Best U.S. Family Vacation Destinations for March

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Amazon
• Pinterest

I used to be so bummed that our school’s spring break was always scheduled during March. Most of the country is still on the cooler side in March, and I was always on the hunt for warm-weather March vacation ideas. Luckily, I figured out that March is an excellent month for family travel and there are plenty of excellent family-friendly destinations that promise sunshine and lots of adventure.

As I mentioned above, many schools across the country schedule spring break during March, giving families a chance to escape without competing with the massive summer crowds. Top family vacation destinations in March include beaches and outdoor adventures, but the options extend well beyond sand and surf.

March offers mild weather and fewer crowds than summer, making it one of the most versatile months on the travel calendar. So, whether you’re after warm weather on the coast, wildflower fields in the Hill Country, or desert hikes under clear skies, March delivers shoulder season pricing and pleasant spring weather across dozens of destinations. Here’s a breakdown of the seven best March vacation ideas along with how to pick the right one. And be sure to check out my complete list of the best family spring break destinations for even more travel ideas during the spring season.

How I Selected the Best March Family Vacation Destination Ideas

Not every travel destination that looks good on Instagram actually works for a family spring break trip. I learned the hard way that Memorial Day weekend is a big kickoff to outdoor fun at a lot of places, so many tourist attractions (the top water parks, best amusement parks, etc.) may not be open yet in March. Plus, spring weather can still be very cold. So, I evaluated each spot using criteria that matters to parents traveling with young kids, teenagers, or a mix of ages.

Here’s what I considered:

• March weather conditions and temperature ranges – Average highs, lows, rainfall, and humidity levels specifically for March, not annual averages.
• Family friendly activities and attractions available in March – What’s actually open, in season, or hosting events during the month.
• Accommodation options suitable for families – Availability of suites, vacation rentals, resorts with heated pools, and properties with multiple restaurants on-site.
• Value for money and seasonal pricing – Whether March falls in peak, shoulder, or off-season for that destination, and how that impacts cost.
• Crowd levels and tourist season timing – Some spring break destinations get slammed in March; others stay relatively calm.
• Accessibility and ease of travel with children – Direct flights, reasonable driving distances, and kid-friendly infrastructure.
• Safety and family-oriented amenities – Clean facilities, medical access, shade, restrooms, and age-appropriate attractions.

With those filters applied, seven destinations stood above the rest. For this post, I really focused on warmer weather March destinations, but I want to add that many of these awesome family ski resorts throughout the U.S. are still fully operating in March and can make for an excellent spring ski trip destination.

Top 7 Family Vacation Destinations for March

1. Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer one of the most reliable tropical experiences you can find without a passport. Stretching 120 miles from Key Largo down to Key West, this chain of islands delivers warm water, marine life, and a laid-back atmosphere that works for the whole family.

Why It Stands Out on This List of March Vacation Ideas

March temperatures in the Keys average highs around 79°F with lows near 69°F, and rainfall sits at about 1.5 inches for the month. Humidity is manageable, and water temperatures hover in the mid-70s. So, it’s warm enough for comfortable snorkeling and swimming. You won’t find a more dependable warm weather destination in the continental U.S.

Best For

Families seeking tropical weather and water activities without the cost or logistics of international travel.

Where to Stay

Cheeca Lodge & Spa – Cheeca is a beautiful, upscale Keys resort with 1,200 feet of private white-sand beach, two oceanfront family pools, a fishing pier, watersports, tennis/pickleball, golf, and kids’ programming.

Bakers Cay Resort, Key Largo – Baker’s Cay has a private beach area on Florida Bay, and the resort includes a surprisingly good collection of activities—kayaks, paddleboards, fishing equipment, bikes, beach/pool activities and family programming.

Key Strengths

• Excellent snorkeling and diving conditions with clear visibility in early spring
• The Overseas Highway itself is a memorable driving experience – kids love crossing the Seven Mile Bridge
• Wildlife viewing opportunities at state parks like John Pennekamp Coral Reef and Bahia Honda
• Key West has walkable streets, historic forts, and sunset celebrations at Mallory Square
• Florida Keys accommodations can be shared with friends for savings, especially multi-bedroom rental homes
• Lot of family-friendly beach resorts in Florida

Possible Limitations

• March is one of the busiest months in the Keys. Snowbirds overlap with spring breakers, driving prices up
• Limited dining options in some of the more remote Keys
• Booking 6–9 months ahead is essential to avoid inflated rates

If you’re exploring other parts of Florida, consider that Orlando is popular for theme parks during March. And Ocala, Florida is one of the least crowded spring break destinations. You’ll even find horseback riding and glass-bottom boat tours there. Destin, Florida is known for spring swimming at the beach, while Pensacola Beach has beautiful beaches and emerald green waters, plus the Naval Aviation Museum and Blue Angels practices. Florida’s Emerald Coast has some of the best beaches in the country. And St. Pete Beach is another favorite among families seeking sandy beaches and calm Gulf waters. The resorts there feel like all-inclusive resorts in Florida.

2. March Vacation Ideas: Palm Desert, California

I love a Palm Desert getaway, and since I live in San Diego, it’s an easy hop, skip and jump from us. Palm Desert sits in the heart of the Coachella Valley, surrounded by mountains and desert landscapes that come alive in early spring. It’s a quieter, more relaxed alternative to its neighbor Palm Springs, with plenty of resort options designed for families.

Why It Stands Out

March brings daytime highs between 76°F and 83°F with lows in the low 50s, and rainfall averages just 0.3–0.5 inches for the entire month. That translates to day after day of sunshine, dry air, and comfortable outdoor conditions. Palm Springs, California is known for its hiking and Aerial Tramway, and both are just a short drive from Palm Desert. Or you can venture to the Pioneertown for some wild wild west fun. Check out this complete list of fun family things to do in Palm Springs.

Best For

Families wanting desert landscapes, outdoor adventure, and resort relaxation without extreme heat.

Where to Stay

Omni Rancho Las Palmas – This is consistently my top pick for families, especially if your kids are old enough to enjoy waterslides and a lazy river. The resort has Splashtopia, with a lazy river, waterslides, sandy beach area, and multiple pools. There are also six restaurants, tennis, golf and a spa, so adults aren’t stuck doing kid activities all day.

Grand Hyatt Indian Wells – This is actually just outside Palm Desert in Indian Wells, but it’s one of the best resorts for families. The big draw is HyTides Water Park, with a lazy river and waterslides, plus multiple pools and separate areas where adults can escape the kid chaos. It has a more polished, upscale feel than some of the other family resorts in the area. You can check out my complete review of it here.

Key Strengths

• Proximity to Joshua Tree National Park – an unforgettable day trip for families with kids of any age
• Family-friendly resort pools, spas, and golf courses throughout the valley
• Hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, from flat desert walks to moderate canyon routes
• The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens offers a kid-focused desert wildlife experience
• Stargazing opportunities away from city lights

Possible Limitations

• Desert nights can get chilly. Pack layers for young kids.
• Some luxury resorts carry premium pricing in March, though mid-range options exist

Palm Desert works especially well for families who want an outdoor adventure without the intensity of a national park camping trip. You get the desert scenery with the comfort of a resort. And it’s a place you can spend an entire week or just a few days, and you come home feeling refreshed.

3. San Diego, California

San Diego is famous for its world-renowned zoo and beautiful beaches, and March is one of the best times to experience both. The city delivers a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural depth, and family-oriented infrastructure that’s hard to match anywhere on the west coast. I live in San Diego, so even when we don’t travel for spring break, it’s definitely not the worst place to be. We love kayaking, tide-pooling, visiting museums and eating in Old Town, all before the mad rush of summer tourists arrive.

Why It Stands Out on This List of March Vacation Ideas

Consistently pleasant temperatures between 65°F and 72°F make March comfortable for everything from beach walks to theme park days. San Diego offers mild weather and beautiful beaches in March, with morning marine layers that usually burn off by midday. San Diego often has off-season pricing during spring, making it more affordable than summer visits. Spring is when this city is truly one of the most affordable family vacation spots.

Best For

Families seeking beaches, theme parks, and cultural attractions in a single destination.

Where to Stay

Paradise Point Resort & Spa – This isn’t just a hotel; it’s an entire vibe. Paradise Point is essentially a 44-acre island resort on Mission Bay, with bungalow-style accommodations, five pools, a mile of sandy beach, a marina and a ton of recreation.

Catamaran Resort – This resort is worth considering if you want a more affordable bayfront option. It’s directly on Mission Bay with the Pacific Ocean across the street, and it’s particularly good for families who want beach + watersports + a tropical resort setting.

See more beachfront San Diego hotels here.

