20 Best Easter Vacation Ideas

© Courtesy of ellensmile - Fotolia.com

Easter is the perfect time to take a trip to a new destination, go on a road trip with kids or check into a luxury spa resort for some R&R. Our list of includes beautiful hotels which offer five star service, rooms with a view and a choice of fun activities. Fly to a warm destination like Florida, New Mexico or Arizona, or splurge on a trip with kids to Maui or the Caribbean. Play a round of golf with ocean views, go kayaking, diving and swimming. If you are looking for romantic ideas from major U.S. cities, we've already written about weekend getaways from NYC, Atlanta, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego and other cities.

© The Royal Hawaiian

Get away to the Hawaiian islands to enjoy the tropical sun, swimming, surfing and relaxing spa treatments. Abhasa Waikiki Spa is located at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki.

The spa offers a full range of services, including massages, body treatments, facials and hair care. The spa's four outdoor cabanas are very popular, so be sure to book your treatment ahead of time if you want to enjoy your massage outside in the garden.

Guests can choose from Japanese, Swedish, Hawaiian and other treatments from around the world. A 50-minute Lomi Lomi massage costs $110, while Hawaiian Sea Salt Scrub costs $55 for 25 minutes.

2259 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, Phone: 808-923-7311 Photo: The Royal Hawaiian

© Jekyll Island Club

Located on a barrier island in Georgia, Jekyll Island Club is a unique getaway for families. If you like to stay active, hop on a bicycle and explore 22 miles of bike trails. Along the way, you will pass though the historic village and see all of the beaches.

There is a playground for younger visitors. The whole family can plan miniature golf on two courses situated right next to the playground. The is also has three 18-hole golf courses for grown-ups. The property is a National Historic Landmark featuring the American Queen Ann architecture.

The hotel has 157 rooms and suites, a swimming pool, croquet lawn and a private beach pavilion. Plan a quick family weekend trip or a longer vacation.

As you walk into the Grand Dining Room for a formal meal, one gets a glimpse into the old times when the Club was an exclusive hunting retreat for the likes of J.P. Morgan and William Rockefeller. Restored in Victorian style, the dining room features Ionic columns, marble fireplaces and piano music. The Courtyard restaurant at Crane Cottage is situated under a Italian Renaissance-style loggia.

The restaurant serves Mediterranean and American fare. During the day, you can have lunch on the beach at the Beach Pavilion snack bar, or next to the pool at the Poolside Grill. Rates start from $189 per night in the winter; from $229 in the summer; suites from $269. Ask about packages, such as family, golf and romantic packages. The property is located off I-95, approximately midway between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL. Read more.

371 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, Phone: 855-787-3857 Photo: Jekyll Island Club

© Portland’s White House

Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens in the heart of the city, Portland’s White House exudes historical elegance, colonial grace and old-world charm. Exuding a rich history and endearing hospitality, this luxurious hotel offers a memorable sojourn back in time. Glorious colonial architecture, beautiful interiors and exquisite gardens echo the golden age of America.

Beautifully appointed suites are spacious with high ceilings and large windows that let natural light flood in. Fusing classic style with modern functionality, suites are climate controlled, with deluxe amenities, including mini bars, LCD TVs, and wireless high-speed Internet. Opulent spa suites boast French champagne on arrival and Moonstruck Chocolate gifts on the pillow.

Enjoy sumptuous breakfasts in the main dining room with freshly brewed coffee from the complimentary espresso coffee bar. Welcoming hospitality and outstanding service greets you on arrival at this luxurious hotel. Upscale services include porter assistance and help with travel arrangements. Rooms start at $145 per night.

1914 NE 22nd Ave, Portland, OR 97212, Phone: 800-272-7131 Photo: Portland’s White House

© Berry Springs Lodge

The secluded Berry Springs Lodge in Sevierville, TN is a perfect getaway for couples and families who love nature. Ask for a room with a balcony, fireplace and a hot tub. The two Mountain View Fireplace Whirlpool Suites are a great choice for couples, complete with a two person whirlpool bath tub, cozy living room with a fireplace, and a private deck.

