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13 Cheap Beach Vacations That Won’t Break Your Budget

15 Min Read | Nov 1, 2023

The term “cheap beach vacations” might make you a little nervous. When “cheap” and “vacation” are in the same sentence, it can lead you down some dark paths. Let’s face it: We’ve all had a cheap vacation that went horribly wrong. Maybe you have some not-so-fond memories of your parents taking out the seats in the van to camp on the beach. Hey, points for being adventurous, right?

Adventure or not, you don’t want to confuse a cheap beach vacation with a crappy beach vacation. That’s right, I want you to have the best vacation that’s in your budget.

Best Beaches in the U.S. (That Won’t Break the Bank)

Some people are mountain people. Some people are beach people. My mother-in-law is definitely a beach person. She must see the ocean from the balcony—that’s a nonnegotiable. If she can’t see the sand and the water, she’s not going. And if you’re anything like my mother-in-law (don’t read into that too much), then you’re going to have to book further out to get those coveted beachfront views.

But just because you’re going on a beach vacation, doesn’t mean you have to spend an arm and a leg to do it. You might just have to make some trade-offs to get it to fit in your budget. More on that later.

For now, here’s a list of beaches across the United States to help you plan your next cheap beach vacation.

Southern Beaches

1. gulf shores, alabama.

First up is none other than Gulf Shores, Alabama. This beach is known for its pristine white beaches, hiking trails (if you’re into that sort of thing), and more activities to do than you have time for. Gulf Shores is a favorite for many beach-loving families who want to spend quality time oceanside without sacrificing on fun. I’ve personally been a handful of times, and it might be the best bang for your buck if you want those beautiful Gulf of Mexico vibes. And if you love beach hopping, Orange Beach is just a short distance away.

After you’ve burnt yourself to a crisp on the beach, you’ll want to snag a ride on the local dolphin cruise. If you’re a giant reptile fan, check out Alligator Alley for some up-close-and-personal time with the alligators. And if you really want some thrills, Waterville USA is the place to go for water slides and roller coasters galore. 1 See? Fun for the whole family.

2. St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida

This area made Travel + Leisure’s 46 th out of 50 places to visit in the world in 2022. 2 Yup—number 46 in the world . If that’s not enough to start packing your suitcases, I don’t know what is.

While St. Pete and Clearwater are two different cities, they share the same county. Vacationing here means you get all the benefits both cities have to offer, like museums, local breweries and tons of great restaurants.

Clearwater and St. Pete beaches are great for collecting seashells (who doesn’t love a good seashell?). And if your online dating profile boasts you like “long walks on the beach,” you’ve come to the right place. These beaches are known for their miles of white sand, clear water and calm waves. What’s not to love? Plus, if you get bored at one beach, just hop on State Road 699—there are tons of beaches just waiting to be explored.

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3. Galveston, Texas

Whether you’re a local Texan wanting to trade in your cowboy boots for flip-flops, or you’re just looking for an excuse to travel south . . . look no further than Galveston. Not only does it have 32 miles of Gulf beaches to explore, but it’s also the perfect vacation spot that won’t hurt your wallet. 3 You want waterfront? You got it—and it won’t cost you your firstborn.

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Sure, the water may not be crystal clear like some other beaches I’ve mentioned, but it’s still a great beach nonetheless. Plus, there’s a handful of beaches to explore alongside the Galveston Seawall: East Beach, Stewart Beach, Sunny Beach, Porretto Beach . . . just to name a few. If you’re a nature lover, you’re going to love Galveston Island State Park. And if you don’t mind the two-hour drive, also check out Matagorda Bay Nature Park. Don’t forget your fishing poles! Just be sure to look up admission fees, parking rates and hours of operation before you go.

4. Tybee Island, Georgia

If you want to head south, but don’t want to go to your usual spots, take a hard left to Tybee Island, Georgia. This little island is off the coast of Georgia and only 25 short minutes from the sweet Southern town of Savannah. It’s the perfect mix of moss-covered oaks and coconut-laden palm trees—which coincidentally sounds like a great Bath & Body Works candle name: Mossy Coconut.

Once you’re on the island, grab yourself a sweet tea and head to one of Tybee’s five beaches: North, Mid, South, Back River and Little Tybee. 4 North Beach is on the fancier side, while South Beach boasts the hustle and bustle of island town life. Visit Tybrisa Street near South Beach for unique eats, shopping and more. And if you’re up for adventure, Little Tybee Island is the place to go. You can only get there by boat (or another watercraft like a Jet Ski, kayak or canoe), but once you’re there, there’s endless amounts of exploring to do. Plus, you can camp right on the island . . . just don’t forget your bug spray. And snacks. Lots of snacks.

East Coast Beaches

5. virginia beach, virginia.

They say Virginia is for lovers, and I’m willing to bet it’s because of Virginia Beach. This beach holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest pleasure beach. 5 It’s the longest continuous beach at 28 miles.

Virginia Beach gives you endless amounts of entertainment, including the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Cape Henry Lighthouse, the ViBe Creative District and more history than you’ll know what to do with. If you’re looking for a day away from the crowds, take a drive to Sandbridge Beach to soak in the quiet, play on the sand dunes, and relax.

6. Nags Head, North Carolina

I can’t talk about East Coast beaches without mentioning the Outer Banks, specifically Nags Head. This beach town is just one along the beautiful coast of the OBX (what the locals call it), but it’s a great one to consider for your next trip east.

Nags Head is filled with tons of places to stay: motels, hotels, bed and breakfasts. And you’ll definitely want to budget for seafood. If you’re a fisherman (or fisherwoman), take a trip to the Outer Banks Fishing Pier. When you’ve done everything there is to do in Nags Head, continue south and explore the other Outer Banks beach towns like Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills and Southern Shores.

7. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

This beach town is just outside of Wilmington, North Carolina, where One Tree Hill and Dawson’s Creek were filmed (that “doo doo, doo doo” theme song is now stuck in your head). And if you haven’t heard of those shows, you’ve probably heard of Weekend at Bernie’s , right?

Wrightsville Beach is known as North Carolina’s birthplace of surfing. 6 And that’s not all (all you Shark Week addicts out there will love this): It’s one of the few places in the world you can find megalodon teeth. 7 (Got to love a good prehistoric tooth.) Pretty cool!

West Coast Beaches

8. cannon beach, oregon.

Cannon Beach is known as one of the best beaches in Oregon. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also full of wildlife. I have to mention too that the movies Twilight and The Goonies were filmed here. (While you may not get to see the Shuffle Truffle from an original Goonie, you could probably ask your kids to reenact it for you.) Goonies aside, Cannon Beach is known for its beauty. If you visit, you’ll get to see Haystack Rock, along with all the cute puffins that call it home.

While Cannon Beach isn’t your typical swimming beach (unless you’re into ice baths), you can still enjoy everything the beach has to offer. Just make sure to pack a sweatshirt or three.  

9. Mission Beach, California

Ah, good ol’ San Diego. When you think of San Diego, you might think of Legoland or the art scene. But there’s even more to explore, namely Mission Beach. It’s got something for everyone in the family.

Hit up the beach for a day, and you’ll find a two-mile boardwalk with an amusement park (Belmont Park) and even playgrounds nearby. Mission Beach is also a favorite night spot for the 20-something crowd, so if you’re vacationing with small kids, you might want to avoid the boardwalk at night. Venture across the bay, and you’ll find Mission Bay and Sea World! The kids will love it. And let’s be real, so will you.

10. San Clemente, California

If you love the idea of sleeping on the ground, perfuming yourself in bug spray, and cooking your food over an open fire, you’ll love San Clemente State Beach. They say this is a great place to camp out under the stars and let the crash of the waves lull you to sleep.

San Clemente has a trail that connects you to each of its many beaches, like San Clemente State Beach, San Clemente Pier City Beach, T-Street Beach, Riviera Beach, North Beach and many more. Let’s just say you won’t get bored exploring each one by way of the San Clemente Pedestrian Beach Trail. (Say that five times fast.)

Northern Beaches

11. lake michigan, michigan.

A trip to the lake isn’t quite the same as a trip to the beach . But with Lake Michigan . . . it’s very close. The lake is massive. You can get the beach experience you’re dreaming of at a fraction of the cost. Plus, if you live in the Midwest, your travel time is cut even shorter.

If you’re from the area, you already know the beauty of the lake and what it has to offer. And if you’re thinking about skipping out because you can’t surf the waves, think again. Lake Michigan is surrounded by sand dunes that are so tall, you can actually surf down them. There are also plenty of quaint little “beach” towns along Lake Michigan that give you access to the lake, like St. Joseph, South Haven and Mackinac Island.

12. Cape May, New Jersey

Ask anyone what beach to visit up North, and Cape May will be at the top of the list. And if you like your beaches with your boardwalks, this is another must for your next cheap beach vacation. But that’s not all Cape May has to offer. This little town is speckled with Victorian-era homes and amazing architecture.

If you’ve got teens or tweens, Washington Street Mall will be their favorite hangout. It’s an outdoor walking mall with plenty of unique shops. (But don’t forget to budget some shopping money for your cheap beach vacation!)

13. Ocean City, Maryland

This beach town is a favorite for those who live in neighboring areas like Washington, D.C. What’s not to love? There are 10 miles of beaches to enjoy—and they’re all free. (Y’all know I love free.) And just like some other beaches we’ve mentioned, this one has a three-mile long boardwalk. But unlike those beaches, this boardwalk is wooden . So old-timey and cool. At the end of the boardwalk, you’ll find the oldest family-owned-and-operated amusement park . . . in the world! Trimper Rides has been in action since 1893. 8 (Hopefully they’ve updated the rides since then.)

7 Ways to Save Money on Family Beach Vacations

Now that you have an endless amount of beaches to visit, let’s talk about ways to save money. I like to call them travel hacks (for the snappy factor). Remember, cheap beach vacations aren’t easy to come by without a few trade-offs. Like I said earlier, my mother-in-law is willing to trade the bougie beach for a less fancy one . . . as long as she gets her oceanfront view.

Here are seven ways to save money on your next vacation:

1. Stay five minutes from the beach, not oceanfront.

When you’re looking for a cheap beach vacation, you probably won’t find it by going to the most popular beach around. But if you decide you have to go with the popular destination, staying oceanfront is sure to blow up your budget. Instead of spending all your money on a view, why not stay a few miles away from the ocean? Even staying a couple blocks away will save you a ton. Or you can go farther up (or down) the coast to find a beach town that won’t have the same killer price tag. Plus, you’ll be at the beach most of the time anyway, not lounging on the balcony enjoying the view.

2. Start budgeting (and saving) now.

If you know you’ll be heading to the beach this year, it’s a good idea to start saving right now. And the best way to be on your financial A-game is by doing a budget. When you do a zero-based budget , you tell every single dollar where to go. But your budget also shows you what areas to cut back so you can save.  

Create a sinking fund and throw your money toward it every single month leading up to your vacation. EveryDollar is my favorite zero-based budgeting app that helps me save for all my cheap beach vacations (and budget for everything else). Plus, it’s free! And if you like cheap vacations, you definitely love the word “free.”

3. Book in advance.

When it comes to booking your airfare . . . doing your research is key. And the earlier, the better. It’s best to book your ticket somewhere between three and a half months to three weeks before your trip. If you’re flying, the best days to leave are Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. Avoid leaving or returning Friday and Sunday at all costs! Those are the most expensive days to fly.

You can sign up for flight alerts on sites like Scott’s Cheap Flights. They’ll send you some travel deals for free, but I splurged for their paid membership when it went on sale—and it’s been great. They’ll do all the work for you by helping you cash in on mistake fares and other crazy good deals. Hopper is another app that helps you save. It tells you the best times to buy your flight based on the prices of airfare. And don’t let me forget Google Flights. It’s one of my favorite ways to start researching flights and get a ballpark estimate of what travel will cost me.

4. Go in the off-season.

It goes without saying, but traveling during peak seasons is expensive . If you’re truly up for a cheap beach vacation, plan to visit in the off-season. Sure, everyone and their grandma might be heading south for spring break, but they’re paying double to do it. If you go before the crowds (or after they’re long gone), you’ll get the best of both worlds: less noise, less crowds, and more money in your pocket. Score!

5. Choose the less popular destinations.

Sure, a trip to fancy and expensive 30A in Florida is what dreams are made of. But haven’t you heard that life is what you make it? So, why not save all your money and move your vacation down the road to Clearwater Beach instead?

That’s right, by choosing the less popular destinations , your budget will get a big boost. That means you have more to spend on the things you actually care about: Making memories with the fam. Or fresh-caught seafood. (Both are appropriate things to care about.)

6. Make your own meals.

Food is expensive. Especially when you’re eating at restaurants. These days, the price of having someone else cook your meals for you is sky-high. If you hit up the grocery store instead, you’re going to save a ton of money. It’s not as much fun to make your own meals, but believe me—it’s worth it. If you eat 80–90% of your meals at your place for the week, you’ll have more in the budget for excursions. And who doesn’t love a good dolphin cruise?

7. Ask for a deal.

There’s no shame in that game. And you know what they always say, “It doesn’t hurt to ask.” So, instead of taking your room rate at face value, why not call the hotel and ask for a deal? If you found an incredible Airbnb (or Vrbo), do some research to see if they’re connected to a rental company. Chances are, that company would rather give you a deal off their own websites than pay those extra fees through Airbnb or Vrbo. That’s a win-win for you and for them!

No matter where you decide to take your cheap beach vacation, you absolutely need a budget. It’s the thing that gives you permission to spend, helps you save, and keeps you in line (as long as you’re tracking your spending, of course).

But don’t just take my word for it. Download EveryDollar and start saving for your next vacation. Hope your next beach trip is the most fun you can have on a budget. And for goodness’ sake, wear your sunscreen.

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About the author

George Kamel

George Kamel is a personal finance expert, certified financial coach through Ramsey Financial Coach Master Training, and nationally syndicated columnist. George has served at Ramsey Solutions since 2013, where he speaks, writes and teaches on personal finance, investing, budgeting, insurance and how to avoid consumer traps. He co-hosts The Ramsey Show, the second-largest talk show in the nation. He also hosts The EntreLeadership Podcast and The Fine Print podcast, which has over one million downloads. You can find George’s financial expertise featured in the U.S. Sun, Daily Mail and NewsNation. Learn More.

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35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See

Posted on Published: November 30, 2020  - Last updated: January 29, 2024

Ready to hit the beach? And maybe not spend a fortune? Well it’s possible! This guide has the best, and cheapest beach vacations around the world.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

I’ve been on some pretty amazing vacations on a budget. But Since I haven’t been everywhere, I called in some backup. Collaborating with other travel bloggers from around the world, here are 35 of the cheapest tropical vacations.

These dream-worthy locations are going to make you swoon. Ready for them? Let’s dive in!

Cheapest beach vacations around the world

There are cheap destinations all over the globe, but sometimes the problem is getting there. Check out these best budget tricks to help book cheap travel.

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Back to the list. You’ll find destinations near and far on this list of affordable beach vacations. So here’s a map to help you navigate this list of 35 dreamy vacation spots all over the world!

Cheapest beach vacations USA

Starting this mega list in the United States, here are some favorite beachy destinations. These are all warm-weather spots, and all of them can be visited on a budget!

1. Maui, Hawaii

Maui on a budget? Yeah, I know it’s hard to believe. But it’s completely possible that Maui, Hawaii is on this list of cheapest beach vacations!

As someone who’s done Hawaii on a budget, you just need to figure out how to do it for cheap. These top tips will help you visit Maui on a budget:

• Book accommodations away from beach for the best prices. The further away, the better. There’s plenty of public beaches that you can enjoy all day, no need to have an ocean-front hotel.
• Tours can get pricey! Enjoy these free or cheap things to do on Maui instead.
• Find cheap airfare through flight alerts. So wait until it’s on sale – then book! Here are the cheap flight websites I use.
• Avoid Maui during high tourism season – which is summer and the peak of winter. So consider a visit April-May or September-October for best prices.

Maui can be one of the cheapest beach vacations in the USA. I’ve been on a budget trip to Hawaii and it’s way more fun knowing your vacation is cheaper than pretty much any other tourist you see on the island. 🙂

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

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2. San Diego, California

Let’s head to southern California next. There are ways to make a trip to sunny San Diego quite affordable. Accommodation is most likely the biggest expense, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options.

You will find budget accommodation options throughout the city , but I recommend staying at one of the  hostels in the Gaslamp Quarter . That way, you can have many of the cities within walking distance or easily reached by public transportation. 

Walking around downtown is free and there is lots of stuff to check out, including the waterfront promenade, Balboa Park, Seaport Village and Gaslamp Quarter. For a fun and cheap “bay cruise”, hop on the ferry to Coronado and check out this beautiful island.  

And then there are the San Diego beaches. Beaches are always a great budget-friendly way to spend the day. One of the most popular ones in San Diego is Mission Beach.

You can easily reach it by bus and public transport from downtown and there is a lot of stuff to do. You will find a nice beach, a boardwalk with lots of bars and restaurants, and even a small amusement park. 

Recommended by Maria of San Diego Explorer

Read next: Perfect Weekend in San Diego (2-day Itinerary)

3. Gulf Shores, Alabama

The white sand beaches of Alabama’s Gulf Coast are beautiful and a completely underrated destination in the USA! Gulf Shores can easily be done on a budget, too, which is my favorite kind of beach destination.

There’s a ton of things to do in Gulf Shores , and it’s a perfect destination for families, couples or a girls’ weekend. Spending time enjoying the white sand beaches is the best free activity in the area.

Staying further away from the beach and choosing a vacation rental will help keep the costs low. Cooking a meal or 2 at the rental each day will help surely save some money, but since you’re on vacation I’d recommend to make sure you’re still checking out Gulf Shores restaurants, too.

Gulf Shores is one of the best, cheapest beach vacations in the USA there is!

4. St Pete, Florida (one of the cheapest beach vacations in the USA)

If you are looking for an affordable beach destination in the USA, St Petersburg in Florida will be perfect for you! 

Located on the gulf of Mexico, 30 minutes away from Tampa, St Pete is known for its dreamy beaches and lively downtown.  The area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Northern America including St Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach!

In the evening, grab a drink and play with the life size games at Park and Rec. Then head towards central avenue to go see a gig at Jannus Live. This open air music venue is one of the most unique places to see a concert you will ever go to!

If you’d like to discover hidden gems in Florida , head to Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island. It’s only a 30 minute drive and you’ll discover beautiful and well preserved beaches.

In terms of accommodation, you can opt for a condo in St Pete Beach but the best way to get a good deal is rent an Airbnb a bit north of downtown. Properties are way cheaper and it’s a pleasant area. 

For food, you’re in for a treat! There is so much to choose from! One of the best places to go to is Bodega on Central Avenue. They serve delicious Cuban sandwiches and their prices are very reasonable.

Recommended by Pauline from BeeLoved City

5. Chincoteague, Virginia

A hidden beach gem on the east coast is the beautiful Chincoteague Island in Virginia. Located about 2 hours north of Virginia Beach, Chincoteague is a more affordable (and less crowded) option for travelers. 

Chincoteague and its neighbor Assateague are a great mixture of nature and relaxing beaches. One of the best things to do in Chincoteague is to see a sunrise at the beach.

While the sunsets are also gorgeous, to see the sun rise above the water is truly breathtaking. Since Chincoteague is not as well known as Virginia Beach or Ocean City, Maryland, the beaches are much less crowded! 

If you would like a break from the beach, there is plenty of nature to explore. You can visit the Wildlife Loop Trail which is a great paved path for biking. You can see a variety of birds but also the Assateague Ponies.

One of the best things about visiting Chincoteague is the 37 miles of beach! The affordability, beautiful beaches, and wonderful nature make Chincoteague a great beach vacation.

Recommended by Pam of Directionally Challenged Traveler

6. Monterey, California

Monterey is one of the most beautiful cities in all of California. Located in the northern part of the state, it’s the perfect spot to witness the mountains meeting the sea with dramatic views.

Monterey is a great stop on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Francisco to San Diego, but it’s also an affordable weekend getaway destination. Going in the shoulder season, fall and spring, will help keep your costs low.

There are plenty of affordable vacation rentals in the Monterey area, too. Oh, and consider food trucks for breakfasts and lunches instead of pricier restaurants. One of my favorite things to do on vacation is getting food truck lunch and eating while on the beach.

Two must-do activities while in Monterey, California:

• Check out the incredible Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur. It’s a phenomenal sight to see.
• Take a kayaking tour of Monterey Bay . I saw a ton of wildlife while kayaking the bay!

7. South Padre Island, Texas (fun and affordable beach vacation)

South Padre Island is located in Texas and is one of the most fun Gulf Coast beaches to explore! It’s on the southern border of Texas near Mexico. It can be easily reached from the greater Houston/San Antonio area as well as makes an easy day trip from Corpus Christi.

While you can visit South Padre Island year-round, the best time to visit is from fall to spring. It is very easy to plan a cheap beach vacation on the island. Avoid the popular spring break season and you should easily find great hotel deals.

You can find plenty of budget restaurants and eateries offering Tex-Mex and seafood on the island. Take advantage of all the free beaches and bring your own beach shelter to save renting on umbrellas. Enjoy free attractions like hiking trails and sandboarding to enjoy the day.

The city is located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico and is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Visitors can go ATV riding over the giant sand dunes or take a moonlit horseback ride on the beach.

You can even take sandcastle lessons or go beachcombing for driftwood and seashells. South Padre Island also has plenty of watersports including kayaking, standup paddleboarding, sailing, fishing charters, windsurfing, and dolphin cruises. 

Recommended by Ketki of Dotted Globe

8. Destin, Florida

One of the most beautiful and cheap beach destinations in the US has got to be Destin, Florida. The heart of the Emerald Coast, the turquoise waters and fluffy white sand is enough to make you swoon.

Having been to Destin many times, I can truly say that this is a spot that you can go big or go for cheap. There’s a few things to look for if you want to visit Destin but don’t want to spend a lot.

