While a Spring Break resort vacation may conjure images of boisterous college kids partying all day and night, the period between mid-March and the beginning of April, which in many parts of the United States can still feel dreary, is an ideal time for families and couples to travel. Avoiding the Spring Break cliches (and the college crowd), however, relies on choosing the right getaway.
Regardless of your vacation goals, a timeshare rental that’s part of a brand-name resort group is more than worth considering for your Spring Break retreat. There are timeshare rentals to suit every taste, budget and group size. The benefit of these accommodations over standard hotels is that you can enjoy a condo-like experience, including separate living and sleeping quarters as well as partial or complete kitchens, plus access to top-notch amenities like pools, fitness and spa facilities, concierge services and, depending on the property, on-site dining — features that are often missing from private home rentals.
Though you might think it’s too late to book a trip for Spring Break 2024, as the world’s largest by-owner timeshare marketplace, you’re almost guaranteed to find a great stay on RedWeek.com. To help you choose, we’re sharing our top three picks for family-friendly resorts and quieter ones better suited to adults only. Feeling inspired? You can book them on Redweek.com.
Family Fun in the Sun
Hacienda del Mar Resort, Cabo San Lucas, MX
Even the pickiest of eaters can’t say no to tacos, which makes a trip down south to Cabo a surefire win. With villas featuring three-bedroom units that can sleep up to twelve, the whole family will have room to spread out at this stunning Baja property overlooking the sapphire waters of the Sea of Cortez. While mom and dad indulge in a spa treatment at the onsite Cactus Spa, the kids can get their hands dirty, tie-dyeing their favorite t-shirt at the Kids Club, which offers a complete and diverse slate of activities to keep the youngsters busy. And though they might beg to spend all day with their new friends, clock some quality family time trying out local attractions, from the requisite swimming with the dolphins to whale watching and sailing — all of which can be arranged through the on-site concierge.
The Westin Kierland Villas, Scottsdale, AZ
You might have a hard time getting the kids out of the water at this desert retreat, which features a swimming pool complete with a waterfall and a waterslide and access to the Adventure Water Park at the adjacent Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. But if you can convince them, check out the Kierland Golf Club, where juniors under 15 years old play for free after 3 p.m. when accompanied by a paying adult. The three nine-hole courses are a perfect and accessible way to introduce your pre-teen or teen to the game, and the Club offers a variety of age-appropriate instruction, such as camps, clinics, or private lessons for those keen to develop their skills.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas —Jambo House, Orlando, FL
Get a taste of the savannah without leaving the continent at this animal-themed oasis inspired by the traditional African kraal. The 11,000-square-foot property features studio, one-and-two-bedroom units, and one-story villas, so you’re sure to find accommodation that meets your needs. In the morning, try to spot some of the 200 hoofed animals and birds that roam freely on the grounds before gearing up for an activity-filled day. From learning about African animals and ecosystems from the onsite animal specialists to a dip in the zero-depth entry pool (perfect for even the youngest of swimmers), this Disney-stamped property knows its audience. When you’re feeling peckish, walk over to the adjacent Kidani Village for an African-inspired lunch infused with Indian flavors at Sanaa before visiting the Hakuna Matata Playground, which overlooks a sea of flamingoes. The family fun doesn’t stop when the evening rolls around. Choose between a movie under the stars, roasting marshmallows around a campfire, or getting in a couple of pinball games at the 24-hour arcade.
A Walk on the Quieter Side
Hyatt Ka’anapali Beach – A Hyatt Residence Club, Maui, HI
What could be better than curling up with a good book and sipping a Mai tai while enjoying the sounds and sights of the Pacific? Doing it from the comfort of your private lanai, of course. That’s what you get at this luxury property, which overlooks miles of pristine beach. When you’re ready to venture outside the confines of your fully equipped, condo-style room, there are many relaxing yet fun-filled things to do, including a stroll along the Ka’anapali Beach walking trail. A stop at the iconic Black Rock, which separates the trail in two, is a must-see along the 5.5-mile there-and-back route, as is a dip (or several dips) in the property’s infinity-edge relaxation pool. Finally, no trip to Maui is complete without at least one waterfall sighting. Rent a car and head down the famous Hana Highway to explore one of Maui’s most beautiful valleys on the East Maui Waterfall Hike, or sign up for a guided tour of the tropical Hana coast, which takes you to scenic lookouts, bamboo jungles, waterfalls, and black sand beaches.
Divi Village Golf and Beach Resort, Oranjestad, Aruba
With access to pristine white sand beaches, a professional 9-hole golf course, and the aptly named Indulgence by the Sea Spa, a stay at this property reveals all that Aruba has to offer and more. For a wellness-focused vacation with that special someone, consider booking a Lover’s Indulgence package, which includes a candlelit massage followed by an organic facial and reinvigorating pedicure. Aside from the studio unit, all rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen should you decide to make your own meals, but with a myriad of on-site dining options and access to the other nearby Divi resorts (via complimentary shuttle), you might not want to. For a real treat, book in for brunch at Windows on Aruba on the top floor of the property’s golf clubhouse. Not only will you be rewarded with stunning 180°degree views of the course and ocean beyond, but you’ll also be treated to a creative, set-price menu (hello, unlimited Mimosas!). While it might be impossible to taste everything on the menu, don’t skip out on the Keshi mena, a local dish of gouda cheese stuffed with Chicken and served with black charcoal bread.
Valdoro Mountain Lodge, Breckenridge, CO
If resort relaxation with easy access to the slopes sounds like heaven, you’ve landed at the right spot. Adjacent to the Peak 9 ski base area and within walking distance to the picturesque, Victorian-inspired Main St., with its incredible shopping and dining scene, the units at this property are the perfect place to unwind after a day on the powder. Featuring full kitchens, stone-set fireplaces, private balconies, and Jacuzzi bathtubs, you’ll truly feel like you’re settling into your home away from home during your stay here. If the altitude has got you feeling less than your best, pop into the property’s Alpine Spa and Salon for an oxygenated massage or see what the CBD craze is about with the spa’s full menu of CBD-infused treatments.
There’s still time to book an affordable spring break getaway, even at popular family destinations or quiet luxury properties. Visit RedWeek.com and enter the destination that most interests you to see if the timeshare resort rentals are still available.