Berry Springs Lodge is set on 33 acres and has two ponds full of bass, bluegill and catfish for catch and release. Take a complimentary mountain bike for a ride, get a massage, play a game of croquet, Ping-Pong, pool, or basketball. The lodge offers breakfast, dinner and boxed lunches. Rooms start at $205 per night. Read more

2149 Seaton Springs Rd,  Sevierville,  TN 37862, Phone: 865-908-7935 Photo: Berry Springs Lodge

© The Skirvin Hilton

The Skirvin Hilton is a historic AAA Four Diamond hotel in downtown Oklahoma City, offering a fitness center, heated indoor pool and 225 guest accommodations. The hotel is home to a live art studio where guests are invited to interact with the Artist in Residence.

Dine at the Park Avenue Grill which serves American cuisine with a Southern twist, and have signature cocktails at the Red Piano Bar while listening to jazz. Rooms start at $189 per night.

One park avenue, Oklahoma, OK 73102, Phone: 405-272-3040 Photo: The Skirvin Hilton

© Nita Lake Lodge

Nestled at the base of Whistler Mountain and overlooking the magnificent glacier-fed Nita Lake, Nita Lake Lodge is a luxurious boutique hotel that promises a relaxing and unforgettable getaway. The lodge boasts 77 stylishly decorated rooms with optional lake views. Each room features king-sized beds, plush linens, basalt gas fireplaces for cold winter nights, and spacious en-suite bathrooms with soaking tubs and rain showers. Suites enjoy private balconies with table and chairs for relaxing and soaking up the magical mountain views.

Luxuriate with indulgent treatments and massages at The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge, home to outdoor hot tubs, a eucalyptus steam room and a tranquil relaxation lounge. You can start your day with a revitalizing yoga session against the backdrop of the mountains or an energizing workout at Basecamp Fitness. The resort offers three superb restaurants – Aura, Cure and Fix – that serve a range of fare from three-course gourmet meals to homemade sandwiches. (Phone: 604-966-5700). Photo: Nita Lake Lodge

More: Best Beach vacations, Places to Visit in Russia, Things to Do in Japan, France, Valentine's Day, Rijeka, Myanmar Destinations, Lithuania, Whistler, Shanghai

© The Pfister Hotel

Exuding the grace and charm that has made it a celebrated icon in Milwaukee for over a century, the Pfister Hotel celebrates the tradition of providing guests with luxurious accommodations, superb cuisine and outstanding service in an impeccably stylish setting. Combining contemporary-chic luxury with old-world charm, 307 beautifully appointed guestrooms boast décor, spacious en-suite bathrooms and spectacular views of the city and Lake Michigan.

Modern amenities abound, including wireless high-speed Internet, state-of-the-art technology and deluxe toiletries. Choose from a variety of stylish restaurants and bars to wine and dine. Head to the Mason Street Grill for classic American fare, or stop for freshly brewed Starbucks Coffee on the go and baked-in-house pastries at Café at The Pfister. Enjoy magnificent views from The Pfister's 23rd-floor bar in the sky, Blu, famed for serving the best martinis in Milwaukee.

The hotel’s luxurious WELL Spa + Salon offers an indulgent experience with personal treatment suites, deluxe amenities, and a range of blissful treatments. Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee’s cultural and entertainment community, the hotel is close to many restaurants, bars and shops. Rooms start at $206.

424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202, Phone: 414-273-8222 Photo: The Pfister Hotel

More:Things to Do in Washington, DC, Things to Do in Phoenix, Things to Do in Bethlehem, Bradenton, Things to Do in Ft Lauderdale, Things to Do in Minneapolis, Plattsburgh, Washington islands

© The Kitano

Situated on New York City’s Park Avenue with beautiful views of the East Side, the Kitano is a tranquil and elegant oasis in the historic Murray Hill district of Manhattan. The Japanese-inspired boutique hotel blends contemporary décor and state-of-the-art technology with traditional Japanese hospitality to provide guests with an unrivalled and luxurious stay.

