Discover America's Budget-Friendly Beach Gems: 25 Coastal Escapes You Can't Miss

The word "affordable" might not be the first thing that comes to mind when people picture a beach trip. It may come as a pleasant surprise, though, to hear that the United States has a plethora of low-cost beach getaways perfect for lone travelers, couples, and children. Cost-effective alternatives to expensive resort stays include non-motorized watersports, hiking, cycling, and exploration. A cheap beach trip is possible anywhere, from the California surfing scene to the Maine tide pools to the Florida snorkeling chances. All sorts of fun stuff awaits vacationers in these 25 seaside cities in the United States.

1. Huntington Beach, California: Surf Capital of the World

Huntington Beach, known as Surf City USA, draws surfers of all ages and experience levels. The Banzai Surf School provides classes and equipment rentals to individuals and groups and is a recognized member of the National Surf Schools & Instructors Association. Those who would rather lounge in the sun than ride the waves can do so on the ten miles of acclaimed sand. Beach volleyball is a year-round favorite pastime on the water with numerous events. One of the many concession stands that dot the beach offers bicycle rentals and burger baskets.

2. Virginia Beach: Where the Fun Begins

Virginia Beach is the ideal vacation spot for active families, thanks to its pet-friendly beaches, tours of local breweries, and exhilarating watersports. Visitors can get around town via the 3-mile long boardwalk or by renting bicycles. Chesapeake Bay Beach, with its calm waters and scenic lighthouses, is a popular destination for those in search of a tranquil place to unwind. Sandbridge Beach is home to two parks perfect for surfers, kayakers, and hikers: Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. Oyster connoisseurs can enjoy a fun and educational tour led by a local expert.

3. Mexico Beach is a beautiful beach town in Florida

Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida in Bay County, the small town of Mexico Beach is a hub of activity. Its white sand beaches stretch for miles, the pace of life is slow, and the place has a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of Old Florida. The gorgeous beaches have been preserved in part because of deliberate attempts to restrict development. There are several cute cafes and shops run by independent mothers. Activities like fishing, diving, swimming, shelling, kayaking, and parasailing are set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters and lush, unspoilt nature. Or they can bring a book and a colorful umbrella to the beach and enjoy the shade while reading. Ospreys, bald eagles, endangered sea turtles, and dolphins are just some of the wildlife that visitors can see on one of the various environmental tours. Fourth of July Best Blast on the Beach, Music in the Park, Beach Blast Triathlons, Gumbo Cook-Off, Art & Wine Festival, and Christmas Celebration of Lights are just a few examples of the many exciting festivals and activities that keep the spirit alive year-round.

4. Vacations by the Sea: Cape May

History buffs will love exploring Cape May's many historic sites. Over 600 Victorian-era buildings have been saved in this coastal town, many of which are now in use as bed and breakfasts. Visitors can enjoy a fun and informative excursion into the town's fascinating past by taking one of the themed trolley excursions put on by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities. The gorgeous "Painted Ladies," which overlook the promenade and Cape May's Convention Hall, provide the stage for a full calendar of events and performances throughout the year. Miles of sandy shores await sunbathers beyond the promenade.

5. Beach at Cannon

This fishing community is known for having the best beach on the whole Oregon coast. It is so stunning that National Geographic included it in their list of the world's most beautiful places. Cannon Beach's reputation as one of the most artistic communities in the United States is a direct result of the natural beauty that surrounds it, which in turn attracts art lovers to the town's many festivals, galleries, and exhibitions. The town of Sandcastle, Florida, holds an annual sandcastle competition in the month of June. Fresh fish and regional delicacies may be found at many of the cafes, microbreweries, and restaurants in the area. Coasts of Oregon

6. Delray Beach: A Relaxing Seaside Getaway

Delray Beach, located on Florida's Gold Coast, is a popular tourist hotspot thanks to its nearly two miles of alluring golden sands. Rental shops for water sports gear can be found along Atlantic Avenue and the beach. Everyone from snorkelers to surfers will find what they need in this city, since it offers a wide range of amenities. Over forty parks and recreational facilities are cared for by Delray Beach's parks and recreation department, all of which are open to the public. Pools, sports fields, skate parks, tennis courts, golf courses, dog parks, and playgrounds are just some of the inexpensive entertainment options available. You can find anything from food trucks to five-star eateries in downtown Delray Beach.

7. Port, Dennis

Dennis Port Village, once a center for sea captains and shipbuilders, now attracts tourists with its cafes, shops, markets, and sandy beaches on the south side, which face Nantucket Sound. Visitors can have a meal at one of the numerous New England-style eateries or take in a performance on the Village Green after dark. Windsurfers and kiteboarders love Dennis Port because of the brisk southwest winds that blow along the sound's shore. Overnight travelers can choose from several charming inns and bed & breakfasts in Dennis Port for a genuine Cape Cod experience.

