Where to Take Your Family for Spring Break

With lush rainforests, the world’s second-largest barrier reef, rich culture, and ancient Mayan ruins, the Central American nation of Belize can combine adventure and Caribbean lifestyle for a week-long family getaway. Known for outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, beaches, jungle lodges, and celebrated island ambiance, Belize is easily reached in under five hours with direct flights from cities like Denver, Miami, Houston, and Atlanta.

Whether exploring the crystalline waters surrounding Ambergris Caye by snorkeling with sharks and rays, traversing the tropical jungle to uncover artifacts and soaring temples, ziplining through the trees, or uncovering majestic cave systems, you can embrace the thrills of the land, sand, and sea.

From a relaxing fishing excursion to witnessing manatees, enjoying farm-to-table cuisine, or lounging at an eco-friendly luxury lodge, Belize is a convenient and immersive destination for Americans of all ages seeking a piece of paradise during spring break.

Best from: Across the US

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Belize Vacations & Tours • Belize Travel Guide

Celebrated for its astonishing biodiversity spanning lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and pristine coastlines alongside modern resorts and adventure tours, Costa Rica delights families seeking a combination of active exploration and relaxing escapes, from surfing to sloth encounters.

Zipline beneath the jungle canopy or float on a serene river in search of wildlife. With non-stop flights of around five hours from major cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and Dallas, traveling to Costa Rica is completely accessible for a week-long break.

Wander along Arenal Volcano National Park's lava fields beneath a view of the conical peak, then relax in thermal hot springs. Search for squirrel monkeys scrambling through the trees of Corcovado National Park. Learn about sea turtles along the Caribbean coastline at Tortuguero. With family-friendly cuisine, a timeless coastline, and endless ways to embrace pura vida, Costa Rica is a great option.

Best from: Across the US

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Costa Rica Family Vacations & Tours • Costa Rica Travel Guide

Few destinations surpass the tropical tranquility of the idyllic islands of French Polynesia, covering Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, and more. With the promise of overwater bungalows, quiet waters, and emerald jungle, families can experience a unique spring break escape.

Reef snorkeling reveals rainbows of fish darting through crystal-clear waters. Lagoon excursions introduce you to friendly stingrays. Jungle hikes uncover vibrant interiors with picturesque waterfalls.

With flights from West Coast cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle taking less than nine hours, you can embrace the French-influenced cuisine or take a lesson on piloting an outrigger canoe during your unforgettable South Pacific exploration.

Best from: The West Coast

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Tahiti Vacations • Tahiti Travel Guide

For families eager to venture somewhere new and exciting, Iceland is a kid-friendly destination combining the wonders of fire and ice. Direct flights of under seven hours connect East Coast cities like New York, Boston, and Washington DC, as well as the Midwest city of Chicago, to Iceland for an easy transfer to unveil unspoiled Nordic culture and stunning scenery.

The legendary Ring Road highlights nature’s power, from gushing geysers to crashing waterfalls, while black-sand beaches shimmer in the seasonal light, demonstrating the history of volcanic activity on the island. You may also find the edge of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky after nightfall.

Listen to Viking history and folklore, horseback ride through the fantastical hillsides, or trek across the surface of a vast glacier. With hiking trails, passing whales, and unique seaside towns, you can indulge in the beauty, charm, and wonder of Iceland during spring break.

Best from: The East Coast

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Iceland Tours & Vacations • Iceland Travel Guide

The Emerald Isle promises legendary shamrocks, historic castles, and folk songs connected with the rolling hills and craggy sea cliffs. Steeped in captivating mythology, many conventional pubs fill with the soul-stirring sounds of traditional music, cities shine with history along cobblestone streets, and your family can quickly feel the majesty of Ireland unfold.

From the bustling museums and shops of Dublin to the cozy ambiance of Galway, the crashing waves along the steep Cliffs of Moher to ancient stories connected to the Newgrange Tomb, you can bike ride the coastal route or search for living proof of fairy tales.

Non-stop flights can provide an effortless connection in fewer than seven hours from cities along the East Coast, such as Boston, New York, and Washington DC, in addition to the Midwest city of Chicago.

Best from: The East Coast

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Ireland Tours & Vacations • Ireland Travel Guide

Colombia is a thrilling destination for families looking for a variety of travel styles, where vibrant cities, Andean peaks, lively jungles, and Caribbean coastlines meet. In one week, you can discover mouthwatering cuisine, take part in traditional culture, and immerse yourself in the majesty of nature. Spot nearly 2,000 species of birds or trek through the jungle to visit the Lost City.

