8 Luxury Spring Break Destinations For Families
Ohhh…Spring break.
These two words conjure up images of long airport lines, crowded pools, partying college kids, loud music…and bad decisions.
Hey Moms! What if I were to tell you that luxury spring break destinations for families really do exist. Ones where you don’t have to fight a 21 year-old for the floatie in the pool?
What if I were to tell you that there are hotels where you too can relax, where pools are filled with families playfully splashing, and you can sneak off to a spa just around the corner? Ones where kids’ clubs overflow with giggling gangs of tiny humans, where the food is fresh and delicious, and where the family can crash at night in luxe rooms.
Sound too good to be true? Take my hand.
Whether you’re searching for crystal clear blue waters, or a destination offering action-packed adventure, you can find vacation inspiration for any type of trip right here. With spring break just a few months away, it’s time to start planning, and gearing up for your next family holiday. Here are 8 luxury spring break destinations for families.
Need Help Planning Your Trips?
8 Luxury Spring Break Destinations for Families
1. Turks and Caicos
Go here if... you want to relax on the beach
Where To Stay
Seven Stars Resort - Seven Stars is located directly on stunning Grace Bay Beach, and is the ideal luxury spring break destination if you're looking to relax on a beach. It’s no wonder many hotels have set up shop here -- there are miles of smooth white sand, and perfectly clear blue water. At Seven Stars you’ll find a heated family pool, and separate adult one too. Also, they have large suite accommodation options for families, with plenty of space for everyone...and a washer and dryer Mom!
Kid-Friendly Features
Seven Stars has various water sport activities available for kids, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and an epic water trampoline. There are volleyball nets available too.
Don't Miss Doing This!
- Jump off the water trampoline in front of Seven Stars Resort - Although this is reserved for hotel guests, it's easy to swim on up and take a turn if you happen to be staying at one of the other hotels nearby.
- Love Buggy Island Tour - Our kids were too young for this excursion, but it came highly recommended as a must-do. Kids have to be 12 or older.
Favorite Food
- Coco Bistro - Enjoy Caribbean cuisine under a canopy of jungle trees and a starry night sky. Call ahead of time to reserve a table at this highly rated Caribbean favorite restaurant!
- Infiniti at Grace Bay Club - This restaurant has it all -- gourmet food, sophisticated setting, and the waves crashing in the background. The Catch of the Day may be one of the most perfectly cooked fish dishes I’ve tasted! I recommend making reservations ahead of time if you wish to have a spot near the sand - but if you don’t, there are large communal tables available for walk-ins.
- Coralli at Ritz Carlton - Lunch at Coralli was not only delicious, but the view of the water was stunning too. The fish sandwich and fried calamari, finished off with a pina colada, are my top recommendations.
How To Get There
Fly into Providenciales airport, where you can take a taxi or car service to the hotel. Grace Bay is about 10-15 minutes from the airport; however, taxis do charge a per person rate for both airport or inter-island transfers. We used Fast Track TCI -- the cars were clean and comfortable. They will provide car seats, but will not install them for you ahead of time.
Travel Tips
- Catch a sunset on Grace Bay Beach - The epic scene may only last a few minutes so be ready!
- Reserve an Oceanfront Suite at Seven Stars Resort - these rooms have unobstructed ocean views, large living area, fully equipped kitchen, two bedrooms, and 2.5 bathrooms.
- Location is convenient - There is a small town and grocery store within walking distance from the hotel. It’s easy to stock up on provisions if needed, or walk to restaurants off property.
2. Achensee, Austria
Go here if... You're Looking to be wowed by jaw-dropping European Scenary
Where To Stay
Travel Charme Hotel - Everywhere you look in Achensee seems straight out of a National Geographic catalogue, and Travel Charme hotel has a front row seat. This is a luxury spring break destination for families that you won't forget! You'll be stunned by the views from your hotel room -- you're kissing the banks of Lake Achensee, with the Austrian Alps circling around. Your little ones may in fact confuse this place with Elsa and Anna's Arendelle. Gaze out at the crystal clear (but very cold) blue waters, which will be the background of your hikes, your meals, and even the backdrop of the playgrounds nearby! Travel Charme has suite options for families, an indoor/outdoor pool, and full service spa for guests to use.
Kid-Friendly Features
You’ll find a kid-friendly indoor/outdoor pool and kids' menu offered at Travel Charme.
Don't Miss Doing This!
- Take a stroll along Lake Achensee and check out the playground at Spielplatz am Strandbad: Want to step back in time? This playground feels as if it fell right out of the 1950’s, but it’s beautiful, simple and fun. Take the kids to play, and then continue on a short walk along the lake. There is also a large rocky beach about 5 minutes past that on the path along the lake. While I wouldn't recommend going in the water, it's a good spot to practice skipping rocks.