First, stay for cheap. Finding a condo or vacation rental off the main strip – and away from the beach will slash your prices dramatically. Consider staying in Valparaiso, Niceville or Miramar Beach as cheaper alternatives.

Be sure to go in the non-peak season. Visit Destin April-May or September-October. You’ll still get warm weather but with less demand for accommodations, you’ll pay less.

A perfect trip to Destin includes plenty of time on the beach. If you like shopping, one of the largest outlet malls in the country is in Destin. Also be sure to check out Harbor Walk Village for great entertainment, shopping and dining.

Just avoid restaurants on the water. The views are gorgeous but they’ll cost ya!

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9. Santa Barbara, California

Located along California’s Central Coast, Santa Barbara is a perfect destination year-round. But what makes it a great place to visit for budget travelers is the combination of unique cultural landmarks along with great outdoor opportunities that can be accessed year round thanks to the mild climate of Central California. 

Head to Old Mission Santa Barbara to get a lesson in the area’s history and then take a walk through El Presidio De Santa Barbara e Santa Barbara State Historic Park, an open-air museum that showcases the colonial past of the area. 

The city also boasts world class beaches and great outdoor opportunities . Surfing, kayaking, biking along the coast and scenic overlooks that can be explored at your own leisure. Spend at least half a day at Butterfly Beach where you can enjoy the incredible atmosphere.

Downtown  Santa Barbara  is walkable and boasts many outdoor venues. A must visit is Paseo Nuevo, a gorgeous outdoor mall built in the Spanish colonial style with plenty of stores and restaurants.

After you’re done shopping and dining, check out Santa Barbara Botanic Garden located against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Or soak in the views of the Pacific Ocean from the Stearns Wharf in the harbor of Santa Barbara – the oldest working wharf in California! 

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

10. Kauai, Hawaii (my favorite of the cheapest beach vacations in the USA)

If you’re looking for the cheapest beach vacations in the USA, Kauai, Hawaii can be on your list!

Kauai is an adventure lover’s dream. There’s tons of hiking, tours, snorkeling and beaches in Kauai to fill your days. With so many amazing sights to see, it’s hard to believe this is an affordable beach vacation destination.

Here’s 5 tips to getting to Kauai for cheap:

• Stay in a vacation rental away from the beach. And if you can tough out no air conditioning, you’ll save up to 50% on your rental! (Island breezes and fans go a long way my friend.)
• Book your flights using flight alerts through FareDrop . That’s how I scored my last trip to Kauai and it was perfect for a budget trip.
• Go to Hawaii during off-season. Avoid the peak of summer or winter when there’s high demand, meaning higher prices.
• Buy a few meals at a grocery store when you first get to the island. Plan simple things to throw together for breakfast and/or lunch to save money. Splurge on good Kauai restaurants but not for every meal.
• Get a rental car through DiscoverCars . I regularly save 30% through their quoting system, and saved more than that on my last rental car in Kauai.

Related read: Perfect Kauai Itinerary: What to Do for 7 Days

11. Fort Meyers, Florida

Florida is the ultimate budget beach vacation and Fort Myers is the perfect spot. With incredible fishing, shelling and Great Calusa Blueway kayaking trail, you’ll never run out of things to do. After spending a full day of fun in the sun, enjoy a stunning sunset each evening as the sun sinks into the Gulf of Mexico. 

To help stay on budget, stay at an Airbnb in Fort Myers , so that you can save money by cooking your own meals. Pack sandwiches for the beach and make delicious dinners in the comfort of your own kitchen. 

Pro tip: do your grocery shopping at Publix and be sure to indulge in one of their award-winning key lime pies. It is Florida’s national dessert!

To save money on a rental car, stay on Fort Myers Beach. Estero Island is very walkable and offers an inexpensive beach tram. Additionally, many Airbnbs on Fort Myers beach include use of their beach chairs, coolers and boogie boards to ensure you have optimal fun in the sun.

With several options for budget airlines flying into Southwest Florida International Airport, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a cheap flight. Fort Myers Beach is calling you!

Recommended by Danielle of Rambling Companion

12. Lake Tahoe, California

With it’s picturesque mountains and stunning scenery, Lake Tahoe has go to be one of the best vacation spots in the USA. And yes, this alpine lake is beachy enough to be on this list of the cheapest beach vacations.

The gorgeous sand and crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe can be done on a budget, if you get creative. Because while there are plenty of luxury resorts in the area, there’s also budget-friendly accommodations.

Staying in a vacation rental is going to be the cheapest option. And if you can find another couple or family to join in on the cost, that’s better for a budget trip and it can be more fun, too.

Like many other affordable beach vacations on this list, you’ll find your highest cost during peak travel season. Best prices are typically April-May and September-October.

Be sure to check out the beautiful Sand Harbor Beach, Pope Beach and Kinds Beach State Recreation Area. Lake Tahoe is full of beauty and adventure, making it a perfect spot for hiking, too.

Cheapest beach vacations in Asia

Next, let’s head over to Asia. Once you land on the ground, many spots in Asia, especially Southeast Asia, are incredibly cheap! It’s a budget traveler’s dream!

13. Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Mirissa is the most vibrant little town in Sri Lanka that is not only cheap to visit, but also home to one of the  absolute best beaches in Sri Lanka ! Mirissa Beach borders the town of Mirssa and offers a long stretch of white sand.

You can just relax on the beach, go snorkeling, climb Parrot Rock viewpoint, eat seafood at a beachside restaurant, or even go surfing. 

Although there are luxurious hotels and resorts in Mirissa, most of the accommodation is really affordable in the form of small guest houses. You can get a beautiful private room with breakfast included only a couple of minutes-walk from the beach for around $20 USD a night!

And besides accommodation, most of the best activities and attractions in Mirissa are completely free, so you won’t need to spend much at all! 

From Mirissa, Secret Beach is a small bay only a 10-minute drive from town. The water is crystal clear and calm at Secret Beach so you can just relax amongst the rock pools. Polhena Beach is a little bit further at around an hour away, but it is almost guaranteed you’ll swim with sea turtles there!  

Whatever you do, be sure to enjoy at least one magical oceanfront sunset in Mirissa – you won’t be disappointed! 

Recommended by Bailey of Destinationless Travel 

14. Ao Nang, Thailand (a cheap tropical vacation)

Charming Ao Nang is a small resort town on the Andaman coast in Krabi Province in southern Thailand.  It’s one of the cheapest tropical vacations you can find.

Unlike Phuket Province, stunning Krabi Province is well-preserved and unspoiled by heavy tourism. While Krabi Town is the busy main town of the province, Ao Nang is less touristy, more relaxed, and less pricey than Krabi Town.

Picturesque Ao Nang is a small u-shaped town between the cliffs and Andaman Sea, famous for its long and sandy beachfront. In fact, Ao Nang bay with cozy Klong Muang Beach and quiet Noppharat Thara Beach is one of the most beautiful bays in Thailand.

Even world-famous Koh Phi Phi islands are often visited on a day trip from Ao Nang. In other words, gorgeous Railay Beach is a 30 min boat ride from Ao Nang and paradise-like Ko Phi Phi Islands are an hour and a half-hour ride by ferry from Ao Nang.

Relaxing in serene Ao Nang, touring nearby scenic limestone islands, having a zip-line adventure over the rainforest canopy in Ao Nang Fiore Adventure Park and swimming and diving in the beautiful Andaman Sea are some of the  best things to do in Thailand .

Small, completely walkable, and relaxing Ao Nang offers a wide range of accommodation: from upscale hotels to budget-friendly guest-houses and cheap hostels. 

If you are traveling Thailand on budget, choose peaceful and affordable Ao Nang as a base to stay, and explore some of the most famous beaches and islands in Thailand from Ao Nang.

Recommended by Milijana Gabrić of World Travel Connector 

15. Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is a short 40 min flight from Ho Chi Minh City and very cheap when flying with VietJet an internal Vietnamese airline. Nha Trang is a very budget friendly location as with most of Vietnam.

You can expect to pay $30-$40 AUD for a 3 star hotel in Nha Trang which is very affordable and only a couple of blocks back from the beachfront.

Street food in Vietnam is lovely, fresh and cheap and as long as you choose somewhere that is busy, ensuring regular turnover of food. The beautiful white beach is clean and there is plenty of space to park your towel and enjoy the beach. 

Nha Trang can definitely appeal to all travellers, you can easily visit here on a very small budget but you can also visit Nha Trang in style in some top luxury beach front hotels. There really is something for everyone. 

Prices have risen over the last few years due to increase in tourists however Nha Trang remains popular with Russian and European visitors. The Vinpearl Resort Nha Trang is a luxury hotel and there is also a water theme park, a Vietnamese version of Disneyland I suppose. You’ll see the chair lift going across to the island from most parts of Nha Trang beach. It’s quite cheap to go across for a day trip. 

Recommended by Sally of Our 3 Kids V the World

16. Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

The once sleepy surfer town of Canggu in Bali is now a must visit destination in the Island of the Gods – and is one of my top picks for those looking for a cheap beach vacation in Southeast Asia.

This hipster Mecca is filled with great places to eat, a huge range of accommodation options (perfect for all budgets and styles) and when it comes to being social and meeting fellow travelers you have everything from upmarket beach clubs to budget friendly beach bars where you can enjoy a few ice cold Bintangs and party the night away.

The biggest draw of Canggu though has to be the surf – and with a variety of spots within a short walking distance it’s ideal for everyone, from those learning to surf, to seasoned pros. So make sure you book yourself a lesson and hit the waves, there are heaps of local surf coaches who will show you the ropes!

When it comes to keeping things on the cheap, guesthouses are certainly the way to go. Even though eating out can seem a bit pricey to begin with (especially by Bali standards) spots like Warung Nonni and Warung Varuna serve up some epic local cuisine for just a few dollars a plate.

Yes, Canggu does come with a bit of a hipster reputation – but it’s still certainly one for the Bali bucket list and still offers up plenty of options for budget travelers, so make sure you add it to your bucket list !

Recommended by Chris of Stoked for Travel

17. Koh Rong Island, Cambodia (a super inexpensive destination)

If you’re looking for a cheap beach vacation in SE Asia, then you should consider visiting the island of Koh Rong in Cambodia . Located half an hour boat ride away from the coast of Sihanoukville, Koh Rong is the second-largest island of Cambodia and Paradise on Earth. 

Considered as one of the most beautiful islands in SE Asia, Koh Rong has 43 kilometers of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear ocean waters. You can also enjoy stunning Cambodian sunsets.

Cambodia is a very budget-friendly destination in general and Koh Rong doesn’t make an exception. A fresh fruit shake will cost you as little as $1, and a tasty fulfilling meal is $1-$5.

Activities won’t blow up your savings either. An island tour that finishes with a night swim with glowing planktons is only $5!  

Koh Rong is home to some of the most exquisite marine life and so snorkeling and diving are among the best things to do on the island. Diving might not be the most affordable activity, but doing it in Koh Rong is definitely worth every dollar. The island is a famous diving destination for the Coral reef with Bamboo and Coral catsharks.

Recommended by Bilyana of Owl Over The World

18. Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang is a great place to hang for a few days the city has plenty of shopping, food and attractions for all, and it’s easy to do on a budget . It’s in central Vietnam is the landing point for most people  heading to Hoi An . Da Nang itself is a city not to be missed. 

White sand beaches as far as the eye can see with warm calm waters is enticing, to say the least. Beach clubs allow you to kick back and enjoy a drink between swims.

The yellow sand beaches are at their busiest in the late afternoons when tourists flock to the water after some of the sting has been taken out of the sun. The main beach areas have lighting so you can enjoy the shallow calm waters as the sun goes down on the South China Seas.

The famous giant hand’s walkway is in the hills behind Da Nang, sitting at 1400 meters above sea level provides amazing views of the Vietnam coast.

The Marble Mountains offer a chance to explore caves close to the city that once produced most of Vietnam’s marble. These rocky escarpments are similar to ones rising out the water in Halong Bay in the north.

Recommended by Mark of Wyld Family Travel

19. Perhentians, Malaysia (one of the best beach vacations for cheap)

The Perhentian Islands, a tropical paradise in Malaysia , are a great choice for a budget beach getaway. Made up of 2 neighboring islands, Perhentian Kecil is a great choice for anyone on a super tight budget and is very popular with backpackers.

Perhentian Besar may be more suitable for families, couples, or backpackers who want better quality accommodations still at a very low cost.

Sunbathing, volleyball and swimming are understandably popular activities on the island. After dark you can drink rum on an island bar, enjoy the fire shows or go on a night dive.

Speaking of diving, the Perhentian Islands are one of the cheapest places to get your PADI and learn how to scuba dive! When I booked my course with Turtle Bay Divers, the cost rivalled the better-known diving hot spots such as Koh Tao in Thailand. My new friends preferred snorkeling trips, where they saw turtles and reef sharks in the crystal clear water.

Jungle hikes, kayaking and boat trips are other great activities to enjoy on the Perhentian Islands. Or just lie back on the pristine white beaches and enjoy the picture-perfect ocean view!

Recommended by Cassie of Cassie the Hag

Cheapest beach vacations in Europe

Next we’re heading to Europe to find affordable beach vacations! There’s more spots in Europe to explore than would ever fit on this mega list, but here are some favorites from travel bloggers all over the world.

20. Crete, Greece

It’s the biggest Greek island situated just of the country’s shores on the Mediterranean Sea. Crete is a perfect destination for a budget beach holiday especially if you travel outside of the peak season which runs from June to August.

May and September are some of the best times to visit Crete, and in this Celestyal Cruises review you can see how budget-friendly Greece can be.

And the good news is that Crete’s weather stays mild and sunny long into the winter! Crete’s exceptional hospitality means that family-run restaurants serve hearty portions at affordable prices. Customary after the meal you get desert on the house followed by traditional Greek spirit – Raki.

Crete has a fantastic range of things to do. Visit some of the stunning Crete’s beaches – Balos Beach with a unique post volcanic landscape and white sanded Elafonisi Beach. Head to Knossos to discover the ruins of an impressive ancient civilization, and if you’re into hiking and spending time outdoors, there is Samaria Gorge to be conquered.

Finally, make sure you include Chania in your Crete itinerary. Chania is a beautiful coastal city with a stunning historic harbor and a lighthouse. It is the perfect place to go out for a seafood dinner enjoyed al fresco.

For the best value, stay in one of the self-catering apartments a little away from the main tourist hot spots like Chania or Heraklion. Try Aglia Marina or Maleme. 

Recommended by Mal of  Raw Mal Roams

21. Ksamil, Albania

Kasmil is the best kept secret of Adriatic. This beautiful beach town is made up of 3 islands and the beaches that surround them. 

Ksamil is located in the south of Albania at the end of Albanian Riviera close to the city of Sarande. When most people think of pristine beaches on Adriatic they think of Greece or Croatia but Albania has something that both these countries cannot offer; it is cheap and offer a great value for money. 

The best option is to stay in Sarande which has many options for accommodation and explore Ksamil and its beaches which are a few km away. 

There are multiple options here whether you want to lounge on a beautiful beach all day or want to enjoy the adrenaline rush with water sports. Kayaking out to the islands when the sun is setting is the perfect activity that balances both tranquility and gentle exercise.

There are multiple beach clubs, bars and restaurants all offering a chance to enjoy life like Albanians; non stop and to its fullest.

Ksamil is the perfect choice if you are looking for a stunning beach destination where your money goes a long way.

Recommended by Ucman of Brown Boy Travels

22. Sitges, Spain (one of the cheapest beach vacations in Europe)

One of Europe’s most affordable beach destinations is located on the Costa Brava in Spain. Sitges, Spain is about 40 minutes south of Barcelona and easily reached by bus, train or renting a car.

The lovely oceanside city has a medieval center and a long coastal promenade full of busy cafes, scenic restaurants and the perfect evening stroll. The city is also popular with LGBTQ+ travelers who pack the beaches and bars of gay Sitges in the summer. 

The coastline of Sitges is gorgeous and dotted with beaches that you can access for no cost. One of the best beaches in town is the Platja de la Ribera. It’s normally a less-crowded option with a lifeguard stand and beach bar to keep you safe and hydrated.

One of the city’s most beautiful landmarks is the church of Iglesia de San Bartolomé y Santa Tecla. It’s a postcard-perfect seaside church that’s easily reached by walking south of the city center along the shoreline.

Sitges also provides a delicious food and drink scene that’s light on the traveler’s budget, making it an affordable beach vacation.

The tapas and seafood are truly exquisite in Sitges and the nightlife is lively and diverse. A tapas dinner is the ideal way to start off a night out. Sitges restaurants like El Cabel and the Basque-style restaurant, La Picara are perfect options to enjoy the local cuisine.

Recommended by Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

23. Šibenik, Croatia

If you’re looking for a cheap beach vacation in Europe, head to Šibenik, Croatia , as your destination. Not only will you find yourself in a historic city, but there are many gorgeous beaches in Šibenik to choose from.

If you’re interested in lounging on the beach in between sightseeing excursions, you’ll find Banj Beach at the end of the city’s Riva. Pass the coffee shops, ice cream stands and the beach bar before arriving at this city beach.

It’s free to enter and offers free showers , in addition to lounge chairs for rent. When you’re on the beach, you’ll be at the base of the city, which means you’ll have phenomenal views of Barone Fortress, St. Michael’s Fortress, and St. James’ Cathedral. 

Or, if you’re looking for a beach day just outside Šibenik, Jadrija Beach is a seaside destination located on a peninsula just outside the historic center. The city offers a convenient ferry, which runs many times during the day every summer from the Riva in Šibenik to the Jadrija dock, and costs just a few kuna each way.

It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the dock to the beach area when you land, where you can lie down on the mostly stone shoreline or swim in the sea. And, make sure you grab an incredible Croatian donut from the pastry shop next to the water.

Recommended by Lyndsay of The Purposely Lost

24. Apulia, Italy (one of the best beach vacations for cheap)

Everybody wants to visit Italy, but few tourists visit the unspoiled region in the heel of Italy, Apulia or Puglia in Italian. It is a strip of land that stretches between the Adriatic and the Ionic Sea.

The coast has sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, and whitewashed towns by the sea. You can easily  explore Puglia  for 2 weeks or more and visit a different beach every day.

Because it is still a hidden gem and not overwhelmed by tourists, the prices are very affordable in this part of Italy even in high season.

The season is long, you can still bathe in the sea even at the end of October, and the weather is great.

The beaches in Monopoli and Polignano a mare are the most accessible, and you can get there by train from Bari. However, if you want to find the most secluded beaches, I recommend renting a car and exploring the coast. 

You can even stay inland, in beautiful Lecce, in a  masseria  in the middle of the olive groves, or in a  trullo  in Alberobello and drive to the beach.

One of the best beaches in Puglia is Cala Paura in Polignano a mare, a small beach sheltered by spectacular limestone cliffs. Another beach you shouldn’t miss is Torre Guaceto, a large sandy stretch in Brindisi. It’s a protected marine area where the waters are clear and snorkeling is a lot of of fun.

Recommended by Anda of Travel for a while

25. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is one of the cheapest beach vacations in Europe with plenty of well priced or free activities and great places to stay. Situated at the southern end of Portugal, the Algarve is a vacation delight with almost guaranteed sunshine and warm and welcoming people.

Tapas is well known throughout Spain but Portugal has its own version (known as petisco) and it’s easy to pick up an easy meal of a few dishes to share which is really inexpensive. The best reason to visit this region is for its breathtaking beaches which are free to enjoy.

There are plenty of other activities though including bird and wildlife watching in the beautiful Rao Formosa Natural Park. One of the most atmospheric things to do is to head to Sagres. It’s on the most south western tip of the country, which Europeans once believed was the end of the world.

Watching the sun set here (the Romans claimed if you listened hard enough you could hear the hiss as it sank in to the sea) is a wonderful experience.

There are some fantastic  Algarve family resorts which are very well priced since having so much choice helps to keep the prices down. If you’re looking for even better priced accommodation there are some fantastic campsites across the region too.

Recommended by Nichola of Family Hotel Expert

26. Vama Veche, Romania

If you’re in search of a cheap European beach destination, why not check out the coastal village of Vama Veche, Romania? Vama Veche is a tiny gem on the Black Sea that’s been gaining in popularity over recent years.

In the 70’s and 80’s, Vama Veche was a haven for intellectuals, hippies, free-thinkers and artists of all kinds. It became synonymous with creativity and freedom of thought, providing a much-needed sanctuary during Romania’s communist regime.

Modern-day Vama Veche attracts the same alternative crowds, although it is very much a party destination.  While costs are high in comparison with the rest of Romania, they are dirt-cheap when considering more popular western European beach destinations.  

A big dinner for two complete with a few drinks each will run you about 25-30 euro total, or up to 15 euro per person. To rent a chair on the beach is approximately 6-10 euro for the entire day. A beer in a restaurant is roughly 3 euro while a mixed drink is around 4,50 euro.  

There’s more to do than eat and drink in Vama Veche – you can actually walk across the border to Bulgaria! There are plenty of water sports to enjoy as well.  The Black Sea is a highly underrated beach destination, but well-worth a visit for both its beauty and affordability.

Recommended by Jade of The Migrant Yogi

Cheapest tropical vacations in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is synonymous for beautiful beaches and cheap vacations. It’s a beach-lover’s dream region, and I can’t wait to share these amazing and affordable beach vacations with you!

27. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is one of the best cheap beach destinations in Mexico. Unlike Cancun or Cabo, Puerto Vallarta has plenty of all-inclusive options, but also has a comfortable balance of affordable boutique hotels in town for a less secluded resort vibe.

Because the town of Puerto Vallarta is close to the beach and very walkable, you can stay at less expensive (but still fabulous) lodging and still enjoy the warm beach water and boardwalk that you can at more expensive resorts.

The food is also very affordable, and even the  best tacos in Puerto Vallarta  won’t be more than $1 USD! You can get a whole meal for 2 people at the same price of a drink at other popular beach destinations.

Puerto Vallarta is also a city that places an emphasis on art and culture, and as one of Mexico’s most friendly LGBTQ+ cities, there are plenty of options ranging from bottomless brunch to drag shows to discounted karaoke nights at bars.