The rooms are individually designed to provide guests with the utmost comfort and luxury, with modern, custom-designed mahogany and cherry furnishings and subtle touches of Japan in the shoji paper screens and tatami mats. Spacious living areas, ergonomic workspaces and deluxe amenities make each room a welcome sanctuary.

Enjoy award-winning cuisine at one of New York’s finest Japanese restaurants, Habukai, where Executive Chef Yukihiro Sato serves an array of celebrated Kaiseki cuisine. For contemporary American cuisine with Pan-Asian influences, try JAZZ at Kitano, where you can relax in elegant surroundings to the sounds of world-class live jazz in the background.

66 Park Avenue E 38th Street, New York, NY 10016, Phone: 212-885-7000 Photo: The Kitano

More: Things to Do in Mauritius, Ukraine, Hong Kong, Vegetarian restaurants near me, Honeymoon destinations in US

© Lake Austin Spa Resort

Lake Austin Spa Resort is located only 25 minutes from downtown Austin. The resort is a relaxing haven from daily stress and a place to head for a quick spa vacation pick me up. Each of the 40 guest cottages has 300-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets & down comforters, a Kohler Steeping/soaking tub, and wireless Internet access. Some of the cottages have gas burning fireplaces, hot tubs, and private gardens.

The LakeHouse features a menu of more than 100 body treatments and therapies, which are sure to relax even the most stressed out guest. On your spa vacation, try some of the resort;s special treatments like the Texas Pecan Scrub, the Essential Rose Body Wrap, or the Texas Starry Night. Three day packages start around $1,280 per person for a three night package. Most packages include a spa allowance that can be used for treatments at the LakeHouse spa. Before you book your trip, be sure to check out the seasonal specials offered by the resort.

1705 S Quinlan Park Rd, Austin, TX 78732, Phone: 800-847-5637 Photo: Lake Austin Spa Resort

More: Italian restaurants NYC, Manhattan wedding venues, Things to Do in Chelsea, Best time to visit New York, Things to Do in Queens NY, Day trips from NYC

© Natura Cabana

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa in the Dominican Republic is an affordable green getaway built in a way that preserves the beauty of the hotel's natural surroundings. Tropical bungalows with Feng Shui interiors, beautiful Caribbean beach and a healing spa make Natura Cabana a relaxing green vacation getaway. Spend your romantic Caribbean honeymoon on a pristine tropical beach in the Dominican Republic. Couples can book unique healing treatments at the spa, dine at two gourmet restaurants overlooking the ocean and relax on the beach.

Rent a jeep or bicycle to explore the island or go horseback riding along the beach. Visit the nearby towns of Cabarete and Sosua for shopping, dining and sightseeing. The hotel can arrange all the details for your wedding, including hire a photographer and cater a meal of your choice. Guests can participate in yoga classes, relax by the pool, get massages at the spa and enjoy romantic sunset dinners at two hotel restaurants.

Each individually-decorated guest bungalow has been constructed using local, earth-friendly materials such as mahogany, bamboo, and coralline stone. This hotel has two open-air restaurants overlooking the ocean, serving fresh seafood and vegetables from the hotel's garden prepared in an open kitchen. The hotel is located on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic, between Cabarete and Sosua, two charming towns where you can go shopping while on vacation. Puerto Plata international airport is a 20-minute drive. Cabana rates start at $130 per night (Phone: 809-571-1507). Photo: Natura Cabana

© Talamore Golf Resort

Home to the award-winning Talamore Golf Club and the Arnold Palmer-designed Mid-South Club, Talamore Golf Resort in the Village of Pinehurst North Carolina is a golf lover’s heaven. Offering world-class golf courses, modern clubhouses and luxurious accommodations, this deluxe resort in the famed Sandhills area promises an idyllic getaway.

