Top Destinations to Visit for Spring Break 2026
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Spring Break is the perfect excuse to trade winter layers for warm breezes, passport stamps, and unforgettable adventures. If you are beholden to traveling during your kid’s school breaks, I’m bringing you some ideas for where to go as a family this upcoming break. Whether you’re dreaming of turquoise beaches, culture-rich cities, or wildlife-filled escapes, these international and U.S. destinations offer the perfect mix of sunshine, excitement, and family-friendly fun.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas is a Spring Break classic, but with a grown-up twist. Dramatic desert landscapes meet sparkling Pacific waters, giving you sunshine, boat cruises, snorkeling, and stunning sunsets daily. Plus it’s still whale season through early April! Whether you're joining the nightlife scene or keeping it low-key with beach lounging and tacos, Cabo delivers a little something for everyone.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury: One&Only Palmilla — a storied, oceanfront all-luxury resort widely acclaimed as one of Mexico’s finest
Moderate: Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa – Bridging the luxury vibe with moderate pricing; spacious family-friendly, ocean-view suites, several outdoor pools, spa, and easy access to downtown Cabo
Budget: Mayan Monkey Los Cabos – Party atmosphere, excellent location
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is the definition of effortless vacationing. With miles of white-sand beaches, warm Caribbean water, and endless all-inclusive options, it’s ideal for families, couples, or groups craving sunshine without the stress. Spend your days paddleboarding, ziplining through tropical forests, or relaxing at a swim-up bar while the kids enjoy the resort activities.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury::Eden Roc Cap Cana — a Relais & Châteaux oceanfront resort in Cap Cana known for boutique-style villas and suites, Michelin-level dining options, a luxury spa, private beach club and upscale experiences (golf, water sports, curated wellness).
Moderate: Sanctuary Cap Cana — A stunning adults-only, all-inclusive resort by Marriott’s Luxury Collection set along white-sand Playa Juanillo; elegant suites, multiple pools, gourmet dining, spa, and curated activities make this one of Punta Cana’s most sought-after luxury escapes.
Budget: The Westin Puntacana Resort — While still part of a recognized brand, The Westin offers a more approachable price point for beachside comfort and reliable service; fantastic for travelers prioritizing location and amenities without ultra-luxury rates.
Costa Rica
If adventure is calling, Costa Rica is the ultimate Spring Break escape. Think rainforest hikes, volcano views, surf lessons in Tamarindo, wildlife encounters in Manuel Antonio, learning to surf in Nosara, and eco-lodges tucked into lush green landscapes. This is a perfect destination for families seeking nature, thrill, and relaxation all in one trip.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury::Moana Surf Resort — Stylish beachfront resort in Nosara’s Playa Guiones, known for its surf-centric luxury, serene setting, and high-end comfort close to great waves and tropical nature — perfect for a laid-back upscale Costa Rica escape.
Moderate: Makanda by The Sea — Elegant boutique resort in Manuel Antonio with panoramic ocean views, refined design, culinary flair, and easy access to wildlife, beaches, and eco-adventures, offering a perfect balance of upscale comfort without ultra-premium pricing.
Budget: Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge – A highly rated jungle lodge in La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano; set in lush gardens and wildlife habitat with trails and birdwatching right on property.
Japan (for Cherry Blossom Season!)
For a cultural Spring Break that feels straight out of a postcard, Japan in March or April is pure magic. Cherry blossoms transform cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka into pastel dreamscapes. Add in world-class food, temples, shrines, theme parks, and incredible public transportation, and you’ve got a bucket-list Spring Break that’s both beautiful and family-friendly.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury::Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto – Iconic hotel with beautiful gardens and cherry blossoms nearby in Higashiyama district.
Moderate: Dormy Inn Hirosaki — A popular mid‑range choice right in Hirosaki with comfortable rooms, solid service, and an excellent reputation.
Budget: UNPLAN Village Hakuba – A very budget‑friendly hotel/hostel option in the Hakuba Valley with simple, clean rooms and a social vibe.
Portugal
Portugal is an incredible Spring Break choice for travelers wanting European charm without peak-summer crowds. Explore the colorful streets of Lisbon, the fairytale palaces of Sintra, or the dramatic cliffs and golden beaches of the Algarve. With mild weather, great food, and reasonable prices compared to other EU destinations, Portugal is an easy favorite for 2026.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury: Tivoli Palácio de Seteais — A historic luxury palace hotel overlooking Sintra’s hills, blending stately interiors with elevated service and easy access to Sintra’s UNESCO World Heritage attractions.
Moderate: Lisbon Chiado Hotel & Spa — Centrally located in Lisbon’s vibrant Chiado neighborhood, this stylish hotel offers modern rooms, a relaxing spa, and easy walking access to historic streets, cafés, and shops.
Budget: Out of the Blue Azores – A highly rated and affordable hostel‑style stay in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island in the Azores.
