Top 5 Can’t-Miss Affordable Beach Vacations in the US

woman walking on a beach

As the cost of living swells, your workload may follow suit, which is why it’s important to take a vacation for your mental, physical, and emotional well-being.

Activities like stretching out on a beach offer you a chance to catch your breath, relax, and slow down. Affordable beach vacations are easier to make happen than you might think! 

At Wise Money Life, we’re passionate about finances. From credit card offers to life insurance to articles about helping you save money, we’re here to help you save. 

Whether you’re looking for family beach vacations or solo vacation destinations, there’s an affordable beach city for everyone on our list. 

1. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head is a popular tourist destination that offers plenty of options no matter what your travel plans are.

There are plenty of beautiful beaches, restaurants, and retail stores to keep you busy. There are also activities such as The Coastal Discovery Museum, Harbor Town Lighthouse, and the Island Winery. 

Hilton Head is as perfect of a vacation destination for couples as it is for family or friends. 

2. Clearwater Beach, Florida

If your vacation planning includes heading to a laid-back, less crowded town, try Clearwater Beach. 

The soft, white sand here is a real draw for visitors and natives alike. You can also enjoy restaurants and cafes at the nearby promenade. 

Book a dolphin adventure, take a tiki boat cruise, then head to Pier 60 once the sun sets for their nightly festival featuring craft vendors and performers. 

3. Huntington Beach, California

California is one of the top destinations for fun in the sun, and there are plenty of beaches to choose from. 

Huntington Beach is in an affordable area of Orange County, just next door to L.A. county. The beaches here aren’t too crowded and the city itself offers a classic California vibe of surf, sand, and mellow residents.

As a bonus, Orange County also offers plenty of beautiful and affluent beaches you can visit without paying the high prices. 

4. Cannon Beach, Oregon

If you love the idea of visiting a beach city without water activities, Cannon Beach is the perfect place for you. 

This beach city features gorgeous cliffside views, including the famous Haystack Rock which you will want a picture of before you leave. 

The water conditions here are infamously known for being rough and choppy, so water activities are often discouraged. The surrounding town and sweeping nature scenery are well worth the visit! 

5. Gulf Shores, Alabama

If you’re looking for quaint, natural charm, then visit this beach city. This destination is perfect for a quiet retreat with plenty of opportunities to stay active and get outdoors.

Walk or bike ride down one of the many trails, visit the Wetlands Nature Park, visit a historic site, or simply lay out at one of the many beaches to choose from. 

If you’re looking for more activities, there are also options like mini golf, an amphitheater, and Tropic Falls, an amusement park. 

Affordable Beach Vacations and More

Now you know some destinations that make for the most affordable beach vacations. Consider one of these cities the next time you are trip planning and can’t pick a destination!

At Wise Money Life, we’re all about being financially wise. Browse our blog to find other tips about things like life insurance, tax credits, and ways to save money.

Picture of Kevin

Kevin

Kevin writes for a variety of websites that cover homeownership, small businesses, marketing, and retail investing.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment