Cheap Spring Break Destinations: Budget-Friendly Getaways for 2026

Whether you're a family seeking quality time, a college student looking for adventure, or a couple craving a romantic escape, affordable spring break destinations exist around the US and world. With strategic planning and the right tools—like Going's flight deal alerts—you can turn spring break dreams into reality without maxing out your credit card or draining your savings account.

Key takeaways

Cheap spring break trips for families:

• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: 60-mile Grand Strand coastline with budget oceanfront hotels and free beach access
• San Antonio, Texas: Free historical attractions like The Alamo and scenic River Walk with budget-friendly Tex-Mex dining
• Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Gateway to free Great Smoky Mountains National Park with affordable cabin rentals
• Gulf Shores, Alabama: Alabama's Gulf Coast offering Florida-quality beaches at significantly lower prices
• Virginia Beach, Virginia: Three-mile boardwalk combining oceanfront fun with military history
• San Diego, California: Year-round mild weather with free Balboa Park attractions and numerous museums
• Pensacola Beach, Florida: Gulf Coast beauty with miles of pristine National Seashore coastline
• Washington, DC: Nation's capital with free world-class Smithsonian museums and monuments

Best cheap spring break destinations for college students:

• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Classic spring break beaches and nightlife at prices lower than South Beach
• New Orleans, Louisiana: Unique Creole culture with free live music on Frenchmen Street and student-friendly hostels
• Austin, Texas: Live music capital with swimming holes, food trucks, and affordable entertainment

Top spring break destinations for couples:

• Savannah, Georgia: Spanish moss-draped historic squares with romantic atmosphere and reasonable prices
• Sedona, Arizona: Dramatic red rock formations with budget-friendly hiking and spiritual vortex sites
• Beaufort, South Carolina: Charming Lowcountry town offering intimate Southern hospitality and waterfront views

Affordable spring break trips for solo travelers:

• Nashville, Tennessee: Compact downtown with free live music on Broadway and social hostel environments
• Portland, Oregon: Quirky culture with excellent public transit, food truck pods, and a welcoming solo travel vibe
• Denver, Colorado: Urban sophistication meeting mountain access with hiking trails and free brewery tours (typically 21+)
• Asheville, North Carolina: Blue Ridge Mountain setting with thriving brewery culture travelers of age and a walkable downtown

Cheap international spring break destinations:

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: Mexican beach resort with lower costs than Cancún and excellent infrastructure
• Guatemala: Extraordinary value with Lake Atitlán, colonial Antigua, and Mayan ruins at backpacker prices
• Costa Rica: Caribbean and Pacific beaches with rainforests, volcanoes, and excellent infrastructure
• Portugal: European charm with stunning coastlines at lower prices than Spain, France, and Italy
• The Azores: Portugal's volcanic Atlantic islands with dramatic landscapes and prices below mainland Europe

Budget travel tips:

• Fly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays for 20–40% cheaper airfare than peak travel days
• Compare vacation rentals versus hotels, and stay slightly outside prime locations for 30–50% savings
• Book flights 3–5 months ahead for domestic travel and 4–10 months for international destinations, as spring break is a peak season for some destinations
• Consider all-inclusive packages in Mexico and the Caribbean for bundled value

Cheap spring break trips for families

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach has perfected the art of affordable family beach vacations with its 60-mile coastline nicknamed the "Grand Strand." The combination of budget oceanfront hotels, free beach access, and numerous affordable attractions makes it ideal for families watching expenses.

• Estimated daily budget: $150–$250 for family of four
• Weather: 60–70°F (16–21°C), warms throughout March
• Top attractions: Boardwalk, Family Kingdom amusement park, Ripley's Aquarium, mini golf
• Best for: Families with young children, multigenerational trips
• Average Going deal: $135 roundtrip

2. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio delivers exceptional value with its blend of history and culture—and many attractions are completely free. The famous River Walk provides miles of scenic strolling with budget-friendly dining, while The Alamo offers free admission.

