5 Spring Break Family Vacation Ideas That Won’t Break Your Budget

After putting off a lot of big travel plans over the past few years, many people are ready to dust off their suitcases: Expedia’s 2022 travel trends survey found that 59 percent of respondents are planning trips within the U.S. this year, with beachy, warm-weather locations high on their wish lists.

So you’re not alone if you’re dreaming of sun and sand this spring break. But if you’re not ready to splurge on a big-budget vacation just yet, here are five family-friendly destinations that won’t break your budget.

Marathon, Florida

Of the Florida Keys, Key West may get the most press, but we say ditch the crowds and party scene and stay in Marathon. Famous for its Seven Mile Bridge, this area has a slower pace and tons of affordable activities, from visiting oceanfront parks to playing on pristine beaches to visiting the free-of-charge EAA Air Museum. Fans of Ernest Hemingway will know that he penned some of his most well-known novels in the Keys, and can visit his former home in nearby Key West, which is now a museum.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go snorkeling or reef diving to see the area’s spectacular marine life up close. Kids will love the Turtle Hospital and the Dolphin Research Center, two affordable attractions that double as educational experiences.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Springtime in Myrtle Beach typically features temperatures that hover in the low 60s, which is ideal for camping — you’ll find plenty of campground options, many of which are right on the Atlantic shoreline. You can also opt for a quaint beach house rental if roughing it isn’t your style. Thanks to abundant lodging choices, travelers can usually find reasonably priced accommodations.

The area also has lots of free things to do, from outdoor concerts to movies under the stars. Stroll the boardwalk and take in the sights from above on the famous SkyWheel, or get lost in the natural beauty of Brookgreen Gardens before hitting up a seaside eatery for dinner.

Corpus Christi, Texas

Tucked away on the Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi makes for an affordable spring break spot. The weather is usually warm, so be sure to put Bird Island Basin on your list for its shallow, warm waters and windy shoreline that make for optimal windsurfing conditions. The area supports a wide array of water sports as well as bird watching, kayaking, outdoor yoga, nature trails and fishing. You can also head indoors to check out popular attractions such as the Texas State Aquarium and USS Lexington. The city’s abundance of beaches, parks and nature centers provide lots of budget-friendly things to do.

This pocket of Texas also has a robust food scene — from innovative food trucks to fresh seafood — with offerings that appeal to adults and kids alike. Grown-ups can also enjoy an impromptu tour of the city’s local breweries.

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica has plenty to offer as a laid back, wallet-friendly spring break locale in Southern California. Its dazzling Pacific shoreline set against the Santa Monica Mountains provides a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

The beach is a stunner, but the Santa Monica Pier with its iconic Ferris wheel and myriad street performers is an attraction in itself. From there, spend an inexpensive day exploring an oceanfront bike path or one of Santa Monica’s local parks before stopping by the Heal the Bay Aquarium.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

While Hot Springs National Park may not be an obvious spring break choice for the beach crowd, there’s plenty to appreciate about one of America’s most affordable national parks. Those looking to indulge in some natural self-care will no doubt enjoy the 47 thermal springs that are peppered throughout the landscape. There are also plenty of waterfalls, lakes and swimming beaches to enjoy, mostly for free.

Once you’re sufficiently recharged, you may want to explore the miles of hiking trails that snake through the Ouachita Mountains. Historic Bathhouse Row is another top attraction known for its rich architecture that harkens back to the Gilded Age.