For tighter budgets though, you could stroll the many open art galleries and shops – many of which are owned by the area’s Wixárika community. Nature enthusiasts can explore Islas Marietas or Marino Los Arcos National Parks, both under an hour (and a cheap taxi ride) away! 

Recommended by Kay of The Awkward Traveler

28. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos (a surprisingly affordable beach vacation)

Look no further than Providenciales, Turks and Caicos for an affordable beach vacation . Located in the heart of the Caribbean, this destination can’t be beat for beauty. The beaches here are pure luxury but the price of the vacation doesn’t have to be.

Turks and Caicos is known as a luxury vacation destination. In fact, on a recent trip to this gorgeous island chain, I saved over $7,000. Read all the ways to visit Turks and Caicos on a budget here . I was super creative and still had an amazing time.

There’s lots of things to do in Turks and Caicos for free or cheap, too. If you like to snorkel, this is the perfect destination!

I’d recommend taking your own snorkel gear because there are a lot of beaches with excellent snorkeling right off the coast. My husband and I regularly travel to beachy spots with our snorkel gear, saving us tons of money instead of taking tours.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos is one of the cheapest tropical vacations in the Caribbean, and one not to miss!

Related read: 28 Amazing and Unexpected Things to Do in Turks and Caicos

29. El Cuyo, Mexico

El Cuyo is a hidden gem on the coast of Yucatan, Mexico. I f you wish to escape from the busy and expensive Riviera Maya in Mexico, you surely will love El Cuyo .

It became popular among kite surfers for the favorable winds all year round and the long deserted beach perfect both for beginners and professionals. 

It’s now a favorite beach escape for anyone in search of a tranquil and peaceful getaway on the beach. The water reflects many shades of emerald green and blue depending on the weather. The beach is white and soft, the town is mainly unpaved with nice little hotels for every budget, either on the beach or as far as 2 blocks away.

The few restaurants are more than enough to offer delicious local and international cuisine and a couple of cafes for hearty breakfast and a chat with the friendly locals.

A colony of gracious pink flamingoes will welcome you from the lagoons that border the only paved road that takes you to the village. Here you can decide to bask in the sun, take a walk on the never-ending beach or enjoy some watersport such as kayaking, paddle boarding, or kitesurfing.

It’s the perfect destination for a cheap and yet precious beach getaway far from the crowd and the noisy touristy destinations. 

Recommended by Isabella of Let’s Travel to Mexico

30. Placencia, Belize (one of the best beach vacations for cheap)

The small village of Placencia, Belize is a hidden gem in Central America. With beautiful beaches and a ton of things to do in Placencia, it’s a destination that needs to be on any bucket list.

Way more low key than Belize City, Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, Placencia is a cheaper alternative to experience the beauty of this nation while staying on budget. Renting a cabana literally 15 yards away from the ocean was a highlight of my trip – and cost less than $50 USD per night!

More on my exact trip cost and how to visit Belize on a budget here .

Be sure to check out the snorkeling or diving scene, as the Belize reef is part of the 2nd largest reef system in the world. Taking a tour to a nearby private island is a unique way to experience the water, too.

31. Puerto Morelos, Mexico

This little fishing village is one of my favorite spots in all of Mexico. Puerto Morelos is full of charm and super laid back. It’s conveniently located just 20 minutes from the Cancun airport, but lacks the crowds of Cancun.

Peaceful, affordable and fun…what more can you want out of a vacation?

One of the cheapest tropical vacations out there, Puerto Morelos does have inexpensive all-inclusive resorts. But to save even more, try a vacation rental in town. Walk down to the farmer’s market to grab a few groceries for the week, or dine on a dime at a local restaurant.

Puerto Morelos is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets!

More of the cheapest beach vacations

Rounding out the list with the final spots of affordable beach vacations. Sad to see this guide come to an end, but excited to start planning another trip. Anyone else??

32. Rapid Bay, Australia

One of the cheapest beach vacations in Australia is Rapid Bay. It’s 90 minutes south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The beach hugs a hilly coastline, the mountainous backdrop makes it a beautiful place to spend a few days.

If you like camping, there’s a campground located right behind the beach. The campground is cheap but basic. It costs AUD$12.50 a night. There is a BBQ area and cold water amenities. During summer the campground is busy and booking is a must.

There is plenty to do at Rapid Bay. It is best known as a snorkeling and dive site. At the end of the older, longer jetty there is abundant marine life on and around the pylons.

You can see everything from big schools of fish to sea horses and the occasional seal and dolphin. The Jetty is also a popular fishing spot.

The coastline around Rapid Bay is dotted with caves so there are some great kayaking opportunities. There are guided tours you can do to learn more about the caves or you can explore them yourself.

Back on land, Deep Creek Conservation Park is less than a 20 minute drive from Rapid Bay. There are more great hikes and walks along the coast to do there and the park is also a great spot to see Australian wildlife.

Recommended by Natalie & Steve of Curious Campers

33. Dahab, Egypt

There are so many amazing and cheap beach destinations scattered around the world and Dahab, Egypt is one of them. When people think of beach vacations, Dahab doesn’t usually come to mind. But, it truly is a gem and a great place for a relaxing beach getaway.

Located on the Southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula, Dahab used to be a Bedouin fishing village. The nearest airport to Dahab is Sharm El Sheikh International Airport and it takes around an hour and a half to get there via car.

The best part about vacationing in Dahab is that it’s very budget-friendly in terms of lodging, dining, and more. The bus from Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab costs less than $6 USD per person.

You can also score a four or five star, all-inclusive  hotel  for less than $50 per night. Yes, that includes your meals too! A nice three or four-course meal at a nice restaurant will cost you around $10. Excursions and activities are very reasonable compared to other beach destinations.

Dahab has a relaxing environment and you’ll be away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. It’s a resort town and only 15,000 people live here. It sits between the Sinai Desert Mountains and the Gulf of Aqaba so the scenery is naturally beautiful.

If you’re into snorkeling and scuba diving, the Blue Hole is a must. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are also fun activities to do in Dahab. If you’re a history buff, be sure to visit St. Catherine’s Monastery.

If you’re wanting to see the pyramids in Egypt, including visiting Cairo and Luxor, definitely use this 7 day Egypt itinerary to plan the best route, and work in Dahab at the beginning or end of your trip!

Recommended by Disha of Disha Discovers

34. Wineglass Bay, Tasmania

Often named among top 10 lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay is the perfect place for your budget beach vacation. Stunningly beautiful and with the only access via your feet or boat and camping the only possible way to stay here, this not only keeps costs very low but also keeps away the masses.

Located in Freycinet National Park on the east coast of Tasmania, the walk to Wineglass Bay is only about one hour but it is on steep paths with many steps. Once you hit the beach with its powdery white sand, aqua blue water and contrasting orangey coloured rocks, every step would have been worth it. This is heaven!

You will need to take your own camping gear, food and water (there’s a tap for drinking water at the start of the hike to Wineglass Bay). There is a campsite at the far end of the beach at Wineglass Bay with a composting toilet here.

While conditions are basic, you’ll love the surroundings and the cost – it’s free to camp here (although you do need a Tasmanian National Parks pass to enter the national park).

The activities are all about nature – enjoying the beach and hiking further into Freycinet National Park. If your dream beach vacation is all about enjoying gorgeous surrounds on a budget, Wineglass Bay is definitely a winner.

Recommended by Sharon of Dive into Tasmania

35. Yamba, Australia

Australia is well-known for its fantastic beach destinations and can be an affordable beach vacation. Famous Australian beaches like Bondi Beach, Noosa and Surfers Paradise attract visitors and celebrities from around the world but staying at these popular beach destinations can get rather expensive, especially during the holiday season.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive and fabulous beach on the New South Wales north coast that is every bit as good as the country’s well-known beaches, head for the small  town of Yamba .

In recent years, Yamba has grown from a sleepy fishing town to become popular with surfers. The nearby Angourie Point is a challenging break that all serious surfers must try.

The good thing about Yamba is it is unpretentious, and it’s still a destination that travelers can stay cheaply . For cheap accommodation, stay at Yamba Backpackers, which is an excellent location within walking distance of shops and cafes.

Another way to have a budget beach vacation in Yamba is to look for a room or an Airbnb offseason . This beach town can get rather busy with families during Australian school holidays. Prices drop when kids are back at school or in winter. One way to save costs on meals is to head to the Yamba River Markets or the Yamba Farmers & Producer’s Market for tasty food truck meals.

Other things to do in Yamba include exploring the Blue and Green Pools, fishing, kayaking, swimming and bushwalking. Yamba is a 3.5-hour drive from Brisbane, or you can fly to Ballina-Byron Airport.

Recommended by Christina of Travel2next

Love this list of the cheapest beach vacations?

If you’re feeling giddy about the cheapest beach vacations, get ready to book that trip!

Here’s a recap of the best and most affordable spots you’ll want to see in real life:

• Maui, Hawaii
• San Diego, California
• Gulf Shores, Alabama
• St Pete, Florida
• Chincoteague, Virginia
• Monterey, California
• South Padre Island, Texas
• Destin, Florida
• Santa Barbara, California
• Kauai, Hawaii
• Fort Myers, Florida
• Lake Tahoe, California
• Mirissa, Sri Lanka
• Ao Nang, Thailand
• Nha Trang, Vietnam
• Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
• Koh Rong Island, Cambodia
• Da Nang, Vietnam
• Perhentians, Malaysia
• Crete, Greece
• Ksamil, Albania
• Stiges, Spain
• Sibenik, Croatia
• Apulia, Italy
• Algarve, Portugal
• Vama Veche, Romania
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
• El Cuyo, Mexico
• Placencia, Belize
• Puerto Morelos, Mexico
• Rapid Bay, Australia
• Dahab, Egypt
• Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
• Yamba, Australia

Whew! What a list. Which one will you hit first?

Related content to read next: 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the United States 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 28 Stunning Fall Destinations in the USA 101 Travel Bucket List Ideas

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Friday 18th of December 2020

This is such a fun list! I highly recommend Chincoteague, VA, an overlooked gem. Though as I currently live in Hawaii, I don't know about any of the Hawaii vacations being "cheap" haha!

Saturday 19th of December 2020

Oh good to know you're also in support of Chincoteague! And I imagine living in Hawaii can be pricey, too!

This post is great! After reading your blog, I've realised how many destinations I need to visit :) I especially can't wait to go to Canggu in Bali :)

Aw thanks! Time to start planning your getaway!!

Genuinely needed this post! We're looking to get out of dodge so soon! ( Also never thought anywhere in Australia would be cheap but thanks for sharing!)

Oh awesome Shelbs! So glad you found some inspiration...even in Australia ;)

Thursday 17th of December 2020

Really loved this list of cheap beach vacations - and of course, I loved learning to dive at the Perhentians!

Yes Cass! Such a cool experience! :)

Wednesday 16th of December 2020

These all look like incredible places to visit for a beach vacation! I'm definitely noting some of these down for my future trips.

Glad you found some inspiration here, Krista! :)

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Table of Contents

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

2. virginia beach, virginia, 3. lauderdale-by-the-sea, florida, 4. huntington beach, california, 5. south padre island, texas, cheap beach vacations, recapped.

Oceanfront getaways don't have to max your travel budget. Stay thrifty at one of these five destinations, known as some of the best cheap beach vacations in the U.S.

The skyline of Myrtle Beach on the Grand Strand. (Getty Images)

Long regarded as both a family-friendly vacation destination and a wild spring break hot spot, Myrtle Beach has a little something for most travelers, including those in search of a cheap beach vacation.

In addition to 60 miles of beaches, you’ll find a lot of seafood, live music and shows, and nature to explore, such as the Brookgreen Gardens and Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. Depending on your budget, you can fill your days with shopping and entertainment or simply while away the hours beachside.

Nearby you’ll find plenty of hotels, rental properties and even campgrounds, many of which are budget-friendly. In fact, you can often book a condo or hotel for less than $100 a night.

» Learn more: The best Marriott beach hotels in the U.S.

Aerial view of the Virginia Beach oceanfront looking south at sunset. (Getty Image)

For more laid-back vacation vibes on a budget, head to Virginia Beach. Not that this Atlantic destination is in any way boring. Beyond suntanning, visitors can go to events like the Neptune’s Spring Wine Tasting Festival, the FunkFest Beach Party and the Pungo Strawberry Festival, which offer unique experiences throughout the year.

There are also plenty of concerts to enjoy — including free ones all summer long — and the three-mile long Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers a place to shop and dine or just wander, ride, or roll and enjoy the waterfront views.

For those who want to get outdoors, there’s camping, hiking and biking trails, with miles of waterfront to explore via kayak or paddleboard.

As for where to stay, you can likely find hotels — yes, even beachfront properties — for around $100 a night. It’s a great option for a beach vacation on the cheap.

» Learn more: Best value hotel rewards programs this year

Lauderdale by the Sea near Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Getty Images)

If it's a small-town, old Florida-style relaxation that appeals to you, avoid the more expensive cities of Fort Lauderdale and Miami in exchange for Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

You’ll still be close enough to drive to these lively hotspots if you’re craving more vibrant nightlife, but you’ll stay and play for a lot less (about $130 per night as opposed to $200 or more per night).

Plus, this smaller seaside town is more walkable, there are no high-rises to block your view of the ocean and there’s plenty of beach to stretch out on and enjoy.

Divers and snorkelers will find coral reefs just 100 yards off the sandy beach, perfect for an afternoon of underwater exploration. Visitors can peruse the farmers market at El Prado park fall through spring, take free dance lessons at the popular Beach Pavilion and explore the many places to shop and dine. There’s even a free Pelican Hopper bus so visitors can quickly and easily pop from attraction to attraction.

» Learn more: The best Hilton beach resorts

Aerial view of Huntington Beach, California. (Getty Images)

Located in Southern California between San Diego and Los Angeles, this beach destination offers a welcome retreat year-round, and for much less than those nearby metropolises. And for those looking to surf and stay on a budget, it’s likely a more suitable choice.

Huntington Beach is known as Surf City, USA, but even landlubbers can find things to do. Check out the Huntington Beach Pier for a seaside dinner, fishing or just strolling and enjoying the coastal views. Relax or play on 10 miles of beachfront during the day, then light a fire in one of the beach bonfire pits on the sand as the sun sets.

Peruse the shops and dining options downtown or visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve for some birdwatching. Take a whale-watching tour, rent a bike or do as the locals do: grab a board and hit the waves. You can even sign up for a surfing lesson.

Expect to shell out around $130-$150 per night for decent budget-friendly accommodations. This is still less than the average per night in Los Angeles, which is closer to $200 or more per night for a beachfront hotel in Santa Monica.

» Learn more: Don’t let hidden hotel fees spoil your stay

South Padre Island, a coastal resort town at the very Southern tip of Texas. (Getty Images)

Texas beaches often get a bad rap when compared to more traditionally idyllic destinations like California or Florida, but for adventure-seekers, South Padre Island offers city amenities close to wild and wonderful oceanfront.

A veritable mecca for kiteboarders and windsurfers, these southern shores are a great place to catch some air from the water and even take a lesson or two if you’re the adventurous type.

Likewise, driving and camping on the sand along the beach anywhere north of Beach Access #5 is not only welcomed, it’s encouraged (but a 4WD vehicle is recommended for much of it).

You can visit the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, listen to live music at waterfront restaurants, go fishing or just catch some rays and build sandcastles on the beach. There’s even free transportation to many beach access points.

In addition to a number of campsites, you can also book less rustic accommodations for less than $100 a night (though more luxurious stays are also available).

» Learn more: How to use the annual Ultimate Rewards® hotel credit

Affordable beach holidays can be found in many places, you just have to choose your destination wisely. Avoid large metropolises or more popular beach destinations, instead opting for smaller towns on the outskirts. Your budget will thank you for it.

Stretch your dollar further by booking lodging closer to your trip dates ( if you’re willing to risk it ) and flying on cheaper days .

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On a similar note...

12 best budget beach destinations in the US

Editor's Note

Island-hopping around French Polynesia or retreating to a luxurious beach house in the Hamptons doesn't tally with everyone's budget — especially this summer.

Airfares will once again surpass pre-pandemic averages, according to the travel forecasting site Hopper , and, as anyone looking to book a beach vacation this summer will testify, sky-high prices may put a damper on travel. Hotel data provider STR anticipates U.S. hotel rates will increase by 2% this year, meaning rates will remain high.

Budget travelers anxious for a sun-and-sand getaway may wonder if they can afford a seaside escape.

However, certain beach destinations are more affordable than others, and it's totally feasible to have a great cheap beach vacation if you select the right spot.

Here are some of the best budget beach vacations in the U.S. for those wanting a relaxing oceanfront or lakefront getaway without breaking the bank.

Related: US beach destinations to visit this summer

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer more than 32 miles of white sand along Alabama's Gulf coast. Lodging is as affordable as it gets, with six campgrounds in close proximity to the expansive stretch of shoreline.

The area caters to budget travelers — its tourism website even offers wallet-friendly themed blog posts about cheap and free things to do or where to get lunch for less than $15.

Also, a day at Gulf State Park is all about low-cost fun. Visitors can enjoy sprawling beaches, a nature center and dedicated fishing areas. They can even cycle throughout the park's 6,000 acres thanks to a bike-sharing program (complimentary for up to three hours). Another draw: Parking only costs $10 per day.

Where to stay : If you are a Hilton loyalist (or camping isn't your thing), earn or redeem points at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel. It has a secluded location overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, an infinity-edge swimming pool and access to more than 28 miles of trails. Low-season rates start at just $109 or 36,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Expect to pay around $300 per night (or 70,000 points) during the peak summer season, though.

Related: Skip crowded Florida beaches and head to this Gulf Coast paradise instead

The Outer Banks, North Carolina

Home to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Outer Banks is ideal for all types of travelers.

Traveling with the family? The Outer Banks has several skate parks where your teens and tweens can hang out for free. For travelers who want to brave the swells, a handful of surf shops offer weekly board rentals for as low as $69 — they'll even deliver to your accommodation for free.

Where to stay : With close to 20 different campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks (some costing as low as $30 per night), plus many home rentals for less than $200 per night, visitors don't have to overspend to enjoy around 175 miles of barrier island fun.

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island has a reputation for being a busy spring break spot, but this Texas barrier island is ideal for nature enthusiasts on a budget. It's home to the 43-acre South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, which features a butterfly garden, a five-story bird-watching observation tower, a boardwalk and an alligator sanctuary, all accessible for $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 4 to 12.

South Padre Island also hosts a number of complimentary festivities, such as frequent firework displays, Sandcastle Days and music-themed events on the beach, like bongo drumming nights.

Where to stay : The oceanfront Courtyard South Padre Island has simple, modern rooms, a saltwater swimming pool and a lively outpost of the popular Bar Louie gastro-pub chain. Rates start at $101 or 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. You can also book a room at one of the smaller inns or bed-and-breakfast accommodations in the area, which are often less than $100 per night.

Grand Isle, Louisiana

Visitors to the barrier island of Grand Isle can enjoy white-sand beaches and warm waters (almost) year-round. At Grand Isle State Park, free activities include hiking along miles of nature trails and fishing, which is considered the best in the state. Rent canoes, bikes and paddleboats for a small fee at the park office.

Fishing rodeos at the Bridge Side Marina draw anglers from across Louisiana. There are several fishing shops from which to choose, so rates for baits, poles, hooks and even chartered fishing tours remain low thanks to plenty of competition.

Where to stay : With around 50 premium campsites and 14 beach tent campsites, there's a camping experience to fit every style of traveler, regardless of budget. As a result, even those who want to sleep on the beach will find an option ideal for them.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach is a picturesque stretch of sand fronting the Atlantic Ocean. Budget travelers can soak up rays and swim in the sea during the day before enjoying music and entertainment at night. The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand has hosted free concerts since 1963.

Where to stay : For travelers on a budget, there are many motels like Comfort Inn and Econo Lodge in the area. There are also a Fairfield Inn and a Residence Inn (both by Marriott ), where cash-poor, points-rich visitors can stay for as low as 33,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Luquillo, Puerto Rico

Once you've explored Old San Juan , skip the nearby beach in Condado, a pricier spot with luxe hotels and trendy Miami vibes. Instead, head east for about 45 minutes to the golden sands of Luquillo.

Here, you can trade high-rise hotels for palm trees and bask in the authentic sights and sounds of real Puerto Rico , such as reggaeton played from the back of a truck. For lunch, stroll over to the famous Luquillo kiosks that front the beach. You can choose from more than 60 family-run eateries that specialize in cheap, local delicacies.

Where to stay : There are over 200 Airbnb properties in the Luquillo area, many of which cost less than $200 (or even $100) per night. It's also a quick drive to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest on U.S. soil. Admission is free, but entrance requires a reservation.

Although pricier than other properties on this list, one of TPG's favorite Wyndham properties , the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Gold & Beach Resort, is just 5 miles from Luquillo. Rates start at $300 or 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night in the low season.

Related: The best hotels in Puerto Rico — find your stay on the Island of Enchantment

Ocean City, Maryland

Less than an hour south of Delaware's Rehoboth Beach, Ocean City has plenty to please active travelers and families that want more than just relaxing on 30-plus miles of sandy beach.

Although it costs to enter the Jolly Roger water parks, amusement parks, go-kart tracks and minigolf courses, prices are fairly affordable. For example, a half-day amusement park ticket starts at $29.99 for adults.

Free family-friendly activities, such as kite-flying lessons, crafts, library days and beach games for kids, are also plentiful. Additionally, visitors can enjoy fireworks and concerts every Sunday during the summer months.

Where to stay : During peak summer months, expect to pay around $250 per night for a beachfront, budget-leaning points hotel, such as the Holiday Inn Ocean City , Hampton Inn & Suites Ocean City/Bayfront-Convention Center and Home2 Suites by Hilton Ocean City Bayside .

South Haven, Michigan

South Haven is home to a number of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan . Free activities beyond the lake's sandy shores include hiking the 34-mile Kal-Haven Trail or viewing the South Haven Light, a lighthouse that is especially beautiful in the glow of dusk or dawn.