- Go for a swim in the public pool: Public pools may conjure up icky images to an American, but in Austria you’ll feel pampered at the public pools. The Atoll Achensee Leisure Center has sparkling interiors, perfectly clean pool water, waterslides for added fun, and floor to ceiling windows that show off those audacious Alps!
- Go for a hike at the top of the mountain: There are easy hiking trails and even playgrounds at the top of the gondola, but access is weather dependent. If the snow hasn’t melted…no gondola service will be open.
Favorite Food
- Laurentius at Travel Charme Hotel - Enjoy a menu featuring fresh seasonal ingredients while gazing out over the lake. When we visited, the vegetable in season (and thus star of the show in many dishes) was…white asparagus! The restaurant even used this ingredient in a dessert one night.
How To Get There
Achensee is about 1.5 hours from Munich. If you’re flying into the region, this is the closest city with an international airport too.
Travel Tips
- Book the Suite Karwendel: There was plenty of space for our family of 4, with a separated living area and bedrooms, and 2 full bathrooms. There's also a private patio to enjoy the views.
- Pack a light jacket: The spring temperatures can still be a little chilly up in the Alps; layers are key!
- A rental car is needed: You'll need one for both transfer from Munich, and for also exploring Achensee. You’ll be happy you have your own car for those “pull over and take a picture moments.”
- Can you go swimming? This is glacier water, so it’s not exactly recommended. Then again….that didn’t stop my Canadian husband from giving it a try. I give him credit for lasting a few minutes in there!
3. Sea Island, Georgia
Go here if... You're Looking to Please Everyone in the Family
Where To Stay
The Cloister at Sea Island - Spring time in Georgia is the perfect place to go for a luxury spring break destination with family. You could easily visit this property for a week, never leave, and everyone in your group from ages 1-81 would have a great time. This resort offers just about every activity under the sun – 2 different pools, fishing, boating, sailing, dolphin cruises, golf, archery, nature walks, and dawn turtle patrols. That’s not even the whole activity list! If that weren’t enough, they are also located along miles of sandy beaches. For families looking for more space, you can choose among a few different suite accommodations or rental properties too.
Kid-Friendly Features
- Camp Cloister - Kids 3 and up can join Camp Cloister, where counselors help the kids with cookie decorating, swim play, and tye dye activities. There is a separate Camp Cloister for kids ages 5-14.
- Toddler Playroom - If your little ones need a swim break, you can check out the toddler play room filled with toys and play spaces for small kids.
- Nature center - Want to show your kids some of the wildlife that exists in Georgia? The nature center has tanks filled with fish, crabs, and even snakes that are native to the region.
Don't Miss Doing This!
- River boat cruise - The peaceful cocktail cruise on multi-story Sea Island Explorer is a must do. Take in the views of the serene marshland, while sipping a drink and enjoying snacks. You may even spot some dolphins playing in the boat’s surf!
- Turtle Dawn Patrol - This is one of the most unique hotel activities I’ve ever experienced! You'll depart at 6am with a Sea Island naturalist to look for turtle tracks, nests and eggs. If you travel to Sea Island in July and August, you may catch a glimpse of the babies waddling to the surf. This is a seasonal activity offered, so inquire when booking.
- Golf and golf center - The golf facilities at Sea Island are quite impressive; let's just say it's not surprising that many PGA players practice here. If you have a golfer in the family, schedule time to visit the performance center, giant 18 hole putting course, and spend a day or two playing the two courses. It’s worth a stroll through, even if you don’t plan on shooting par. There are coastal views, and another pool at this part of the resort too.
- Falconry bird walk- This is one of the highest rated activities that the resort offers. Children must be at least 5 years old.
Favorite Food
- Tavola - Tavola is where you’ll find a delicious breakfast spread in the morning, which then transforms into an Italian eatery at night. Make sure to oder some of the fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza.
- Southern Tide - The Beach Club is located along the sandy shore, and offers coastal cuisine with a casual vibe. There are open spaces for kids to play while they wait for the food.
How To Get There
You can fly into Jacksonville or Savannah and rent a car from the airport (about 90 minutes away). Alternatively, there is a private airfield if you’re feeling swanky.
Travel Tips
- Pool time? Weather in later spring (around May) is reliably in the 80’s and sunny. Definitely pack your swim gear!
- Memorial Day is a festive time to visit. The hotel sets up an expansive BBQ, which I highly recommend attending. Reservations are required.