Guests can choose to stay at the Talamore Golf Villas or the Mid-South Lodges, all of which were designed with maximum comfort in mind. The Villas boast well-appointed two- and three-bedroom retreats with spectacular views of Reservoir Park and the Rees Jones-designed golf course, while the Lodges are made up of sixteen high-end luxury condominiums with expansive views of the course.

Both clubhouses enjoy deluxe facilities, including swimming pools, cabanas, poolside patios and elegant restaurants. If you prefer dining out, the resort is in close proximity to a number of excellent restaurants, bars and pubs: Shuckers Oyster Bar and Grill serves fresh oysters and seafood, while Rue 32 promises fine dining at its best.

48 Talamore Dr, Southern Pines, NC 28387, Phone: 910-692-5884 Photo: Talamore Golf Resort

© Levuka Homestay

Levuka Homestay is a warm and welcoming bed and breakfast in the town of Levuka on the eastern coast of the Fijian island of Ovalau. Owned and managed by John and Marilyn Milesi, this cozy retreat promises a comfortable home-away-from-home stay with modern conveniences and friendly service.

Designed in a colonial style, the guesthouse offers four guest rooms. Three of the rooms feature queen size beds, while the fourth includes both a double and single bed. Decorated with traditional Fijian arts and crafts to reflect the town’s heritage, rooms are spacious and neat with en-suite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities and private verandahs.

Start the day with a complimentary full breakfast served on the patio overlooking the garden before heading off to explore Levuka. Upon your return, relax in the sanctity of the surrounding tropical gardens or enjoy a good book in the comfort of the sitting room. (Phone: +679 344 0777) Photo: Levuka Homestay

 

Castell Son Claret is a luxury hotel located in a restored castle on the island of Mallorca in Spain. If you are looking for a fairytale castle getaway to celebrate a romantic occasion or a honeymoon, check into this beautiful hotel. The property is set on a 325-acre estate of gardens, pools and lush trees.

Choose from 38 individually furnished rooms and suites with oak-wood flooring and oversized bathrooms. Ask for a room or suite with its own terrace to enjoy the best of outdoor living. There are several suites with their own pools, located in the former castle stables.

If you are planning a romantic trip, book one of the suites which have oversized walk-in rain-showers and freestanding bathtubs. Some of the suites have their own private gardens, a great idea in the summer. The property has its own bakery making incredible breads, pastas and sweets for afternoon tea. Room rates start at 395 Euro per night (+34-971-138 620). Photo:

© The Georgian Terrace Hotel

This luxury hotel in Midtown Atlanta features a historic location filled with modern amenities and true southern hospitality. The Georgian Terrace has 326 rooms and suites to choose from, complete with flat-screen HDTVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Every room has oversized windows to give you expansive city views and some have full kitchens. Relax next to the rooftop pool with a view and work out in the fitness center on the penthouse level.

The hotel offers a concierge service that can do everything from setting up tours and purchasing event tickets to arranging grocery delivery. You can enjoy in-room dining from Livingston Upstairs or visit the Livingston Restaurant & Bar for American dishes. Cafe Mims is a great spot for a quick coffee or al fresco lunch on the terrace. Rooms start at $130 per night.

659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, Phone: 404-897-1991 Photo: The Georgian Terrace Hotel

© Carlsbad Plaza in the Czech Republic

The Carlsbad Plaza hotel is located in the spa town of Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic. It is the first 5-star hotel in the city famous for its hot mineral springs. The property is not just draped in luxury. Its Bohemian structure and Baroque facade from the 18th century is a treat for the eyes as well. Its modern facilities, historical architecture, the thermal spring in the lobby of the hotel, beauty clinic and medical spa make it a perfect spa destination for complete relaxation. Ask for one of the rooms with a sauna, whirlpool and a balcony.