The area is dotted with wineries, too. Although tastings aren't free, many offer budget-friendly options for sampling wine, such as Gravity Winery, where you can try six different products for $15 (which is refunded with every four-bottle purchase). The winery also features live music on Sunday afternoons during the summer.

Where to stay : For affordable lodging without camping in a traditional tent, consider the wooden cabins, converted school buses and glamping tents of Kal-Haven Outpost, where rates start at $103 per night for a glamping tent (or $30 per night for traditional camping).

Cape May, New Jersey

East Coasters should consider a visit to Cape May, one of America's oldest seaside resorts. Attractions like the Cape May Promenade, Cape May County Park and both the Museum of Cape May County and the Cape May Fireman's Museum are free (donations are optional). You can enjoy many lazy beach days. Travelers can also visit South Cape May Meadows, known for bird-watching and butterfly spotting, free of charge.

Where to stay : Visitors keen to splurge can opt for one of the town's Victorian-style inns or guesthouses. For budget-conscious travelers, camping resorts offer RV sites, safari tents, tiny houses and cabin rentals (complete with shared amenities like pools or recreation areas) at a much lower price.

Panama City Beach, Florida

This Florida seaside destination may be known as a spring break party spot, but it also caters to families and nature buffs. It offers attractions such as the 1,200-acre St. Andrews State Park, which is home to hiking trails, idyllic beaches and affordable camping facilities. Another attractive natural space is nearby Camp Helen State Park, an ideal place for beachgoers, hikers and cyclists.

Where to stay : A search on Hotels.com for Panama City Beach hotels reveals hundreds of lodging options, including motels starting at $85 per night, and a number of Wyndham , Radisson and Marriott properties costing less than $200 per night during peak summer months. That's a steal compared to other popular Florida beach destinations like Miami, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Besides Myrtle Beach's 60-mile-long stretch of glittering sands, this Atlantic hub is also known for having close to 90 golf courses. Thanks to the high number of golf options, prices are competitive, making tee time affordable for avid golfers. You can play a round of golf for as low as $36 in Myrtle Beach, compared to the national average of $61 per round, according to the National Golf Foundation .

Where to stay : Airbnb has more than 1,000 home rentals available in Myrtle Beach, with the median price hovering below $150 a night for a private rental. Myrtle Beach also has nine different campgrounds, including Lakewood Camping Resort, which features an on-site water park, and the gated waterfront North Myrtle Beach RV Resort and Dry Dock Marina.

Myrtle Beach has a wide range of affordable hotels, many with luxe amenities that are quite surprising given their price tags, which often start below $200 per night.

Related: Best hotels in Myrtle Beach that family travel experts love

Ventura (San Buenaventura) Beach, California

A California beach vacation can be on the pricier side, but if you head to Ventura Beach, you may be able to do it on the cheap. Walking along Ventura Pier is a great free activity if you get tired of lounging on the sands. Or, meander along Ventura Promenade to Surfers Point at Seaside Park to admire the wave riders (or take a turn yourself).

Where to stay : Although hotels in the area can be expensive, this is the spot to visit if you want to camp on the beach. There are a number of options for both tent and RV camping, such as Emma Wood State Beach and Ventura Beach RV Resort; the latter offers unconventional options like yurt rentals complete with fire pits.

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The 12 Best Cheap Beach Vacation Destinations in North America [2023]

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3. California — Ventura

4. dominican republic — punta cana, 5. florida — daytona beach, 6. hawaii — o’ahu, 8. mexico — riviera maya, 9. puerto rico, 10. south carolina — myrtle beach, 11. texas — south padre island, 12. virginia — virginia beach, final thoughts.

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Everyone deserves a beach vacation now and then, and it doesn’t have to break the bank if you research the destination and take advantage of flight deals.

Even destinations that are not known for being wallet-friendly can be within your reach if you book budget accommodation, use public transport to explore, self-cater meals, or seek out restaurants away from the main tourist areas.

Some of our recommended beach destinations are tropical island escapes, where you can recharge your batteries relaxing on golden beaches, sipping rum cocktails, or splashing around in the surf. Others could be closer than you think, with some amazing coastal spots within the U.S. — perfect for a family road trip or romantic getaway.

Aruba is 70 square miles of paradise, with silky sand beaches , turquoise waters, and incredible sunsets. With the slogan “One Happy Island,” Aruba is known for its friendly and diverse multi-lingual locals that welcome visitors in 4 languages.

Located in the southern Caribbean, Aruba is away from the hurricane belt and has excellent year-round weather. There’s no bad time to visit , so tourists can take advantage of flight and vacation deals at any time of the year.

Return flights to Aruba ( AUA) from the East Coast can be as low as $360, and vacation packages with a hotel are around $500 when booked with Expedia . For that price, you’re not going to be staying on the beachfront, but with a cheap local bus service, you can hop between the island’s stunning beaches, including Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, or Malmok Beach.

Where to Stay

• MVC Eagle Beach is a 3-star family-run hotel located just across from Eagle Beach. Facilities include a small swimming pool, terrace, tennis court, and a restaurant. Rooms are homely with outside seating and ocean views. From $261 per night .
• Aruba Boutique Apartments is a 4-star adults-only complex located 2.3 miles from Palm Beach. Units are set within lush gardens and have access to a large shared swimming pool. From $179 per night .
• Ocean Z Boutique Hotel is a 5-star luxury lifestyle resort with a contemporary style. Rooms are beautifully decorated with views of either the swimming pool or the ocean, which is located right across the road. From $1,093 for a 3-night minimum stay.

Hot Tip:  High season in Aruba is January to March, so avoid traveling during this time if you’re looking for the cheapest flight and accommodation deals. 

The beautiful Bahamas is made up of over 700 islands, with some visitors happy to relax and stay-put on 1 island for the duration of their trip and others that want to island-hop by plane or boat.

With its crystal clear waters, the Bahamas is a top diving spot for colorful reefs, blue holes, and guaranteed shark encounters at some sites. If you visit the islands of Exuma, you can choose to see some unlikely inhabitants of the Bahamas — the famous swimming pigs.

Flights from Florida to Nassau (NAS) start from around $200 return from the U.S. ; however, the Bahamas is somewhere that you’ll likely save money by booking a vacation package , especially if you’re planning to visit the Out Islands.

• Ocean West Boutique Hotel is a 3-star hotel located in Nassau, located 0.6 miles from Orange Hill Beach. Guests may share the use of the lovely lounge, garden, and swimming pool, and rooms are elegantly decorated, with rooms offering full or partial sea views. From $252 per night .
• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a large 4-star resort overlooking Cable Beach in Nassau. Facilities include 6 swimming pools, a private beach, a spa, and a variety of restaurants. From $373 per night or 21,000 to 29,000 World of Hyatt points.
• The Cove at Atlantis is located on Paradise Island, 17.4 miles from Nassau International Airport. This 5-star resort boasts luxury oceanfront suites with private balconies, large outdoor swimming pools, and a private beach. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options at 21 restaurants. From $571 per night or 85,000 Marriott points.

Hot Tip: Before booking your trip, check out our list of the best credit cards for vacation purchases .

Ventura is located north of Los Angeles and is a small town offering many outdoor pursuits. Kayaking, surfing, hiking, and camping are popular activities with locals and visitors, and year-round whale-watching trips depart from Ventura Harbor.

Often referred to as “The Galapagos Islands of North America,” some of the closest islands of the Channel Islands National Park are just an hour’s boat ride away from Ventura. The islands and surrounding waters have an abundance of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and the island fox.

Back on dry land, Ventura is home to award-winning wineries and independent restaurants , and it has a great music program during the summer. If you’re vacationing from California or one of the nearby states, then rent a car to visit Ventura , or if you’re flying in from elsewhere , Santa Barbara (SBA) is the closest airport — around a 40-minute drive away.

• Ventura Beach Marriott is a 3-star recently renovated hotel located 7 minutes’ walk from San Buenaventura State Beach. Facilities include a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. From $244 per night or 35,000 Marriott points .
• Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort is well-located in the marina area of Ventura Harbor. The 4-star hotel has a year-round swimming pool, tennis court, and fitness center, and guests may enjoy a drink on the outdoor patio. From $190 per night or 25,000 Marriott points .
• Ojai Valley Inn is a beautiful 5-star hotel surrounded by hills, mountains, and its championship golf course. There’s a health spa available for guests to unwind and a family swimming pool. Located inland, Ojai Valley Inn is a 20-minute drive to Ventura Beach. From $485 per night .

Punta Cana (PUJ) sits on the easterly tip of the Dominican Republic and has 30 miles of pristine, palm tree-fringed coastline . Family-friendly and couples-only resorts line the beaches, with fabulous all-inclusive dining and entertainment facilities.

As well as the usual beach activities, you can visit Scape Park — a natural theme park with hidden cenotes, caves, and zip-lining. Take a dip in the freshwater lagoons of the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park or enjoy a round of golf at one of Punta Cana’s many golf courses. 

Although there are not many budget accommodations in Punta Cana, the value for what you get is very good . Many visitors opt for an all-inclusive resort, which for a week-long holiday from the East or West Coast can start at $700 .

• Occidental Caribe is a large 4-star all-inclusive resort overlooking Bavaro Beach. Rooms are nicely furnished and feature a balcony and mini-bar. The resort offers 7 restaurants, a range of watersports, and 2 lagoon-style swimming pools. From $123 per night (all-inclusive) .
• Majestic Colonial Punta Cana is situated on Cana Beach and offers either pool or oceanfront rooms. This 5-star resort has a private beach, 7 restaurants, 11 bars, a large swimming pool, and a spa. From $163 per night (all-inclusive) .

Hot Tip:  If you would prefer to book your hotel and flights separately, check out our articles on the best ways to fly to the Caribbean with points and miles and the best Punta Cana hotels to book with points .

Daytona Beach is on Florida’s east coast, around an hour’s drive from Orlando . It’s an action-packed, family-friendly vacation spot, offering much more than just white sandy beaches.

The boardwalk has a string of arcades, gift shops, restaurants, and amusement rides, and then there’s the Daytona Lagoon waterpark to cool off in the Florida sunshine. Motorsport fans can visit the Daytona International Speedway to get behind the wheel of a  NASCAR race car  or to watch one of the many racing events.

Daytona Beach is a great stopover if you’re self-driving the east Florida coastline , and there’s enough entertainment for a week-long family holiday. Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is a stone’s throw from the beach , with flights operated by Delta and American Airlines.

• Bahama House – Daytona Beach Shores is a 3-star oceanfront hotel that features a balcony and ocean view for every room. The swimming pool also offers ocean views, and there’s a manager’s reception with free cocktails, beer, and wine. From $120 per night .
• Plaza Resort & Spa – Daytona Beach is another oceanfront hotel (4-star) with a sun terrace and beach-facing swimming pool. An on-site restaurant serves classic southern American dishes, and there’s a poolside bar for lunchtime snacks. From $119 per night .

O’ahu is the third largest island in Hawaii and is the most developed, home to around two-thirds of the state’s population. Hawaii’s bustling capital Honolulu is on O’ahu’s south shore, but there are plenty of quiet, unspoiled beaches and jungle to explore on the other sides of the island.

O’ahu is the most accessible and cheapest Hawaiian island to visit , with the best rates in spring or fall. There are plenty of free activities such as snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, surfing (or watching the pros), hiking the incredible landscape, or visiting historic Pearl Harbor.

Flights from Los Angeles to Honolulu (HNL) start at ~$300, and it’s a good idea to book well in advance for the best prices . Check out these websites if you’re interested in a vacation package deal that includes both flights and hotel.

Hot Tip:  With flights to Hawaii being one of the most expensive aspects of the vacation, you might be interested in the best ways to fly to Hawaii with points and miles .

• The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel is 2 minutes from downtown Waikiki, overlooking Sans Souci Beach. The rooms at this 3-star hotel all have a balcony or patio, as well as a refrigerator, coffee machine, and washing machine. From $215 per night . 
• Paradise Bay Resort is a 4-star resort located on Kaneohe Bay, offering views of the Koolau Mountain Range. The resort has an outdoor pool and hot tub and offers free yoga and meditation classes. From $225 per night .
• Turtle Bay Resort is a 5-star hotel located on the north shore, famous for its sea turtles. The resort offers a variety of restaurant options and activities such as horse riding, Segway tours, and scuba diving. From $445 per night .

Hot Tip: If you’ve got points to use, check out our guide to the best Hawaii hotels to book with points .

Jamaica was named the top Caribbean destination in 2019 by TripAdvisor , and it’s easy to see why. Jamaica’s incredible island beauty, friendly locals, and warm hospitality leave visitors with lasting memories.

Dance the night away reggae-style at Montego Bay’s lively bars and nightclubs, or swim in the shallow, calm waters of Negril’s Seven Mile Beach. Enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour and see colorful fish dance below you as you sip a rum punch, or swim in the glistening waters of a bioluminescent lagoon.

Many vacation offers to Jamaica are on an all-inclusive basis, so you won’t need to worry about budgeting for food and drink once you’re there. Jamaica is warm all-year-round but is wetter from September to December, so this time comes with the cheapest rates .

Flights to Montego Bay (MBJ) and a vacation rental start from around $500 for a week , whereas an all-inclusive beachfront resort is around $800-$900 .

• Catcha Falling Star is a 3-star hotel perched on top of the cliffs of Negril’s west end. The hotel has a swimming pool with ocean views, or guests can follow steps down for ocean swimming and snorkeling. Many rooms include a kitchenette, and there’s an on-site restaurant serving Caribbean dishes. From $125 per night .
• Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach is a 4-star all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay. The resort has a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, and evening entertainment. From $501 for a 2-night minimum stay (all-inclusive) .
• Jewel Paradise Cove Adult Beach Resort & Spa is a 5-star adults-only resort with a private beach. Facilities include 4 swimming pools, 7 restaurants, and the rates are on an all-inclusive basis. From $215 per night (all-inclusive) .

The Riviera Maya is the stretch of coastline running along the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, consisting of the popular tourist areas of Cancún , Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum. Suitable for couples, groups, and families, this region has 150 miles of sandy beaches and a wide variety of hotels and resorts.

If you’re looking for a great value all-inclusive deal departing from Miami, then head to Cancún where you can nab a 7-night vacation package, including flights, from $500 . Further south, Playa Del Carmen has some cheap apartments with kitchen facilities to eat-in and cut down costs.

Cancún (CUN) has a frequent flight schedule from all over the U.S., with affordable rates from around $250 round trip. You can save even more by flying to Mexico using miles .

• Casa Mi Playa is an apartment located 0.6 miles from Playa del Carmen Beach. The complex has a bar and shared garden area and bicycles are available to rent to explore the area. From $109 with a 2-night minimum stay .
• Flamingo Cancun Resort is a 4-star hotel located 20 minutes south of downtown Cancún. All rooms offer either lagoon or ocean views, and can guests can enjoy music and a swim-up bar in the main pool. From $142 per night .
• The Royal Sands Resort & Spa is located along the oceanfront in central Cancún and offers sea view rooms with balconies. This 5-star hotel has several restaurants and outdoor pools, spa services, and watersports facilities. From $234 per night .

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break, an island adventure, or a bit of both, Puerto Rico has it all. Its lush central mountains offer up activities such as cave-tubing and zip-lining and are also home to many coffee haciendas available to visit.

With 300 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico’s beaches vary from idyllic hidden coves to vibrant and family-friendly, offering a range of exciting activities. Take a water taxi out to the uninhabited island of Cayo Icacos and snorkel in crystal clear waters.

There are some excellent flight deals from all over the U.S. to San Juan (SJU ) , but accommodation, food, and drink are not the cheapest. Budgeting is possible by booking a vacation rental  or doing some research to find local restaurants off the tourist strips.

Cheap apartments and guest houses can found around the capital, San Juan, for around $70 a night .

• Beachfront Coral Beach Condo is a 1-bedroom beachfront apartment with a balcony located 50 yards from Isla Verde Beach. The apartment complex has a shared swimming pool, a tennis court, and free Wi-Fi. From $760 for a 6-night minimum stay.
• Rincon Beach Resort is a 4-star oceanfront resort located along Almirante Beach on the west coast. The resort has an infinity pool, fitness facilities, and 2 restaurants. From $192 per night .
• Royal Isabela is perched high on the cliff tops of the northwest coastline and offers luxury cottages with sea views. This 5-star hotel has an on-site restaurant and golf course, swimming pool, and yoga classes. From $933 per night .

Hot Tip:  The low season in Puerto Rico is May through November, so plan your trip then to take advantage of the lower accommodation rates.

Situated along South Carolina’s 60-mile Grand Strand Coast, Myrtle Beach has been popular for family beach vacations since the 1950s .

Wide, sandy beaches are well-patrolled with lifeguards, and the ocean is full of swimmers and boogie-boarders. Retreat from the beach and cycle along the boardwalk, play mini-golf, or ride a go-kart at the Broadway Grand Prix.

If you’re self-driving or renting a car , Myrtle Beach is easy to reach from cities within the Carolinas, and you can also explore the full 60 mile Grand Strand Coast and surrounding attractions. Myrtle Beach has lots of vacation homes and apartments with self-catering facilities , perfect for a family stay.

• Myrtlewood by Monarch Rentals has apartments with balconies, kitchens, and seating areas just a 15-minute drive from Myrtle Beach State Park. The complex has a swimming pool, bar, and can arrange grocery deliveries. From $511 for a 4-night minimum stay .
• Jade Tree Cove by Capital Vacations is a 3-star oceanfront complex with apartments featuring well-equipped kitchens. A sun terrace and swimming pool sit along the beachfront, and guests can use the BBQ facilities. From $246 for a 2-night minimum stay .
• South Bay Inn and Suites is a 4-star high-rise hotel located on the boardwalk of Myrtle Beach. The hotel has a fitness center, sun terrace, and a swimming pool with water slides. From $86 per night .

Hot Tip: For even more options, check out all of the best beaches in South Carolina .

South Padre Island is a barrier island at the southern tip of Texas, surrounded by the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This tropical island has 34 miles of white sandy beaches and is accessed by crossing the Queen Isabella Causeway.

Once a year, students flock to South Padre Island to celebrate spring break with beach parties and club nights. Families are also welcome with a range of fun activities, such as sandcastle building lessons, horse riding, mini-golf, and dolphin watching.

Less than a day’s drive from Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin, South Padre Island draws in local Texans looking to escape the city. Visitors from beyond Texas can fly into Brownsville-SPI International Airport (BRO) — located 20 miles from the beach — on United or American Airlines .

Accommodations vary, from cheap and cheerful apartments to large beachfront resorts.

• Los Cabos Condos offers 2-bedroom apartments sleeping up to 6 people. The complex is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and features a swimming pool and hot tub. From $307 for a 2-night minimum stay .
• Best Western Beachside Inn is a 3-star hotel with comfortable rooms located 5 minutes from the beach. The hotel features a swimming pool and hot tub and includes breakfast within the rate. From $72 per night .
• Peninsula Island Resort & Spa is a 4-star hotel with private beach access and balconies with every room. Guests may use the on-site spa services, swimming pool, and fitness center, and the hotel has a restaurant serving coastal Mexican cuisine. From $98 per night .

Hot Tip:  Check out South Padre Island’s official website as it has a Deals and Packages page for current offers on accommodation.

Virginia Beach is a great budget-friendly beach destination , especially if you’re happy to stay inland, with cheap accommodation from around $40 per night .

The town center is the place to be for daytime and evening entertainment, with shopping malls, theatres, and a comedy club, but of course, the beach is the main attraction. The 3-mile boardwalk is packed full of street entertainers, snow cone vendors, and visitors roller-blading and cycling.

Driving in from North Carolina or Virginia, visitors can explore the surrounding attractions such as the Military Aviation Museum, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or the farmlands of Pungo.

• Travelodge by Wyndham Virginia Beach Bay Beach is a 2-star hotel located just minutes from First Landing Beach. Basic rooms feature a refrigerator and microwave, and guests may use the outdoor swimming pool. From $51 per night .
• La Quinta by Wyndham Virginia Beach is a 3-star hotel located 350 yards from the beach, close to Neptune’s Statue. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and comfortable rooms include a refrigerator and microwave. From $81 per night .
• Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach Hotel is located right on the boardwalk with direct access to the beach. This well-reviewed 4-star hotel is perfect for families, with 3 outdoor swimming pools and 1 indoors with a lazy river. From $134 per night .

For more options check out the best beaches in Virginia .

There are various ways to bag yourself a bargain beach vacation. Booking last minute can offer up some substantial discounts for accommodation looking to fill their rooms — some hotels may even offer complimentary meal upgrades to incentivize bookings.

Flights tend to be cheaper in advance, and there are lots of websites that can help you find flights at the lowest prices by allowing you to see a calendar view of prices by month or by setting up alerts for your chosen destination.

If there’s somewhere you’ve always dreamt of visiting, don’t be put off by its pricey reputation. There are ways to travel on a budget, including booking a private room in an Airbnb , eating in, dining at local restaurants or markets, and seeking out free attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i go to the beach for cheap.

There are various ways to bag yourself a bargain beach vacation. Booking last minute can offer up some substantial discounts for accommodations looking to fill their rooms — some hotels may even offer complimentary meal upgrades to incentivize bookings.

Where is the cheapest island to vacation at?

The Dominican Republic offers great value vacation packages in areas such as Punta Cana. Many visitors opt for an all-inclusive resort, which for a week’s holiday from the East or West Coast is from $700-$800 booked with Expedia.

What are some cheap family vacations?

Within the U.S., Myrtle Beach, South Padre Island, Daytona Beach, and Virginia Beach are top spots for a domestic family vacation. Further afield, the Riviera Maya, Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas have some fantastic family resorts.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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14 Best Affordable Beach Vacations, From Crete to Cape May 

By Caitlin Morton

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Nothing quite compares to a well-earned beach vacation. But by the time you book your flights, lock down the perfect waterfront hotel room, and splurge on a new bathing suit , your energy levels—and bank accounts—are almost too depleted to actually enjoy those tropical cocktails and summer paperbacks .

