Yahoo Finance 6 Cheap Places To Travel in 2024 That Feel Like a Luxury Beach Vacation
Summer travel is on all of our minds, and it’s quickly approaching. Most of us want to pack our bags and head straight to a warm beach to bask in the sun and read a good novel. With inflation on the rise and wallets tighter than ever, the simple pleasures of a beach vacation can feel out of reach for many Americans, but never fear.
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GOBankingRates spoke to travel experts to find out where you can go to get all the beauty of Hawaii or Miami at a fraction of the price. Here are six cheap places to travel in 2024 that feel like a luxury beach vacation.
Destin, Florida
When it comes to affordable beach vacations that feel luxurious, Destin in northwest Florida is a top contender. “With the summer season just around the corner, many people across the States are planning their well-deserved beach vacations,” said Mercedes Zach, a travel agent at ASAP Tickets. “While some prefer more luxurious and expensive holiday packages, most are looking for budget-friendly travel options that still provide a high-end experience.”
Zach recommended Destin as a perfect beach getaway with picture-perfect views. “It’s known for its Emerald Coast beaches, many golf courses and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Destin also has a white sandy coastline with crystal clear waters that make it perfect for a beach getaway, giving out Caribbean vibes without having to fly there,” Zach said. “Plus, there are plenty of great beach rentals to choose from for as little as $100 per night, located close to shopping and fine dining spots.”
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Huntington Beach, California
On the West Coast, Huntington Beach in California offers an excellent and affordable beach vacation. “Also known as the surf city of the U.S. with an easy-going vibe, Huntington Beach in California is an excellent holiday destination on the West Coast that’s more affordable and less crowded than nearby Santa Monica, San Diego or Los Angeles,” Zach said.
She highlighted the many activities available, saying, “It features a 10-mile stretch of uninterrupted sand and offers everything from surfing, biking, paddle boarding and kayaking to volleyball tournaments, skateboarding competitions, oceanfront dining and romantic sunsets by the bonfire.”
And this destination won’t break the bank. “With vacation rentals going for around $120 per night, Huntington Beach is a budget-friendly and fascinating travel destination to visit any time of the year,” Zach said.
Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts
For those seeking an international tropical escape, Zach suggested the Caribbean as an affordable option, particularly when choosing an all-inclusive resort. “Whether you’re looking for a romantic couple’s trip or some quality time away with the family, Caribbean resorts such as Iberostar Dominicana in Punta Cana, BlueBay Villas Doradas in Puerto Plata or Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo in Las Terrenas deliver great service, fun sports activities and breathtaking views for every taste for as little as $200 per night for two people,” she said.
“The price for all these amenities can drop even as low as $160 per couple per night in the least busy months and with some affordable dates in the shoulder seasons,” Zach added. “A tropical Caribbean vacation can, in fact, be a lot cheaper than you would expect if you aim for less expensive islands such as Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico or Curacao.”
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
If you’re looking for an affordable beach vacation with a warm climate and rich culture, Puerto Escondido in Mexico might be the perfect destination. It is “an amazing tropical destination for an affordable beach vacation with a warm climate and rich culture just a five- to eight-hour flight away from the U.S.,” Zach said.
She highlighted the many activities available in Puerto Escondido, saying, “The surf town of Puerto Escondido in the state of Oaxaca is famous for its untouched beaches, bohemian vibe and plenty of things to see and do around, especially if you are a water sports enthusiast. Puerto Escondido offers you everything from snorkeling, swimming among the marine life, seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, trying out sport fishing, releasing newborn turtles and taking surf lessons to exploring the nearby beaches, such as Huatulco and the Bay of Carrizalillo.”
Zach also recommended affordable accommodations in the area. “Located near the wide and long Zicatela Beach, a marvelously mellow beach-side neighborhood, Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel is one of the many affordably priced accommodations to choose from, which has free bikes, a fitness center, a garden and a shared lounge. 300 meters from Zicatela Beach and 4 kilometers from Commercial Walkway, this property provides a terrace and a bar, as well as evening entertainment and room service for as little as $85 per night for a double room,” she said.
Florida Keys
For a tropical island getaway closer to home, Caroline Teel, executive editor at SmarterTravel, recommended the Florida Keys. “Dreaming of a tropical island getaway? You don’t have to go far (or spend a lot) to find paradise — the Florida Keys feel like an exotic vacation, minus the passport requirements and big budgets,” she said.
Teel suggested a scenic road trip to reach the Keys. “Snag a cheap flight into Miami or Fort Lauderdale, and then take one of the most scenic roads in America down to the Florida Keys,” she said.
She also advised on where to stay based on your desired vibe. “Head all the way south to Key West for a party vibe or stop in one of the middle keys for a more romantic and relaxing vacation. Luxury boutique hotels abound here, and it’s easy to find an affordable option,” Teel said.
Florida’s Space Coast
Ever seen a rocket launch while on vacation? Well, get ready to experience the magic this summer. Peter Cranis, executive director at the Space Coast Office of Tourism, shared that Florida’s Space Coast — located about 45 minutes from Orlando — is filled with picturesque seaside sunrises and amazing food, plus you can witness rocket launches straight to space.
“Rocket launches occur year-round on the Space Coast, and this once-in-a-lifetime experience is completely free to view,” Cranis said.
If rocket launches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of beachy activities to keep you busy. “You don’t have to leave the country to experience glowing bioluminescent waters! Immerse yourself in nature’s magic and take a see-through kayak over bioluminescent lagoons and watch the water sparkle with luminescent organisms. It’s like underwater fireworks!” Cranis said.
The Space Coast is also known for sea turtles. “The Space Coast is home to some of the largest and most significant sea turtle nesting grounds in the U.S.,” Cranis added. “Visitors have the rare opportunity to witness these ancient creatures coming ashore to lay their eggs or watch hatchlings make their way to the sea.”
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