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Spring break with kids doesn’t have to mean chaos, crowds, or blowing your entire budget to entertain your family. Best place? Look for destinations that offer warm weather, walking attractions, and activities that will keep both parents and children happy.
Even better, if you book during the Hotels.com Big Spring Sale, you can save up to 40% on select stays. From February 12 to March 16, you’ll find discounts on a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from luxurious all-inclusive beach resorts to rustic coastal destinations.
Explore the Big Spring Sale
Save even more when you become a member of OneKey, the free travel rewards program from Hotels.com, Expedia and VRBO. Earn cashback through RetailMeNot to save extra money and enjoy your dream vacation for less.
From the California coastline to the Florida Keys, here are the best places to enjoy a family-friendly spring break in 2026.
Washington DC
From the start of the National Cherry Blossom Festival to warm spring temperatures, March to May is one of the best times to explore the capital. The mild weather (read: no scorching summer heat or humidity) makes it easy to get around by bike or foot. Adventurous travelers can paddleboat and kayak along the Tidal Basin and the Potomac River. Parents and children alike will love seeing history come to life, from monuments to world-class museums (many of which are free).
Where to stay: Just off Logan Circle, the Washington Plaza Hotel is close to major landmarks and boasts a top-rated outdoor pool with plenty of umbrellas and lifeguards on duty. This is a huge win for the family. For a more upscale experience, check out the Hilton Washington DC National Mall/The Wharf, located along the scenic pier waterfront and steps from the kid-friendly International Spy Museum.
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florida keys
Spring brings true “Goldilocks” weather to the Florida Keys: not too hot, not too cold, and with low humidity. Away from the more boisterous Gulf Coast spring break scene, the Keys offer a quieter, more family-friendly atmosphere that’s easy to navigate with kids. From a beach vacation at Smathers Beach that includes rentals, dining, and the holy grail of family travel (clean public restrooms) to wildlife-filled adventures in Dry Tortugas National Park, there’s plenty to do without spending too much.
Where to stay: Located in Marathon on the Keys, Captain Pips Marina & Hideaway is a beautiful waterfront option with an outdoor pool as well as complimentary bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards. For a more luxurious family stay, Parrot Key Hotel & Villas offers waterfront cooked-to-order breakfasts and four outdoor swimming pools to spin around.
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San Diego
Spring in San Diego brings mild weather, wildflowers, and miles of sandy coastline. This is also the final season of the gray whale migration season, making it a prime time to spot gray whales offshore. The weather is perfect for hiking at Torrey Pines State Park, kayaking at La Jolla Shores, or letting the kids surf without the summer crowds.
Where to stay: Located directly on the beaches of Mission Bay, Paradise Point Resort & Spa strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Families can enjoy a dip in one of the five outdoor swimming pools and relax at the on-site spa. If you want a convenient home base close to everything, Wyndham San Diego Bayside is near the airport and top attractions, making logistics easy.
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st thomas
April and May are the best months to travel to St. Thomas. There are fewer crowds and prices are often cheaper. Spend the day at top-rated beaches like Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach, or take a quick ferry to the nearby island of St. John for hiking, nature and family-friendly water sports.
Where to stay: Bluebeard’s Castle Resort offers central access, sweeping views and kid-friendly pirate stories. Located 866 feet above sea level, The Mafolie Hotel offers a more luxurious atmosphere and a top-rated continental breakfast. This is a rare perk on the island and a great addition to busy family mornings.
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Lisbon
Avoid the Euro summer peak season and visit Lisbon during the shoulder season instead. Spring offers fewer crowds, easier reservations and perfect conditions for walking tours, al fresco dining and exploring historic areas such as Alfama and Bairro Alto. Bring a light jacket. It’s sunny during the day but can be a bit windy in the evenings.
Where to stay: Martinhal Lisbon Chiado is a popular choice for families, offering a kids’ club for children from toddlers to teenagers and a fully equipped kitchen with thoughtful extras such as a bottle warmer and sterilizer. For a fancier stay, Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel & National Monument may seem formal, but it’s surprisingly family-friendly and includes an on-site pool, buffet breakfast, and a 24-hour airport shuttle.
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Spring break doesn’t have to mean top prices or a packed travel itinerary. Traveling during peak season, choosing a family-friendly area, and signing hotel deals early can make a big difference. Take advantage of the Hotels.com Big Spring Sale to save up to 40% on select stays and get extra cash back when you shop at RetailMeNot.
The post 6 Unique Spring Break Destinations for Family Fun appeared first on RetailMeNot’s The Real Deal.