Luckily, there are plenty of affordable beach vacations around the world that are just as scenic and activity-packed as popular (and expensive) spots like Italy and Bali —chalk it up to a combination of favorable exchange rates , reasonable accommodations, and frequent flight deals. Here, we’ve rounded up 14 of the nicest beach destinations that won’t break the bank, from New Jersey to the Turkish Riviera.

Islamorada, Florida

While most travelers to the Florida Keys head straight to Key West, there are plenty of other places to visit along the archipelago. Islamorada is the perfect place to head for a beach vacation —it’s located midway between Miami and Key West , and it can be enjoyed for a fraction of the cost of either city. Plus, you certainly won’t suffer in the fun department: The island cluster has tons of outdoor activities, fish tacos, and beautiful beaches, plus the iconic  Postcard Inn Tiki Bar (formerly Holiday Isle Tiki Bar).

Stay here: The minimalist, 16-room  Casa Morada is already pretty affordable, but the fact that bikes and snorkeling gear are included in the nightly rate makes it a downright steal.

There’s a reason why Goa is one of  our favorite destinations in the world : The former hippie outpost still invites us to chill out with its artsy markets, simple fish-curry plates, and technicolor sunsets. The beaches here are also some of the most famous in India (one of the least expensive countries to visit in general), ranging from sleepy fishing villages to bustling water sports havens.

Stay here: With nightly rates around $200,  Taj Exotica Resort & Spa feels much more expensive than it actually is, with 56 acres of tropical gardens set along a stretch of golden sand.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach continues to be a popular beach destination for domestic travelers, thanks in large part to its relatively low prices—especially compared to other South Carolina hubs like Charleston and Hilton Head . You can visit the town’s famous boardwalk and beaches free of cost, and there are plenty of affordable options when it comes to dining and hotels as well.

Stay here:   Willow Bay Resort is one of the nicest, least expensive hotels that still offers direct beach access, as well as perks like ocean-facing balconies and full kitchens.

Crete, Greece

While you should always save up a good chunk of money for a vacation to the Greek islands, you can get a lot more bang for your buck in Crete. Greece’s largest island not only offers the most diversity in terms of outdoor activities—think beaches, olive groves, and mountainside hiking trails—but it also gives travelers a much wider price range when it comes to restaurants and accommodations.

Stay here: The newly-constructed Nautilux Rethymno is an  all-inclusive resort with packages starting at—wait for it—$256 per night. 

Sayulita, Mexico

It’s relatively easy to snag flight deals to Mexico, but you usually have to make up for the cost in all-inclusive accommodations and inflated restaurant prices—unless you head to the right spot, that is. Head to the surf town of Sayulita for a more authentic (and inexpensive) slice of Pacific coastal life, complete with quiet beaches, colorful streets, and plenty of delicious food stalls.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Stay here: This  ultra chic (and ultra cheap) studio fully embraces indoor-outdoor living, with an outdoor kitchen, boho hammocks, plenty of potted plants, and beach access just a block away.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Though it’s becoming increasingly developed, Koh Samui is still one of the least expensive islands to visit in Thailand —and it also happens to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire country. You can choose to splurge on a  5-star hotel if you’d like, but there are plenty of other options for travelers with tighter pursestrings; and the abundance of cheap street food and bike rentals will certainly help.

Stay here: This  editor-approved villa boasts six bedrooms, a saltwater infinity pool, and panoramic ocean views—all for a shockingly low nightly rate.

Can’t swing a trip to Italy right now? Consider Malta, located about 50 miles south of Sicily, a fine alternative. The tiny island nation is a treasure trove of limestone cliff-lined beaches and diving sites (choose from 80 shipwrecks to explore), and many of its coastal views and baroque architecture can be enjoyed for free. 

Stay here:  Situated in a restored 17th-century palazzo,  Domus Zamittello is a luxurious grande dame with a nightly rate hundreds of dollars cheaper than what you’d find in Paris or Venice.

While Aruba certainly warrants a few repeat visits, don’t overlook the rest of the Dutch “ABC Islands”—namely Curaçao, with its floating markets and UNESCO-protected rows of colorful colonial buildings. You can typically find reasonable airfares directly to the capital city of Willemstad via American Airlines and KLM, giving you a little extra cash to spend on boat tours and diving excursions.

Stay here:   Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort offers amenities like an infinity pool and private beach without making you stress  too much about the final bill.

Budva, Montenegro

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to visit Croatia on a budget, but you can still get a taste of that Adriatic magic—for much cheaper, we should mention—in Montenegro. The entire country is made for day trips (it’s roughly the size of Connecticut), but we suggest holing up in Budva for the best access to the water. The surrounding coastline is famous for its 17 sandy beaches, and its historic town center is perfect for relaxing at inexpensive restaurants and hotels.

Stay here: This  three-bedroom townhouse is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day, with dreamy courtyards and patios affording views of Old Town.

Antalya, Turkey

Located on the Turkish Riviera, Antalya has a much lower cost of living than Istanbul —which is somewhat incredible, given the resort town’s abundance of natural beauty and life-changing cuisine. Spend your time marveling at the impossibly turquoise water at Kaputas Beach and Mermerli Beach, then explore the city’s famous ruins and hiking trails when you’re craving dry land.

Stay here:   Hotel Lykia Old Town Antalya is a quaint boutique property that’s just a five-minute walk away from Mermerli Beach.

Bocas del Toro, Panama

Panama has long been a favorite destination among budget travelers, but that doesn’t mean you have to rough it while you’re there. Head to the Caribbean–facing province of Bocas del Toro for some of the most pristine beaches you’ll ever see, along with wildlife encounters ranging from snorkeling in bioluminescent waters to spotting bats in subterranean lakes. And with tours hovering around $30 and bike rentals starting around $1/hour, an adventure-filled itinerary is well within the realm of possibility.

Stay here:   This overwater cabin feels like a true escape, especially with its private porch overlooking the waters of Saigon Bay.

Cape May, New Jersey

Compared to the bougie weekend getaways on Long Island, the seaside town of Cape May is something of a no-brainer for New Yorkers seeking affordable beach vacations. The New Jersey jewel is lined with charming Victorian houses and shops, and it makes an easy jumping-off point for exploring the 30 miles of white-sand beaches along the Jersey Cape (you might even spot a whale or two). Give it a day, and we promise you’ll forget the Hamptons even exist.

Stay here:   This sunny apartment comes with two balconies that afford views of the property’s 50 acres of gardens and vineyards—be sure to book a wine tasting when you book your room.

Boracay, Philippines

An idyllic escape to Boracay? Sign us up. It’s hard to believe that the  best island in Asia (as voted in our latest Readers’ Choice Awards) is actually affordable, but this wonderland in the Philippines really is quite cheap by international standards. Here you can find inexpensive airport transfers, night market dinners, boat rentals, and more—not to mention free sunbathing on some of the world’s best beaches.

Stay here: Even five-star resorts like  Shangri-La Boracay can be reserved for under $350 per night, which is all the incentive we need to book a trip right now.

Lombok, Indonesia

While all your friends flock to Bali, consider taking a slight eastward detour to the less touristed, less expensive island of  Lombok . Here you’ll find all the terraced rice fields and towering volcanoes that Instagram dreams are made of, only you’ll actually have the funds and crowd-free space to enjoy the scenery. Rent a scooter for around $3.50 per day and hop from white-sand beach to white-sand beach—you can even throw in a  pink-sand beach for good measure.

Stay here:  We’re always down for a 5-star hotel for under $200 per night, especially one with tropical gardens and plunge pools like  Hotel Tugu Lombok .

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10 Best Budget Beach Destinations

If you thought these exotic beach destinations were out of reach, think again. Check out 10 of our favorite surprisingly affordable vacation spots.

Bali, Indonesia

The untouched beaches of Bali surrounded by lush jungles ready for exploring may seem unattainable, but it's actually a destination that can give you the best bang for your buck. Although flights can be a bit pricey, highly rated hotels are available for as little as $50 a night, and a casual meal there might run you around $3. Balangan Beach is a world-renowned surf destination and towering cliffs that overlook the ocean offer views that are beyond compare.

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25 Most Affordable Beach Towns in the U.S.

Life’s a beach, right? Or, at least, for many of us, we wish it were. We’ve all had that fantasy of dropping everything and moving to a beach town. But when you think of America’s great beach towns, like the Hamptons, Miami, Malibu, Hilton Head, among many others, we get snapped right back into reality rather quickly — the cost of living in these spectacular beach towns is pretty darn high! 

But it turns out, your beach-town dream may not be as far out of reach as you think. America is home to some affordable beach towns that come with beautiful stretches of coastline without the hefty price tag. These towns may not have the international reputation as other beach towns in the country, but that’s why they are so coveted — they fly below the radar and keep the cost of living low.

Some towns do have their drawbacks, like hurricane risks or higher crime rates, but if you know where to look, you can uncover some truly spectacular hidden beach gems. Whether you’re looking to move to the beach or simply visit on a budget, here are 25 of the most affordable beach towns in the U.S., from most to least expensive.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

25. Charleston, South Carolina

Where to stay: Folly River Beach House

Median monthly housing cost: $1,533

What Makes Charleston Affordable

Charleston may not be the most affordable city in the nation, but as far as beach towns are concerned, it is absolutely more affordable than others. The city itself isn't directly on the beach, which is what makes it more affordable.

However, you're never a far drive from the epic beaches nearby, like Folly Beach, Kiawah Island Beach, Seabrook Island Beach and Isle of Palms Beach.

The Experience in Charleston

One of America's richest cities in terms of culture, history, cuisine and nature, Charleston is the epitome of old-world charm. 

When you're not lounging on the powder-soft white sand beaches of the nearby islands, you'll be strolling the 18th-century streets and buildings, tucking into James Beard award-winning cuisine and watching the boats come into the picturesque Charleston Harbor.

24. Wilmington Island, Georgia

Where to stay: DeSoto Beach Hotel

Median monthly housing cost:  $1,424

What Makes Wilmington IslandAffordable

Wilmington Island's position between Savannah and the beach-facing islands is what makes it such a great place to live.

And while the island itself is surrounded by waterways, it's not directly on the beach, which is what keeps the cost of living lower than other beach towns.

The Experience in Wilmington Island

Wilmington Island has a unique position situated quite literally between the best of both worlds. It is equidistant from the historic city of Savannah as it is to the spectacular beaches and seclusion of Tybee Island. 

You can sunbathe on the shores in the morning and dress up to head to a romantic meal in Savannah's historic district in the evening.

23. Ocean Pines, Maryland

Where to stay: Ocean Pines Resort  

Median monthly housing cost: $1,277

What Makes Ocean Pines Affordable

Ocean Pines is just over the bay from the iconic Ocean City, Maryland — one of the great American boardwalk beach towns and a mid-Atlantic favorite vacation getaway. While real estate over in Ocean City may be much more expensive, Ocean Pines is much more affordable. 

That said, the median home value is still just shy of $300,000, so it is still one of the more expensive places to live in America.

The Experience in Ocean Pines

Just over the bay from Ocean City, Ocean Pines is a quieter, more residential pocket not far from the beautiful sandy beaches of its more popular sister. But its residents love it for its small-town charm. 

Ocean Pines has beautiful views, lush parks, restaurants and shopping. Plus, it has its own stretch of bayfront — nine miles to be exact.

22. Bremerton, Washington

Where to stay:  Hampton Inn & Suites Bremerton  

Median monthly housing cost: $1,268

What Makes Bremerton Affordable

When it comes to Washington beach towns, Bremerton is one of the most affordable in the state. Still, it is one of the most expensive places to live in Kitsap County.

It's not in Seattle proper, but just a short ferry ride away, which helps bring housing costs down. Residents of Bremerton can still work in Seattle with a short commute time, and many do. 

The Experience in Bremerton

Just an hour from Seattle, Bremerton is a harbor side, beachfront town that provides a quieter escape from the busy city nearby. 

With coffee shops, great restaurants, cafes, a marina and a thriving Arts District, Bremerton is much more than just a beach town across the sound from Seattle.

21. Eureka, California

Where to stay: Carter House Inns

Median monthly housing cost: $1,258

What Makes Eureka Affordable

A beach destination in California that is affordable? Can it be possible? Yes! In fact, it can.

But it does come with a tradeoff — the weather. You won't be getting warm golden days in Eureka. Brace yourself for cold, fog and damp conditions the majority of the year. That said, if you want ocean views, Eureka has those in spades.

The Experience in Eureka

Eureka sits on the edge of California's expansive Humboldt Bay. The historic downtown is what you'd expect from an old Northern California town, shrouded in fog and peppered with historic architecture. 

Artists, creatives and certainly a lot of hemp aficionados, flock for the dramatic coastal views and an eclectic waterfront.

20. Hampton, Virginia

Where to stay: Magnolia House Inn

Median monthly housing cost: $1,255

What Makes Hampton Affordable

  Hampton, located near the bustling beach communities of Virginia Beach and Norfolk, is popular among residents for its stable economy and proximity to the water.

But while it may be one of America's more affordable beach towns, rising costs are starting to become a deterrent. The city is rapidly growing, which means that it won't stay affordable for long.

The Experience in Hampton

Hampton and Newport sit to the north of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Tunnel. The natural harbor that it sits on is one of the best ports along the entire eastern seaboard. 

Residents and visitors to Hampton are close to the excitement and fun of Virginia Beach as well as the museums, performing arts, restaurants and other attractions. 

19. Essex, Maryland

Where to stay: Essex Townhome

Median monthly housing cost: $1,216

What Makes Essex Affordable

Located in Baltimore County, Essex is a coastal community along the Black River. It's less expensive than other coastal towns in Maryland because it doesn't actually have direct ocean access. Rather, here, the residential areas overlook the river.

The community is also a suburb of Baltimore.

The Experience in Essex

Cheap housing and proximity to Baltimore are what bring people to settle in Essex. It's a suburban environment with a lot of bars, restaurants and parks. 

The majority of beaches in Essex are off Rocky Point Beach and Park, which is open year-round for fishing, boating and picnicking. 

18. Middle River, Maryland

Where to stay: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront

Median monthly housing cost: $1,209

What Makes Middle River Affordable

A suburb of Baltimore, Middle River has a cost of living that is slightly higher than the national average but less expensive than Maryland's average.

Residents pay the state average for goods and services, groceries and healthcare but far less than the state average on housing and transportation.

The Experience in Middle River

Middle River may not be as popular as Maryland's other coastal areas, but that means it's infinitely less expensive. 

Visitors to this town, perched between the Gunpowder River and the Black River, are impressed by the many outdoor things to do, from the Gunpowder Falls State Park to Miami Beach Park.

17. Brunswick, Maine

Where to stay: The Brunswick Hotel  

Median monthly housing cost: $1,086

What Makes Brunswick Affordable

Brunswick is one of the best places to live in the state. It has wonderful public schools, is safe for families and has great restaurants and nightlife.

Its chilly, long winters are what keep this beach town more affordable than other ones in America. But this is one of the best overall areas to live in terms of quality of life.

The Experience in Brunswick

Brunswick was settled in the early 17th century and is dripping with colonial New England charm. Picture a stunning village green, historic homes and plenty of artsy culture. 

The town is home to Bowdoin College, and over on Federal Street is where Harriet Beecher Stowe penned Uncle Tom's Cabin. 

16. Galveston, Texas

Where to stay: Grand Galvez

Median monthly housing cost: $1,047

What Makes Galveston Affordable

If you're going to move to a beach town in the U.S., you might as well move to one in a state that doesn't charge any income tax .

But another reason for Galveston's affordability is that it is no stranger to natural disasters. It has seen its fair share of destructive hurricanes over the decades.

The Experience in Galveston

Equal parts Southern charm and beach-bum getaway, Galveston Island is one of the most popular beach getaways for Houston residents. 

The city sits on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, with sprawling beaches (though not necessarily the best in Texas), lively nightlife and a non-stop energy that keeps the Texas Southern students coming in.

15. Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ocean Springs, An IHG Hotel

Median monthly housing cost: $1,021

What Makes Ocean Springs Affordable

Ocean Springs is a Gulf community with a small population of less than 18,000 and a median age of around 40. People love to live here because of the beautiful beaches, the winter climate and the entertainment.

But it is one of the more affordable beach towns in the nation thanks to its location on the hurricane route and the high volume of tourists that come during the high season.

The Experience in Ocean Springs

Part of Mississippi's "Secret Coast," Ocean Springs is a beach town that features white, soft sand and a vibrant downtown, packed with boutiques, music and great restaurants. You can explore lovely museums, historic homes and linger on the 2.2 miles of beautiful beach. 

The restaurants are also truly spectacular, from the casual Greenhouse on Porter to the more haute Vestige, serving New American and Japanese-inspired dishes.

14. Port Angeles, Washington

Where to stay:  Olympic Lodge by Ayres  

Median monthly housing cost: $981

What Makes Port Angeles Affordable

The cost of living in Port Angeles is more expensive than the national average but is less expensive than other places in the state of Washington.

On average, residents pay more for goods, services, groceries and healthcare, but pay less for housing and transportation.

The Experience in Port Angeles

Not far from the energy and vibrancy of Seattle, Port Angeles is one of America's great small towns. 

It's the largest city on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles is at the doorstep of the Olympic National Park, with more than 600 miles of hiking trails, beaches, rivers, waterfalls and the only rainforest in the United States.

13. Hilo, Hawaii

Where to stay: SCP Hilo Hotel

Median monthly housing cost: $970

What Makes Hilo Affordable

Hawaii is certainly known for its beach towns, but it is not known for any of them being affordable. Hilo, however, may just break the mold.

That said, a low cost of living comes with a higher risk in general. It has active volcanoes, tsunami threats and the highest rainfall in the nation. Second, it has a lack of some of the more tourist-friendly services that thrive on other islands, like malls, large cities and restaurants.

The Experience in Hilo

Hilo is Big Island's thriving core, though you're more likely to find other visitors roaming Kailua-Kona. 

Still, Hilo is all about the traditional roots of Hawaii culture. Its population is a beautiful mix of native Hawaiians, Japanese, Portuguese, Puerto Ricans and Chinese, among others, and it draws an artistic crowd who come to explore its museums and the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

12. Coos Bay, Oregon

Where to stay:  Red Lion Hotel Coos Bay  

Median monthly housing cost: $958

What Makes Coos Bay Affordable

Oregon's coast is a treasure trove of beaches and coastal vistas. Coos Bay is no exception when it comes to dramatic views.

But one of the reasons it remains relatively affordable is that its winters can be windy and rainy. It also doesn't offer much in the way of shopping or dining — visitors often have to travel to other towns to find things to do.

The Experience in Coos Bay

Coos Bay is an adventurer's paradise, with bays, rivers, lakes and Oregon's famous dunes waiting to be explored. The city is about a 20-minute drive from the Pacific Ocean. 

Summer is much livelier, with outdoor activities, like music, golf and farmers markets. Winter tends to be slower, quieter and wetter, though the Shores Acres State Park does an annual holiday lights display that is magnificent. 

11. Pensacola, Florida

Where to stay: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

Median monthly housing cost: $940

What Makes Pensacola Affordable

Low home values and affordable housing, plus relatively low property taxes are what make Pensacola so affordable. The panhandle town is not far from the Gulf towns of Mobile and Gulfport.

The hurricane risk and the rate of city growth and sprawl are also what keep housing costs low.

The Experience in Pensacola

Pensacola sits on a sandy stretch of the Pensacola Bay. Temperatures don't usually dip below the 50s in the winter. Because of its location to Mississippi and Alabama, the vibe here swings more Deep South than it does Floridian. The city has seen much European influence over the centuries. 

Today, it is a small city brimming with things to do, like a symphony orchestra, ballet, opera, zip lining, museums and, of course, the beach.

10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Where to stay: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes  

Median monthly housing cost: $912

What Makes Myrtle Beach Affordable

Myrtle Beach is one of America's favorite vacation getaways. Visitors come for the 60 miles of beachfront and stay for the theme parks, live entertainment and restaurants.

But the affordability comes from the fact that Myrtle Beach does have a high crime rate, which has brought home prices down. Also, the winter months tend to be very sleepy around here.

The Experience in Myrtle Beach

Sixty miles of beaches, water activities, theme parks, restaurants and golf courses — that is how vacationers and residents do Myrtle Beach. 

From spring to autumn the Atlantic Coast is humming with activity, and the water is always churning with swimmers, jet skiers and parasailers.

9. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Where to stay: The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel

Median monthly housing cost: $901

What Makes Gulf Shores Affordable

Gulf Shores may be more expensive than the rest of Alabama, but it is definitely cheaper than other beach towns in the United States. That is because, while its economy is strong and crime rate is low, the community is fairly isolated, meaning residents have a long commute to work.

The weather can also be unbearably humid in the summer, and there are limited cultural resources.

The Experience in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is the premiere beach getaway on the Alabama coastline. That's because it has powder-soft white sand that rings the Gulf of Mexico and plenty of beach resorts and vacation rentals to keep up. 

In addition to the obvious waterfront activities, Gulf Shores is close to many restaurants and bars, shopping and the wharf in nearby Orange Beach.

8. Melbourne, Florida

Where to stay: Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront  

Median monthly housing cost: $853

What Makes Melbourne Beach Affordable

With a population of just under 80,000 and a median age of 45, Melbourne is a smaller city with a young population. Residents love to live here because of the climate and water recreation.

Plus, Melbourne is across the bay from the barrier island that has the more famous Cocoa Beach.

The Experience in Melbourne

Part of the Space Coast, Melbourne has beautiful beaches on the barrier island across the channel. The town is home to the Florida Institute of Technology and is only 30 miles east of Orlando, which means that residents have both beach vibes as well as the conveniences of a college town and a major city. 

Museums, NASA, beaches, restaurants and the theme parks of Orlando are all within easy reach, too.

7. Gulfport, Mississippi

Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express - Gulfport Beach, An IHG Hotel  

Median monthly housing cost: $811

What Makes Gulfport Affordable

Gulfport is another hidden gem. It's a small town on the seasonal hurricane path, which is what keeps costs low.

But the 26 miles of beaches, mild climate, palmetto groves and wildlife-filled marshlands make this beach town a really lovely place to be.

