Spring break on a budget? This NC destination ranks among the best for affordable trips

Simone Jasper
·2 min read
12

If you want to enjoy spring break on a budget, a North Carolina destination may have you covered, new rankings show.

The Outer Banks barrier islands rank No. 4 on a list of fun-filled destinations that offer cost-effective activities and accommodations around this time of year, according to results published last month.

To create the list of “Best Cheap Spring Break Trips,” U.S. News & World Report said it allowed editors and website users to share their input on places to visit across North America. It also focused on whether each place received high marks as a springtime destination and looked at prices on the travel website Expedia.

“U.S. News carefully considered lodging costs, atmosphere, free things to do and traveler votes (among other factors),” the website said in its report, which is “updated once per year on a rolling basis.”

The Outer Banks was the only North Carolina destination to earn a spot on the list. In the rankings, U.S. News gave the barrier islands a nod for their beaches.

But the praise didn’t stop there.

“The limited hotel choices are all pretty affordable, and this area is known for its large vacation rental homes — including some that can accommodate 15 or more guests — which makes it a cost-effective option for large groups,” the report said.

The area also received acclaim for having lower-cost entertainment options, ranging from fishing to mini golf. Elizabeth Von Tersch, senior editor for travel at U.S. News, said the Outer Banks offer “a little bit of something for everybody.”

“Beyond the beach, obviously there are still a ton of other attractions. We love the history element of it with the Wright brothers and all of that,” Von Tersch told McClatchy News in a phone interview, adding that visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the nature of the area on mild spring days.

The results come after an Outer Banks town recently earned a spot on another travel list. In January, Avon was named one of the “most sought-after” destinations for people to visit this summer, based on rental website searches, McClatchy News reported.

This time around, the highest-ranking affordable spring break destination was Key West, Florida. Rounding out the top five were:

  • Panama City Beach, Florida, at No. 2

  • New Orleans, Louisiana, at No. 3

  • South Padre Island, Texas, at No. 5

The best place to live? This county tops the list in North Carolina, new rankings show

This NC city ranks among top places for food lovers to visit. Why is it so special?