• Estimated daily budget: $130–$200 for family of four
• Weather: 65–75°F (18–24°C), warm and sunny
• Top attractions: The Alamo (free), River Walk, San Antonio Missions (free), Six Flags Fiesta Texas
• Best for: History-loving families, Tex-Mex food enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $177 roundtrip

3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg serves as the perfect base for exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park—America's most visited national park, with no fee to enter. The mountain town offers affordable cabin rentals and attractions without theme park price tags.

• Estimated daily budget: $140–$220 for family of four
• Weather: 50–65°F (10–18°C), crisp mountain air
• Top attractions: Great Smoky Mountains hiking, Ripley's Aquarium, Ober Mountain, Cades Cove wildlife
• Best for: Nature-loving families, cabin vacation seekers
• Average Going deal: $174 roundtrip

4. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers white-sand beaches without Florida's premium pricing. Gulf Shores provides the same emerald waters and sugar-white sand as destinations that are charging double.

• Estimated daily budget: $160–$240 for family of four
• Weather: 65–72°F (18–22°C), beach-ready temperatures
• Top attractions: Gulf State Park, Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge, The Wharf, dolphin cruises
• Best for: Beach-focused families, seafood lovers
• Average Going deal: $146 roundtrip (via Pensacola)

5. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach combines oceanfront fun with historical significance. The city's three-mile concrete boardwalk, perfect for biking and military history, creates a unique spring break experience.

• Estimated daily budget: $150–$230 for family of four
• Weather: 55–65°F (13–18°C), variable spring conditions
• Top attractions: Boardwalk, First Landing State Park, Virginia Aquarium, Military Aviation Museum
• Best for: Active families, history buffs, East Coast residents
• Average Going deal: $122 roundtrip (via Norfolk)

6. San Diego, California

San Diego's year-round 70°F weather and numerous free attractions make it surprisingly affordable despite California's reputation. Balboa Park alone offers 17 museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo—enough to fill multiple days.

• Estimated daily budget: $180–$280 for family of four
• Weather: 60–68°F (16–20°C), perfect mild conditions
• Top attractions: Balboa Park (free), La Jolla Cove tide pools, Coronado Beach, Old Town (free)
• Best for: Families wanting California experience, outdoor enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $174 roundtrip

7. Pensacola Beach, Florida

Pensacola Beach offers Florida's Gulf Coast beauty at prices significantly lower than Destin. The National Seashore provides miles of protected coastline with minimal development.

• Estimated daily budget: $155–$235 for family of four
• Weather: 65–73°F (18–23°C), warm beach weather
• Top attractions: Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fort Pickens, Naval Air Station Museum (free)
• Best for: Beach-focused families, military history enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $146 roundtrip

8. Washington, DC

The nation's capital provides unmatched educational value with virtually all major attractions offering free admission. Families can spend an entire week visiting world-class Smithsonian museums and monuments without spending a cent on entertainment.

• Estimated daily budget: $140–$210 for family of four
• Weather: 50–62°F (10–17°C), also cherry blossoms late March/early April
• Top attractions: Smithsonian museums (free), National Mall monuments (free), Capitol tours (free)
• Best for: Educational trips, history-focused families
• Average Going deal: $150 roundtrip

Best cheap spring break destinations for college students

1. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale delivers classic Florida spring break vibes—beaches, nightlife, and warm weather—without South Beach's astronomical prices. The city offers more affordable accommodation and entertainment options than Miami.

• Estimated daily budget: $60–$100 per person
• Weather: 70–80°F (21–27°C), ideal beach weather
• Top attractions: Fort Lauderdale Beach, Las Olas Boulevard bars, water sports, nightlife
• Best for: College students, people looking for a lively atmosphere
• Average Going deal: $151 roundtrip

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans offers unique culture, incredible food, and legendary nightlife at student-friendly prices. Frenchmen Street provides free live music nightly, while hostel options keep costs manageable.

• Estimated daily budget: $50–$85 per person
• Weather: 65–75°F (18–24°C), pleasant spring conditions
• Top attractions: French Quarter, Frenchmen Street live music (free), beignets, po'boys, nightlife
• Best for: Music lovers, culture seekers, food enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $191 roundtrip

3. Austin, Texas

Austin combines live music capital energy with outdoor activities and food truck culture—all at Texas-sized value. The city's swimming holes, free concerts, and affordable dining make it perfect for students seeking adventure over beach lounging.

• Estimated daily budget: $55–$90 per person
• Weather: 70–80°F (21–27°C), warm and sunny
• Top attractions: Barton Springs Pool, Sixth Street nightlife, food trucks, live music venues
• Best for: Music fans, outdoor activity lovers, alternative spring break vibes
• Average Going deal: $168 roundtrip

Top spring break destinations for couples

1. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah's Spanish moss-draped squares, historic architecture, and romantic atmosphere create the perfect couple getaway minus the resort prices. The walkable historic district encourages leisurely exploration with intimate evening experiences.

• Estimated daily budget: $150–$230 per couple
• Weather: 60–72°F (16–22°C), pleasant spring temperatures
• Top attractions: Forsyth Park, River Street, historic squares, ghost tours, craft cocktail bars
• Best for: Romantic getaways, history enthusiasts, food lovers
• Average Going deal: $158 roundtrip

2. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona's dramatic red rock formations and spiritual atmosphere appeal to couples seeking natural beauty and relaxation. Budget-friendly hiking and free vortex sites balance out occasional splurges at spas.

• Estimated daily budget: $160–$250 per couple
• Weather: 55–70°F (13–21°C), perfect hiking conditions
• Top attractions: Red rock hiking trails, Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, wine tasting
• Best for: Active couples, nature lovers, spiritual seekers
• Average Going deal: $149 roundtrip (via Phoenix)

3. Beaufort, South Carolina

This charming Lowcountry town offers romantic Southern hospitality, waterfront views, and historic architecture at remarkably affordable prices. Beaufort provides intimate small-town charm perfect for couples wanting a peaceful escape from spring break crowds.

• Estimated daily budget: $130–$200 per couple
• Weather: 62–72°F (17–22°C), mild coastal weather
• Top attractions: Historic downtown, waterfront park, Hunting Island State Park, pre-Civil War architecture
• Best for: Quiet romantic escapes, Southern charm seekers
• Average Going deal: $158 roundtrip (via Savannah)

Affordable spring break trips for solo travelers

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville welcomes solo travelers with easy social opportunities through live music venues, walking tours, and friendly hostel environments. The city's compact downtown and abundant free entertainment make solo exploration comfortable.

• Estimated daily budget: $60–$100 per person
• Weather: 55–70°F (13–21°C), variable spring conditions
• Top attractions: Broadway honky-tonks (free live music), hot chicken, Centennial Park
• Best for: Music lovers, foodies, social solo travelers
• Average Going deal: $150 roundtrip

2. Portland, Oregon

Portland's quirky culture and abundant free activities make it ideal for budget-conscious solo explorers. The city's food truck scene and welcoming vibe create easy solo travel experiences. For more inspiration, check our guide to solo travel for women.

• Estimated daily budget: $65–$110 per person
• Weather: 50–60°F (10–16°C), mild with chance of rain
• Top attractions: Powell's Books, Washington Park (free), food trucks, Forest Park hiking
• Best for: Independent travelers, book lovers, outdoor types
• Average Going deal: $174 roundtrip

3. Denver, Colorado

Denver combines urban sophistication with outdoor access, offering solo travelers both city culture and mountain adventures. Excellent hostels, free brewery tours, and accessible hiking trails create perfect conditions for solo exploration (it’s always best to let a trusted source know about your hiking plans if you plan to hike alone).