The Experience in Gulfport

Gulfport is Mississippi's second largest city and enjoys the benefit of being perched right along the Gulf Coast. It's a summer getaway for New Orleans residents, as well as those from around the region. 

The area is packed with history, culture, seafood restaurants and stunning beaches. The town is also much quieter than other towns along Mississippi's Gulf Coast.

6. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Where to stay: Beach Apartment

Median monthly housing cost: $782

What Makes Bay St. Louis Affordable

Bay St. Louis is attractive to residents and visitors because of its beautiful gulf beaches, temperate winter climate and plenty of entertainment during high season.

However, one of the reasons it may be more affordable than other beach towns is because it’s almost too popular with tourists, lacks arts and culture, and is on the seasonal hurricane path.

The Experience in Bay St. Louis

Mississippi's coast is truly beautiful, even though most travelers opt for Florida's Gulf Coast over the beaches in the other Southern states. 

But the seasonal town of Bay St. Louis is just 50 miles from New Orleans, offering an uninterrupted stretch of white sand, leisurely piers and several shops and eateries.

5. Biloxi, Mississippi

Where to stay: Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

Median monthly housing cost: $737

What Makes Biloxi Affordable

Biloxi has beautiful Gulf beaches, a mild winter climate and tons of entertainment.

But what keeps its cost of living low is the hurricane risk as well as the tourist sprawl, which tends to then leave the community snoozing in the off-season.

The Experience in Biloxi

The shoreline of Biloxi is flanked with massive oceanfront casinos, which are the major draw to this coastal community. But upon closer look, visitors will also notice the historic downtown district and the sunsets that set the sky on fire. 

Affordable lodging and an energetic nightlife make Biloxi a major vacation destination for the surrounding area. Of course, if you want something more tranquil, you can just head over the bridge into Ocean Springs.

4. Daytona Beach, Florida

Where to stay: Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort

Median monthly housing cost: $723

What Makes Daytona Beach Affordable

Daytona Beach is one of America's most beloved beach-party capitals in the country. From Spring Break to NASCAR, Daytona Beach can be a wild time.

Of course, when there aren't festivals or events, the town is relatively quiet. Prices are considerably lower than Miami, but compared to the rest of Florida, you'll still be paying around half a million to live on the beach.

The Experience in Daytona Beach

If it's racing season or Spring Break, forget about it. Daytona is hot, and the boardwalk hums with tourists who spill out of the oceanfront bars and restaurants. 

But Daytona Beach has 23 miles of wide, hard-packed sand that allows for myriad activities, from beach sports to beach driving. Water activities fill the rest of your time, from diving to paddle board yoga. In the summer, you can evencatch sea turtles crawling up onto the sand to lay their eggs. 

3. Fort Pierce, Florida

Where to stay: The Royal Inn Beach Hotel Hutchinson Island  

Median monthly housing cost: $655

What Makes Fort Pierce Affordable

Tucked between Vero Beach and Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce is located on the bay behind the Atlantic-facing Hutchinson Island. The town is popular because of its beach location and plenty of outdoor activities, but it lacks arts and culture and is fairly isolated when it comes to having other things to do.

It also is at a high hurricane risk during hurricane season.

The Experience in Fort Pierce

Making up part of the "Treasure Coast," Fort Pierce is a laid-back, residential community that offers beautiful surroundings but less of the activity found at other beach towns farther south. 

The town is growing in terms of business, and what people can expect is a tropical coastal environment, agriculture and lots of vegetation. Lake Okeechobee is 40 miles southwest.

2. Freeport, Texas

Where to stay: Park Avenue Lofts

Median monthly housing cost: $479

What Makes Freeport Affordable

The small town of Freeport has just over 12,000 residents and a median age of 27 years old. Residents love it because of the growing economy, entertainment, proximity to the beach and cost of living.

However, expenses are often kept low because it's not the prettiest of towns. In fact, it has quite a bit of sprawl for such a small city. 

The Experience in Freeport

Freeport's coastal waterways are teeming with fish, so you can imagine that fishing is one of the biggest draws to this part of the country. Offshore charter boat services are available to cruise up and down the Brazos River or off the coast of Bryan Beach. 

A historic downtown has blocks of buildings from the early 20th century as well as The Freeport Historical Museum. Golf, bird watching, camping and dining are among the other activities that visitors and residents enjoy on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

1. Port Arthur, Texas

Where to stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton

Median monthly housing cost: $455

What Makes Port Arthur Affordable

Port Arthur has gone through a revitalization that has resulted in a refreshed downtown. That, plus outdoor recreation and a low cost of living is what makes it attractive.

However, the reason why cost of living is so low is because of unpredictable hurricanes, an industrial landscape and summer weather, which can be unbearably hot and humid.

The Experience in Port Arthur

Port Arthur was founded in the late 19th century and, at one time, was the center of the largest oil refinery in the world. Today, what brings visitors to Port Arthur are the history, wildlife and beaches. 

Water sports and historic sites are the main attractions here. Try kayaking around Sea Rim State Park or explore the mansions like the glorious White Haven.

12 best destinations for a cheap tropical vacation

Feb 12, 2024 • 10 min read

For the best affordable tropical destinations, plan where and when you want to visit and you can reap huge savings © Stocksy

Sun-soaked beaches and colorful coral reefs – even the cheapest tropical vacations seem to have it all. Here's where to go.

It doesn't matter what kind of getaway you can dream up – from catching waves and trying out water sports to hiking through the rainforest to crystal-clear waterfalls – cheap tropical vacation spots can offer it all and more.

Between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, 36% of the earth's landmass has a tropical climate, providing a multitude of enticing destinations as diverse as Australia and Bali, Thailand and Colombia , and many parts of Africa . For the best affordable tropical destinations, plan where and when you want to visit and you can reap huge savings – and not just on last-minute deals. 

From white-sand shorelines in Southeast Asia to scuba diving in Central America , here are 12 cheap tropical destinations that get you access to paradise (without ever hurting your pocket).

1. Palawan, the Philippines

With 7641 islands in total, the Philippines is among the most affordable places for a tropical escape. Palawan , in the nation's southwest, has 1780 islands in its archipelago alone. The region teems with thundering waterfalls, huge caves, phenomenal snorkeling at WWII wrecks and coral reefs, and offers swimming with whale sharks in turquoise waters as well as some of the cheapest scuba diving anywhere in the world. Idyllic El Nido is the jumping-off point for island hopping aboard a bangka (motorized outrigger) to translucent lagoons and hidden beaches framed by karst limestone cliffs.

The pure waters provide a natural bounty of prawns, crab and other crustaceans and fish; look out for danggit lamayo (dried rabbitfish marinated in vinegar, crushed garlic and peppercorn). Staying in a bahay kubo (thatched bamboo shack with woven rattan walls), homestay, hostel or budget hotel are all low-cost options; you can also get good deals on resorts outside peak season (March to May), though some activities close during the June to October wet season.

2. Goa, India

Think budget travel and India will often come to mind, and Goa is a tropical potpourri of Indian and Portuguese cultures. India 's smallest state's least crowded, most pristine beaches, such as Palolem and secluded Butterfly Beach , are in the south, with glowing topaz-hued sunsets over the Arabian Sea. Water activities include kayaking, parasailing and dolphin-spotting trips.

In the dense jungle, wildlife sanctuaries such as Cotigao are home to civets, gaurs, pangolins, leopards, monkeys and giant Indian squirrels, and plantations grow cashews and spices like turmeric, pepper, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon. Colorful markets sell these and other local specialties such as the cashew-based feni spirit, as well as dishes such as seafood thalis (with rice, fish curries, fried fish, pickles and flatbread) and garlicky, vinegary pork vindaloo, along with cheap clothes and handicrafts.

Guesthouses, hostels, beachside bungalows and resorts offer affordable rates. Much of Goa's beachside accommodation closes completely between May to September during the monsoon; March to April and October to November are prime times to avoid peak-season prices and crowds.

3. Bahías de Huatulco, Mexico

Forget Cabo San Lucas or Playa del Carmen City in Mexico. In southeastern Oaxaca on Mexico 's Pacific coast, Bahías de Huatulco is a unique and affordable eco escape. Its nine bays are home to 36 beaches. Santa Cruz’ emerald-green waters are just south of commercial hub La Crucecita, where you can arrange sailing and scuba excursions, and rent equipment including Jet Skis and kayaks. La Bocana is renowned for surfing and pre-Hispanic mud baths. Maguey has gorgeous white sand and snorkeling amid coral, rays and turtles. It's part of the Parque Nacional Huatulco, with awesome hiking, biking and horse riding, and abundant wildlife including black iguanas, armadillos and dwarf porcupines. Up in the mountains, you can visit waterfalls and coffee plantations.

Minimize costs by dining on super-fresh seafood and local specialties like tlayudas (corn tortillas topped with black beans, pork fat and cheese) from rustic comedores (food stalls or basic dining rooms). For accommodations, stay in rooms in private homes, simple hotels, or low-rise resorts and villas outside peak-season holidays (Christmas, New Year and around Easter) in the November to April dry season. Prices drop lowest in the wet season (May to October), though some places close in September and October.

4. Far North Queensland, Australia

World Heritage rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland , Australia. Bordered by sugarcane fields, its gateway city, Cairns , may not have a beach (compensated for by a sand-fringed artificial swimming lagoon on the reclaimed foreshore) but it's the launching pad for reef trips, such as coral cay Green Island , and hinterland excursions including nearby village Kuranda , with artsy, hippie markets beneath the rainforest canopy.

Cairns makes a great budget-friendly base in Australia with a lively hostel scene, family-friendly motels and resorts, and bargain drinking and dining options, including tropical-fruit-filled market Rusty's and high-spirited happy hours at Cairns’ bars and pubs. For a beachside stay, try Trinity Beach and Clifton Beach, both just north of the city. April to May and September to October, either side of the peak dry season, are ideal times for an affordable tropical holiday.

5. Lombok, Indonesia

Ringed by pearl-white, coral-pink and black volcanic sand beaches, Lombok is a fantastic place for an active tropical vacation. In the south , reefs, inlets and bays such as Pantai Mawi provide world-class surf breaks. Climbing through the jungle to sacred Gunung Rinjani ,  Indonesia 's second-highest volcano, is a multiday adventure. Easier treks include spectacular waterfalls such as Air Terjun Sindang Gila . Offshore, between Lombok and its famous neighbor, Bali, the Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan (‘Gili T’), a backpacker favorite for its moonlight parties; traditional Gili Meno; and laid-back Gili Air – are blissfully free from motorized transport.

On Lombok and the Gilis, you can eat cheaply and deliciously at warungs (small, simple eateries) sizzling up skewered-meat satays and grilling fish over coconut-shell charcoal. Beach huts, hostels and bungalows all offer affordable accommodations. The wet season, from October to April, is the cheapest time to go (especially if you skip the busy Christmas holidays).

6. Barbados, the Caribbean 

When it comes to the best tropical vacations on a budget, Barbados is one of the most affordable all-rounder destinations in the Caribbean . All of its sugar-sand beaches are public, even in the west along its flashy Platinum Coast. Strolling distance from its architectural treasure of a capital, Bridgetown, you can snorkel with seahorses, turtles and rays from Brownes Beach , or paddle out on an SUP or kayak.

Surfing is epic off Bathsheba on the wild Atlantic-facing east coast; Freights Bay, in the south, has gentler waves. The south and east are typically the most economical places to base up. Save money by picking up fresh produce at markets and seeking out cheap bites like cutters (filled salt-bread sandwiches) from roadside stalls and rum shops.

Reggae bands play free gigs all over the island. Next to the fish market, diving into mountains of grilled fish and sides accompanied by ice-cold beers and DJ tunes at Oistins Fish Fry is an unmissable island experience. Barbados’ location outside the hurricane belt gives you a bigger window to visit (mid-April to June and November to mid-December hit the sweet spot for great weather outside the peak Christmas-to-Easter period).

7. Vanua Levu, Fiji

Wind down to “island time” in the South Pacific on Vanua Levu . Fiji 's second-largest island is an unspoiled slice of tropical paradise with white-sand beaches, coconut palms and fragrant frangipanis. Underwater, dive sites such as Rainbow Reef and Namena Marine Reserve have kaleidoscopic coral reefs with marine creatures including hawksbill and green sea turtles. Vanua Levu's rugged interior shelters waterfalls, swimming holes and highland villages.

You can feast cheaply on dishes like kokoda (raw fish marinated in coconut cream, tomato and lime, accompanied by rice) and banana-leaf-wrapped fish, meat and vegetables cooked in a lovo (underground oven), and experience Fijian hospitality in a traditional bure (thatched hut), local guesthouse, hotel or budget resort. Prices are lowest during the warm November-to-April wet season.

8. Ko Wai and Bang Saphan Yai, Thailand

For decades, Thailand dealt in a special kind of island paradise: remote, little-visited beaches with basic waterfront bamboo bungalows on fluffy, white sands – and little else. (Alex Garland's The Beach wasn't far from the truth.) Then, in 2004, a tsunami hit the Andaman Sea and swept away swathes of Thailand's southwestern coasts. Hotels replaced bungalows. Travelers poured in.

Still, even with new all-inclusive resorts on some islands, Thailand is one of the cheapest tropical places to travel. To find that Thailand of old, head for Ko Wai, a tiny fleck of white in the Ko Chang Archipelago with dirt-cheap beach huts, budget guesthouses and pure turquoise waters. Alternatively, Bang Saphan Yai on the upper gulf mainland has a halo of golden beaches, traditional bamboo huts and sublime sunsets. The quietest months to visit are April to June. So if you fancy an early summer vacation, you can get cheap accommodations and coral reefs all to yourself.

9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Cheaper than its Caribbean neighbors, the Dominican Republic has everything you could want from the best tropical places: gleaming beaches, arching palm trees, countless waterfalls, bays, coves and budget boat rental – plus mangrove lagoons, windswept dunes and plenty of hiking. It's home to Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean.

One of the ways to economize in the Dominican Republic is to stay in one of the money-saving, waterfront-facing all-inclusive resorts on the island. Punta Cana on the eastern tip has these mega-resorts by the bucketload and they also have access to the country's best beaches. But don't let their budget beers make you miss the capital Santo Domingo : the capitaleños know how to get down and the city has plenty of cheap places to eat, drink and party.

10. Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Zanzibar

Africa punches well above the rest when it comes to tropical vacations but few knock your sunglasses off quite like Zanzibar Island (officially Unguja). Cinematic coral reefs surround Tanzania 's Indian Ocean crown jewel as colorful nudibranchs, leaf fish and flutters of seahorses swim temptingly off the shoreline.

The beaches are some of the world's best, with sand as soft as quilts, swaying coconut palms, beaming sunshine and very little else. Swimmable Kendwa, the widest beach on the island, is the main draw, but for crowd-free coastlines and sublime shades of turquoise, seek out Pongwe on the east coast or sweltering Jambiani to the southeast – two of the most laid back tropical places to visit in Africa.

11. Southern Mozambique, Mozambique

Ribbons of pink-blushed sand weave around the forested edges of southern Mozambique , one of the least expensive tropical vacations in this part of Africa. People have dug this tropical paradise for centuries – from the early spice traders and pirates to backpackers and now high-end tourists who chill on resort sun loungers along the Bazaruto Archipelago .

Between Tofo and Barra, Mozambique has some of the most startling stretches of pillowy-soft sand in the whole of Africa. With snorkeling safaris around coral reefs, cheap fishing charters, and affordable day boat rentals that glide through the iridescent Indian Ocean, this is a country that slows the heart rate and helps the worries of life subside – which is all you want from a cheap tropical holiday.

12. Providencia Island and Playa Blanca, Colombia

Ecuador used to be among the best cheap tropical vacations but as unrest puts the country out of the equation, those looking for a budget South America getaway should head for Colombia instead. Closer to Nicaragua than mainland Colombia, Providencia Island isn't easy to get to (you'll need to get on a tiny 20-seater plane or take a three-hour catamaran journey to get to this remote Caribbean island; both cost around US$100). But it is one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world.

Its remoteness means that its golden curls of sand are mostly footprint-free. The palms here lean over like yoga enthusiasts. The turquoise-blue waters are gin-clear. Most people are here to snorkel or dive the coral reefs or, well, sunbathe. Being a duty-free island makes Providencia even cheaper still – especially at the beach bars.

If you want paradise to be a little more accessible, mainland Colombia has options too. Try Playa Blanca, close to Cartagena , which offers beach huts, bars and hammocks for kipping overnight along its sugary, white beach.

This article was first published February 2023 and updated February 2024

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• Budget-Friendly Travel

10 Best Cheap Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

Jan 27, 2021

See recent posts by Lara Dunning

Want to take a cheap beach vacation with the kids? These destinations across the U.S. offer beautiful public beaches with budget-friendly activities and accommodations for an affordable family beach vacation. These are the best cheap family beach vacations in the U.S.

Editor’s note: Always follow all local and state restrictions regarding travel at your destination.

1. Wells Beach, Maine

Looking for fewer crowds with long stretches of beach and tide pools to explore? Wells Beach on Maine’s southern coast has seven miles of oceanfront with three public beaches: Crescent Beach, Wells Beach, and Drake’s Island Beach. The beaches are free, but expect a small fee for seasonal parking and the summer trolley. Other recreational activities include hiking trails at Wells Reserve , kayaking, and tidal excursions. A 30-minute drive away is Palace Playland , a beachfront amusement park with rides averaging between $3 to $6 each; Aquaboggan Water Park, where you can purchase tickets based on age and park use; and York’s Wild Kingdom , a zoo and amusement park, with options for zoo-only admission.

Recommended Resort: Majestic Regency Resort

2. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach , the largest beach resort in Delaware, is a very affordable family beach vacation. Families can enjoy the beach and mile-long boardwalk with shops, dining, and attractions, including Funland , where rides range from 40 cents to $1.20 (less if you purchase a discount book). Beach parking is metered or by permit. Listen to free live weekend entertainment at the bandstand , walk or bike the trails at Gordens Pond, and for a small entrance fee, visit Cape Henlopen State Park with its famous “walking” dunes and Delaware Seashore State Park. Other excursions include boat rides, canoe and kayak tours, kiteboarding and Jolly Trolley Rides.

Recommended Hotel: Breakers Hotel & Suites

3. Wildwood, New Jersey

Wildwood Beach in New Jersey has a five-mile-long beach with free and metered parking, and a happening boardwalk with shops, dining, and Morey’s Piers , the ultimate amusement park with water parks and rides. Along with beach fun like outdoor movies and sandcastle building competitions, the amusement park has plenty of attractions for all ages. Tickets are sold in individual or family packs of four and start at $37. Nearby are Ed’s Funcade, the Seaport Aquarium, and the Historic Cold Spring Village.

Recommended Hotel: Starlux Boutique Hotel

4. Outer Banks, North Carolina

With over 100 miles of shoreline with public beach access, plus mansion-like vacation rentals galore, North Carolina’s Outer Banks is one of the best beaches in North Carolina and the U.S. Families who like lots of room to spread out and play will want to go Nags Head . Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills are best for waves and surfing, and near Hatteras is shopping and dining. More secluded beaches at Cape Hatteras National Seashore might take an off-roading adventure to get there. If you’re looking for calmer and shallower waters, visit the beaches on the western side of the islands. While visiting, hike in three maritime forests, go on a nightly ghost crab hunt, fly kites at Jockey’s Ridge or walk up the largest dune on the East Coast. Other activities include kayaking, a living history farm, North Carolina Aquarium, H2OBX Waterpark, and the Children at Play Museum.

Recommended Hotel: Dolphin Oceanfront Motel

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5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

In Myrtle Beach , South Carolina, there are over 60 miles of public beach with parts hugging small beach towns and more secluded locations with seasonal paid parking. There are plenty of water related activities, like kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, SUP, fishing, boat tours and even water parks at many of the hotels . For a small fee, explore Huntington Beach State Park (one of the top 10 beaches in the U.S. ), beaches and marshlands, and tour the historic mansion. When it’s time to leave the beach, head to Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, Broadway at the Beach , and Family Kingdom Amusement Par k, where ride tickets range from $3 to $6 per ride. There’s also an option for an unlimited ride pass for $28 with upgrades for the water park.

Recommended Hotel: BEST WESTERN PLUS Grand Strand Inn & Suites

6. Daytona Beach, Florida

Florida’s 23-mile white-sand Daytona Beach is known as “The World’s Most Famous Beach,” and it’s also one of the most affordable family beach vacations! Close to shopping and dining, with some food trucks on the beach, families will be close to the water and services. Beach access is free for pedestrians, but you’ll need a beach pass for your vehicle, and for $20, you can drive your car right onto the beach to set up camp with all of your beach gear and goodies ! Nearby is the Daytona International Speedway ; the Marine Science Center , where kids can feed stingrays and birds, touch snakes and learn about sea turtles; and the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse , the tallest lighthouse in Florida. Be sure to stop by Angle and Phelps Chocolate Factory for a free tour.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn & Suites Daytona Beach on the Ocean

7. Long Beach, Washington

Along Washington’s southwest coast is a 28-mile stretch of beach along the Long Beach Peninsula. Visitors flock to this cheap beach vacation destination for beachcombing, beach bonfires, kite flying, clam digging, horseback riding, surf lessons, bicycling, and the 8.2-mile Discovery Trail, with markers from the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Parking is free and you can drive your car on the beach. For a small fee, visit Cape Disappointment State Park and hike to the lighthouses or explore more beaches, and at Leadbetter Point State Park, hike and bird watch. Nearby activities include the World’s largest Frying Pan, the International Kite Museum, Fun Beach Speedway, and Marsh’s Free Museum, a gift shop/museum with lots of oddities like Jake the Alligator Man.

Recommended Hotel: Adrift Hotel and Spa

8. Seaside, Oregon

The beach resort town of Seaside , Oregon, is known for its long beach, historic promenade, and budget-friendly accommodations along the oceanfront and neighboring river. Stroll the beach, hike or bike, paddleboard, and discover more beaches at nearby state parks. Activities include the Seaside Aquarium , where you can feed the seals, and Seaside Carousel Mall, with a carousel , kayaking, surfing, biking, skateboarding. A short drive away is High Life Adventures ziplining and Fort Clatsop Historical Park.