Key Strengths

• San Diego features the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park, home to over a dozen museums and gardens
• Beautiful beaches including Coronado, La Jolla, and Mission Beach
• Theme parks like LEGOLAND and SeaWorld are easily accessible
• Whale watching excursions run through early spring. Maui is a great location for whale watching in March, but San Diego offers solid Pacific gray whale sightings too
• Harbor cruises and the USS Midway Museum appeal to older kids and teens
• Check out this complete 5-day San Diego itinerary to help you hit all the best attractions

Possible Limitations

• Ocean water may still be too cool for swimming – mid-60s°F
• Higher accommodation costs near popular attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter or Hotel del Coronado

4. March Vacation Ideas: Austin, Texas

Austin has evolved from a music city into a full-spectrum family destination, especially in March. Wildflowers blanket the Hill Country, festivals fill the calendar, and the weather cooperates almost daily. Two years ago, we flew into Austin for spring break, but really spent most of our time in the outskirts of town. It was an awesome trip, where we enjoyed river floats, kayaking and delicious BBQ food. You can see that itinerary here. But now I feel like we need to go and actually spend some quality time in downtown Austin.

Why It Stands Out

March temperatures average in the low to mid-70s°F during the day with cooler evenings. Ideal for outdoor activities without the punishing summer heat. Bluebonnets and other wildflowers begin blooming, creating some of the best March vacation ideas for family photos and nature walks.

Best For

Families interested in music, culture, and outdoor activities with a Texas twist.

Where to Stay

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa – This would be my pick if you want something that feels upscale and relaxing for parents but still genuinely fun for kids. It’s set in the Hill Country about 20 minutes from downtown and has multiple pools, a splash pad, kids programming, nature activities, a game lounge, tennis, golf and seasonal activities.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort – Honestly, this is probably my #1 choice for your family. It’s technically in Lost Pines/Bastrop rather than Austin proper, but it’s only about 20 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom Airport. The resort sits on 405 acres and has a 1,000-foot lazy river, two-story waterslide, splash pad, kiddie pool, horseback riding, archery, biking, s’mores, pickleball and tons of other activities.

Check out this complete list of the top family resorts in Austin.

Key Strengths

• SXSW runs in mid-March and includes family-friendly events, free outdoor concerts at Lady Bird Lake, and interactive sessions
• Barton Springs Pool offers a natural swimming hole that kids love — it’s one of the best things to do in Austin!
• Unique food truck culture means easy, casual family dining at every price point
• Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin Nature Center, and the Thinkery children’s museum give parents plenty of kid friendly attractions to rotate through
• March is a great month for viewing bats under the Congress St. Bridge
• The surrounding area offers great day trip potential. The JW Marriott San Antonio, where we stayed for a couple of nights, features a large waterpark for families, complete with a lazy river, game room, and kid-friendly programming. You can read about our experience there in this blog post.

Possible Limitations

• During SXSW, hotel prices and traffic spike significantly. Book well in advance.
• No traditional beach activities, though Barton Creek and Lake Travis fill the gap

5. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia is known for its Southern charm and history, and March is arguably the most beautiful month to see it all. The city’s famous squares fill with blooming azaleas, and the pace of life slows to a comfortable crawl.

Why It Stands Out on This List of March Vacation Ideas

Daytime highs average in the low to mid-70s°F, with azaleas blooming from early March through mid-April. Dogwoods and camellias follow close behind, turning the entire historic district into a garden. This family friendly city is walkable, manageable in scale, and packed with character.

Best March Travel Destination For

Families seeking history, culture, and Southern charm. Savannah, Georgia is ideal for families with teenagers who appreciate architecture, storytelling, and atmospheric settings.

Where to Stay

Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa — Best for a Savannah sightseeing + resort combination. It’s right on the river, has a large pool, golf, tennis, and a ferry that gets you across to the Historic District. It feels like a true resort while still making it easy to explore the city.

DeSoto Savannah — Best for being right in the heart of Savannah. It’s not as sprawling as the Westin, but the rooftop pool, central location, and family-friendly setup make it a great choice if your priority is walking to Savannah’s squares, restaurants, parks, and historic sites.

