The sun has decided to shine a little brighter and a little longer, and we all know what that means—springtime!
With the sweet songs of life bustling outside your window, we also know that Spring Break is right around the corner.
And it’s not just a time for college students to spend daddy’s money at a bar with a mechanical bull in Cancun, but it’s also for families whose kids will be out of school and looking for fun in the sun.
So choose from one of these eight great family-friendly escapes. You’re sure to experience fun, adventure, and family-bonding like never before!
1. Oahu, HI
Hawaii is one of the hottest tropical getaways and for good reason.
Hawaii offers snorkeling like nowhere else in the world, killer surfing, and more family-friendly activities than you could do in a lifetime.
Oahu is Hawaii’s third largest island and home to Honolulu, the state capital. April is considered one of the greatest times to visit because of the optimal weather and tolerable crowds.
If you set your sails to this dream vacation spot, be sure to take the kids to Disney Luau at Disney Resort & Spa KA WA’A. They’ll get to make their own leis and even dance with Minnie and Mickey.
2. Hilton Head, SC
This quiet beach has less of those wild Spring Breakers—you know, the ones sipping on something a little stronger than a juice box.
Fourteen miles of sandy beach stretch along the Atlantic Ocean, giving ample space for exploring and finding your own little piece of paradise.
Even better, you don’t have to stay at a traditional hotel/motel. This diverse city full of bike paths and playgrounds have plenty of vacation rentals to choose from.
This quiet beach has less of those wild Spring Breakers—you know, the ones sipping on something a little stronger than a juice box.
Fourteen miles of sandy beach stretch along the Atlantic Ocean, giving ample space for exploring and finding your own little piece of paradise.
Even better, you don’t have to stay at a traditional hotel/motel. This diverse city full of bike paths and playgrounds have plenty of vacation rentals to choose from.
3. Orlando, Florida
This city has every attraction your kids could ever want or dream of.
And now is the time to take advantage of hitting Disney World with airfare being as competitive as ever.
The warm weather and the touristy feel will definitely get the whole family in a fun-filled mood.
But be sure to check out these essential tips that will save you enough money to go back again next year!
4. San Antonio, Texas
Avoiding the college kids rampaging in the south, San Antonio has much to offer without worrying if your teenager is going to get swept up in all the hype.
Check out the well-known River Walk, a scenic walk full of shops and restaurants along the San Antonio River.
Or do something unique and take a dinner cruise on the river instead. There are several different cruise companies to choose from, such as Go Rio Cruises.
And if you have children with special needs, Morgan’s Wonderland is a must. It is the world’s first amusement park designed especially for those with special needs. You won’t want to miss it!
5. New York, New York
Ever wanted to shop like a celebrity, catch a family-friendly comedy show, then have dinner at a world-renowned restaurant?
Then you need to go to New York City this Spring Break!
If you’re not crazy about combing sand out of your kids hair for the next month, hitting up the Big Apple is a great option that won’t disappoint.
But don’t waste your time going to the rip-off shops and back alley stores. Learn how you can shop like a pro in Manhattan right here.
Don’t forget to take in the view from the Empire State Building, learn some history at the Statue of Liberty, and enjoy a healthy dose of culture with a Broadway production.
6. Amelia Island, Florida
Want to visit the Sunshine State without being bombarded by souvenir shops and timeshare sales people?
Head to the northeastern-most part of Florida to this tranquil island the whole family will adore.
Fernandina Beach will have lots of options for dining and shopping if you are in the mood.
Take a drive down Centre Street and admire the luxurious and stately mansions in this iconic beach town.
However, we’re pretty certain that with all the kite-flying, swimming, and shell-collecting, it’s unlikely anyone will want to leave the beach!
7. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Snorkeling with the beautiful blue tang fish is a great way to forget that there’s still a couple months to go before summer hits.
Spending your Spring Break in St. Thomas in the Caribbean offers everything you could want in a vacation—sun, sand, good company, and memories that will last a lifetime.
And the shopping is exceptional on this island too. You will find jewelry, scarves, and accessories at unbeatable prices.
To really blow the kids away, take them to Coral World Ocean Park. They’ll get to walk underwater with an oxygenated helmet and see ocean life up close and personal.
Check out our insider’s guide for the ins and outs of this island here.
8. Riviera Maya, Mexico
When people think of Spring Break, Cancun is probably one of the first destinations to pop in their minds.
And it’s usually accompanied with images of college kids making bad decisions.
But, if you go a little north to Riviera Maya, you’ll find the perfect family atmosphere for a safe and enjoyable vacation.
Take the kids on a whale shark adventure tour—it will keep them on the edge of their seats and their eyes off their electronic devices because they won’t want to miss a thing!
So this Spring Break, take advantage of the time off and book the family a fun-filled getaway!
And be sure to pack a waterproof camera and the sunscreen.
(h/t Proud American Traveler)