Recommended Hotel: Inn at Seaside

9. Coronado, California

A 20-minute drive from San Diego, Coronado features a 1.5-mile-long stretch of beach with the grand Hotel de Coronado as the backdrop. There’s some free beach parking, as well as metered and paid lots. There’s plenty of beach fun including tide pooling, sandcastle viewing, and local parks. For a small fee, Silver Strand State Beach is nearby and offers nature trails and wildlife viewing at San Diego Way National Wildlife Refuge. Other activities include the Aquatic Center and Rock Wall at Coronado’s Community Center, kayaking, SUP, biking, hotel tours, and shops and dining at Coronado Ferry Landing.

Recommended Hotel: The Crown City Inn & Bistro

10. Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz County has over 27 miles of beaches, and the most popular one is right next to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and its iconic beachfront amusement park with over 40 rides. Parking is metered, in parking lots, and there is a seasonal trolley. A day at the beach here means families can easily break up beach time with amusement park fun, shopping or dining. The boardwalk is free to explore and ride tickets range from $30 to 40 for day passes to $80 season passes. Free must-do activities are visiting the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Exploration Center and walking the Santa Cruz pier, which happens to be the longest pier in the United States. For a small fee, visit Natural Bridges State Beach for tide pooling, pick-your-own fruit at Swanton Berry Farm, and hiking or biking at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or Wilder Ranch State Park.

Recommended Hotel: Ocean Pacific Lodge

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13 Best Budget-Friendly Family Resorts for 2021

13 Cheap Family Weekend Getaways 2021

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In need of a vacation? These 22 beach resorts are perfect for every budget

Everywhere you go, you'll pay a premium to be near the water, but being so close to a white sand beach that you can hear the waves crashing is totally worth it. Whether you're traveling with teens or you have toddlers in tow , you're guaranteed a good time (as long as the weather cooperates). With that in mind, why spend two nights at $400 per night when you can stay four nights for $200 per night?

Shop TODAY recently looked at rates for thousands of beach resorts everywhere from Myrtle Beach to Mexico, and even further abroad. The following is a list of standout properties where you can stay for as little as $65 per night. Keep in mind prices are dynamic, and some of these rates are for off-peak seasons. Still, all of these resorts are the most affordable — and highest-rated — options on the map. There are even a few found in bucket list destinations from our list of 40 places to take the kids before they're grown. So, whether you're headed for the sun, the surf or both, bon voyage!

Budget-friendly beach resorts to visit

Bahia resort hotel.

Make this family-friendly resort your home base for exploring San Diego's Mission Bay. Because it's located on a peninsula, most rooms have sweeping water views. Budget-wise, it's been voted a "Best Value Hotel in America" by TripAdvisor, and over 3,600 reviewers gave it a glowing excellent recommendation.

Pelican Grand Beach Resort

Fort lauderdale, florida.

In less than two minutes, you can have your toes in the sand at this Atlantic-facing resort that, due to development restrictions, will always have water views. Pelican Grand Beach Resort often has incredible packages, such as its "4th Night on Us" (aka stay three nights, get the fourth for free). Play in the waves or lay out on the newly renovated pool's sundeck. But first, reserve well in advance. This place is popular; it has over 4,700 excellent ratings.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

St. simons island, georgia.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

Boasting St. Simons Island's only oceanfront dining, this sprawling property — with nearly 1,000 excellent ratings — is a special place. While rooms offer the lowest rates, families can also choose from private villas, houses and cottages. Kids will love the children's pool and dedicated play area, while parents will appreciate the award-winning golf course and poolside cocktails.

Holiday Inn Resort Daytona Beach Oceanfront

Daytona beach, florida.

Holiday Inn Resort Daytona Beach Oceanfront, an IHG hotel

This long-time Daytona go-to for families is located right on the beach, less than a mile from the Sun Splash Park at the " World's Most Famous Beach ." But the best part? Kids 12 and under stay and eat in the property's two restaurants — for free! How do former guests feel? On TripAdvisor, Holiday Inn Resort Daytona Beach Oceanfront has over 1,400 excellent reviews.

The Grand Hotel

Cape may, new jersey.

This three-star landmark hotel in historic Cape May, New Jersey, prides itself on its proximity to the beach and well-appointed rooms, including some that are oceanfront. Think lots of little upgrades including new Serta double pillow-top bedding and spa-worthy organic bath amenities. The Grand Hotel, which has a four-star average rating from 1,800+ reviews, has both an indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a fitness center and bike rentals.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Beach Resort

Galveston island, texas.

"Perfect location" begins a recent review of this family-friendly IHG hotel with a four-star average rating from nearly 700 reviews. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Beach Resort boasts direct access to the state's most beloved beach. With its game room, infinity pool and outdoor recreation area (complete with basketball, tetherball and volleyball courts), its ideal for active travelers.

Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort

Ocean city, maryland.

As the state's largest beachfront resort, Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort has a lot to offer visitors to Ocean City, Maryland. There are more than 25 restaurants within a one-mile radius, and it's just a few miles north of the iconic boardwalk that attracts 19 million visitors annually. Still, there's no reason to leave the property. It has a spa, Olympic-sized pool, golf packages and even a four-story tropical atrium. On top of all of that, it's earned nearly 2,000 excellent ratings from previous guests.

Kaimana Beach Hotel

Don't expect less from this Oahu oasis just because it has relatively low rates for the islands. In 2021, it was deemed the 6th best overall hotel in all of Hawaii by Conde Nast Traveler readers. There may be an additional $20 per night resort fee, but it includes a lot — think bike rentals, beach chairs and umbrellas, fitness classes, SUP lessons and cultural programs where you can learn how to make leis.

Beach Cove Resort

North myrtle beach, south carolina.

Beach Cove Resort is more than just a place to put your head in a bed in South Carolina. With its 10 unique water features including three outdoor pools, three oceanfront Whirlpools and a lazy river, it's practically a waterpark. There's also an arcade, and the on-site dining includes outdoor beach bars and convenient cafes.

Blockade Runner Beach Resort

Wrightsville beach, north carolina.

Sure, the Outer Banks are nice. But Wrightsville Beach off the coast of Wilmington, North Carolina is far more accessible. With its kids programs — including half-day camps — Blockade Runner Beach Resort is a great option for families. This historic hotel complete with a pool, gardens, fitness center and boat slips, is situated between the Atlantic and the Intracoastal Waterway. The property also currently has over 1,300 excellent ratings!

Travellers Beach Resort

Negril, jamaica.

This family-owned establishment, which currently holds 760+ excellent ratings, is managed by three brothers following in their father's footsteps. When Mr. Wellington first opened Travellers Beach Resort it consisted of one cabin and a bar. Today, there are 60 rooms and suites as well as a full-service restaurant with nightly entertainment. The property fronts Norman Manly Sea Park Beach, perhaps the most private section of Negril's famous Seven Mile Beach .

Solmar Resort

Cabo san lucas, mexico.

It's hard not to want to see Solmar Resort in person after reading the TripAdvisor description: "Granite cliffs hide the property from the outside world, yet the sights and sounds of Cabo San Lucas are but a 10-minute stroll away." The all-suite property, which has a glowing average from nearly 2,600 reviews, offers unrestricted access to a private beach — practically unheard of in crowded Cabo.

Rincon Beach Resort

Rincon, puerto rico.

Most people who visit Puerto Rico head to San Juan , but a vacation in laid-back Rincon — located on the western end of the island — can be just as fun. Rincon Beach Resort has been a popular choice for couples and families wanting a quiet, Caribbean-front holiday. With just 112 rooms, it feels more intimate than massive resorts. Yet, it has amenities like a restaurant, infinity pool, fitness center and even a tennis court.

Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo

Las terrenas, dominican republic.

Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo All Inclusive

There aren't many five-star hotels where you can stay for less than $150 per night. This is one of them. Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo has 600 rooms, eight bars, six restaurants, two pools and a spa. There's also a waterpark that seems to be a destination in itself. The property, which has over 4,100 excellent ratings, is right on the beach. Guests can swim in crystal clear waters nearby or go further off shore to explore otherworldly sea caves.

Fiesta Americana Cozumel

Cozumel, mexico.

Fiesta Americana Cozumel All Inclusive

Get more than you pay for is the unofficial motto of this all-inclusive resort on the tropical island of Cozumel (just take a ferry from Playa del Carmen ). The property, which has 1,700+ excellent ratings, has five on-site restaurants and several bars. In other words, there's never a reason to not have a cocktail in your hand come sunset.

Hotel Punta Leona

Punta Leona Hotel

Because of inflation and its popularity, Costa Rica is a hard place to find quality resorts for under $200 per night these days. That's why Hotel Punta Leona is such a steal. In addition to offering access to the stunning Playa Blanca beach — where guests can swim, kayak or play volleyball — the property also has mini golf, tennis and aqua fitness classes.

InterContinental Cartagena de Indias

Cartagena, colombia.

InterContinental Cartagena De Indias

The InterContinental brand is synonymous with luxury. Still, rates at this waterfront hotel not far from Old Town Cartagena are more than affordable. InterContinental Cartagena de Indias, which is located in front of popular Playa de Bocagrande, prides itself on offering "seaside sophistication." Reviewers often sing the praises of the onsite infinity pool, as well as the hotel concierge who can easily arrange for local excursions.

Reethi Beach Resort

The Maldives are famous as being a place where the rich vacation. But you don't have to be a millionaire to enjoy a stay at Reethi Beach Resort, which currently has over 1,800 excellent ratings. The property is spread out over its own island in Baa Atoll. While Wi-Fi isn't in all the rooms, including overwater bungalows, the resort does have AC and an impressive fitness center including badminton and grass tennis courts. There are five restaurants and five bars including a beachfront hot spot where guests congregate at sunset.

Cross Pattaya Pratamnak

Hotel Cross Pattaya Pratamnak - SHA Plus

Don’t judge Cross Pattaya Pratamnak by its small number of reviews — this Phuket resort with private beach access is brand new. It opened in February, and its first guests can enjoy breaking in the 78 rooms and suites (which have DIY cocktail stations), the Moon Spa and the Cloud Gym. Add the breakfast package and you can take advantage of “Round the Clock Bubbly Breakfast” with unlimited sparkling wine.

Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort

What sets this top-rated waterfront resort apart from others in Portugal's beautiful Algarve region is its beach-meets-marina location. Arrive by boat, or simply stroll along the docks, admiring other guests' yachts. While going for a beach swim in the winter isn't as pleasant as it is in the summer, it's still possible. And the cooler months are when you can take advantage of low rates.

Iberostar Selection Sábila

Tenerife, canary islands.

Iberostar Selection Sabila

Located on the most famous island most Americans have never heard of, this adults-only resort is already on the radar of European couples and solo travelers. Perks of staying here include taking in views of the golden sands of Playa de Fanabe (from a stunning rooftop pool) and hitting up the indoor speciality food market on the lower level. There's also an award-winning spa complete with a traditional Turkish bath.

DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar

Nungwi, tanzania.

DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Zanzibar - Nungwi

For Africans, the ultimate beach getaway often involves going to Zanzibar. This island in the Indian Ocean is home to the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar - Nungwi, where a glistening white sand beach meets swaying palm trees. Guests rave about the views — think warm, tropical waters the color of Listerine — and the variety of fresh cuisine. Sip from a coconut or devour a seafood platter at the on-site restaurant.

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This Is the Most Affordable Beach Destination in the U.S.

Have fun in the sun for less at Twelvemile Beach in Michigan.

Samantha Bohon, @sbohon1/Courtesy of Travel Michigan

Summer is just around the bend, which may have you dreaming about a beachside vacation. Here's the good news: the vacation can become a reality for much less than you think. 

DIVEIN Travel released its latest study showcasing the top beach destinations for budget-conscious travelers. To create its rankings the team calculated based on factors like dining and beverage prices and the median cost for a six-night stay for two to find the best beaches for the best price for spring and summer travel. 

After looking at all the data, the team named Twelvemile Beach in Michigan the top choice for a budget beach trip. 

"Twelvemile Beach emerges as the most budget-friendly option, offering unparalleled value with the lowest average hotel cost of just $464.31 for a six-night stay," the team stated in its findings, which it shared with Travel + Leisure . Here, the team added, travelers can "enjoy meals for around $20 and beers for $7.50 while basking in the tranquil ambiance of Michigan’s shores." 

According to the National Parks Service , the beach is, you guessed it, 12 miles long and a prime spot for day-use and picnicking in the sun. However, it also noted that visitors need to be "prepared for a long flight of stairs leading from the bluff down to the beach." Pups are also allowed, so long as they are on a leash. 

Following Twelvemile Beach is Mustang Island State Park in Texas, which came in second thanks to its affordable hotel prices, which average $476.94 for a six-night stay. And in third place is Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina, where travelers can expect hotel stays priced at $636.70.  

Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, came in fourth, with a six-night stay running at $651.70, while Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, Maine, rounded out the top with hotel prices averaging $796.67.  

On the other end of the spectrum, Honokalani Beach on the island of Maui in Hawaii ranked as the most expensive, but honestly, it's worth saving up to see this gorgeous place in person one day.

Need more beach inspiration? Check out the 26 most beautiful beaches on earth, then start plotting your getaway.

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These are the most budget-friendly beaches in the U.S.

Here’s where to take that beach vacation for less

Are you dreaming of a beach vacation that won’t break the bank? A new study by Dive In Travel reveals the most affordable beaches in the U.S. where you can catch some rays for a whole lot less.

The team from the travel and gear review site calculated dining and beverage prices and the median cost for a six-night stay for two to rank the best wallet-friendly beach destinations for spring and summer travel. The results showcase the top spots for budget-conscious travelers to have fun in the sun.

According to Dive In’s data, the most affordable beach in the U.S. is Twelvemile Beach in Michigan. Located on the shores of Lake Superior in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, this tranquil beach has everything you need for a great beach vacation at a pretty sweet price. The area's average hotel costs around $465 for a six-night stay, and you can enjoy meals for around $20.

Other affordable beach destinations include Mustang Island State Park in Texas, where the average hotel price is around $477 for a six-night stay; Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina, which costs $637; Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, which costs $652; and Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, which costs $797.

If you can’t swing a trip to the most popular beach spots, these affordable alternatives are worth considering. And if money is no object? Well, Honokalani Beach on Maui ranks as the most expensive (but certainly a deserving addition to any beach bucket list).

• Gerrish Lopez Contributor, New Orleans

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The Family Vacation Guide

9 of the Best Cheap Beach Vacation Spots on the East Coast for Families

posted by James Brockbank on February 8, 2022 // last updated on February 8, 2022

The east coast is known for its scenic, picturesque beaches, quaint towns, New England charm, and southern hospitality. It’s also known to be rather expensive, and sometimes it might look like finding an amazing and affordable beach vacation spot on the east coast is impossible. But, we’re here to tell you it’s not!

All along the eastern seaboard are unique beach vacation spots with budget-friendly dining, lodging, shopping, and activity options that are perfect for a family vacation. You just have to know where to look. Keep reading to learn all about our top nine choices for family vacation spots on the east coast.

Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Hampton beach, new hampshire, carolina beach, north carolina, bar harbor, maine, cape may, new jersey, outer banks, north carolina, ocean city, maryland, virginia beach, virginia, dennis port, massachusetts, top cheap beach vacation spots for families.

Each of these destinations is a beautiful vacation spot where you can find affordable accommodations and fun for you and your family. It’s your vacation, so don’t spend it worrying!

Have you and your family had your fill of loud, flashy beachside towns and are looking for something a little more quaint for your next budget family vacation? Chincoteague Island, Virginia could be an excellent option for you and your family. 

The Chincoteague Island Chamber of Commerce website describes Virginia’s only resort island as being calm and serene but in no way lacking in fun and exciting activities for families and kids of all ages. 

Chincoteague Island has a wide array of accommodation options, including traditional hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and even campgrounds. If your family loves camping or is simply working on a tight budget, many campgrounds offer small cabins for rent. These cabins are better than a tent and are much more affordable than hotel rooms.

This destination is perfect for families who love to get outside and go on adventures. There are a plethora of things to do on this small island. Iron Pony Adventure Park is a new addition to this destination and features an aerial obstacle course and even the Pony Plunge, which is a 26-foot bungee jump!

Various adventure cruises are available on Chincoteague Island as well, such as Up The Bay Pony Tours, Daisy’s Island Cruises, and the Cowboy Cruise Company.

It’s hard to avoid a horse theme when talking about this area. This could be a great spot for horse lovers for one main reason: the Pony Swim . The Pony Swim is where the Saltwater Cowboys lead a herd of horses across the Assateague Canal to Chincoteague Island as part of a week-long string of festivities in the summer.

Chincoteague Island also boasts several beaches: the Recreational Beach, Wild Beach, Toms Cove Hook, and the Assawoman, Cedar, and Metompkin islands. 

Hampton Beach, New Hampshire is a gorgeous strip of coastline on New Hampshire’s tiny oceanside corner that offers true New England charm.

One of the most significant tolls on your wallet during a family vacation is shopping: t-shirts, souvenirs, that amazing necklace you just have to take home, a gift for a friend back home. It can be daunting, but New Hampshire harbors one amazing secret in this department. New Hampshire doesn’t charge general sales tax . It might not extend to dining and accommodations, but that’s a huge saving point for everything else you’ll need while on your trip.  

Getting back to this destination, Hampton Beach is a gorgeous, quaint slice of New England resort town fun for you and your family. 

Hampton Beach has an impressive range of 65 accommodations from motels to suites and beyond, so you are sure to find something that fits your budget.

For dining, Hampton Beach offers an amazing array of ice cream shops, coffee shops, sweet shops, seafood restaurants, and pubs, among many other options. Depending on your budget and what you and your family are in the mood for eating on any given day, you are sure to find something that more than satisfies your appetite and wallet.

When you and your family want to set out on an adventure, Hampton Beach has some really great choices. The Blue Ocean Discovery Center is an amazing museum and ecological center for those who love the ocean and want to learn more about it. This amazing organization offers whale watching tours and educational exhibits that include touch tanks. 

Want to teach your children about the importance of taking care of our environment? Join the Blue Ocean Discovery Center for one of their beach cleanup programs!

Carolina Beach is a lovely strip of coastline along North Carolina and holds a treasure trove of exciting activities, accommodations, and dining options for vacationing families. 

If you and your family love the ambling variety of a boardwalk, you’re in luck! Carolina Beach is home to a spectacular boardwalk lined with arcades, places to eat, and shops to browse. Along the boardwalk, there’s a collection of amusement park rides perfect for small kids, as well as a carousel. To complete this mini carnival, there are street food options and games to play. 

If you’re into more adventurous and physically active fun, there are also bike rentals available, as well as a self-guided bike tour. 

Love music and festivals? The boardwalk has that too. Carolina Beach also offers everything from hotels and motels to luxury accommodations and vacation rentals are available, so you are sure to find something that fits right into your price range. 

Bar Harbor is a unique corner of Maine as it sits on Mount Desert Island and acts as the gateway to Acadia National Park. With its incredibly diverse landscape populated by cliffs, mountains, beaches, and forests, Bar Harbor is sure to please every kind of outdoor enthusiast. 

Bar Harbor is a vibrant community and the largest community in the area. If you want to explore a quieter spot for a day during your stay, you can check out nearby Bass Harbor or Otter Creek . 

Like most quaint New England towns, Bar Harbor has a lovely array of small bed and breakfasts, cottages, campgrounds, and vacation rental options for you to choose from. As we mentioned earlier, campground cabins can be a great money-saving option when looking for accommodations. 

Interested in culture and history tours? Bar Harbor is home to The Natural History Center, the Seal Cove Auto Museum, Red Cloak Tours, and the La Rochelle Mansion and Museum, in addition to many other attractions.

Looking to get outside? Bar Harbor is in no short supply of both land and water activities. Wildlife cruises, canoe rentals, kayak tours, and white water rafting are just a few of the activities offered in this gem of a destination. And of course, you can’t forget Acadia National Park .

Acadia National Park covers 49,000 acres of gorgeous wilderness and offers 125 miles of hiking trails that accommodate walking, biking, cross-country skiing, and more. It’s a great choice for families looking for adventure!

For those who love the Victorian era, the oldest resort in America could be a great option for you and your family this summer. 

With almost 600 perfectly preserved Victorian-era buildings, Cape May is a gorgeous little resort town with so many options for fun and entertainment for the whole family. 

Cape May Mini Golf, whale watching tours, museums, and more offer a great range of activities for the whole family. Do you come from a military family, or are you interested in the history of aviation? Check out the NAWS Aviation Museum !

Are your kids animal lovers? Then they might love to visit the Cape May County Park and Zoo or the Nature Center of Cape May! 

Would you rather spend your time out on the water? There’s no shortage of jet boat, jet ski, and parasailing rentals out there, as well as pontoon boats at the Pier 47 Marina.

Are your kids a little older and interested in history and spooky stories? Cape May MAC hosts ghost tours at very affordable prices. They also hold scavenger hunts and family activities at many different historical locations!

When it comes to accommodations, finding something affordable and comfortable is essential. The Lotus Inn in Greater Cape May has amazing weekend and holiday package deals. These deals offer a long list of perks that include complimentary meals and family BBQs for a very reasonable price. The Lotus Inn is open from April to October, so you’re sure to find a weekend that suits you perfectly. 

Looking to get away from the city for a while? In the Outer Banks, there is not a city in sight for over a hundred miles. The Outer Banks of North Carolina are a series of barrier islands off the east coast, and they’re brimming with small-town charm and summer fun.

As far as accommodations go, the Outer Banks have no shortage of options. From motels, hotels, and bed and breakfasts, to vacation rentals and rental houses, you’ll be able to find something that fits your needs and your budget. These options include oceanfront locations and even pet-friendly options if you want to bring your furry friend along for the ride!

