(This article may or may not contain affiliate links. What does that mean?)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n \t\t\u00a0<\/p>\n For most of us, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer (sigh), and the final opportunity to pack your family into a car like human luggage or file them into their plane seats like an army general and head off for our Labor Day weekend getaways of sun, s<\/span>and, and inevitable sunburns. Whether you\u2019re into beautiful beaches, golf courses, state parks, or just trying to enjoy one last family summer trip without totally losing your mind, we\u2019ve rounded up the best destinations to make your holiday weekend unforgettable.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n NO TIME TO ENJOY THIS ARTICLE NOW? PIN IT OR BOOKMARK FOR LATER!<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Myrtle Beach is a vacation hot spot and the hub of the Grand Strand \u2013 60 miles of beautiful Atlantic beaches! It\u2019s a great place for a Labor Day getaway if your family enjoys outdoor entertainment, water parks, lavish resorts, and arguing over who gets to choose the lunch spot.<\/span><\/p>\n Ripley\u2019s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach<\/span><\/a> is more than just a few fish in a tank; it\u2019s an aquatic experience like no other. Get ready for face-to-face encounters with man-eating sharks, giant sawfish, the beloved Gabby the green sea turtle, and an array of over 14,000 fish, as you wander through its glass tunnel. Kids will love the interactive, hands-on experiences, from touch tanks and animal feedings to dive tours and live shows. Parents will love that they don\u2019t feel trapped in an endless maze; the exhibits are well-organized and easy to navigate, making time fly by, mainly because you aren\u2019t walking in circles while wondering, \u201cWeren\u2019t we just here?\u201d\u00a0 Tickets range from $13 to $40.<\/span><\/p>\n Broadway at the Beach<\/span><\/a> is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Myrtle Beach! And of course it is. This sprawling outdoor entertainment complex checks all the boxes for everyone in your family. It\u2019s filled with charming shops, restaurants, and one-of-a-kind events and shows, featuring everything from magicians to fire dancers. Labor Day weekend at Broadway is celebrated with a weekend of karaoke, live music, and a fireworks extravaganza over the lake. It\u2019s truly a one-stop shop, eat and groove \u2018til you drop.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Strolls, snacks, and sea breeze vibes. The Boardwalk never disappoints! Photo by Drew Perales @ unsplash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Everyone loves a good water park, and the<\/span> Myrtle Beach Waves Water Park <\/span><\/a>is one of the best! With over 30 water slides and 12 water attractions with names like \u201cSaturation Station\u201d, \u201cTurbo Twisters\u201d, and \u201cBubble Bay\u201d, plan to get wet and wild while working on your tan. Waves also features a FlowRider wave pool attraction for the surfers in your family and a lazy river for those of us parents that are looking for a bit of chill time.<\/span><\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve had your fair share of water park fun, head to the <\/span>Myrtle Beach Boardwalk<\/span><\/a>. This oceanfront boardwalk is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to stroll and plan your next adventure. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a family favorite because it\u2019s home to the old-fashioned Family Kingdom amusement park and the<\/span> SkyWheel<\/span><\/a>, one of the country\u2019s tallest Ferri wheels, as well as Pier 14, Second Avenue Pier, and Ripley\u2019s Haunted Adventure. Plus, there are arcades galore, souvenir shops, and eateries dotting the promenade. And of course, beach access for getting toes into the sand.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Dunes Village Resort<\/span><\/a> is a great spot for your family when you\u2019re visiting Myrtle Beach. It\u2019s a water park resort, what more can we say?<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Guess what? <\/span>Outer Banks<\/span><\/a> is not just a Netflix show! It\u2019s a great spot for that Labor Day weekend getaway you\u2019ve been promising the kids since spring break. Outer Banks is basically the relaxed version of Myrtle Beach. Expect pristine beaches, historic sites, horseback riding, and the slow, calming realization that no one\u2019s phone has a signal.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Catch a glimpse of the Outer Banks\u2019 legendary wild horses living their best beach life. Photo by Bonnie Kittle @ unsplash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Outer Banks is known for its wild horses. You will be the vacation hero when you book an Outer Banks Wild Horse Adventure. There are several ways to experience these equine beauties in their natural surroundings. Consider a guided tour, such as<\/span> Corolla Wild Horse Tours<\/span><\/a> or Bob\u2019s Corolla Wild Horse Tours. These tours take the fam in safari-style vehicles that are family-friendly and accommodate car seats for the littles. Your guide will take you to all the best viewing spots and give you a bit of history and information along the way. Families can also opt for a <\/span>self-guided tour<\/span><\/a>. Set out on your own private horse exploration along 4\u00d74 beach areas where the horses roam free.<\/span><\/p>\n The Outer Banks is rich in history, and with that comes ghosts, right? For a thrilling and bone-chilling adventure, take the family on a ghost tour. These tours are especially satisfying for squashing that \u201cI ain\u2019t afraid of no ghost\u201d attitude from your teen once and for all. Spend the evening strolling through town with<\/span> OBX Ghost Tours<\/span><\/a> as they spin spooky stories and haunted legends about the mysterious coastal town of Outer Banks.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Booking a stay at<\/span> Surf Side Hotel<\/span><\/a> gives you a chance to spend some time in Kitty Hawk, which is a big plus! This hotel has a family-friendly atmosphere, indoor and outdoor pools, and a convenient location.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n San Diego<\/span><\/a> is the perfect place for a last-minute Labor Day weekend escape. Find your favorite amusement parks, grab tacos by the ocean, or chill at a live music venue while your kids build sandcastles up and down the coast. Plus, the summer weather here is like Goldilocks\u2019 porridge\u2014just right.<\/span><\/p>\n Of course, good old-fashioned beach time awaits anywhere along the coast, but we suggest hitting a few favorites, like La Jolla Shores or Mission Beach, because these spots have all the components of a great beach day, including gentle waves for surfing or boogie boarding, lifeguards, and decent parking. There are plenty of non-beachy activities to do in SD, too.<\/span><\/p>\n Balboa Park<\/span><\/a> is more than a park, it\u2019s like an oasis in the middle of the city. Your family can set out on a choose-your-own-adventure filled with museum visits, tag at the playground, and rides on the carousel. Within the Park, visitors can see the <\/span>Spreckels Organ Pavilion<\/span><\/a> or get a peek at aircraft and space shuttles at<\/span> the <\/span>San Diego Air and Space Museum<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Water sports are the name of the game at<\/span> Mission Bay Park<\/span><\/a>. Take the family down by the bay, rent your favorite watercraft, and send those teens on their way to <\/span>paddleboard<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>kayak<\/span><\/a> their way around the bay while you relax at the water\u2019s edge, far enough away so that you can\u2019t hear their bickering. Those who want to stay dry can visit <\/span>Belmont Park<\/span><\/a> across Mission Blvd. for good \u2018ol-fashioned amusement park fun. Ride the wooden rollercoaster or try your luck at the games of chance to walk away with a stuffed animal you\u2019ll have to figure out how to schlep for the rest of the day.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Paddleboarding on Mission Bay in San Diego offers the ultimate SoCal chill. Photo by Tower Paddle @ unsplash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Part theme park, part aquarium, and wholly adventurous,<\/span> SeaWorld San Diego<\/span><\/a> offers an exciting and adventurous experience for the entire family. It\u2019s not just whales and water here. Kids and discerning teens have their pick of exciting shows and fan-favorite entertainment like Pirates Ahoy!, BMX Blast, and Laser Reef. SeaWorld has something for parents who are spending Labor Day at the park: the Craft Beer Festival, which pairs nicely with its Labor Day \u201cEnchanted Wonders\u201d fireworks spectacular!<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Dana on Mission Bay<\/span><\/a> is the perfect spot to lay your head when visiting San Diego. It\u2019s conveniently located near SeaWorld, Mission Bay, and has easy access to the freeway.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Welcome to <\/span>Key West<\/span><\/a>, where you\u2019ll find beautiful beaches, warm weather, and more outdoor adventure options than you thought possible. It\u2019s the perfect way to send summer off with a bang\u2014or a boat party.