Travel TipsFlight BookingTrip Planning

Last-Minute Award Travel Deals to the Top Spring Break Destinations in 2026

14 min read
March 4, 2026Lori Zaino

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If you’ve been buried under snow or ice these past months, or simply had it with winter, work, or pretty much everything, you’re overdue for a last-minute spring break getaway. And yes, you can get to some of the top trending warm-weather spring break destinations without breaking the bank.

It’s not too late to book travel — our data shows you can still book the hottest spring break destinations in 2026 affordably, especially if you’re sitting on a stash of points and miles.

While award availability often opens up a year in advance, airlines sometimes release last-minute seats and deals (even within a couple of days of departure) that you can snap up with points and miles to some of the most popular spring break spots. 

These include sunny destinations like Orlando, which is seeing 54.5% more searches in 2026 on point.me, San Juan, which is getting 48.7% more attention this year than last, and Fort Lauderdale, which has 46.1% more views this season, among many other warm and inviting places ideal for a spring getaway.

Last-minute award availability is still out there, and we’re going to show you how to find it for the most popular 2026 spring break destinations so you can finally shed those winter vibes and get the infusion of sunshine you need to make it through spring.

How to book last-minute with points 

Booking last-minute award travel is always a gamble, but it can definitely work out in your favor. These tips can help you as you search for last-minute spring break airfare.

Opt for loyalty programs with fixed pricing or award charts

While loyalty programs that use dynamic pricing (where costs change based on peak and off-peak times) may have higher last-minute prices, you might discover that pricing from programs that have award charts or fixed options is still affordable and available. For example, some of the most cost-effective awards we found were on Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, a loyalty program that still uses award charts.  

Keep your dates flexible

The more flexible you are with dates and times, the easier it will be to find those hidden, low-priced award tickets. Even just 24 hours can make all the difference. Staying flexible with locations can also mean you can follow the deals wherever they lead you. Maybe Fort Lauderdale is pricy, but Tampa is a warm, sunny Florida alternative where you can find a better award deal.

Transfer your points

Your points from credit card issuers, such as Amex, Chase, Bilt, Capital One, or Citi, are always worth the same amount if you book travel via each issuer's travel portal. However, transferring your points to airlines can get you a much higher value per point, especially if you move them during a transfer bonus or find an amazing award deal with a specific airline.

Consider your party size

We know it’s more fun to fly with every single one of your besties, and that it’s easier for families with kids to fly all together, but you’ll often discover better award availability if your party is smaller. Try checking for just one or two people to find the best rates. You might not even have to split up, but you could end up getting one or two tickets at a lower award rate than the others. 

It’s not too late for a last-minute spring break vacation

Many sunny spring break spots are trending on point.me right now, some showing an increase of more than 50% in spring break search volume compared to last year. We rounded up the top 10 warm weather, North American destinations trending on point.me this spring, finding the best deals to each spot. 

This means you can get to top destinations this season without overspending — it’s not too late to get to Florida’s sunny shores or enjoy Austin’s live music scene for (nearly) free. 

Here are the hottest spring break destinations for 2026, why you should go, and how to get there affordably using points and miles.

1. Orlando, Florida

This Floridian city has the most year-over-year search growth on point.me: 54%, which means it’s the most popular spring break destination on our list this year.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Orlando, with dozens of new or renovated attractions opening. Families can enjoy Universal Orlando Resort’s Butterbeer season, which runs from March 1 to May 26, the indoor roller coaster Galacticoaster debuting at Legoland, and the opening of the world’s first Slotharium, where sloths freely wander through a rainforest setting.

Thanks to its proximity to Walt Disney World, Orlando also has plenty of hotels you can book with points a low award rates, especially if you head slightly inland.

Best nonstop economy class deals to Orlando:

2. San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you’re obsessed with Bad Bunny’s addicting rhythms, crave surfing the last of the larger winter swells in Rincón (the waves are best through April), or want to explore colorful culture and gorgeous landscapes, Puerto Rico is the place to be. You’re not alone in wanting to visit this tropical U.S. island, as point.me has seen an increase of nearly 49% in searches for this destination compared to spring last year.

Discover El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest within the U.S. forest system, or wander the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, popping into shops and breaking for a refreshing piragua (flavored shaved ice). 

And whether you plan to salsa the night away at open-air bars or spend sunny mornings walking the vast beaches of Luquillo, spring in Puerto Rico is perfection, with sunny, mid-80 temperatures and low humidity. Get further off the beaten path with a boat trip to Culebra Island to visit Flamenco Beach, known as one of the most idyllic stretches of sand in Puerto Rico.

Best nonstop economy class deals to San Juan:

3. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

One of four Florida destinations on our list, it’s clear the Sunshine State is a popular spring break spot — searches for this South Florida city on point.me are up 46% from last year. If 24 miles worth of sprawling sandy beaches aren’t enough for you, Miami, with its gorgeous beaches and pulsating nightlife, is just a short Uber ride away.

Besides the city’s expanse of soft-sand beaches, there are some new hotels to consider this spring, from the freshly renovated Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort to the newly opened Omni Fort Lauderdale. And if you do see a rainy afternoon, you can always check out the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery and Science or the Historic Stranahan House Museum, the city’s oldest surviving structure.

Best nonstop economy class deals to Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

4. West Palm Beach, Florida

West Palm Beach is home to stretches of sand that often feel less crowded and more remote than beaches further south within the state. It may not feel remote for long though: Searches for destination are up 46% than last year at this time, according to data from point.me. You can spot manatees at Juno Beach, experience an underwater snorkel trail that features submerged sculptures and stingrays at Riviera Beach, or head to the family-friendly John D. MacArthur Beach State Park to kayak, canoe, or hunt for shells.