• Estimated daily budget: $70–$115 per person
• Weather: 45–60°F (7–16°C), sunny but variable
• Top attractions: Red Rocks Park, Denver Art Museum, RiNo Art District, mountain day trips
• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, beer lovers, active solo travelers
• Average Going deal: $161 roundtrip

4. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville's mountain setting, thriving arts scene, and brewery culture (for visitors of age) create a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers. The Blue Ridge Parkway provides stunning scenic drives, while downtown's compact walkability makes navigation easy.

• Estimated daily budget: $65–$105 per person
• Weather: 50–65°F (10–18°C), mountain spring weather
• Top attractions: Biltmore Estate, Blue Ridge Parkway, breweries, hiking trails, live music
• Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts, hikers, arts lovers
• Average Going deal: $166 roundtrip

Cheap international spring break destinations

1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta delivers Mexican beach resort experiences at lower costs than Cancún while maintaining excellent infrastructure. The combination of beautiful beaches, local culture, and affordable all-inclusive options creates excellent value.

• Estimated daily budget: $80–$140 per person
• Weather: 75–85°F (24–29°C), warm and sunny
• Top attractions: Malecón boardwalk, Los Muertos Beach, Zona Romántica, whale watching, snorkeling
• Best for: Beach lovers, couples, all-inclusive seekers
• Average Going deal: $346 roundtrip

2. Guatemala

Guatemala offers extraordinary value with stunning Lake Atitlán, colonial Antigua, and Mayan ruins all at backpacker-friendly prices. Accommodation, meals, and activities cost significantly less than Mexico while providing authentic experiences.

• Estimated daily budget: $40–$75 per person
• Weather: 70–80°F (21–27°C), dry season
• Top attractions: Lake Atitlán villages, Antigua colonial architecture, Tikal ruins, Pacaya volcano
• Best for: Adventure travelers, budget backpackers, volcano enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $275 roundtrip

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica combines Caribbean and Pacific beaches with rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife at reasonable prices outside luxury eco-lodges. The country's excellent infrastructure makes it ideal for first-time international spring breakers.

• Estimated daily budget: $70–$130 per person
• Weather: 75–90°F (24–32°C), dry season
• Top attractions: Manuel Antonio beaches, Arenal Volcano, zip-lining, surfing, hot springs
• Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, families
• Average Going deal: $339 roundtrip

4. Portugal

Portugal delivers European charm, stunning coastlines, and excellent food at significantly lower prices than Spain, France, or Italy. Lisbon and Porto offer world-class cities while the Algarve provides beach destinations—all budget-friendly.

• Estimated daily budget: $75–$135 per person
• Weather: 55–65°F (13–18°C), mild spring conditions
• Top attractions: Lisbon's Alfama district, Porto wine cellars, Algarve beaches, Sintra palaces
• Best for: Culture seekers, food lovers, European experience on budget
• Average Going deal: $554 roundtrip

Related reading:

• How to plan a trip to Portugal
• What to eat in Portugal
• Best places to visit in Portugal

5. The Azores

Portugal's volcanic islands in the Atlantic offer dramatic landscapes, whale watching, and hot springs at prices lower than mainland Europe. This off-the-beaten-path destination provides adventure without tourist crowds or costs.

• Estimated daily budget: $70–$120 per person
• Weather: 55–62°F (13–17°C), Atlantic island climate
• Top attractions: Sete Cidades crater lakes, whale watching, hot springs, hiking trails
• Best for: Nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, photographers
• Average Going deal: $536 roundtrip

Alternative spring break ideas on a budget

National parks and outdoor adventures

America's national parks provide incredible spring break experiences with minimal costs. Beyond the Great Smoky Mountains, consider Zion National Park in Utah, Big Bend in Texas, or Joshua Tree in California—all offering camping under $30/night and free hiking. The National Park Service's annual pass grants unlimited access to all federal recreation lands.

Related reading:

• 10 cheapest national parks to fly to
• How to get to national parks on points and miles
• The best national parks in the United States

Road trips with budget-friendly stops

Road trips can reduce the need for expensive airfare while providing flexibility and adventure. Classic routes like California's Pacific Coast Highway, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or Route 66 segments offer stunning scenery with countless free or budget-friendly stops. Camping, hostels, and budget motels keep accommodation costs manageable while allowing spontaneous detours.