Flights from cities like Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, New York, and Washington DC take fewer than six hours to reach Colombia’s capital city.

Enjoy Bogota’s thriving food scene or visit the famous Gold Museum, sample Colombia’s rich coffee legacy or wander the winding lanes of Cartagena's walled old town. Tayrona National Park’s pristine beaches and Medellin’s elaborate aerial gondolas add to the marvels your family can experience during spring break.

Best from: The East Coast • The South

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Colombia Vacations & Tours • Colombia Travel Guide

Ecuador has the Amazon River, soaring Andes Mountains, colonial cities, and the renowned Galapagos Islands, allowing families to witness unparalleled wildlife, from giant tortoises to gliding condors. Explore the contemporary capital of Quito, which blends historic cobblestone streets and Spanish architecture, or ride along to tracks of the world’s steepest railroad.

Flights from cities like New York, Atlanta, Miami, and Dallas take fewer than seven hours to reach Ecuador’s capital. You can quickly connect to the Galapagos Islands to snorkel the crystalline coves and view the distinct wildlife that inspired Darwin’s evolutionary theories.

Whether cruising between the volcanic archipelago or trekking misty highlands, descending into kaleidoscopic river canyons or visiting with local communities along the banks of the Amazon, Ecuador offers interactive learning that makes an enduring impact.

Best from: The East Coast • The South

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Galapagos Islands Vacations & Tours • Galapagos Islands and Ecuador Travel Guide

The culturally vibrant Caribbean island can feel frozen in the 1950s during your spring break trip. Flights from major cities in Florida, New York, and Dallas can take less than six hours to reach Havana.

Witness the classic city’s vintage vehicles and wander the boulevards among celebrated architectural gems. Explore the stunning karsts of Viñales Valley on horseback and experience the art of crafting traditional handmade cigars. The Afro-Cuban music in Trinidad can feel irresistible and the coastline can shimmer with white-sand beaches.

From revolutionary history to Hemingway, jungle waterfalls to tropical beaches, Cuba shares rare opportunities to connect with the past.

Best from: The East Coast • The South • The Midwest

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Cuba Tours & Vacations • Cuba Travel Guide

Flights from major East Coast cities like New York, Boston, and Washington DC take approximately seven hours, making England surprisingly accessible during spring break. Use London as your base to celebrate British culture, history, and heritage, from delving into the history of the Tower of London to exploring the magic of Harry Potter.

Spring teases out blooms across pastoral landscapes perfect for visiting the endless charms of the Cotswolds and England’s storied Lake District, where cozy village pubs crackle with local life.  Stand with the Royal Guard at Buckingham Palace, discover the mystical atmosphere of Stonehenge, or walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps at Stratford Upon Avon.

From the British Museum to typical English tea, your family can delight in the beauty and history of London and its surrounding surprises.

Best from: The East Coast

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: England Tours & Vacations • England Travel Guide

Despite an ocean between US shores and Paris, France is an accessible destination for your family’s spring break, taking approximately seven hours to reach from cities like New York, Boston, and Washington DC.

Spend your time at the Eiffel Tower and sit in the Tuileries Garden while indulging in freshly made macarons. Lounge in the impressionist fantasy of Monet’s gardens in Giverny that still inspire masterpieces or learn cooking techniques that have captured the culinary world for centuries. From chocolates to crepes, the Louvre to the palaces of the Loire Valley, you can use Paris as your center for exploring the beauty and culture of France.

Make a day trip to Normandy to visit the beaches and Bayeux Tapestry, or indulge in a slower pace of travel with your family as you enjoy the spirit of Paris and its lesser-visited cultural sites.   No matter how you prefer to spend your time, it will be a spring break your family never forgets.

Best from: The East Coast • The South • The Midwest

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: France Tours & Vacations • France Travel Guide

Instead of a typical spring break destination, you can instill your family with childlike wonder by providing novelty that keeps your kids engaged. From soaking in geothermal baths to trying on woven ponchos or snorkeling amid tropical fish, you can combine adventure, exploration, and lifelong lessons.

Discover more ideas on where to go with our family vacations and tours or find travel tips and information on what to do and more with our family vacation travel guide.