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Spring break with kids doesn’t have to mean chaos, crowds of people, or blowing your entire budget trying to keep the family entertained. The sweet spot? Discovering destinations that deliver warm weather, walkable attractions, and activities that will keep both parents and kids happy.
Even better: booking during the Hotels.com Big Spring sale means you can save up to 40% on select stays. From Feb. 12 to March 16, you’ll find deals on a variety of family-friendly lodgings, ranging from luxurious, all-inclusive beachfront resorts to understated coastal destinations.
You can save even more when you sign up to become a OneKey member, the free travel rewards program for Hotels.com, Expedia, and VRBO. Tack on extra savings with cash back through RetailMeNot, and your dream getaway just got a bit more affordable.
From the California coastline to the Florida Keys, these are the top spots to check out for a family-friendly spring break in 2026.
Washington, D.C.
From the arrival of the National Cherry Blossom Festival to warming spring temperatures, March through May is one of the best times to explore the nation’s capital. Mild weather (read: no scorching summer heat or humidity) makes it easy to get around by bike or on foot. Adventurous travelers can even hop on paddleboats and kayaks along the Tidal Basin and Potomac River. Parents and kids alike will love seeing history come to life, from monuments to world-class museums (many of them free).
Where to Stay: The Washington Plaza Hotel, just off of Logan Circle, puts you close to major landmarks and boasts a top-rated outdoor pool complete with plenty of umbrellas and an on-duty lifeguard — a major family win. For something more upscale, check out the Hilton Washington DC National Mall/The Wharf, located steps from the kid-approved International Spy Museum and right along the scenic Wharf waterfront.
Florida Keys
Not too hot, not too cold, and blessed with low humidity, spring brings true “Goldilocks” weather to the Florida Keys. Away from the rowdier Gulf Coast spring break scene, the Keys offer a quieter, more family-friendly vibe that’s easy to navigate with kids. From beach days at Smathers Beach, complete with rentals, dining, and the holy grail of family travel: clean public restrooms, to wildlife-filled adventures at Dry Tortugas National Park, there’s plenty to do without overspending.
Where to Stay: Captain Pips Marina & Hideaway in Marathon on the Keys is a beautiful bayfront option featuring an outdoor pool, as well as complimentary bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards. For a more luxe family stay, Parrot Key Hotel & Villas offers cooked-to-order breakfasts served waterside and four outdoor pools to rotate through.
San Diego
Spring in San Diego brings mild weather, wildflower blooms, and miles of sandy coastline. It’s also the tail end of the gray whale migration season, making it a prime time for spotting them offshore. The weather is perfect for hiking in Torrey Pines State Park, kayaking in La Jolla Shores, or letting the kids try surfing without the summer crowds.
Where to Stay: Set directly on Mission Bay beach, Paradise Point Resort & Spa strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Families can escape into an aquatic adventure at any of the five outdoor pools, then unwind 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 a breeze.
St. Thomas
April and May are the sweet spots for St. Thomas travel: fewer crowds and often lower prices. Spend your days at top-rated beaches like Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach, or hop on a quick ferry over to the neighboring island, St. John, for hiking, nature, and family-friendly watersports.
Where to Stay: Bluebeard’s Castle Resort offers central access, sweeping views, and a dash of pirate lore that kids will love. Sitting at 866 feet above sea level, The Mafolie Hotel delivers a more upscale vibe plus a top-rated continental breakfast — a rare perk on the island and a huge help on busy family mornings.
Lisbon
Beat the Euro summer rush and visit Lisbon during the shoulder season instead. Spring brings fewer crowds, easier reservations, and perfect conditions for walking tours, alfresco dining, and exploring historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Just make sure to pack a light jacket — days are sunny, but evenings can get a little breezy.
Where to Stay: Martinhal Lisbon Chiado is a standout for families, offering a kids’ club for little ones up to tweens and teens, plus fully equipped kitchens with thoughtful extras like bottle warmers and sterilizers. For a grander stay, Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel & National Monument may look formal, but it’s surprisingly family-friendly with on-site pools, buffet breakfast included, and a 24-hour airport shuttle.
Spring break doesn’t have to mean peak prices or packed itineraries. Traveling during shoulder season, choosing family-friendly neighborhoods, and locking in hotel deals early can make a huge difference. Take advantage of the Hotels.com Big Spring Sale to save up to 40% on select stays, and get that extra cash back when you shop with RetailMeNot.
The post 6 Unique Spring Break Destinations for Family Fun appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.