8. Vacations on the Coast: Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach is known for its informal seaside restaurants and cafes that exude a cool, retro vibe. The location of the local winery on the beach just adds to the chill vibes. There are nearly six miles of beachfront, and the public fishing pier is free for everyone to use. Those interested in learning more about the local ecosystem can do so by hiking the Coastal Strand Trail. After spending the afternoon browsing the local gift shops and art galleries, head down to the beach for a nightcap and some live music.

9. Harwich's Uncovering

Harwich, Massachusetts is a charming Cape Cod town known for its beach bonfires, boating, and baseball, and it is located among the region's famous cranberry bogs. The town has 17 beaches along Nantucket Sound, 6 of which are freshwater. Permits for beach bonfires can be obtained through the Recreation and Youth Commission. At NautiJane's in East Harwich, you can rent a boat with or without a captain and set sail for a day of relaxation. After seeing the Harwich Mariners of the Cape Cod Baseball League take on another club, sports fans may relax with some local favorites at Brax Landing in Harwich Port.

10. Vacations on the Coast: Molokai

Molokai, also known as "The Friendly Island," is noted for its abundance of water-based activities and for having Hawaii's longest white sand beach. Water sports like as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing are popular among both locals and tourists. Near Kaunakakai Harbor you may rent gear, find guides, and take lessons. Those who would rather stay on dry land might enjoy activities like hiking in the Kamakou Preserve or riding along the Waikolu Outlook. Mule rides with a guide in the hills are another fun activity for the whole family. The island is dotted with little shops selling locally crafted souvenirs to help you remember your time spent exploring this hidden gem.

11. Myrtle Beach sight-seeing

Myrtle Beach attracts many tourists because of its sixty miles of beautiful beaches. There is a wide variety of things to do in the region for campers, condo guests, B&B guests, and resort guests. Anyone of any age can go scuba diving or surfing with their own gear or gear rented from a variety of shops in the area. Parasailing, riding a jet ski, or going for a banana boat trip are all thrilling options for the adventuresome traveler. There's something for everyone at Myrtle Beach, with activities like a 5D theater, Ripley's Aquarium, a trampoline park, and the SkyWheel, a Ferris wheel unlike any other with glass-enclosed gondolas.

12. U.S. Beach Vacations on a Dime: Nags Head

Nags Head, North Carolina, is a wonderful, low-cost destination for a family vacation. This historic seaside hamlet on the Outer Banks is just south of Kitty Hawk and features a wide variety of single-family houses. Nags Head's 11 miles of sandy beaches are ideal for a variety of water sports. Vacationers can spend their time here sailing or kayaking along the coast, fishing from one of two public piers, snorkeling around sunken ships, or even hang gliding over the dunes at Jockey's Ridge State Park. You can bring the whole family here or enjoy it on your own.

13. Newport, California, on a Tight Budget

The city of Newport, Oregon, is packed with fun activities that won't break the bank. The rocky shoreline is a great place to go tide pooling, fossil searching, and whale watching for gray whales. The city is home to two lighthouses, one of which is the tallest in the state. From sharks to sea otters, it's all here at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. There are a ton of hands-on activities for kids in the museum's Secrets of Shipwrecks exhibit, which explores the mysteries of the deep. The nearby Hatfield Marine Science Center adds to the learning opportunities, with touch tanks full of local marine life and a big Pacific octopus for visitors to check out.

14. Beach Vacations: Ocean Isle

Ocean Isle Beach is a destination frequented by generations of visitors. This small community in North Carolina's Brunswick Islands is known for its pristine beaches and friendly locals. Ocean Isle has the right vibe for a relaxing beach holiday, with its many eateries, outdoor seating areas, and proximity to the water. Just a short drive away, you may enjoy wine tastings, tours, and special events at the critically acclaimed Silver Coast Winery. Thrill-seekers can spend the day kayaking through the marsh or zipping through the treetops on the zip lines at Shallotte River Swamp Park. The Museum of Coastal Carolina is a great place to spend a wet day, with fascinating marine displays and a planetarium.

15. The Ormond Beach Boardwalk

Ormond Beach, located just north of Daytona Beach on Florida's Atlantic coast, is sometimes referred to as the "Birthplace of Speed" because of Henry Ford's early automobile trials in the area. Ormond Beach now holds annual events in which a sand speedway is recreated to honor its racing heritage. Ormond has a peaceful vibe now since the northern part of the beach is car-free despite its once-bustling history. Vacationers have a wide variety of activities to choose from, including swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, and fishing. Ormond Beach has accommodations to suit a wide range of budgets, from opulent condos to more modest motels.

16. Relaxing at Osage Beach on the Lake

If you're looking for a somewhere to stay while enjoying the lake and the great outdoors, go no farther than Osage Beach! Osage Beach, located in the middle of Missouri, offers a wide range of deals on vacation packages that are accessible online and suitable for couples and families. There is something for everyone in Osage, from world-class boating and golf to fishing and shopping. Osage Beach's lakefront resorts, restaurants, and entertainment options make it an ideal destination for anyone in need of a quiet escape or a relaxing weekend break. Seasonal celebrations, auto shows, art exhibitions, holiday processions, fishing and golf tournaments, and wine tasting activities are just few of the many annual events that take place in the neighborhood.

