded, luxe experience without breaking the bank, head to Puerto Vallarta. Your money goes a long way, and there are prime all-inclusive resorts. Hyatt Ziva is the creme-de-la-creme with its private beach and breathtaking ocean views so close you can hear the waves crashing all night long.
Among its 10 unique restaurants, you’ll be highly impressed by the quality, particularly at Blaze, the open-air, waterfront restaurant. If you can bear to leave the property, head to downtown Puerto Vallarta for shopping and sightseeing. And be sure to visit nearby major attractions like Zona Romantica, El Malecon Boardwalk and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Why Families Should Visit Amsterdam
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Amsterdam is the ideal destination if you want to celebrate the colors of spring abroad. By mid-April, tulips take over the town in infinite rows of endless shades and varieties.
When you’re not marveling at the tulip fields, hop on a bike and cruise around the city. Explore the open air markets, stop at one of the many city farms where you can feed animals, or get out on the water on a private boat tour that takes you along the city’s cool canals.
Why Families Should Visit Gulf of Papagayo
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The Gulf of Papagayo and its coastline are part of a major tourism project by Costa Rica's government up in the Pacific Northwest corner of Costa Rica. Luxury all-inclusives at the water’s edge are tucked into lush landscapes, making for discreet settings that immerse you with nature’s best attributes.
Book a stay at El Mangroove, choosing the all-inclusive package, so the whole family can enjoy elevated cuisine. The resort sits on Playa Panama, where you can paddle board in the calm waters, or take a chartered boat out for prime fishing opportunities, including mahi mahi, tuna, roosterfish, wahoo, grouper and much more.
Why Families Should Visit Maui
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There’s just too much goodness about Maui to fit it all here, but let’s just say it’s everything you’d want for a family spring break trip. Start your stay in Wailea, checking into the gorgeous Fairmont Kea Lani. Steps from Polo Beach, you can spend the day taking advantage of the pools, fabulous restaurants and tropical grounds onsite. Head to the beach with complimentary snorkeling gear, and prepare for immediate sea turtle sightings.
The family will love the accommodations in Lahaina as well. A stay at Hyatt Regency means hanging with the resident penguins, swans and flamingos, and cruising down an exhilarating slide that lands you by the grotto bar. Take a nap in the cabanas, or walk steps from the hotel to Ka’anapali Beach for more sea turtle encounters. Lahaina in general has a magnificent amount of things to do: sunset ceremonies with incredible food at Huihui restaurant, rustic-meets-elegant dining at the water’s edge at Mala Tavern and great shopping on Front Street.
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