Report: The Most Affordable Spring Break Destinations for Families 2025

Whether you’re looking for sunny beaches, snowy adventures, or vibrant cities, these best spring break destinations for families on a budget offer affordable flights, fun-filled activities, and tips to help you save even more.

Spring break is the perfect opportunity for families to recharge, explore, and make lifelong memories without overspending. Whether you’re looking for sunny beaches, snowy adventures, or vibrant cities, these best spring break destinations for families on a budget offer affordable flights, fun-filled activities, and tips to help you save even more.

Methodology

To identify the best spring break destinations for families on a budget, we analyzed the following:

  1. Airfare trends: We examined data from major US departure cities, highlighting the most affordable destinations based on average roundtrip prices over the past two years.
  2. Family-friendly appeal: Destinations were chosen for their affordability and family-oriented attractions, such as parks, museums, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.
  3. Seasonal considerations: Spring airfare trends, hotel rates, and ideal weather conditions were factored in to ensure the most budget-friendly and enjoyable experiences.
  4. Real deals: We sourced example flight deals from our actual Dollar Flight Club data, showcasing roundtrip prices and departure city options to help travelers plan.

By combining these insights, we’ve created a list of destinations that balance affordability and value for family vacations.

The best spring break destinations for families on a budget

Jamaica is a versatile destination that ranks high among the most affordable islands in the Caribbean for its mix of budget-friendly accommodations and activities. Whether you're lounging on Seven Mile Beach or exploring Dunn’s River Falls, it’s an ideal spot for the best cheap weekend beach vacation in Caribbean islands.

1. Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ)

Montego Bay features budget-friendly all-inclusive resorts and outdoor activities like river tubing and beach lounging. Save money by negotiating transportation with local drivers and visiting free spots like Montego Bay Marine Park. For souvenirs, skip hotel shops and visit local craft markets for handmade goods and snacks.

Example flight deals: NYC (JFK) to Montego Bay for $270 (February 28–March 5, 2025)

2. Orlando, Florida (MCO)

Orlando is one of the best spring break destinations for families on a budget, thanks to its world-class theme parks and budget-friendly activities. Save on park tickets by skipping park hopper passes and focusing on one park per day. Bring your own snacks and water bottles into the parks, and visit free areas like Disney Springs for live entertainment and kid-friendly attractions. Staying off-property? Look for hotels with complimentary shuttles to avoid expensive parking fees.

Example flight deals: NYC (JFK) to Orlando for $89 (March 15–22, 2025)

3. Cancún, Mexico (CUN)

Cancún’s all-inclusive resorts offer great value for families. Save by booking excursions, like cenote tours or day trips, directly with local providers instead of through resorts. Spend time at public beaches like Playa Delfines for a free and relaxing day. Some resorts offer affordable day passes to their amenities, giving you access to pools and dining without an overnight stay.

Example flight deals: Dallas (DFW) to Cancún for $200 (March 12–17, 2025)

4. San Diego, California (SAN)

San Diego’s sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and free family activities make it a great spring break option. Visit Balboa Park, where gardens and trails are free, or spend the day tide pooling at La Jolla Cove. March visitors can enjoy free events like the San Diego Latino Film Festival. Save on dining by packing a picnic for the beach or visiting affordable food markets.

Example flight deals: Chicago (ORD) to San Diego for $189 (March 25–30, 2025)

5. Aruba (AUA)

Aruba’s free public beaches, like Eagle Beach and Baby Beach, offer calm, kid-friendly waters. Save on meals by staying at accommodations with kitchenettes, and rent a car to explore affordable attractions like Arikok National Park. Stop by free landmarks like the California Lighthouse for beautiful sunset views.

Example flight deals: NYC (JFK) to Oranjestad for $309 (March 10–17, 2025)

6. Phoenix, Arizona (PHX)

Phoenix is perfect for families who love warm weather and outdoor adventures. Beyond hiking Camelback Mountain, families can explore free attractions like Papago Park and its stunning Hole-in-the-Rock formation. Spring training baseball games are budget-friendly, and ranger-led programs in public parks offer educational fun for kids.

Example flight deals: Seattle (SEA) to Phoenix for $117 (March 15–20, 2025)

7. San José, Costa Rica (SJO)

Costa Rica is perfect for affordable rainforest adventures. Visit eco-lodges or Airbnbs to save on lodging, and use public buses for cheap transportation. Waterfalls and national parks offer budget-friendly entrance fees, and farmers’ markets are great for low-cost, fresh meals.

Example flight deals: Miami (MIA) to San José for $215 (March 10–16, 2025)

8. Big Bear, California (SNA)

Big Bear Lake is an affordable winter escape for families. Book lift tickets and rental gear online in advance to save, and explore free snow play areas and sledding hills. Rent a cozy cabin for affordable lodging and prepare meals at home instead of dining out at expensive resort restaurants.

Example flight deals: Dallas (DFW) to Orange County (SNA) for $159 (March 10–15, 2025)

9. Nassau, Bahamas (NAS)

Nassau combines beautiful beaches with affordable family fun. Spend time at Junkanoo Beach, a free public spot perfect for families. Use public jitneys to explore Nassau for just a couple of dollars. Clifton Heritage National Park offers low-cost hiking, snorkeling, and cultural experiences.

Example flight deals: NYC (JFK) to Nassau for $200 (February 27–March 4, 2025)

10. Keystone, Colorado (DEN)

Keystone’s Kids Ski Free program makes it ideal for budget-conscious families. Enjoy free activities like the snow fort on Dercum Mountain or ranger-led snowshoe tours. Pack thermoses with hot drinks and soups to avoid overpriced lodge food, and travel midweek for lower lift ticket prices and fewer crowds.

Example flight deals: Denver (DEN) to Keystone shuttle access for $45 (March 5–10, 2025)

11. Kona, Hawaii (KOA)

Kona offers affordable Hawaiian adventures, from black sand beaches to volcano hikes. Spend the day snorkeling at Hapuna Beach or exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Save on meals by visiting farmers’ markets and staying in rentals with kitchens for easy cooking.

Example flight deals: Los Angeles (LAX) to Kona for $221 (February 18–March 4, 2025)

Final tips for saving on spring break

These best spring break destinations for families on a budget prove you can plan an unforgettable getaway without overspending. But we have even more insights on saving: 

  • Book early: Flights and hotels are cheapest when booked months in advance.
  • Travel midweek: Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the most affordable.
  • Look for free attractions: Parks, museums, and festivals often have free entry days.
  • Bundle deals: Save on costs by bundling flights, accommodations, and activities.
  • Stay flexible with your dates: Use tools like Dollar Flight Club for real-time alerts on mistake fares and major price cuts to spring break destinations. 

You deserve a vacation 🏖️

Get email alerts for flights up to 90% off from your home airport to your dream destinations and surprise locations.