<\/span><\/p>\n Now, while not technically in Key West, the<\/span> Dry Tortugas National Park<\/span><\/a> is an absolute must-do! In our opinion, every single aspect of this experience is amazing and unbelievably cool. The Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 68 miles west of Key West. Getting there marks the beginning of this epic adventure, as it can only be reached by seaplane or ferry. Once there, your family can explore Fort Jefferson \u2013 complete with a moat! Or head to the water to spot the most vivid coral reefs and the marine life that lives there. You will also hear from the host\/guides about local shipwrecks and legends of hidden treasures.<\/span><\/p>\n If you want to see as much of Key West as you can, hop on the<\/span> Conch Train<\/span><\/a>. This train journey covers the entire island and visits most of Key West\u2019s notable sights, making it easy to spot the places you may want to revisit later, with or without the kids (no judgment)<\/span>.<\/b> The Shipwreck Treasure Museum, the Key West Aquarium, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, the Sails to Rails Museum, the Ernest Hemingway Home, the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society, the Key West Botanical Gardens, and Nancy\u2019s Secret Garden are just some of the places you can visit. While aboard the train, soak in the rich history of a town that has somehow blended pirate energy with Jimmy Buffett\u2019s vibe. Also, don\u2019t mind the roosters; they roam the streets freely here, which is either charming or terrifying, depending on how you feel about street-strutting poultry.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Dry Tortugas Ferry equals ocean breezes, island dreams, and adventure on the horizon. Photo courtesy of nps.org<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n When you\u2019re in Key West, book a room at the<\/span> Hilton Garden Inn<\/span><\/a>. It\u2019s a laid-back lodging with a pool and proximity to attractions like Smathers Beach and the Botanical Gardens.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Craving cooler temperatures, but not quite ready for pumpkin spice? Lake Tahoe is the Labor Day answer. With outdoor activities galore\u2014from hiking to water sports\u2014it\u2019s a great outdoor destination that makes you feel fit just by breathing the air.<\/span><\/p>\n The best thing about a Labor Day getaway to Tahoe is that, because most of the activities are outdoors, they are either <\/span>free or low cost<\/span><\/a>, and everyone\u2019s wallet could use a break right about now, you feel me?<\/span><\/p>\n Lake Tahoe offers your family the chance for <\/span>boating<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>kayaking<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>paddleboarding<\/span><\/a>, and swimming until their hearts\u2019 content, with rental shops on every street, corner, and shoreline. Not into powering your own boat? Consider booking a cruise on the beloved and iconic<\/span> MS Dixie II<\/span><\/a>. This paddlewheel boat is one of a kind, and as its giant paddlewheel churns water while gliding around the lake, it also features a glass bottom, offering a unique glimpse at the jaw-dropping depths of Lake Tahoe. The Dixie offers sunset cruises, captain dinner cruises, and day trips around Emerald Bay; you just can\u2019t go wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Cruise in style! Discover Lake Tahoe aboard the Iconic MS Dixie Paddlewheeler. Photo by visitlaketahoe.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Lake Tahoe also has hiking and mountain biking trails for all levels. The Eagle Falls Trail and the <\/span>Rubicon Trail <\/span><\/a>are popular choices for hikers, while mountain bikers can enjoy the trails at places like <\/span>Northstar California Resort<\/span><\/a>. If you want to keep it peaceful and mellow or are looking for an after-dinner walk, there is an even paved trailway that meanders around the lake.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If beach time is on your mind, popular beaches like <\/span>Sand Harbor, Pope Beach<\/b>, and <\/span>Kings Beach<\/b> offer swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking \u2013 the perfect trifecta for Labor Day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Booking a stay at<\/span> Tahoe Sands Resort<\/span><\/a> puts you right near beach fun at Kings Beach and mountain trails galore at Northstar.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Hilton Head<\/span><\/a> is classy and sassy, just like that teenage daughter of yours! Think fewer boardwalks, more golf courses, and upscale vibes that scream, \u201cWe brought the good beach towels.\u201d A visit in early September means fewer crowds, but still plenty of activities and sunshine to enjoy.