Summer travel is on our minds and just around the corner. Most of us are eager to pack our bags and head straight to a warm beach to soak up some rays and read a good novel. With rising inflation and wallets being tighter than ever, the simple pleasure of a beach vacation may feel out of reach for many Americans, but fear not!
Try this: 3 travel destinations that are similar to Hawaii, but much cheaper
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GOBankingRates spoke to travel experts to find out where you can experience the beauty of Hawaii and Miami for a fraction of the cost. He shares six budget destinations that will feel like a luxury beach vacation in 2024.
Destin, Florida
When it comes to luxury and affordable beach vacations, Destin, in northwest Florida, is the place to be. “Summer is right around the corner, and many people across the country are planning a well-deserved beach vacation,” said Mercedes Zak, a travel agent with ASAP Tickets. “While some people prefer more luxurious and expensive holiday packages, most people are looking for budget-friendly travel options that still offer an upscale experience.”
Zach recommended Destin as a perfect beach resort with picturesque views. “Known for its Emerald Coast beaches, numerous golf courses, and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Destin is a beach destination with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters that give you a Caribbean feel without hopping on a plane. It’s perfect for that,” says Zach. “Additionally, there are many great beach rentals available for as low as $100 a night, close to shopping and fine dining.”
Learn more: 11 expensive vacation destinations that will get cheaper in 2024
Huntington Beach, California
On the West Coast, Huntington Beach, California offers a great beach vacation at an affordable price. “Also known as America's easy-going surf capital, Huntington Beach, California is a great West Coast vacation destination that's more affordable and less crowded than nearby Santa Monica, San Diego, and Los Angeles,” says Zach.
She highlighted the abundance of activities available, saying, “There are 16 miles of uninterrupted sandy beaches offering everything from surfing, biking, paddle boarding and kayaking to volleyball tournaments, skateboarding competitions, beachfront dining and romantic sunsets by the bonfire.”
And the destination is easy on the wallet: “With vacation rentals costing around $120 a night, Huntington Beach is a great budget destination to visit any time of the year,” Zach said.
Caribbean All Inclusive Resorts
Zach suggested the Caribbean as an affordable option for those seeking an international tropical getaway, especially if they opt for an all-inclusive resort. “Whether it's a romantic couples getaway or you're looking to spend some quality time with the family, Caribbean resorts like Iberostar Dominicana in Punta Cana, BlueBay Villas Doradas in Puerto Plata, and Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo in Las Terrenas offer great service and fun. For just $200 a night for two, there are sporting activities and breathtaking views to suit every taste,” she said.
“The price of these amenities can drop to as low as $160 per couple per night during the lowest month and off-season dates,” Zach adds. “By hitting the less expensive islands like Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Curacao, a tropical Caribbean vacation can be a lot cheaper than you'd expect.”
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
If you're looking for an affordable beach getaway with warm weather and rich culture, Puerto Escondido, Mexico, may be the perfect destination for you. “Just a five- to eight-hour flight from the U.S., it's a fantastic tropical destination with warm weather, rich culture, and the perfect affordable beach vacation,” Zach said.
Highlighting the many activities that can be enjoyed in Puerto Escondido, she said, “Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca's surfing town, is known for its pristine beaches, bohemian atmosphere, and, especially for watersports enthusiasts, a wealth of things to see and do in the surrounding area.'' Puerto Escondido is famous for its many activities: snorkeling, swimming among marine life, seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, trying sport fishing, releasing newborn turtles, and surfing. You can enjoy everything from taking lessons to exploring nearby beaches such as Huatulco and Carrizalillo Bay.
Zach also recommended affordable accommodations in the area. “Situated in a surprisingly serene beachside neighborhood near the wide and long Zicatela Beach, Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel offers a number of affordable accommodations with free bike rentals, a fitness center, garden and shared lounge. It's one of those.'' 300 meters from Zicatela Beach and 4 km from the Commercial Her Walkway, this accommodation offers a terrace and bar, as well as evening entertainment and room service in a double room for just $85 per night. she said.
Florida Keys
For a tropical island vacation closer to home, SmarterTravel Executive Editor Caroline Teel recommended the Florida Keys. “Are you dreaming of a tropical island vacation? You don’t have to go far (or spend a lot of money) to find paradise. “It feels like an exotic vacation,” she said.
Teal suggested a scenic road trip up to the Keys: “Catch a cheap flight to Miami or Fort Lauderdale and then take one of the most scenic roads in America up to the Florida Keys,” she said.
She also gave advice on where to stay based on your desired vibe. “Head south to Key West for a taste of the party atmosphere, or stop in one of the Middle Keys for a more romantic and relaxing getaway. There are plenty of upscale boutique hotels here, as well as budget hotels It's easy to find,'' Thiel said.
florida's space coast
Have you seen a rocket launch while on vacation? Get ready to experience the magic this summer. Located about 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida's Space Coast is filled with picturesque beachside sunrises and great food, plus you can watch rockets launch into space, said Peter Kranis, executive director of the Space Coast Tourism Board.
“Rocket launches take place year-round on the Space Coast and this once-in-a-lifetime experience is completely free to watch,” Kranis said.
Even if rocket launches aren't your thing, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy at the beach. “You don't have to leave the country to experience a glowing bioluminescent ocean! Immerse yourself in the magic of nature and cruise through a bioluminescent lagoon in a transparent kayak and watch the water sparkle with glowing creatures. It's like being underwater! It's like fireworks!'' says Kranis.
The Space Coast is also known for its sea turtles. “The Space Coast is one of the largest and most important sea turtle nesting areas in the United States,” Kranis added. “Visitors will have the rare opportunity to witness this ancient creature coming ashore to lay its eggs, and watch hatchlings make their way to sea.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 cheap destinations for a luxurious beach vacation in 2024
