The 5 Best Long Weekend Trips

Long weekends are a golden opportunity to travel without using up your entire vacation allowance. With just one extra day off, turn a standard weekend into a mini adventure that feels like a full getaway. The best long weekend trips allow for short, intentional escapes that make the most of statutory holidays and extended weekends.

Cruises are one of the easiest ways to make the most of a long weekend because they combine multiple destinations, dining, entertainment and relaxation into one whirlwind adventure. Three-night cruises, in particular, are perfectly suited for great long weekend trips as they depart Friday and return Monday, giving you the maximum experience in minimal time. Read on for a list of the best long weekend trips you can take on a cruise.

Cruising: Turn a Long Weekend Into the Ultimate Travel Escape

Long weekend trips can be stressful to plan — hotel hopping, driving long distances and coordinating daily activities can eat into precious time. Weekend cruises remove these challenges by offering a single, convenient destination with everything on board, from meals to entertainment to a plethora of activities. All you need to focus on is relaxing and exploring.

Three-night cruises offer a sweet spot for travelers who want a fulfilling getaway without committing to a full week. These short sailings depart on Friday and return on Monday, allowing you to get the most out of your holiday weekends with minimal planning. Guests enjoy multiple experiences, including:

● Onboard dining at various restaurants and casual cafes.

● Live shows, poolside activities and fitness options.

● Stops at vibrant destinations or private islands for excursions and beach time.

Weekend cruises work well for families, couples, groups of friends and solo travelers. They offer a stress-free, high-value way to enjoy multiple destinations without the hassle of traditional travel.

1. Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay is a private island experience designed to maximize a short vacation. Three-night cruises take you to this tropical paradise, offering a stress-free way to make the absolute most of your free time without needing a passport for U.S. travelers.

On the island, visitors can:

● Lounge on pristine beaches.

● Splash around at the water park.

● Splash around at the water park.

Try adventurous activities like zip-lining or floating down the Oasis Lagoon pool.

This destination is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy one of the best weekend getaways with minimal planning and maximum fun. The combination of beach, adventure and relaxation makes Perfect Day at CocoCay one of the best weekend getaways for families and couples alike.

2. Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, Nassau, The Bahamas

For travelers who prefer a sun-drenched day of relaxation and play, this getaway is an excellent choice. Royal Beach Club℠ Paradise Island provides an exclusive island escape with three distinct neighborhoods to explore, including Chill Beach℠, Family Beach℠ and the high-energy Party Cove℠.

Visitors can explore:

● Two pristine beaches and three sparkling pools, each featuring its own swim-up bar.

● Island-inspired dining at three Paradise Grill℠ locations, featuring local Bahamian flavors.

● The ultimate party scene at Party Cove, home to The Floating Flamingo℠ — the world’s largest swim-up bar — and live DJ sets.

● Family-friendly fun, including jumbo Jenga, cornhole and a dedicated family pool and beach area.

Paradise Island is particularly suited for first-time cruisers taking a long weekend trip because it offers variety in one convenient location. With dedicated spaces for both high-energy parties and family relaxation, guests can enjoy a quick but fulfilling vacation at this accessible and scenic destination that also happens to offer easy access to Nassau’s vibrant offerings.

3. Grand Bahama Island, The Bahamas

Grand Bahama Island offers a more relaxed pace for long weekend travelers seeking natural beauty and local culture. Perfect for snorkeling, nature excursions or simply soaking up the sun on a calm beach, Grand Bahama is a great option for travelers who want a slower, restorative experience.

Highlights include:

● Stunning beaches and clear waters.

● Outdoor adventure like kayaking, hiking and eco-tours.

● Local cuisine and cultural experiences.

This island provides a laid-back atmosphere that fits perfectly into a three-night cruise itinerary, making it one of the great long weekend trips for travelers who want both relaxation and exploration.

4. Ensenada, Mexico

For West Coast travelers, Ensenada, Mexico, offers a long weekend escape with international flavor close to home. This vibrant port city features:

● Beautiful coastal scenery.

● Access to a nearby wine region.

● Baja cuisine and local cultural experiences.

Ensenada is ideal for a long weekend getaway because travel times are short, yet visitors can immerse themselves in Mexican culture, sample world-class food and enjoy outdoor activities. A three-night cruise from California allows travelers to experience a fulfilling international trip without extended travel days.

5. Perfect Day at CocoCay and Royal Beach Club Combo, The Bahamas Sampler

For travelers who want the best of both worlds, select itineraries offer a double combo cruise to The Bahamas that includes stops at the award-winning  Perfect Day at CocoCay and the brand-new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

This sampler trip gives guests the chance to:

●  Enjoy a private island adventure at Perfect Day at CocoCay, featuring record-breaking waterslides at Thrill Waterpark® and the ultimate adults-only party at Hideaway Beach℠.

●  Vibe to live music and DJ beats at Party Cove, or relax on the white sands of Chill Beach and Family Beach at the exclusive Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

●  Feast on island-inspired flavors at three Paradise Grill locations and enjoy drinks from ten different bars, including the world's largest swim-up bar.

●  Make the most of a long weekend with both three- and four-night options from Orlando or Miami.

This option is perfect for travelers seeking to maximize limited days and enjoy multiple private destination experiences without compromising relaxation or convenience. It’s one of the best long weekend vacation options for those seeking maximum variety and value in just a few days.