Spring is also when the city puts on its annual 5-day Palm Beach International Boat Show, has baseball spring training for the Houston Astros and the Washington Nationals (through the end of March), and showcases one of Florida’s largest music and art waterfront festivals: SunFest.

Best nonstop economy class deal to West Palm Beach (PBI)

5. Kona, Hawaii

Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island offers so much more than just the typical spring break beach experience, which is why its unsprising that search volume for the destination is up nearly 46% over last year. There are many black sand and white sand beaches, but you can also stargaze, look for humpback whales, and sample Kona Coffee, which hails from the region. Don’t miss visiting the Hōnaunau National Historical Park, where you can hike or view cultural demonstrations of Hawaiian traditions.  

If you’re in the market for a luxury stay, consider lodging at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort. The hotel, which was renovated in 2023, is home to an on-site farm and 150 free-standing thatched-roof hale (Hawaiian guesthouses) with amenities like outdoor showers and stunning views of Hawaiian nature.

Best nonstop business class deal to Kona (KOA)

Best nonstop economy class deals to Kona (KOA)

6. Tampa, Florida

Visitors are heading to Tampa in droves, so it’s no surprise point.me is seeing a 42.2% increase in search traffic for the Floridian city for spring break dates. The city is constantly expanding and renovating its famed Riverwalk, complete with scenic overlooks, parks, and public art, ideal for a morning stroll or a sunset bike ride along the waterfront.

Families can enjoy the Florida Aquarium’s newly opened Tide Pool exhibit, which features more than 22 marine species in one of the only cold-water touch habitats in the state. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a trendier trip with friends or as a couple, the EDITION Tampa is a stylish retreat with a chic rooftop pool and cabanas. 

Best nonstop economy class deals to Tampa (TPA)

7. Aruba

Aruba is home to those postcard-perfect white-sand beaches and transparent Caribbean waters, but a new type of tourism is emerging on this island in 2026: food tourism. This isn’t the destination where you’ll find mega all-inclusive resorts; instead, stay at a boutique hotel and dine among the island’s 250+ restaurants. Between meals, make sure to visit Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island.

Aruba even has its own boutique winery and distillery, Altovista, where you can sip a glass of tempranillo reserve or throw back a shot of Red Star Rum. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that searches for flights to the island are up 38% over last year on point.me.

Best nonstop business class deals to Aruba (AUA)

Best nonstop economy class deals to Aruba (AUA)

8. Maui, Hawaii

Maui has made a near-full recovery from its 2023 wildfire devastation, which is likely why travelers are searching for flights on point.me nearly 38% more than last year. The island’s pristine coastline is one of its top draws, but there’s also much to see and do beyond its beaches. Stargazing is a popular activity, especially at the top summit of Haleakala National Park. Meanwhile, one of the best snorkeling adventures is at Molokini Crater, a volcanic cone cove off the coast of Maui, which offers 150 feet of visibility to colorful marine life and coral below.

And you can’t visit the island without driving the incredibly scenic Road to Hana — just buckle up, because the road is twisting and narrow. Or, if you’re feeling really brave, cruise the Kahekili Highway, which is just as harrowing (if not more), but not as crowded.

Best business class deal to Kahului (OGG)

Best nonstop economy class deal to Kahului (OGG)

9. Honolulu, Hawaii

The third Hawaiian destination on our list, search volume on point.me for this sunny island is up almost 37% from last year. And if you’re traveling to Hawaii on a budget, staying in the capital of Honolulu is the way to go, as you can often find hotel deals, yet you’re still within reach of beautiful beaches and natural landscapes. 

History buffs should check out the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, while hikers should trek through Ka'ena Point State Park or the Diamond Head Crater Trailhead. 

And everyone will enjoy the inviting waters of Waikiki Beach. Families can find shallow lagoon areas, while beginner surfers can learn on easy, rolling waves. For something a little different, visit Halona Beach Cove, which has a secret lava tube you can walk through.

Best nonstop economy class deal to Honolulu (HNL)

10. Austin, Texas

Spring in Austin features perfect weather (warm and sunny, but not too hot) and lots to do and experience. It’s the ideal alternative for those who want warmer weather but aren’t interested in a beach break. It proves that travelers want more than just coastline for their spring adventures, as searches for this Texas city are up 36% this season. Take advantage of the mild weather by checking out spring wildflowers in bloom, hiking at one of the many nature reserves around Austin, or dipping into nearby natural swimming holes or hotel pools. 

There are also festivals galore in spring, the most famous of which is SXSW, but you can also hit the MotoGP™ Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas and the Rodeo Austin in 2026. And, for a slightly weird but intriguing animal experience, you can view bats in the evening from the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge. This is when 1.5 million of these winged “tourists” spend spring through early fall in the city, emerging at dusk to enjoy Austin’s late-night scene. 

Best nonstop economy class deal to Austin (AUS)

Don’t Miss a Spring Break Getaway This Year

Spring break isn’t sold out just yet, and it’s still possible to find deals (especially if you have a stash of points and miles) for some of the most popular destinations. Many awards open up at the last minute if airlines realize they have unsold seats to trending destinations. 

Using point.me, you can find them with the click of a button. Check out the deals in this post, or use your own dates and desired spring break destination to search for award tickets. The more flexible you are, the higher the chance you’ll be able to find those hidden award seats this season. 

Written by
Lori Zaino

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