Turkey
Turkey blends ancient history with breathtaking coastlines and vibrant cities. Spring brings comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring Cappadocia’s hot air balloons, Istanbul’s bustling bazaars and mosques, or the turquoise waters of Antalya’s Mediterranean beaches. It's an unforgettable international spring escape full of culture and color.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury: Millstone Cave Suites — A unique cave hotel nestled in Uçhisar with traditional stone architecture and spacious suites that blend historical craftsmanship with modern comfort.
Moderate: Seven Hills Hotel — A popular mid‑range choice in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, known for its excellent location within walking distance of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
Budget: Patara Viewpoint Hotel — A simple, well‑reviewed budget stay just minutes from Patara Beach, one of Turkey’s longest and most beautiful sandy beaches.
South Africa
Disclaimer: Sorry y’all… South Africa will probably be on every one of my seasonal lists forever & ever!
For travelers craving something truly unique, South Africa offers wildlife, beaches, wine country, and adventure — all in one trip. Visit Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain, experience penguins at Boulders Beach, or head out on safari for a once-in-a-lifetime Spring Break your kids will talk about forever.
WHERE TO STAY:
Budget: Altona Guest House – Cozy and welcoming guesthouse with comfortable rooms, friendly service, and a convenient location for exploring Cape Town’s beaches, waterfront, and city attractions.
Moderate: Pods Camp Bay – Modern pod-style lodging near the beach, offering comfort and a unique stay experience without breaking the bank, or Ocean View House – Guesthouse with spacious rooms and stunning sea views, perfect for travelers wanting a scenic, mid-range option.
Luxury: One&Only Cape Town – Exclusive luxury resort with elegant rooms, world-class dining, spa services, and prime waterfront location, or Cape Grace Hotel – Sophisticated hotel with refined accommodations, award-winning dining, and personalized service in the heart of the V&A Waterfront.
Cocoa Beach, Florida (U.S.)
If you want a U.S. destination that still feels special and gives you easy access to world-class attractions, Cape Canaveral is perfect. Spend mornings at Cocoa Beach, check out a rocket launch at Kennedy Space Center, kayak with giraffes and lemurs at the Brevard Zoo, or hop over to Disney World or Universal Orlando for a one-day theme-park fix. It’s affordable, convenient, and loaded with family-friendly things to do.
WHERE TO STAY:
Overall: Hilton Garden Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront — A standout oceanfront choice with spacious rooms, beachfront access, and lovely pool views.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (U.S.)
Spring Break is a quieter, magical time to visit Yellowstone. While some higher-elevation areas may still be closed due to snow, the park’s Lower Loop is open and full of iconic sights like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mammoth Hot Springs. Wildlife is active, with bison, elk, and even bears often spotted along the roads. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, short hikes, and geothermal wonders without the summer crowds, making it a perfect mix of adventure and accessibility for families or outdoor enthusiasts.
WHERE TO STAY:
Budget: Gray Wolf Inn & Suites – Clean, comfortable, and conveniently located near the park entrance. A great option for travelers looking for basic amenities at an affordable price.
Moderate: Kelly Inn West Yellowstone – Spacious rooms, friendly service, and a central location with easy access to shops, dining, and Yellowstone National Park.
Luxury: Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone – Charming, well-appointed cabins with upscale touches, cozy comforts, and a prime location just minutes from the park entrance.
Travel Tip: You can also opt to stay inside Yellowstone for convenience, but you should plan to book early as availability is quite limited!
Leavenworth, Washington (U.S.)
For a picturesque, alpine-style Spring Break without leaving the U.S., Leavenworth is a little Bavarian gem nestled in the Cascade Mountains. In March and April, you can still enjoy snow activities like tubing, sledding, and skiing at nearby resorts, or trade winter fun for spring hikes as the weather warms. Stroll the charming village with its Bavarian-style shops, cafés, and bakeries, or sip hot chocolate while taking in the mountain views. Leavenworth offers a cozy, scenic escape that’s perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a mix of adventure and small-town charm.
WHERE TO STAY:
Luxury: Enzian Inn — A charming, upscale inn with Bavarian-inspired architecture, cozy rooms, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Moderate: Icicle Village Resort — A highly regarded resort offering beautifully appointed rooms, river views, and amenities like an outdoor pool and on‑site dining.
Budget: LOGE Leavenworth — A friendly, well‑reviewed budget option right in town that balances value and comfort.
Tips for Planning Spring Break 2026
Book flights early — March and April fill quickly, especially for popular international destinations.
Check passport validity — Many countries require at least 6 months remaining.
Consider all-inclusive packages — Great for stress-free stays in Punta Cana and Cabo.
Balance busy & slow days — Perfect if you’re mixing theme parks with beach or outdoor adventures.
No matter your travel style, from sun-soaked beaches and vibrant cities to mountain getaways and bucket-list international escapes, Spring Break 2026 is full of opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Start planning early, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for a break that you and your family will be talking about all year long!
Ready to make your Spring Break 2026 dreams a reality? Contact me today to plan a personalized itinerary based on your budget, travel style, and must-see destinations. Let’s make it your best trip yet!