Key Strengths

• Historic squares and trolley tours make exploring easy without exhausting younger legs
• Family-friendly ghost tours and pirate adventures keep kids engaged with the city’s 300-year history
• Nearby Tybee Island beach access gives you a beach day trip just 20 minutes from downtown
• Vacation rentals are popular in Savannah, Georgia. Historic homes converted into multi-bedroom rentals give families more space than hotels
• St. Patrick’s Day celebrations (March 17) are a major event with parades and city-wide festivities
• Nature lovers will enjoy Bonaventure Cemetery and the surrounding marshlands

Possible Limitations

• Some walking tours may be challenging for very young kids or strollers on cobblestone streets
• Occasional March rain showers so pack a light jacket
• Festival weekends (St. Patrick’s Day, Savannah Music Festival) can bring higher lodging prices

Just down the coast, South Carolina destinations like Hilton Head offer another layer of beautiful beaches and family-friendly resorts if you want to extend your trip. Myrtle Beach is also a popular option for families seeking sandy beaches and boardwalk entertainment.

6. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix transforms into a sports and outdoor paradise every March. The desert climate is at its most comfortable, the hiking is spectacular, and Cactus League spring training brings a festive energy to the entire valley.

Why It Stands Out

March daytime temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s to low 80s°F with minimal rainfall and low humidity. This is the sweet spot before summer heat makes outdoor activities uncomfortable. I love all the family-friendly resorts in Phoenix, plus there are tons of great restaurants and hiking opportunities nearby.

Best For

Families wanting desert adventures and spring training baseball. It’s a great spring break destination for sports-loving households.

Where to Stay

There are lots of family-friendly resorts in Phoenix, and most have amazing pools!

JW Marriott Desert Ridge – This resort has the new AquaRidge WaterPark, a huge 140,000-square-foot water complex with a lazy river, multiple waterslides, several pools and different areas for both kids and adults.

Arizona Grand Resort – If your kids are going to judge the hotel based on the pool, Arizona Grand is tough to beat. It’s one of the best resorts with a water park. The onsite 7-acre Oasis Water Park has an 8-story waterslide, lazy river, wave pool, splash area and play area for younger kids.

Key Strengths

• Spring training baseball games across the valley give families a relaxed, affordable introduction to pro baseball
• Desert Botanical Garden offers guided nature programs designed for kids
• Hiking trails like Camelback Mountain and Papago Park range from easy to moderate
• Family-friendly resorts with pools, water slides, and spa amenities are plentiful
• Red Rock Canyon scenery and outdoor activities near Sedona make for an unforgettable day trip

Possible Limitations

• Spring training crowds can inflate hotel and restaurant demand. It’s important to book early.
• Limited water activities compared to coastal destinations
• Late March temperatures can begin climbing uncomfortably, especially for young kids

7. March Vacation Ideas: New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans delivers a cultural experience unlike anything else in the country. Spring break in New Orleans is less crowded after Mardi Gras, making March an ideal window to explore the city’s music, food, and history without fighting for sidewalk space. And there’s plenty of family-friendly activities suitable for all ages in New Orleans. We spent a couple of days there in late March before boarding a Disney Cruise and had so much fun eating beignets, listening to jazz bands and going on swamp tours. You can read about our New Orleans itinerary here.

Why It Stands Out

March temperatures average in the low to mid-70s°F with mild nights. The city center retains its energy without the chaos of carnival season, and humidity is still manageable before summer sets in.

Best March Travel Destination For

Families seeking culture, music, and unique experiences. New Orleans is a perfect spring break destination for families who value food, history, and live entertainment.

Where to Stay

Omni Royal Orleans – This would be my pick if you want to stay in the French Quarter. It’s right in the middle of the action, near Jackson Square, Café du Monde, the riverfront, and tons of restaurants and shops. It also has a rooftop pool that’s perfect for cooling off after exploring.

The Windsor Court – If you want something more luxurious and polished, I’d go with Windsor Court. It’s downtown, just outside the French Quarter, so you’re close to the attractions without being immersed in the busiest part of Bourbon Street. And it has a 65-foot heated saltwater pool.

Key Strengths

• Family-friendly French Quarter activities include beignets at Café Du Monde, Jackson Square street performers, and walking tours of the Garden District
• Audubon Aquarium and Zoo provide full-day entertainment for the entire family
• Riverboat cruises on the Mississippi offer a unique perspective on the city
• Jazz brunches are a family-friendly tradition. Most are welcoming to kids
• Unique cuisine introduces children to new flavors in a fun, low-pressure setting
• Multiple restaurants in the city cater specifically to families with kids’ menus and casual atmospheres

Possible Limitations

• Some areas along Bourbon Street may not be suitable for young children, especially at night
• Rising humidity through March can make outdoor walking less comfortable
• Spring showers are possible. Plan at least one indoor activity per day

Quick Comparison of the Best March Family Vacation Ideas

Destination	Avg High (°F)	Rainfall	Crowd Level	Best For
Florida Keys	79°F	~1.5 in	High	Tropical water activities, snorkeling
Palm Desert	78–82°F	~0.4 in	Moderate	Desert adventures, luxury resorts
San Diego	65–72°F	Low-Moderate	Moderate	Beaches, zoos, year-round activities
Austin	70–75°F	Variable	High (SXSW)	Music culture, wildflower season
Savannah	70–75°F	Moderate	Rising	History, Southern charm
Phoenix	75–82°F	Very Low	High (Spring Training)	Spring training, desert exploration
New Orleans	70–75°F	Moderate	Moderate	Culture, unique experiences

How to Choose the Right March Family Destination

Choose Based on Weather Preferences

March climate varies significantly depending on where you go. If your family craves warm weather and white sand beaches, the Florida Keys or San Diego will deliver. If you prefer dry desert air and clear skies, Palm Desert or Phoenix are stronger picks. Families comfortable with occasional showers and mild temperatures will love Savannah or New Orleans.

Early spring in the Southwest desert can surprise you. Reports have noted record-tying triple-digit temps in Palm Springs as early as March, so check forecasts close to your travel dates. Meanwhile, spring weather in the Southeast tends to be more predictable but wetter.

Choose Based on Activity Types

Your family’s interests should drive the decision:

• Water activities: Florida Keys, San Diego
• Cultural experiences: New Orleans, Savannah, Austin
• Outdoor adventure: Phoenix, Palm Desert, San Diego, Austin
• National parks: Joshua Tree National Park is an easy getaway from Palm Desert. The Grand Canyon remains one of the most awe-inspiring day trip options from Phoenix, but it will require a lot of extra time in the car.

Choose Based on Budget and Travel Distance

Cost varies widely across these destinations. Here’s a general framework:

• Most affordable: Austin, Savannah, and Phoenix tend to offer reasonable lodging and dining outside of festival/event weeks
• Mid-range: San Diego (especially with off-season pricing), Palm Desert, New Orleans
• Premium: Florida Keys in March – peak of the peak season means higher rates for everything

Spending spring break closer to home cuts airfare costs significantly. Families on the East Coast can drive to Savannah or the Keys. West Coast families have easy access to San Diego and Palm Desert.

For resort-seekers, look for properties with built-in amenities such as heated pools, on-site dining and kids’ clubs. This reduces the need for costly excursions. Some beach resorts and ski resorts bundle activities into nightly rates, which simplifies budgeting.

And if you’re staying domestic because you think all-inclusive resorts are all too expensive, you might be wrong. Check out this list of the most affordable but still highly rated all-inclusive resorts.

Which March Vacation Destination Idea Is Best for You?

Every family is different, so here’s a quick decision guide:

• Choose Florida Keys if you want tropical weather, water sports, and your kids are comfortable in and around the ocean
• Choose Palm Desert if you prefer luxury desert resorts, pool time, hiking, and proximity to Joshua Tree
• Choose San Diego if you want diverse attractions — zoo, beaches, museums, theme parks — with consistently pleasant weather
• Choose Austin if your family spring break plans center on music, festivals, wildflowers, and food culture
• Choose Savannah if you love history, charming architecture, and a slower pace that works for the whole family
• Choose Phoenix if spring training baseball, desert hiking, and resort living are your family’s spring break vacation priorities
• Choose New Orleans if you seek one-of-a-kind culture, world-class cuisine, and experiences your kids won’t find anywhere else

For families still weighing their March vacation ideas beyond these seven, remember that family friendly destinations exist across every region and budget. Whether it’s the emerald coast of Florida, a secluded tropical island, or a cabin near a national park, March gives you options that summer simply doesn’t.

Final Thoughts

It took us a few trips of lousy weather and limited attractions before we got it right, but now I love having our spring break in March. March delivers a rare combination of warm weather, fewer crowds, and shoulder season pricing that makes it one of the best months for a family vacation. Each of these March vacation ideas offers something distinct, from the turquoise waters of the Keys to the blooming squares of Savannah to the desert trails outside Phoenix.

The best spring break destinations aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your perfect spring break destination depends on whether your family gravitates toward beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, cultural immersion, or some mix of all three. The key is matching your family’s interests and energy level to the right place.

Note: Affiliate links on this page may earn me commission if used to make purchases. This doesn’t cost you a penny more, and it helps to keep my website up and running for free.