Spring break is the perfect time for families to take a break, explore new places, and create lasting memories together. While most families gravitate toward well-known beaches and theme parks, our advisors at The Travel Team emphasize that there is something special about choosing destinations that are a little less obvious.
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“Fewer crowded bars and restaurants and more hotel availability make underrated spring break destinations easier for families to enjoy,” says Nicole Steger, advisor. “Families with infants and toddlers need very family-friendly, calm vacation spots that offer experiences nearby for such little kids and resorts that have pools or amenities for smaller children.”
Another of our advisors, Susie Bostick, adds to this sentiment. “Money is often the determining factor. Theme parks are very expensive and going to be busy, especially during spring break when families are flocking there with their kids for a stay.”
Unique spring break trips for families mean everyone can avoid the stress of crowded resorts, long lines, and high prices while still enjoying warm weather, engaging activities, and experiences that everyone will remember.
Siesta Key and Sarasota, Florida
Siesta Key and Sarasota work for families who want a true beach break without surrendering every day to crowds, lines, and overstimulation. This part of Florida doesn’t demand constant planning or early wake-ups to beat the rush. “Sarasota is overlooked in favor of louder coastal destinations. It being a less popular city makes it a bit more manageable experience when traveling with kids during spring break,” Nicole and Suzie share.
Spring weather here is warm without being oppressive, with daytime highs typically in the mid-to-high 70s. Gulf water temperatures hover in the low 70s in March, which is comfortable for short swims and lots of playing in the sand.
Families visiting Siesta Key and Sarasota have plenty of opportunities for memorable activities for all ages:
- Siesta Beach: The calm, shallow water makes this beach safer for children to swim, wade, and play.
- Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Families will love spending an afternoon meeting sea creatures at touch tanks and wandering through the aquarium’s shark tunnel.
- Kayaking at South Lido Nature Park: The mangrove tunnels are calm and sheltered, so families can paddle without worrying about strong currents or heavy boat traffic.
- The Circus Museum at The Ringling: Kids can explore immersive galleries with historic circus artifacts, walk the tightrope, and balance on a pretend horse in interactive spaces.
- Dolphin sightseeing cruises: Short, guided boat tours give kids the chance to spot wild dolphins in Sarasota Bay.
- Sandcastle building classes: Professional sand sculptors teach kids how to turn Siesta Key’s famous powdery sand into real structures.
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville appeals to families who want breathing room during spring break. Instead of battling packed beaches, sold-out attractions, and long restaurant waits, families can settle into a trip that feels relaxed but still full. With a wide stretch of coastline, spacious parks, and multiple neighborhoods to explore, the city naturally spreads visitors out. Nicole explains, “Jacksonville is often overlooked for more popular coastal areas, which usually means more hotel availability and fewer crowds, which is something families really appreciate during spring break.”
March temperatures typically fall in the low to mid-70s, which makes outdoor activity comfortable without the heat fatigue that can derail family days. While the Atlantic Ocean is cooler than the Gulf, Jacksonville’s appeal isn’t dependent on nonstop swimming. Many hotels offer heated pools, and the city’s mix of outdoor and cultural experiences allows families to stay active without spending every day at the beach.
Families traveling to Jacksonville can easily rotate between beach time, nature, and hands-on learning throughout the week:
- Mickler’s Landing (Ponte Vedra Beach): Low tide often reveals fossilized shark teeth, turning a beach walk into a built-in scavenger hunt that kids will adore.
- Jacksonville Beach Pier: The long pier is great for watching anglers and spotting sea life.
- Beach bike rentals: Wide, flat beach paths allow families to bike together at an easy pace, making it accessible even for younger riders.
- Little Talbot Island State Park: This undeveloped barrier island offers a contrast to resort-style beaches, giving kids space to explore dunes, trails, and wildlife.
- Big Talbot Island’s Boneyard Beach: Massive driftwood trees scattered along the shoreline create a natural playground that feels adventurous without being overwhelming.
Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
For some families, a predictable budget matters more than daily flexibility. In this situation, an all-inclusive resort can remove much of the stress that comes with spring break travel. Susie emphasizes that “money is the determining factor for many families, and… all-inclusive resorts give families options for adults and kids while keeping food and activities included.” Even as an upscale option, Beaches Turks & Caicos stands out because it is truly all-inclusive.
March weather on the island of Providenciales, where Beaches Turks & Caicos is located, is consistently warm with low humidity, and the ocean is calm and comfortably swimmable. Providenciales International Airport is only about 15 to 20 minutes from the resort, minimizing travel after arrival to the island.
Once on property, families have access to a wide range of experiences without needing to leave the resort:
- Pirates Island Waterpark: This large on-site waterpark offers slides, splash zones, and lazy rivers that keep kids entertained for hours.
- Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street®: Younger children can participate in themed activities and character interactions designed specifically for family engagement.
- Kids Camp with certified nannies: Age-appropriate programs allow kids to play and explore safely while parents enjoy downtime.
- Included water sports: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and Hobie Cat sailing are all included, making it easy for families to try new activities without added costs.
- Multiple pools and whirlpools: Ten pools across the resort give families options depending on age, energy level, and desired atmosphere.
- All meals and snacks included: With 23 restaurants and food trucks on site, families can eat on their own schedule without worrying about reservations or budgeting for each meal.
Palma, Mallorca, Spain
Palma offers families a laid-back European spring break experience. The city balances culture, walkability, and outdoor space, making it manageable even with younger travelers. “Mallorca is a Mediterranean gem with pleasant spring weather and Blue Flag beaches,” Susie says.
Palma de Mallorca Airport is the island’s main international hub, and transfers into the city typically take 15 to 20 minutes. March weather is mild, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and low 70s. While the sea is cool, beaches still function as play spaces, and many hotels offer heated pools.
Families staying in Palma can mix light sightseeing with hands-on activities that keep kids engaged:
- Palma Aquarium: Interactive exhibits, shark tanks, and Mediterranean habitats give kids an educational look at marine life native to the Balearic Sea.
- Old Town Palma: Narrow streets, open plazas, and frequent gelato stops make sightseeing feel casual rather than demanding.
- Glass-bottom boat tours: These short excursions let kids see marine life without needing to snorkel or swim in cooler water.
- Bike rentals along the Bay of Palma: Flat coastal paths allow families to ride at their own pace with frequent places to stop and rest.
- Caves of Drach: This guided cave tour includes dramatic rock formations and a live classical music performance on an underground lake, making it a memorable half-day trip.
- Porto Cristo: Pairing the cave visit with time in this nearby harbor town gives families a chance to explore, eat, and relax before returning to Palma.
Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania
Lake Harmony, nestled in the Poconos, is well-suited for families who want space, flexibility, and activities that work regardless of the weather. Spring break here feels quieter and more relaxed, especially compared to major resort towns. Traveling outside peak ski season often means lower lodging costs and better availability.
March weather can vary, but that variability becomes an advantage rather than a limitation. Families can choose outdoor adventures when conditions allow or shift indoors without needing to change plans entirely.
Families staying in Lake Harmony will find a mix of adventure and downtime options:
- Kalahari Resorts Indoor Waterpark: This massive indoor park guarantees swimming and water fun regardless of outdoor temperatures.
- Skirmish Paintball: Year-round outdoor paintball at this castle is sure to deliver exhilarating fun for older kids and teens.
- UTV tours with Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours: Guided rides offer an exciting way to explore the surrounding landscape safely.
- Late-season skiing and snowboarding: Some years allow for spring skiing, adding variety to the trip without committing to a full ski vacation.
- Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area: Easy hiking trails and lake views provide a calm option for families looking to unplug.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Toronto works well for families who want a city break that still feels manageable and engaging for kids. The layout of downtown, walkable neighborhoods, and excellent public transit make it easy to explore without constant logistics or long travel times between activities. A dense downtown core allows families to pack multiple activities into each day without spending hours commuting, while the surrounding neighborhoods offer plenty of green space, markets, and casual dining that work well for traveling families.
March in Toronto is cool but manageable, with daytime temperatures typically in the low 30s to mid-40s. While it’s not beach weather, the season actually works in families’ favor. Indoor attractions are less crowded, lines are typically shorter, and major museums and experiences feel more relaxed than during peak summer months.
Families visiting Toronto can build full days around engaging attractions:
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Walk-through tunnels and interactive exhibits allow kids to experience marine life up close.
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Dinosaur fossils, cultural exhibits, and hands-on galleries make this a full-day destination.
- Toronto Zoo: A mix of indoor and outdoor habitats allows families to explore comfortably, even in cooler weather.
- Little Canada: Detailed miniature landscapes give kids a playful way to learn about Canadian geography and landmarks.
- Hockey Hall of Fame: Interactive exhibits and sports history make this a standout stop for hockey-loving families.
- Kortright Centre for Conservation: Seasonal maple syrup demonstrations offer a uniquely Canadian experience that feels timely in March.
Work with The Travel Team to Plan Your Next Family Getaway
Choosing unusual spring break destinations for families can open the door to better value, fewer crowds, and more meaningful travel experiences. The Travel Team specializes in helping families find destinations that balance comfort, convenience, and memorable activities for every age. From flights and accommodations to transfers and excursions, we manage the details so you can focus on enjoying time together. Contact us today to start planning a spring break trip your family will never forget!