When looking for dining options, The Outer Banks has everything from fancy restaurants perfect for date night to pizza and Mexican joints that are great for family dinners. If you’re looking for a quick bite you can get wrapped up to bring to the beach, try Barrier Island Bagels for a hearty sandwich! They have an impressive 306 dining options, so even the pickiest eaters are sure to find something they will love.

Seeing as the Outer Banks is a string of islands, you are never far from a beach. From Kitty Hawk Beach to Nag Head to the Southern Shores, there are plenty of beaches for you and your family to explore, comb for treasures, play, and relax on. 

If you want a break from the beach, there are dozens of other entertainment and activity options all around the Outer Banks.

If your family is into the theater and the performing arts, check out The Lost Colony , an outdoor symphonic drama about the Roanoke colony. There is also the African American Experience of Northeast North Carolina for those interested in history and culture. Interested in the surrounding wildlife? Check out the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and the Buxton Woods Reserve.

Looking for a little more action? Barrier Island Aviation, Kitty Hawk Kites, and Aero Tours have what you’re looking for. They offer bi-plane, hang gliding, kayaking, parasailing, dolphin tours, sailing cruises, island exploration, and much more for those who want a more action-filled vacation. 

Ocean City is a gem located along Maryland’s coast, and it is open year-round for fun without a closing date. 

If it is the beach you are looking forward to the most, Ocean City has a beautiful 10-mile stretch of coastline. This is perfect for relaxing, sandcastle building, and all sorts of water sports. Surfing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are all allowed on the Ocean City beach. In the evening, you and your family can enjoy fun family events like movies and music!

Along the beach is a three-mile stretch of boardwalk with a wide array of stores, arcades, and other entertainment. There’s truly something for everyone here, so you won’t have to worry about anyone being bored.

Accessibility is an important topic, especially when traveling. Ocean City provinces beach wheelchairs in the summer to help the whole family get out on the sand to have some fun. Both electric and manual beach wheelchairs are available–just contact the visitors center. 

The chamber of commerce website has a list of local accommodation options for convenient browsing via filters to pinpoint your needs, and they even have a pet-friendly guide available! 

The chamber of commerce also has a handy directory of local dining options divided into categories like fine dining, seafood, buffet, etc. You can tailor your search to only include options that are compatible with your budget to both save time and frustration. Ocean City has many casual spots like Phillips Crab House and even Dumsers’ Drive-In , which has been going strong since 1939. 

Ocean City has a huge array of things you and your family can do for fun! From fishing, performing arts, museums, golf, and more, you will have no problem finding something great to do.

One of the best things about the Ocean City chamber of commerce website is the directory of free family activities ! This directory includes movie nights on the beach, drone shows, beach dance parties, beach games, museum programs, and more.

In the summer, movie screenings on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday are free every week, and there are even games like giant connect four, cornhole, and more available to pass the time until the movie starts. 

Free concerts are also available at Sunset Park, but beverages and other food must be purchased. 

While all the destinations on this list are great for budget vacations, this list of free family activities really makes Ocean City shine. If you’re planning a getaway on the east coast, be sure to stop by this hotspot!

One of the more classic east coast beach destinations has to be Virginia Beach. Like a few other destinations on this list, Virginia Beach is open year-round, so you might be able to cash in on some deals during typically “off-season” times in the fall and winter. It’s even recommended to visit Virginia Beach in the off months to experience a quieter, more authentic Virginia Beach without the crowds!

Virginia Beach has a great range of hotel options, including resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds. You could even check out listings on Airbnb and Vrbo to find deals and unique accommodations. 

While campgrounds can sometimes sound a little rough for a long stay, Virginia Beach’s coastal beach campgrounds might be a fun adventure for the whole family. Imagine sleeping just yards from the water! Just remember not to set up camp too close to the water, and keep an eye on the tide reports.  

The area has all sorts of dining options, from proper sit-down restaurants to rustic farm stands. You’re sure to find something that both fits your budget, satisfies your whole family, and even stirs up some unique interest! Local favorites are also listed in a “dine like a local” tab of the chamber of commerce website to help you find the hidden gems of Virginia Beach that are often missed in tourist guides. 

Like another entry on this list, Virginia Beach makes finding affordable activities easy with a “budget-friendly” tab on their Things to Do page!

Three beaches, the Sandbridge Beach, the Oceanfront Resort Beach, and the Chesapeake Bay Beach are all free and open to the public. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is a fun and free historical destination for the whole family, and First Landing State Park is a fun place to explore and relax.  

The local farmer’s markets are a great place to browse local wares and food and an amazing way to get in touch with the local culture. 

If you’re into music, Virginia Beach has a free summer concert series called Live! on Atlantic located on the boardwalk. Here, you can enjoy music, performers, magicians, and more from June to Labor Day weekend. 

If you and your family love museums, check out the Surf and Rescue museum to learn about local history and the Virginia MOCA to get your fill of gorgeous contemporary art. 

Do you love Cape Cod but want to do something a little different this time? Dennis Port is a unique destination in Massachusetts. It is part of Cape Cod, but it offers more than just beaches and summer fun. 

One amazing aspect of this destination is that it’s open year-round! Accommodations, food, and fun always tend to be more expensive during the summer months on the coast, so visiting in the fall or winter might score you some deals. 

Accommodations in Dennis Port are plentiful and varied! Take a look at various booking websites, and you will find great accommodations in your pride range. For example, a quick look on Vrbo finds a waterfront room available for just $131 per night. 

Dennis Port is a quaint little destination with a distinctly small-town vibe that is great for small children and a more laid-back vacation. Playgrounds, parks, bocce courts, beaches, and concerts on the green are all fun family activity options. 

When it comes to dining, Dennis Port has an impressive roster of eateries, restaurants, BBQ joints, and seafood spots for you to choose from.

If Dennis Port is a little too quiet for your liking, the entirety of Dennis consists of a cluster of five villages: Dennis, Dennis Port, East Dennis, South Dennis, and West Dennis. Explore them all to find the perfect spot for your next family vacation!

The east coast has it all: countless historic sites, science and history education programs, spooky ghost tours, water sports, ponies, hiking trails, and so much more. There is something for everyone at every destination, whether it be food preferences or activities you or your family want to try. Many of these destinations encompass entire towns that you can explore, finding the gems along the way.

Always remember to take into account the things you and your family may need while on your vacation. You might be able to find accommodations with complimentary meals and other perks–always remember to ask about perks when booking your stay! 

While generally considered expensive, if you know where to look, you’ll be able to find affordable accommodations, food options, and opportunities for fun activities on the east coast. From hotels to quaint inns and campgrounds, inexpensive beach passes, and museum tours, there are always options for you and your family to have fun this summer, no matter your budget. 

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

The Best Family Vacations in Florida on a Budget

I f you mention a Florida vacation, most of the family will immediately love the idea. But then you look at the cost involved and remember that going to Florida can be really expensive!

The good news is that you don’t need to abandon the idea with the help of this list of best family vacations in Florida on a budget . Let’s take a look at some of the inexpensive ways to travel to the Sunshine State with the whole family.

How to Travel Cheaply in Florida

Before looking at some of the best places to stay for a budget-friendly Florida family vacation, let’s look at a few tips to help you in the planning stages.

This post may contain affiliate links which means that I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase from a link found on my site. Please review my privacy policy for further details. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support in allowing this site to continue!

Consider Avoiding the Big Cities

As with anywhere you can travel, big cities tend to be more expensive than smaller cities or towns. So if you can manage it, aim to stay somewhere a little smaller to maximize your vacation budget. You can find really reasonable places to stay in a similar way in tourist areas, such as around the coast if you aim for some of the less popular spots.

Make the Most of the Beach

Heading to the beach is one of the best activities you can do, and most of the time, the entire family will enjoy everything from splashing in the waves to building sand castles. And best of all, they are free which is a huge perk when planning family vacations in Florida on a budget. You only need a picnic and a few beach toys , and you have an instant free day out.

Be on the lookout for leftover toys that your fellow beach goers may have left behind at the beach’s entrance! Many beaches have a designated spot for people to donate and share beach toys that aren’t being used.

Check for Food Deals Before You Leave

There are some great websites such as Groupon and Local Flavor where you can download coupons and buy discounted gift cards to save money when you get to Florida, mainly on the cost of food and eating out. Add the zip code for where you’ll be staying and see what you can find to save money. Just watch for the expiration date of the coupons, so they are in-date when you travel.

As you research your destination for the best places to eat, many restaurants will offer a free appetizer or dessert when you join their mailing list! But it usually takes a day or two to get on the list and receive the offer via email. So plan to do this the week of your trip before you leave!

Don’t miss more money saving hacks on food in our Break All the Rules: Save Money Eating Out article.

The Best Budget Beach Vacations

The beach will definitely be the feature when you’re looking for the best family vacations in Florida on a budget. But where are the best locations across the state to visit that aren’t going to use the whole budget in a matter of a few days? Let’s dive in!

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is known as a top family-friendly location in the state but also for being much more affordable than some of the more ‘popular’ spots. It has that retro Florida feel that adults will immediately enjoy, and there are tons to keep the kids occupied.

You can explore the historic Cocoa Village as well as take in the views from Port Canaveral. But one of the big draws to the area is surfing where it’s known to be one of the best spots for surfing, with World Champions calling it their home base for the waves. Plan to head out to the Cocoa Beach Pier to watch the surfing action and window shop some of the shops or grab a bite to eat at a restaurant. And be sure you pop into the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop which holds the record as the world’s largest surf shop!

Top 5 things to do in Cocoa Beach:

• Lori Wilson Park
• Cocoa Beach Pier
• Ron Jon Surf Shop
• Florida Surf Museum
• Historic Cocoa Village

Jacksonville Beach

If you want a classic beach vacation, Jacksonville Beach will be an ideal place to visit. With roughly 22 miles of beach in the area, including Jax Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach, with the last two being quieter and less popular options with tourists.

There are a lot of kid-friendly museums in the area to visit, while the city has plenty of spots, culture, and history to explore. There are three national parks, seven state parks, and over 400 parks in the city itself, the largest urban park system in the USA.

You’ll find a good range of motels and hotels for vacation and beach rentals if you want somewhere with a sea view.

Top 5 things to do in Jacksonville Beach:

• Adventure Landing
• Beaches Museum & History Park
• Players by the Sea Theater
• Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier
• Shipwreck Island Water Park

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a classic beach location that is great for the kids to go seashell searching. Our kids love to bring along these Mesh Beach Bags when finding seashells because they’re small and easy to carry thanks to the the strap.

Additionally, there are over 200 different species of birds in the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge that is part of the island as well as alligators and other reptiles to spot, so the island is ideal for wildlife fans. You can even go on a dolphin-watching cruise.

Typically, Sanibel Island is one of the most expensive places to stay, but there are some budget-friendly places around that your family can enjoy. Alternatively, you can stay in Fort Myers, which is more budget-friendly and a short trip on the island.

Top 5 things to do in Sanibel Island:

• J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
• The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
• Sanibel Island Lighthouse
• Bowman’s Beach
• Botanical Gardens at Sanibel Moorings Resort 

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is popular for cheap Florida family vacations because it isn’t one of the main tourist spots. You can pick up budget-friendly accommodation for families of all sizes, and there are some gorgeous condos to rent.

The area has some stunning white sand beaches, and Smyrna Dunes Park is right at the end of the barrier island. It is an excellent spot for walking, birdwatching, and spotting the gopher tortoises that call it home.

The spot is also only around 15 miles south of Daytona Beach.

Top 5 things to do in New Smyrna Beach:

• Smyrna Dunes Park
• Cruger-dePeyster Plantation Sugar Mill Ruins
• Marine Discovery Center
• The Hub on Canal
• Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park

Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach is known for having good quality but inexpensive motels, making it a good option for a budget Florida family vacation. There are some stunning beaches to enjoy, and you can visit the Fort Myers Beach Pier, a popular spot for fishing if there are any fishing fans in the family.

The downtown area is worth visiting, and there are some great restaurants to try. Or just enjoy a walk along the beach while the kids collect seashells.

Top 5 things to do in Fort Myers Beach:

• Fort Meyers Fishing Pier
• Bowditch Point Park
• Lovers Key State Park
• Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf
• FastTrax Fort Myers

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach has a reputation as one of the most popular beach areas. And when you visit Florida and see it, you can see why. It is a great spot to relax on the beach while the kids build sand castles or to take a walk along the water’s edge, watching for the bottlenose dolphins that live in the area.

While being cost-effective for a vacation, there’s plenty to do, as well as the beach. One of the most popular things is the Marine Aquarium, where you can see everything from sea turtles to sharks and stingrays just a short trip from the beach. There are also plenty of places to eat with great entertainment all year round in the downtown area. Take a short trip to the Honeymoon Island State Park, which is just 25 minutes by car from the area.

Top 5 things to do in Clearwater Beach:

• Sunsets At Pier 60
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Dunedin Downtown Market
• Sand Key Park
• Honeymoon Island State Park

Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach is slightly different from the classic white sand beaches you see across Florida. It is known for its cinnamon-colored sand that comes from crushed coquina shells. The beaches near the pier are dog-friendly if you plan to take your pet along on the family vacation.

The area is famous for surfing, and there are a lot of places where you can get expert instructions. Look out for cost-effective ocean-front accommodation in the area that’s still not a top tourist spot.

Top 5 things to do in Flagler Beach:

• Flagler Beach Fishing Pier
• Gamble Rogers
• Flagler Beach Historical Museum
• Veterans Park
• Halifax Plantation Golf Club

Pensacola Beach

Pensacola Beach is to the west of the state on Florida’s Gulf Coast and is known for cheap getaways as well as a relaxed and old-fashioned feel that will appeal to many people. Many vacation homes in the area make for an affordable vacation and are often just a short walk from the beach.

There are many cheap things to do in the area, including the Gulf Breeze Zoo, Fort Pickens, and the Children’s Museum. There’s also the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the longest federally-protected shore in the country.

Top 5 things to do in Pensacola Beach:

• Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
• Gulf Breeze Zoo
• National Naval Aviation Museum
• Fort Pickens
• Pensacola Beach Boardwalk

Ponce Inlet

Ponce Inlet is home to some good vacation rental deals during the summer, especially when the large snowbird population that makes the area famous has moved north for the year. There are some beautiful beaches in the area and the Ponce de Leon Inlet lighthouse to check out.

The location is also close to New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach, so it is a great place to stay while exploring other nearby areas.

Top 5 things to do in Ponce Inlet:

• Marine Science Center
• Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
• Lighthouse Point Park
• Ponce Inlet Historical Museum
• Ponce Inlet Park

Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach is home to many inexpensive beach vacation rentals and family-run motels, making it a great place to stay on a budget. The area is known for its soft beaches and very clear waters that make it ideal for swimming, even if you are a beginner.

You can take a walk along the Bradenton Beach city pier or even do a spot of fishing if that’s something you enjoy, as it is a fishing pier. Or take a wildlife cruise on Sarasota Bay to see dolphins, stingrays, and even manatees.

Top 5 things to do in Bradenton Beach:

• YOLO Parasailing & Adventures
• Leffis Key Preserve
• Bridge Street Pier
• The Fish Hole Miniature Golf
• Paradise Boat Tours

How to Stay in Orlando on a Budget

There’s no doubt that if you make a list of inexpensive family activities, theme park tickets will not be on it! The Orlando, FL area is known for its theme parks but those attractions are not the only thing the area has to offer! You can most certainly stay in Orlando when looking for family vacations in Florida on a budget and still have a great time. The key is to think outside the traditional options, such as Disney World, Universal, and Sea World and make the most of what else the city has to offer.

For example, plan to visit Disney Springs, where you can enjoy world-class restaurants, shopping, and many fantastic street performers – all without paying the theme park fees. You can also visit the Disney Wilderness Preserve, which is free to enter and is a wonderful opportunity to see the wetlands that Florida is famous for. Don’t forget to visit downtown Orlando as well for great shopping and eating places.

Because Orlando is such a popular destination, there are always great deals to be found on hotels if you stay away from staying inside the famous theme parks. However, some hotels near Universal Studios are more cost-effective than those on amusement park property. And even affordable hotels won’t be too far from some great free and inexpensive things to do in Orlando.

If, however, you’re looking to book a Disney vacation, you don’t have a break the bank. Check out How to Save for Disney World: 20+ Lesser Known Ways for some amazing money saving tips!

Other Family Vacations in Florida on a Budget

Tampa is a popular spot to visit when you want to stay somewhere more urban. The city is known for being home to many celebrities and has been featured in loads of Hollywood movies, which means you’ll often walk around and spot places you recognize from the movies.

There are many things to do, ranging from Busch Gardens to the Glazer Children’s Museum. The Florida Aquarium is an excellent spot for everything from otters to alligators, while older kids will love the laser tag arcades. Plus, there is no shortage of pools, flume rides, and water shoots to cool down on a hot, sunny day.

Top 5 things to do in Tampa:

• The Florida Aquarium
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park
• Manatee Viewing Center
• Adventure Island

Amelia Island

Amelia Island is a barrier island off the northeast coast of Florida that is still just 40 minutes by car from the international airport at Jacksonville. It is a popular spot for those looking for the best family vacations in Florida on a budget because there are loads of places to go walking or biking, as well as for sports fans with activities such as horseback riding, golf, and tennis.

The main downtown area is called Fernandina Beach, and there are plenty of places to eat. There are also some historical spots, such as Fort Clinch State Park with its brick fort from the Civil War era. Watch out for the re-enactments that take place all the time there.

Top 5 things to do in Amelia Island:

• Fort Clinch State Park
• Amelia Island Lighthouse
• Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve
• Amelia Musical Playhouse
• Amelia Island Nature Center

St. Augustine

St Augustine holds the record of being the oldest European settlement in the US where the Europeans first arrived on the continent. This means it is a great place to visit if you love history.

There are also plenty of things to do for the kids after the history part of the trip has been covered. A few other great places to consider are St Augustine Pirate Treasure Museum or the Ripley’s Red Trains town tours. St. Augustine is also an excellent spot for wildlife fans to catch views of dolphins, manatees, and loads of sea birds on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Top 5 things to do in St. Augustine:

• St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime
• Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
• Lightner Museum
• Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth
• Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is known for a few different things. Top of the list is the Daytona International Speedway, where kids can try car racing for those aged between 6 and 13. There’s also the Daytona Beach Boardwalk with many rides, arcade games, and the Daytona Lagoon which is a fantastic waterpark.

Take a walk around the area and enjoy the free street performances, and you may even catch a fireworks show going on! To get the best hotel deals, book early, and you can get some great rates with affordable accomodations.

Top 5 things to do in Daytona Beach:

• Daytona Boardwalk Amusements
• Daytona International Speedway
• Sun Splash Park
• Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens

The Florida Keys are one of the most famous parts of the state, but anyone who has priced up family vacations in Florida on a budget will tell you they aren’t on the list of budget-friendly spots! However, Marathon, FL is close to the Keys and is a cheaper option if you want to experience the vibe that the Florida Keys offer without the price tag.

There’s plenty to do to enjoy the natural beauty of this wonderful destination. Grab a mask and snorkel, and you can see the tropical fish near Sombrero Beach. Or you can rent bikes to explore areas such as Old Seven Mile Bridge.

Top 5 things to do in Marathon:

• Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
• Dolphin Research Center
• Seven Mile Bridge
• Turtle Hospital
• Sombrero Beach

Weeki Wachee Springs

Weeki Wachee Springs is home to several affordable hotels that are clean, modern, and offer other great amenities for families.

While the area might not be as well known as other locations in the state, there’s plenty to do! You can visit Buccaneer Bay, a seasonal water park with slides, a lazy river, and plenty of pool area for the kids. If you like national parks, you can also visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, which is just half an hour’s drive to the north.

Top 5 things to do in Weeki Wachee Springs:

• Alfred A McKethan Pine Island Park
• Cabot Citrus Farms
• Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
• Nature Coast Botanical Garden & Nursery
• Weeki Wachee Spring

St. Petersburg

Sunshine in Florida isn’t usually an issue, but St Petersburg holds the record for the most consecutive days with sunshine worldwide at 768 days. There are lots of great beaches, but if you want to break up the beach days, the Great Exploration Museum and Sunken Gardens are perfect for a budget-friendly day out.

For older kids and adults, the town is also home to the most extensive collection of artworks by Salvador Dali outside of Spain.

Top 5 things to do in St. Petersburg:

• St. Pete Pier
• Salvador Dalí Museum
• St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market
• Fort De Soto Park
• Sunken Gardens

Gainesville

If you don’t want to be at the coast, then Gainesville is worth adding to your list of places to consider. The town is home to the University of Florida, and there are a lot of free or budget-friendly activities to do with the kids, including the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum or the Bat House.

There are also a lot of freshwater springs within a short travel from the town. So the kids can enjoy playing with their inner tubes while the adults can relax and de-stress – a crucial part of any family vacation!

Top 5 things to do in Gainesville:

• Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History
• Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
• Florida Museum of Natural History
• Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
• Gainesville Raceway

Sarasota is known for having some of the most gorgeous beaches on the Gulf Coast of the state, with soft, white sand and stunning blue water. There is a good range of budget friendly places to stay if you book early.

Attractions such as the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are worth visiting when you are there. The modern circus at the Ringling Circus Museum is great for some family fun. The state has long been known as the winter home for the ‘Greatest Show on Earth,’ and John Ringling’s collection of paintings and sculptures can also be seen at the museum. There’s also an opera and ballet company if you have older kids who want something a little more cultural.

Top 5 things to do in Sarasota:

• Ca’ d’Zan (House of John Ringling)
• Sarasota Jungle Gardens
• Siesta Beach
• Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
• The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Final Thoughts on Family Vacations in Florida on a Budget

Florida vacations have a reputation for being expensive, and there are indeed parts of the state that aren’t cheap. But there are also many places where you can have fantastic family-friendly fun, stay somewhere nice, and make the most of this wonderful sunshine state!

Have you taken a trip to Florida that has been memorable and fun without being crazy expensive? Share your best tips, tricks, and advice for family vacations in Florida on a budget in the comments below! We’d love to feature your feedback!

The post The Best Family Vacations in Florida on a Budget appeared first on Everyday Thrifty .

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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