Top 20 Budget Beach Vacation Spots
A relaxing beach vacation is the best way to unwind and give yourself a well-deserved break from a hectic routine. But sometimes the most gorgeous beaches in the world that we are constantly seeing advertised, while they may seem incredibly tempting, also immediately get crossed off our wishlist because the accompanying price tag is just far too steep. But we’re here to prove that there are plenty of other jawdroppingly lovely beaches in the world that aren’t getting as much attention — and are offering some seriously competitive rates. In this article, we will list the best beach spots around the world that you can visit for a decent price in order to help you plan an affordable beach vacation without missing out on anything.
Corfu, Greece
Also called Kerkyra, Corfu is a Greek island with rugged mountain peaks and impressive resort speckled shoreline. The wonderful beaches of Corfu are perfect for family vacations or a romantic getaway. Explore the monastery cave of Palaiokastritsa, or enjoy a breathtaking view from the cliffs of Sidari. The beaches have something unique to offer and are great for adventurers and peace seekers alike.
Corfu has budget-friendly resorts with lovely beach views and water activities included. The price starts as low as $40 per night for the budget resorts, depending on the amenities and views. The Mediterranean climate can be best enjoyed in summers, allowing you to soak the sun and plan a number of outdoor activities.
Pensacola, Florida
Florida has pleasant, sunny weather year round. The sparkling beaches are lined up with green palm trees to set your mind at ease. Pensacola Beach has many unique features to enjoy both under and over the water. Divers get to explore the ruins of sunken ships amidst exotic marine life, and you can catch impressive air shows by Blue Angels, a top crew of jet fighter pilots.
There are several budget-friendly hotels along the Pensacola Beach, with Hampton Inn being the best among them in terms of service and amenities. At $55/ night, you can save up a lot by staying in value resorts. The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is warm and welcoming.
Pigeon Point, Tobago
Often overlooked for its larger neighbor Trinidad, the little island of Tobago holds natural Caribbean beauty with warm aquamarine water and white sandy beaches. It is a laidback, relaxed location that’s ideal for nature lovers. Pigeon Point is the most beautiful beach in Tobago, with a calm and serene vibe and a marine park. The area is surrounded by protected rainforest and adorned with colorful exotic birds.
You’ll find many value resorts located near the Pigeon Point beach. The intimate hotels and nature retreat eco-lodges range from $50-$100 per night depending on the season. The best time to visit Tobago is from January to May, when the skies are clear and the waters sparkle in the crisp spring sunshine.
South Padre Island, Texas
This is one of the most popular spots for spring vacations, as it is affordable and has a delightfully warm and sunny weather to enjoy by the beach. You can indulge in a number of family activities including kiteboarding, sailing, dolphin watching and fun water sports. The fine old lighthouse in the area has a picturesque beauty with breathtaking views of the shoreline.
You’ll find affordable beach resorts and value hotels in the vicinity of South Padre Island, along with inexpensive dining options and free activities. Even during peak months, the hotel rates are largely reasonable. Enjoy the enthralling beauty of the island in spring breaks, or visit from September to February, if you want to skip the rowdy partying.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach is around 25 miles west of Tampa and overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. As its name suggests, the laid back beach has clear and calm waters adorned with soft white sand and lush palm trees. The year-round activities around the beach include paddle boarding, parasailing, and jet skiing among many others.
Clearwater Beach is lined with value dining options including cafes and casual seafood restaurants. You can also be a part of free nightly festivals with craft vendors and performers. The Bayfront motels start as low as $60 per night. Enjoy the beautiful clear waters of Florida in sunny spring weather and get your tan on.
Huntington Beach, California
Huntington Beach is also known as Surf City USA, as its waters are ideal for surfing and water based activities. It has a laidback vibe and charm of its own along with a long pier. The mild climate and beautiful calm water beaches stretching up to miles really set the tone for a relaxing beach vacation. Enjoy surfing, fishing, or walk around the paved trails while soaking in the sun.
Huntington Beach is quite affordable and has dog friendly beaches. The value hotels start from $70 per night, and you’ll find many cheap dining options. Do try out the delicious taco shops in the area. In late spring, the weather is pleasant and sunny with less likelihood of rain, and the resorts and hotels are quite affordable.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Belize is a small country in Central America with some of the most beautiful beaches that are worth exploring. Ambergris Caye is the largest island of Belize and is quite popular amongst divers. The most attractive feature of this beach is the large coral reef system that’s ideal for snorkeling and deep-sea diving. The clear waters and pearly white shores are lined with palm trees that set the mind at ease and evoke the holiday spirit.