Related reading:

• 21 great American road trips around the US

Volunteer and wellness retreats

Alternative spring break programs through universities or organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, provide meaningful experiences while covering accommodation and sometimes meals. These service-focused trips typically cost $200–$500 total, including housing and food.

Budget travel tips for spring break

When to book flights for the best deals

• Book domestic spring break flights 3–5 months in advance for optimal pricing—November for March travel, December for April trips. However, airlines occasionally release sales closer to departure, so set up alerts through Going to catch these opportunities. Learn how to find cheap flights with our comprehensive guide.
• Avoid the peak spring break week if possible (typically the week before or after Easter) when prices skyrocket. The first two weeks of March and late March into early April see significantly lower fares. Watch for mistake fares—pricing errors that can drop costs by 50–70%.
• Use Google Flights effectively by setting up price tracking and exploring the calendar view to identify the cheapest travel dates. Our how to use Google Flights guide covers advanced features most travelers miss.

How to find affordable accommodations

• Book refundable rates when prices fluctuate. During the planning phase, book refundable accommodations even if they cost slightly more. Continue monitoring prices and rebook if rates drop, canceling the original reservation.
• Compare vacation rentals versus hotels carefully. For families or groups of friends, splitting a house or shared accommodation often costs less per person than individual hotel rooms. Consider staying slightly outside prime locations. Hotels 10–15 minutes from the beach or downtown often cost 30–50% less while remaining perfectly accessible. Just remember: Staying in established, locally owned hotels or B&Bs helps you directly support the local economy and avoid indirectly displacing residents due to short-term rentals. These accommodations typically follow regulations, promote more sustainable practices, manage tourist numbers more responsibly, and are less likely to strain infrastructure.

Saving money on food and activities

Self-catering saves substantial money on vacation rentals with kitchens. Preparing breakfasts and packing lunch for beach days easily saves $30–$50 daily for a family of four. When dining out, research local happy hours and early-bird specials—many beach destinations offer 4–6pm dinner discounts.

Seek free activities matching your destination's strengths. Beach destinations provide free ocean access, beach yoga classes, and outdoor concerts. Cities offer free museum days, walking tours, public parks, and festivals. Research the local visitor bureau website before arrival to find free events during your stay.

Traveling during off-peak spring break weeks

The timing of your spring break trip dramatically impacts costs. Traveling during the first two weeks of March or the last week of March (avoiding Easter) can save 30–50% on both flights and accommodations compared to peak weeks. If your schedule allows flexibility, even shifting by just 3–4 days can yield hundreds in savings.

Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays typically costs less than flying on Fridays or Sundays. Many schools have slightly different spring break weeks. Research your destination to avoid arriving when multiple schools or universities descend simultaneously.

How to find cheap flights for spring break with Going

Spring break represents one of the year's most expensive travel periods, but Going members consistently find deals that make affordable spring break possible. Our Premium membership provides instant notifications when airlines discount routes from your home airport to spring break destinations—often saving $200–$500 per ticket compared to typical pricing.

Going's travel experts monitor millions of flight combinations daily, catching mistake fares, flash sales, and unadvertised deals that disappear within hours. While competitors focus on search tools that require constant manual checking, Going does the work for you, delivering only genuine deals straight to your inbox.

Consider upgrading to Going Elite for access to premium economy and business class deals if you're planning longer international flights or want to make your spring break trip feel a little more premium—without paying a premium. Many members find that booking just one discounted spring break flight pays for an entire year of membership, with additional trips throughout the year being pure bonus value.

The key to affordable spring break isn't luck—it's having the right information at the right time. Set your home airport preferences, choose your dream destinations, and let Going alert you when prices drop. Your perfect spring break is waiting, and it doesn't have to cost a fortune.