8 Cheap Beach Vacation Spots

Traveling to the beach doesn’t have to break the bank. While some prime destinations can cost a pretty BW Reader, there are still plenty of affordable options both domestically and internationally. According to Melanie Fish, a travel expert from Hotels.com and Vrbo, travelers can find beachfront accommodations for under $300 a night in various top destinations across the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia for mid-August.

Here are some suggestions for budget-friendly beach vacations based on data from Expedia, highlighting some of the best deals available.

You can still find domestic beach destinations for $200 or less a night, especially before the Memorial Day holiday. These prices reflect the average cost for May 15-16.

Please note that these rates and locations are subject to availability and may vary when booking.

Keep in mind that at these prices, you may not have direct beach access from your accommodation.

In Panama City, Florida, the average rate for a hotel stay on Aug. 15 is $103 according to Expedia. With 27 miles of shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, visitors can enjoy a variety of beaches catering to different preferences. Whether you prefer lively beachfront restaurants or secluded islands accessible only by boat, Panama City has something for everyone.

For vacation rentals in Panama City, Florida, the average rate on Aug. 15 is $160.

On the Atlantic Ocean coastline of Florida, West Palm Beach offers an average nightly rate under $200 ($173 to be exact) for hotels on Aug. 15. This city boasts waterfront restaurants and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway, while also providing easy access to beautiful beaches on nearby barrier islands like Jupiter and Palm Beach.

For a change of scenery, the Outer Banks in North Carolina offers affordable rates under $200 for vacation rentals on Aug. 15. This beach destination is ideal for families seeking a peaceful retreat with opportunities for beach activities like surfing, sand dune exploration, and kite flying. Visitors can also explore charming beach towns and historical attractions such as lighthouses and landmarks from the Wright brothers’ first flight.

For those looking for an urban beach experience, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa in Florida offer average room rates under $250 per night on Aug. 15. These cities provide a mix of city amenities and beach attractions, making them a great option for travelers seeking a vibrant beach vacation.

Closer to home, Gulf Shores in Alabama offers affordable vacation rental rates averaging $190 per night. With its soft white sand and gentle surf on the Gulf of Mexico, this destination provides a relaxing beach getaway for travelers.

For those looking to venture abroad in August, consider exploring these international beach destinations.

In Pattaya, Thailand, travelers can enjoy an average nightly rate of $91 for Aug. 15-16. However, it’s important to note that August is the rainy season in Thailand, so consider visiting in September or October for better weather. Pattaya is a bustling beach destination known for water sports and a vibrant beachfront area with various amenities.

While accommodation prices are affordable, keep in mind that airfare to Thailand can be costly. Flights from L.A. to Bangkok start around $800 round-trip with at least one stop. Another option is Phuket, Thailand, with an average hotel rate of $122 for the night of Aug. 15.

The North Aegean Islands, including destinations like Ikaria, Samos, and Limnos, offer an authentic Greek island experience at an affordable nightly rate of just $189. These islands are known for their crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages, with a mix of sandy and pebbly beaches to explore.

For a larger island getaway, Crete in Greece also provides budget-friendly vacation rentals with an average daily rate of $240.