Ambergris Caye is an affordable destination with budget-friendly resorts and restaurants to enjoy. The rustic, thatched cabins have wonderful views of the beach with complimentary breakfasts and astoundingly low rates in dry and cool seasons from December to April. If you want to explore the underwater beauty of the beaches, summer is the best time to visit.
Staniel Cay, Bahamas
Staniel Cay is a small, two square mile island within the Exuma Cays in Bahamas. The condo free beaches have gem colored, glassy water and an exciting Staniel Cay Yacht Club. You can rent boats for cruising the island and exploring the marine life. You’ll also spot adorable ‘swimming pigs’ on the beaches paddling out to sea. Besides cruising, you can also go for snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and diving in the clear waters of the island.
The affordable luxury villas at Staniel Cay range from $219 per night with deluxe amenities and wonderful views. The Staniel Cay Yacht club has waterfront bungalows starting from $185 per night depending on the season. You can enjoy this beautiful place round the year with lovely weather and warm waters.
Patong, Thailand
Patong is known as the land of smiles, and it truly lives up to its name. You can’t help but smile and feel happy amidst the heavenly beauty of Patong with stunning, crystal clear warm waters and picturesque crescent shores. Indulge in tasty Thai food, enjoy up close encounters with elephants during island tours, and a number of water sports and outdoor fun.
The beach resort town of Phuket Island is inexpensive, with lodging starting as low as $70 per night. You can rent water sports equipment from Patong’s main beach or go on a ferry trip in longtail boats. The lovely tropical climate can be best enjoyed from November to February with less chances of rain.
Manzanillo, Mexico
Manzanillo is a top beach vacation spot in Mexico. It is known as the sailfish capital of the world for its exciting fishing competition that attracts sea lovers from across the globe. Fishing is the most popular activity but the quaint picturesque town has a lot more to offer. The sparkling oceans are great for water sports and surfing, or just to relax and unwind by the shore, sipping on fresh coconut water.
Manzanillo beach resorts are some of the most budget-friendly ones you’ll find for a beach vacation, where lodging starts as low as $25 per night. The beaches are lined with delicious sea food restaurants and have a very relaxing atmosphere. Budget-friendly hotels are conveniently located in downtown with lovely views.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The exotic, sun kissed waters of the tropical Punta Cana are one of a kind. The palm fringed sandy beaches are unique and beautiful. These beaches are quite famous for their exuberant coral reefs, animal shows, dolphin rides, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and much more. It is a great choice for couple retreats and family vacations while staying on a budget.
The beach resorts at Punta Cana have amazing packages round the year, with all-inclusive deals and free kids-stay offers. You can get an all-inclusive deal for $300 per night or less with lovely garden or beach views. The weather is warm and welcoming round the year, with several events and activities taking place during holiday seasons.
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
In a land full of sun connoisseurs and sand, Fernando de Noronha is a hidden gem. It holds a unique beauty and charm, surrounded by bunny ear hills towering up with misty cloud studded peaks that reveal gold and white sand beaches. You can explore the small island by dune buggy, or dive and snorkel to explore the depths of the turquoise sea.
The beach resorts are at a walking distance from the ocean. The accommodation starts from $100 per night along with great dining options. At night, you can enjoy the traditional Brazilian music at the Bar do Cachorro in Vila dos Remedios. The dry season is from August to January, but the weather is pleasant all year round.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
This is another popular spot amongst college students for spring break. The gulf shores have white sandy beaches stretching wide with warm turquoise water and stunning views. Splash and surf in the calm waters or lay down and sip on your cocktails while enjoying the sunshine. On a family vacation, you can explore the fishing pier, gulf coast zoo and the fun water park surrounding the area.
They area has budget-friendly, midrange hotels and other vacation rentals that may include a kitchenette and pool. Explore the thrilling coastal wetlands by day and enjoy fine dining at world class gourmet restaurants on a sunset cruise at night. You can get the best money saving deals during peak summer season.
Culebrita Island, Puerto Rico
Culebra has a low-key ambience with warm, homely feel and unspoiled beaches surrounded by magnificent natural beauty. Culebrita is a water taxi ride away from Culebra, and the island is truly an out of the way paradise. The out-of-service lighthouse is the only manmade structure you’ll see there. The clear waters are protected by strong and majestic arms of rocks from either side, and the shallow tidal pools are great for kids.
A trip to Culebrita Island is well worth your money. The accommodation is cheap, starting at $50 for 2-star hotels, but the water taxi ride can get a little pricey. The uninhabited islet is beautiful and will take you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The moderate climate makes it a good vacation spot round the year.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach occupies the rustic coastal city in northwest Oregon. The lovely beach stretches for miles along the white sandy shores. The most iconic part of the beach is the 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock, seasonally adorned with tufted puffins. The nature trails offer breathtaking views of the ocean, and the area also has several coves and a lighthouse.
You can find a few value resorts right on the water with a view of the Haystack Rock. The beach resorts range from $150-$200 with deluxe amenities and activities depending on the season. Early fall is the best time to visit this beauty with mild and pleasant weather and cheap vacation rentals.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach sits along the Atlantic coast of South Carolina, and serves as a hub to the ‘Grand Stand’, featuring a 60-mile string of exotic beaches. The beachfront boardwalk is lined with restaurants, arcades, souvenir stands and a huge Sky Wheel. You can also enjoy the enthralling nightlife and over 100 golf courses near the beach.
Myrtle Beach is easily accessible via road from Augusta, Charlotte, and Charleston. It doesn’t put a huge dent on the wallet, as it is one of the best budget beach getaways in the U.S. If you’re willing to pay a little extra, you can get condo style rentals with living room and kitchen. Enjoy the warm waters of Myrtle Beach in summers with less likelihood of rain.
Mo’orea, French Polynesia
The quaint and beautiful south pacific island of Mo’orea is heaven on Earth. The island is adorned with jagged volcanic mountains and pearly white beaches. The hiking trails give you a chance to connect with nature and explore the wonderful and exotic rainforest, and get a view of the ocean from the slopes of Mount Tohivea. The astounding coral reef formations invite you to dive and explore the hidden gems of the unspoiled beaches.
This little-known island gives you the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Tahiti, with value resorts ranging from $150-$250 per night. The rustic cabins and huts create a pastoral vibe with hills and trees opening up to tranquil views of the island. The winter season is less humid and dry enough to explore the ocean and plan outdoor activities.
Hvar, Croatia
You will recognize the stunning architectural and natural beauty of this place if you are a fan of Game of Thrones, as it served as one of its filming locations. The beautiful island of Hvar floats in the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea, just off the coast of Croatia. Take a boat ride with a glass of wine in your hand, and leave all your troubles behind.
Hvar is a great option for romantic getaways, with value hotels offering astounding deals starting at just $55 per night. The boat excursions lead to secluded coves and beaches, and the island also has a hilltop fortress and Cathedral to explore. If you want to be a part of parties and events, July to September is the best time to visit Hvar.
Bali, Indonesia
The unspoiled, lavish and serene beaches of Bali are protected by thick green jungles that enhance the beauty and give you a feel of paradise. Balangan Beach is one of the best beaches in Bali, with calm waters that are ideal for surfing or scuba diving. The high cliffs overlook the majestic ocean and offer a once in a lifetime experience to explore nature at its best.
The flights to Bali might be a little expensive, but you can stay at luxury hotels for as little as $50 per night for two people. Enjoy casual exotic meals and explore the temples and forested mountains in the area for free. April to September is the best time to visit Bali before the peak holiday seasons, for cheap rates and less crowd.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
The port town of Ocho Rios was once a fishing village. It now serves as a beach resort with a lovely cruise ship harbor perfect for honeymoons and family vacations. The surrounding area of Saint Ann has flowing rivers, lush green rainforest and waterfalls. Dunn’s River Falls is a whooping 180m mountain waterfall lined up by trees and lagoon pools. The scenic beach has breathtaking views and allows you to enjoy water sports or just a nice sun bath and picnic.
Ocho Rios has several all-inclusive resorts that are easy on the pocket and offer great views and amenities. The packages start as low as $80 per night, depending on the season. You can spend most of your time soaking the sun by the sandy beaches, or enjoy a nice dip in the ocean or waterfalls, and go for a hike. The start of winters is the best time to visit the place with mild temperature and cheap accommodation.