- Know the lay of the land - Sea Island resort includes a few different hotel complexes, with The Cloister being the most popular one to book. This part of Sea Island has a river side and beach side. It’s a short walk from one to the other (less than 5 minutes), and both have beautiful views.
- The hotel offers both large house rentals (mostly privately owned) or regular hotel rooms/suites. I highly recommend reserving a one bedroom wing suite on the river side of the resort.
4. Riviera Maya
Go here if... You're Looking to Have Your Entire Family Pampered
Where To Stay
Kid-Friendly Features
- Rosewood Explorers - Everyday the kids’ club offers a variety of activities, such as freeze dance, arts and crafts, and pizza making classes. The clubhouse room is located adjacent to the family pool, so you can pop in and out as needed Mom!
- Kids eat free! At Rosewood Mayakoba, kids under 5 eat free off the kids’ menu.
- Kids bubble bath: You can request staff to fill your bathtub with bubbles and balloon animals. Then, surprise your kids with it!
- Kid movie night - Throughout the week, the hotel plays movies by the pool/on the beach for families to enjoy.
- Babysitting - We didn’t use the on site services, but they are available if needed.
Don't Miss Doing This!
- Take a lagoon tour - You can take a short lagoon tour of the property, which is a beautiful way to tour the grounds. If you decide to eat at one of the other resorts located in the riviera preserve, you can also arrange for the hotel to transport you by boat.
- Arrange for a tour of Mayan ruins nearby: You’re just 1-2 hours away from some of the incredible Mayan ruins and temples.
Favorite Food
We stayed on site at the resort and loved every restaurant they had! Here’s a quick cheatsheet
- Casa Del Lago - Enjoy an incredible breakfast spread at the buffet, or order off the special huevos rancheros menu.
- Agave Azul - Here you’ll find Japanese and Chinese influences on the Baja food scene. The coconut lime soup was a family favorite!
- Zapote - What happens when Mediterranean flavors crash into Mexican ones? Find out here! Zapote also has a fun bar/night scene for when the kids go to bed.
- Le Ceiba Garden - Get ready to have dinner under the stars in the hotel’s garden. This is an adults only event, and must be reserved ahead of time.
- Aqui Me Quedo - Here you’ll find fresh Caribbean Mexican flavors. Order some authentic guac, salsas, and mole, while enjoying views of the beach.
- Punta Bonita- Would you like to devour fresh Mexican flavors next to the pool? Then, come here for a refreshing drink and delicious food.
How To Get There
Fly into Cancun International airport. It’s a 20 minute car ride from the airport, and I recommend using the hotel car service. There are also special Rosewood agents to help you at the airport for departure.
Further Reading: Rosewood Mayakoba
Want to learn more about every detail and awesome part of this luxury spring break destination for families? Check out this article
Travel Tips
- Book a deluxe lagoon suite - If you are a family looking for more space, this is an excellent option. This room comes with 2 bathrooms, an outdoor shower, and separated living room/bedroom layout. There is also a private patio and plunge pool.
- Splurge for the Rosewood car service: I recommend using this first for safety, and secondly for ease and comfort. The driver will arrive with pre-installed car seats, and a cooler of snacks and drinks.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Go here if... You're Looking to Hike, HIke Hike!
Where To Stay
Enchantment Resort - This dreamy luxury spring break destination is tucked into the majestic red rocks of Boynton Canyon. It’s the perfect place to use as home base for all your Sedona hiking excursions. Additionally, although you’re surrounded by hiking and walking trails, you may even wish to spend a day or two just hanging at the hotel. On the grounds you’ll have access to a massive family pool, tennis courts, pickle ball and mountain biking. The famous Mi Amo spa is also on site, where you can enjoy a therapeutic treatment.
Kid-Friendly Features
- Camp Coyote - Let your little ones embark on adventures on the hotel grounds and through the canyons with counselors and guides. This camp is open for kids ages 4-12.
Don't Miss Doing This!
- Soldier’s Pass/Brins Mesa - If there was one hike I’d recommend, it would be the Solder’s Pass, Brins Mesa loop. It's one of the most beautiful I've experience in the world! It’s a long hike (4-5 hours) and best to do with older kids. If you have little kids with you, you could easily start the trail, but then turn around before the steep inclines begin, making it a far shorter hike. Luckily, the views of the beautiful scenery start from the very first step, so even if you embark with little kids, you'll witness some unforgettable scenery.
- There are plenty of trails that are toddler an baby friendly - There are hundreds of hiking trails in Sedona; all of them scenic, but some better suited for kids than others. Two of the most popular for families include Bell Rock Trail (stroller friendly) and West Fork, which follows along a stream.