There are 20 suites and 140 rooms. Every room has been designed by the Italian celebrity designer Scappini in true 19th century style. The hotel has two types of rooms: singles and doubles. There is the Moser Crystal Suite, Premier Suite Garden, Exclusive, Wellness, Splendid Suite Garden, Splendid Suite Front, Carlsbad, Junior, Premier Suite Front, and the Presidential accommodations.

Each room and suite has a safe, a writing desk, mini bar, LCD television, and Wi-Fi. Travelers choose from three restaurants that offers a choice of Czech, French, Asian, and international specialties. The spa and wellness center offers relaxation programs and traditional therapies. Guests can choose from 230 treatments. There are four professional doctors who oversee the treatments. Magic Charm offers beauty treatments while Mystic Budha offers Thai and other massages. Rates start at 330 Euro per night (+420 352 441 111). Photo: Carlsbad Plaza in the Czech Republic

 

Hana, located on the East Coast of Maui, is a great vacation destination for nature lovers. Check into one of the guest cottages at Travaasa Hana and relax in paradise. Hana offers lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, tropical plants and incredible beaches. Many farms in Hana grow organic products. The chef at Travaasa Hana creates daily delicacies using locally grown fruits and vegetables.

After lunch, look at paintings, furniture, handmade jewelry and native art at the Hana Coast Gallery. The beaches in Hana are secluded, sandy and colorful. Hamoa Beach features black sand and lush tropical surroundings. Hotel Hana-Maui guests receive towels and lounge chairs on the beach. The Red Sand Beach is just that, red. Surrounded by high cliffs, the beach is very secluded. If you like waterfalls, visit the Seven Sacred Pools which may be open for swimming.

5031 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713, Phone: 888-820-1043 Photo:

© CostaBaja Resort and Spa

Overlooking the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez on the Baja California Sur Peninsula, CostaBaja Resort and Spa is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With beautiful views over the bay of La Paz and a luxurious marina, this exquisite oceanfront hotel boasts deluxe guest rooms, first-class dining, full spa services and an outstanding staff. Luxuriously appointed guest rooms have private balconies with lovely views over the marina and bay beyond. The rooms feature modern amenities such as complimentary wireless Internet access, coffee/tea makers, and large en-suite bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers.

The resort offers a wide array of activities: a Gary Player-designed golf course, three swimming pools, a full-service spa and wellness center, and a variety of water sports like game fishing, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing. Dining is a delight with a range of dining options around the resort, including the open-air Steinbeck's Restaurant, the Beach Bar for alfresco poolside dining, and Mosaic for casual all-day fare. (Phone: +52 612 123 6000) Photo: CostaBaja Resort and Spa

© The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is located on the western side of Grand Cayman Island in the Caribbean, right on the Seven Mile Beach. The luxury resort is home to the Greg Norman golf course, Blue Tip, a unique Caribbean golf course with incredible views.

The resort offers a number of water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, parasailing, and horseback riding on the beach. Stingray City, a popular snorkeling and scuba diving destination, is a 10 minute boat ride from the resort. Helicopter tours of the island and Atlantis submarine rides are also available. There are many activities to choose from at this family resort.

The hotel provides guests with ultimate relaxation in the form of a 20,000 square foot, 17-room spa facility. The spa is based on a full range of luxury treatments incorporating La Prairie products. Enjoy signature treatments and spa packages. There are 365 guest rooms and luxury suites at the resort. Rooms have either a king bed or two queen beds, full bathrooms, a desk, and European toiletries.

Suites feature one and a half baths, a large living room as well as boutique bath amenities. Another accommodation alternative The Reserve, comprised of 24 fully-furnished oceanfront 1-3 bedroom luxury vacation homes with complete kitchen facilities and spacious balconies. Guests staying at The Reserve benefit from all of the services offered by the hotel.

Restaurants include poolside dining, elegant restaurants, and 24-hour room service. The resort is 10 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport in Grand Cayman which is a 60-minute flight from Miami. Browse more luxury island vacations. Room rates start at $399 per night, depending on when you go. Check for packages, often offered by the hotel (Phone: +1 345-943-9000). Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman