When it comes to sunny spring break getaways that are sure to please every type of traveler, few places can match the dynamic energy of The Sunshine State. And in 2026, travelers are increasingly flocking to Florida’s sandy shores and scintillating cities in search of warm weather and a taste of the sweet life.
According to new hilton.com spring break search data, Florida is one of the top-trending destinations in the continental U.S., and among the state’s most popular draws for adventure seekers are the entertainment wonderland of Orlando, the breezy beaches of Fort Lauderdale, and the laid-back lifestyle of Marco Island.
Wondering which sun-soaked city to choose? Here’s a helpful guide on what to do and where to stay along the way.
Orlando is the Epicenter of Family-Friendly Spring Break Excitement
For families traveling with young ones (or the young at heart), few destinations offer as much kid-approved fare as the entertainment wonderland of Orlando. Dubbed the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” this dynamic destination is a place where travelers can choose from a completely new adventure every day of their stay and never run out of fun things to experience. From zooming along roller coaster tracks to snacking on churros or simply lounging by the pool, Orlando is a playful, warm-weather hideaway that’s perfect for anyone looking to shake off the winter blues.
Looking for more? Art lovers will discover live shows and world-class entertainment awaiting them around every corner. Sports fans can catch a basketball game downtown. Health-centered activities like golfing, paddling, biking, swimming, and spa rituals abound. And romantic dining and lively bars keep the excitement going well past dark. Orlando is truly a place that’s built on play, and days spent here are sure to be memorable.
Where to Stay: Hilton Orlando makes an energetic, crowd-pleasing home base that combines convenience with peak vacation vibes. Float along the lazy river, splash in the tropical-style pools, and savor six unique on-site dining experiences for an unforgettable stay. With spacious rooms and easy access to Orlando’s top theme parks and attractions, it’s the perfect place to recharge between adventures.
For travelers looking to elevate their stay, Conrad Orlando offers the ultimate all-ages playground. Situated on beach paradise Evermore Bay, guests can dip into crystal-clear waters, stretch out on soft sand, and play all day on paddleboards, kayaks, rope swings, swim zones, and shaded hammocks. With sleek accommodations, upscale dining, and polished design, it’s an escape within an escape that’s ideal for those who want an enhanced retreat after long days exploring all that Central Florida has to offer.
For travelers seeking playful style and great value near Orlando’s top attractions, Tru by Hilton Orlando Convention Center Area offers modern rooms, a vibrant lobby, and a refreshing outdoor pool. Guests enjoy free hot breakfast every morning, featuring the signature Top It bar with pancakes and a variety of toppings to mix and match. Pets are also welcome, making this a smart pick for families and friends looking to maximize their spring break fun.
Fort Lauderdale Offers an Effortless Escape Within a Coastal Cityscape
While Orlando is known for its adrenaline, Fort Lauderdale is beloved for its vibey atmosphere. With its palm-lined boulevards, golden beaches, and miles of sparkling waterways, this coastal city makes the perfect choice for travelers who love sun, sand, and a slower, stylish rhythm. Here, indie boutiques line trendy streets and waterfront cafés serve up fresh seafood and gorgeous views. The social scene keeps the excitement alive from sunrise to sunset, offering everything from art galleries to hip rooftop cocktail spots.
But perhaps the biggest draw is the area’s picture-perfect beaches. Travelers young and old are drawn to Fort Lauderdale’s easygoing, toes-in-the-sand lifestyle, whether they’re yearning to paddleboard along the Intracoastal Waterway or simply sink into a lounge chair with the ocean as a backdrop. Hop aboard a water taxi to explore the city’s iconic canals to see it all and discover a softer, saltier side of Florida fun.
Where to Stay: Settle into Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, where ocean-view suites come with full kitchens, spacious living areas, and a delightfully breezy, beachy design. Located near Las Olas Boulevard’s vibrant restaurants and shops, this resort is in the heart of it all, providing quick access to the beach or the surrounding cityscape.
Just down the coast, The Diplomat Beach Resort, which is being rebranded as Signia by Hilton Diplomat Beach Resort in 2026, offers a grand, amenity-packed stay complete with multiple pools, oceanfront dining, and expansive beach access. It’s a great fit for travelers who want all the perks of a destination resort, while still being close to Fort Lauderdale’s buzzing cultural and culinary scene.
Marco Island Delivers Laid-Back Charm
For travelers craving a getaway that moves at a slower pace and offers postcard-worthy scenery, Marco Island is the place to be for impeccable laid-back vibes. Tucked along Florida’s Paradise Coast, this tranquil barrier island is all about barefoot days and show-stopping sunsets that fade into unforgettable nights. Here, relaxation is at the center of it all, but adventure is never far away.
Spring breakers can glide across turquoise waters on a paddleboard or kayak through winding mangrove estuaries, keeping an eye out for dolphins and manatees along the way. Shelling enthusiasts flock to beaches where colorful treasures wash ashore daily. Or, for a deeper dive into the area’s natural beauty, boat tours and sightseeing cruises reveal hidden coves, wildlife-rich waterways, and the untamed wetlands of the Everglades. Enjoy the excitement of it all or simply lounge on the sand in this warm-weather paradise.
Where to Stay: Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa makes a welcoming beachfront retreat. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool, expansive sun deck, and a pristine white sand beach, plus easy access to watersports and local excursions. The on-site spa offers a full menu of treatments that are ideal for unwinding after a day in the sun, making this serene hideaway the perfect home base for soaking up the quieter side of spring break.