- Go off-roading in a Pink Jeep Tour - Pink Jeep allows you to see the sweeping vistas by taking you through epic overlooks, and up through the winding canyon. It's a good option if you wish to rest your legs for a day, but are still itching to see the views.
Favorite Food
- Mariposa- Mariposa serves delicious latin cuisine, with a side order of….stunning red rock scenery. You'll think your eyes are playing tricks on you as you gaze out at the rolling rock formations and burnt orange colored valley. Make reservations early, and show up around sunset to take unforgettable photos.
- Elote - Elote is known for serving some of the best Mexican cuisine in the state. They don’t take reservations, so it’s best to show up 20-30 minutes before opening to secure a table.
- Tamaliza - Have you ever stumbled across simple yet excellent cuisine that’s just…on the side of the road? Well, that’s the experience you’ll have devouring homemade tamales and enchiladas at Tamaliza. This family run establishment is a no-frills, but lots of flavor type of palace.
How To Get There
Sedona is about 1.5-2 hours from Phoenix International airport, and 1 hour away from Flagstaff airport. There is also a private airfield in town.
Further Reading: Sedona
Want to learn more about every detail and awesome part of this luxury spring break destination for families? Check out this article
Travel Tips
- Pack for spring…and snow: April and May generally have warmer weather in the 70’s and 80’s; however, one April morning we awoke to snowfall! So pack a few layers if you’re heading here in the spring.
- Pack PLENTY of water: Make sure water and snacks are packed for everyone in your crew before embarking on a hike.
6. Maui, Hawaii
Go here if... You're Looking to take an Epic Road Trip
Where To Stay
Four Seasons Maui - This hotel is exactly what you’re envisioning for your luxury spring break destination getaway. The stunning hotel grounds, views of the Pacific, family and adults-only pool, and an exceptional culinary scene make for an unforgettable family holiday .(Fun fact - it’s also where season 1 of The White Lotus was filmed). It’s the perfect luxury hotel to use as home base a road trip along the Road To Hana.
Kid-Friendly Features
- Kids For All Seasons - Let the kids enjoy a few hours exploring the beach and participating in beach/island themed activities. This is available for kids ages 5 and up.
- Camp Monitou - If you’re traveling with older kids (ages 9-17), then they can spend the day embarking on island adventures with counselors and other kids their age.
- Light the Night - Your little one can join a torchbearer as they light each torch around the resort. They’ll learn a little bit about the tradition, but mostly it's about the fun.
Don't Miss Doing This!
The Road to Hana is one of the most scenic and unforgettable road trip experiences. The drive itself is only about 60 miles, but it takes ALL DAY to complete. With so many stops along the way and places to explore, you’ll want to budget ample time to see everything on your checklist. We began the day around 6am.
Favorite stops along the Road to Hana include the Rainbow Eucalyptus Forest, Honomau Bay County Beach Park, Ke’anae Peninsula, Pua’a Ka’a falls and Wai’anapanapa Park.
Favorite Food
- Spago - Spago showcases Californian and Hawaiian flavors, with dishes designed by Wolfgang Puck. You'll find fresh innovative food, with flavors that highlight a Hawaiian Punch! Be sure to make reservations ahead of time.
- Mama’s Fish House - On the day we set off to explore The Road to Hana, we got sidetracked by a waterfall and ended up missing our dinner reservation at Momma’s Fish House. This remains one of my all time biggest travel regrets. It's highly recommended by locals, and every personal friend I've recommended it to has reported back that it's some of th best food on the island.
How To Get There
You can fly into Kahului Airport, and then take a car service or taxi to the hotel, about 25 minutes driving.
Travel Tips
- Rent a Jeep Wrangler for the Road to Hana: In order to see and complete the Road To Hana, you’ll need to rent your own car for the day. If you don’t want to pay for a rental car for the entire duration of your stay (i.e. only for this road trip), then the rental company will drop your car off at the hotel.
- There is limited cell reception along the Road To Hana. Download and install the GyPSy Guide navigation app to help track your placement and route.
- Bring extra clothes: Pack a change of clothes, bathing suit, and towel for your road trip to Hana.
- Picnic time on the road: You can request r the Four Seasons pack a picnic lunch for you to eat on the road.
Further Reading: Road to Hana
Want to learn more about everything for planning your own Road to Hana roadtrip, including more detailed tips and must-do stops along the way? Take a look at this article:
7. Savannah, Georgia
Go here if... You're Looking to explore an historic city
Where To Stay
Marriott Savannah Riverfront - This is the hotel I wish I had booked for our stay as a luxury spring break destination (we weren’t fans of the Airbnb we selected). You’re close to the downtown city center, but the riverfront itself is filled with shops and restaurants too. There’s also a fountain outside for kids to run through, and the view of the gargantuan container ships passing by is not to be missed!