17. Pahoa, a Coastal Retreat

Pahoa, on the Big Island's Puna coast, has been known as the de facto hippy capital of Hawaii, attracting free spirits from all walks of life. Pahoa is a more budget-friendly option for a Hawaiian beach holiday without sacrificing the variety of experiences you can have. Snorkelers can get up close and personal with the marine creatures in the Kapoho tidepool, while scuba divers can enjoy a wealth of options for underwater exploration. Nearby Lava Tree State Park used to be a lush rainforest, but today you may explore the charred tree trunk imprints left by volcanic activity. The Pahoa promenade has a "Wild West" feel because of the assortment of ancient buildings and fake storefronts.

18. Pensacola

Pensacola, at the very tip of Florida's coast, is a wonderful alternative for vacationers who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the state's more popular tourist destinations. If you're looking for a place to relax by the water, go no further than this port city. Its colonial downtown, which dates back to the 16th century, is filled with art galleries, restaurants, and historical sites. Pensacola, as the location of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, is a great place to go boating and fishing. Canoe trips down the Blackwater River are a popular inland activity. The National Museum of Naval Aviation and the Pensacola Naval Air Station are only two examples of the city's pride in its military heritage.

19. Pine Knoll Shores, a Low-Cost Beach Getaway

Pine Knoll Shores, a tranquil beach hamlet surrounded by maritime forests, is part of North Carolina's Crystal Coast, which stretches for more than 85 miles down the state's coast. Pine Knoll Shores' affordable lodging options include condos, private homes, and a few well chosen motels. Group offers and other types of internet travel packages can help tourists save money. There is a wide variety of things to do in the area, from boating and fishing to going on exciting hikes. The North Carolina Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores has exhibits with sharks, river otters, and a rare albino sea turtle, making it a pleasant and educational day trip for the whole family.

20. Vacations on the Coast: Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is a fantastic vacation spot thanks to its picture-perfect beaches and high-quality wineries. Located on the central coast of California, exactly midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, is the classic beach town of Santa Barbara. Golf, horseback riding, surfing, body boarding, and fishing are just a few of the many outdoor pursuits available to outdoor enthusiasts. The Pismo Beach Premium Outlets are a shopper's paradise, stocked with of fantastic bargains. In addition, the numerous restaurants and food stands along the award-winning boardwalk make it the ideal location in which to relax and enjoy the sun.

21. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, USA

On ABC's Good Morning America, Sleeping Bear Lakeshore was named the "Most Beautiful Place in America" after receiving more than 100,000 votes from viewers. Sand beaches, lush forests, shimmering lake views, and high bluffs standing 450 feet above Lake Michigan are just some of the great natural beauties that visitors can enjoy in the area. Sleeping Bear is a great place to go camping since it has so many affordable and attractive hotels, motels, and B&Bs to choose from. The old marine village can also be visited, along with a lighthouse and hiking paths on the nearby Manitou Islands.

22. South County Beach Getaways

More than 100 miles of shoreline are available for swimming, surfing, and other water sports in South County, Rhode Island, and the area also features a rich cultural history. The beautiful environment can be appreciated in the context of South County's year-round cultural offerings, such as art shows, antique shops, and musical performances. For those with a thirst, there are also many vineyards and breweries in the area to choose from. Biking, boating, golfing, and surfing are just some of the enjoyable outdoor pursuits that can be enjoyed to better appreciate the county's natural beauty.

23. Surf City, California, Cheap Beach Vacations

Surf City, North Carolina is located on Topsail Island, a long barrier island off the coast of North Carolina and the cultural center of the island. Surf City, as its name implies, is home to a wide selection of surf shops for the city's many visitors. Some of the organic blueberry farms in the area even let visitors select their own fresh, pesticide-free blueberries. A beautiful bed and breakfast with a view of the soothing waves of the ocean can be found in Surf City. Camping aficionados have their pick of several campgrounds where they may set up their tents or park their recreational vehicles to take in the area's breathtaking scenery.

24. Affordable Trips to the Beach: The Wells

Wells, a quaint fishing community in Maine, is home to beautiful harbors, sandy beaches, and pristine parks. Any boat, from a modest fishing boat to a luxurious yacht, is welcome in Wells Harbor. There are approximately 4 miles of coastline, the longest of which is Wells Beach, which is nearly a mile long. From the vantage point of sand dunes and rolling green hills, tourists can take in the spectacular vistas. The town's annual chili festival, when contestants try to earn a berth at the World Chili Championship Cook-Offs, and the free summer concerts in the gazebos are both highlights of the season.

25. Western Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is known for its wide variety of attractions, including a 23-acre zoo, outlet malls, and Broadway-caliber shows. There are four distinct retail and entertainment districts for visitors to explore, each with its own unique selection of stores, attractions, and restaurants. The world-class theaters and concert halls are guaranteed to please theatergoers, while art lovers will flock to the Norton Museum of Art. West Palm Beach's year-round mild temperatures make it a prime destination for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits and entertainment options. It also boasts the title of "Florida's Largest Waterfront Music Festival Host City" every year.