<\/span><\/p>\n There\u2019s no shortage of beaches here! The beach is wide and flat, making walking or riding bikes easy, fun, and breathtaking. Not to mention, it\u2019s the perfect canvas for sandcastle building. When the tide is out, tide pooling is in! And those sandy castle architects of yours, and the sunbathing beauties, will likely turn into Jacques Cousteau, exploring hidden sea creatures found at low tide.<\/span><\/p>\n For the young, pirate-crazed travelers in your crew, nothing beats a day trip to the<\/span> Pirates of Hilton Head.<\/span><\/a> Climb aboard the Black Sparrow and embark on a thrilling journey to capture Stinky Pete.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n DON\u2019T MISS! A Local Shares The Best New England Weekend Getaways For Families<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n With two pools and a spa, the<\/span> \u00a0Sonesta Resort<\/span><\/a> will be the ideal place for your family to chill out. Spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, and a fitness room to work off all the vacation is all included.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Cape Cod<\/span><\/a> is the perfect time machine back to New England charm, with historic homes, outdoor activities, and late summer weather. If your idea of a perfect Labor Day involves ocean breezes, seafood, and the occasional whale photobomb, Cape Cod has you covered. As the unofficial whale-watching capital of the East Coast (sorry, Boston Harbor), Cape Cod offers front-row seats to humpback whales showing off their breeching abilities. Hop aboard a<\/span> Dolphin Fleet whale watch tour<\/span><\/a> out of Provincetown\u2014you\u2019ll get a fascinating marine biology lesson, plus a chance to shout \u201cTHAR SHE BLOWS!\u201d like a true waterman.<\/span><\/p>\n While you\u2019re in Provincetown, wander through its artsy, vibrant downtown packed with quirky galleries, local shops, and enough lobster rolls to sustain a small island nation. Don\u2019t miss the Pilgrim Monument\u2014climbing it totally counts as cardio.<\/span><\/p>\n To properly celebrate Labor Day, hit up the<\/span> Cape Cod Labor Day Craft Festival<\/span><\/a> for handmade treasures, or catch a seaside fireworks display in Dennis or Barnstable. Nothing says \u201cthank you, labor movement\u201d quite like sparkly explosions over the Atlantic.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Cape Cod is dotted with historic lighthouses that stand as beacons of beauty along the coast. Photo by Rusty Watson @ unsplash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10104932\/Labor-Day-Activities1-683x1024.png\")
<\/p>\nMyrtle Beach, South Carolina<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Beach](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10105113\/drew-perales-QVSRXazeiZk-unsplash-e1749597179322.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay In Myrtle Beach<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Outer Banks, North Carolina<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"3](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10105850\/bonnie-kittle-Hf2__VycOUQ-unsplash-e1749599991177.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay In Outer Banks<\/span><\/h3>\n
San Diego, California<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Man](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10110510\/tower-paddle-boards-MwhVhyXtDTQ-unsplash-e1749599939801.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay In San Diego<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Key West, Florida<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Dry](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10110912\/Tortugas-ferry.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay In Key West<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n
Lake Tahoe, California\/Nevada<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Old](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10111806\/MS-Dixie-1200x675-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay In Lake Tahoe<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
Hilton Head, South Carolina<\/span><\/h2>\n
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Where to Stay In Hilton Head<\/span><\/h3>\n
Cape Cod, Massachusetts<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Historic](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10112310\/rusty-watson-pRz878Pkt34-unsplash-1024x917.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to Stay In Cape Cod<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lafamilytravelwordpressbucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/10104942\/Labor-Day-Trips1.png\")
<\/p>\n