Don't Miss Doing This!
- Ghost tour: While I wouldn’t recommend this for young kids, it’s absolutely a must do for older kids and adults. I’m glad we did it towards the end of the trip, or I may have been a bit terrified walking around. It’s a fun way to learn some history and explore the city at night.
- Watch the container ships passing by: Head down to the riverfront to catch a glimpse of the container ships lumbering through. I wasn’t quite prepared for how jaw-dropping it would feel to be that close!
- Play in Forsyth park- Forsyth park stunningly beautiful, with the fountain as the center and Spanish Oak trees surrounding you on all sides. There is also a large playground for kids.
- Savannah on Wheels Bike Tour: Touring a city by bike is one of my favorite ways to learn about the history, local life, and general feel of a city. Savannah on Wheels had a fun, informative and beautiful 2 hour tour of the historic downtown.
Favorite Food
- Local11ten- This food/wine bar serves delicious southern flavors, but also a healthier and lighter take on the region's cuisine. They were also accommodating of young kids and strollers.
- The Grey - This former Greyhound bus station has been converted into one of the most popular brunch and dinner spots in town. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time!
How To Get There
You can fly into Savannah and it’s a quick 20-25 minute drive from the airport to the city center.
Travel Tips
- Bring good walking shoes - You’ll spend a lot of time seeing the sights by foot, walking on old cobblestone and brick roads.
- Stay hydrated! Even in the spring, this city’s temperatures can get quite toasty. Make sure to have snacks and drinks on hand, then head to one of the gorgeous 22 park squares to enjoy a bite to eat under the Spanish Oak trees.
8. St. Lucia
Go here if... You'd Rather Leave the Kids At Home
Where To Stay
Jade Mountain - While most of this article includes hotels for the whole family, Jade Mountain is your spot if you and your spouse would like to get away alone! You'll feel as if you're on your own private island at this exclusive luxury destination -- the rooms, the location, and private beach are top notch.
Don't Miss Doing This!
- Take a catamaran tour: These guided tours last a few hours on the water. About 300 dolphins swam right past us!
- Arrive in style…a la helicopter: You can arrange for a helicopter to pick you up from the airport and whisk you away to the hotel. Does this sound like a cheesy Bachelor episode? Guess what?! It was! (Shout out to Jake’s season). My husband surprised me with this excursion and it’s still one of my favorite travel experiences of all time. We twirled and whirled around the island, seeing the Piton Mountains from above.
Favorite Food
Jade Mountain is an all-inclusive resort, so plan to have your meals on site. There is a fine dining restaurant, and casual option on the beach to choose from.
How To Get There
If you decide to forgo the helicopter transfer, then you’ll fly into St. Lucia airport and take a car 1 hour to the resort.
Travel Tips
- No kids allowed at this property…and you won’t mind once you see what your room is like!
Tips for Planning a Luxury Spring Break Destination with Kids
At this point, you now have a few ideas of where to go for your luxury spring break destination. However, how can you ensure that it will be a success? Here’s a few tips to make your family vacation one that you’ll actually want to do again next year!
- Is there something for everyone on the itinerary? Try to organize at least one activity each person in your group will enjoy. You don’t have please everyone, everyday – but both toddlers and teenagers just love to give opinions!
- Know your tribe: If your family doesn’t like to sit and read…don’t plan a chill beach vacation. This may sound like simple advice, but many times people are swayed by pretty photos, instead of thinking about their group and the best fit. Yes, it’s important to try new adventures in life, but don’t overcomplicate it either.
- Get organized: This one is especially important if traveling with younger kids. Organization of…just about everything…will make all those transition moments during travel go smoothly. Get the diaper bag organized. Get the itinerary laid out (you can always change things later). Get the outfits picked. Do what you can ahead of time so that you don't have to spend vacation time figuring out details.
That's a Wrap
See…I told you! There really are luxury spring break destinations out there where you won’t have to fight the college crowds for some comfort and calm. Whether you envision taking your family to a warm weather destination to lie on the beach, or have your sights set on doing something outdoorsy in the dry Arizona sun, or simply want to explore historic streets in one of America’s most charming cities, there are plenty of options for every traveler type out there.
I hope this article has inspired your own family getaway to a luxury spring break destination. If you have any questions, or your own travel tips, please leave them in the comments below. Also, don't forget to sign up for the monthly newsletter, packed with travel tips, upcoming news, and access to FREE destination itineraries.
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