Summer travel is on our minds and it's just around the corner. Most of us want to pack our bags and head straight to a warm beach to lounge 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 may seem out of reach for many Americans, but fear not.
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GOBankingRates spoke with travel experts to find out where to go to experience all the beauty of Hawaii or Miami at a fraction of the price. Here are six cheap places to travel in 2024 that look like luxury beach vacation.
Destin, Florida
When it comes to affordable and luxurious beach vacations, Destin in Northwest Florida is a top contender. “As the summer season approaches, many people across the United States are planning their much-deserved beach vacation,” said Mercedes Zach, travel agent at Tickets as soon as possible. “While some prefer more luxurious and expensive vacation packages, most are looking for budget-friendly travel options while still providing a premium experience.”
Zach recommended Destin as a perfect beach getaway with perfect views. “It is known for its Emerald Coast beaches, numerous golf courses and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Destin also has a white sand coastline with crystal clear waters that make it perfect for a beach getaway, giving off the Caribbean vibe without having to fly there,” said Zach. “Plus, there are many great beach rentals to choose from for as little as $100 per night, located near shopping and fine dining.”
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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 America's surf town with a laid-back vibe, Huntington Beach in California is a great West Coast vacation destination, more affordable and less crowded than nearby Santa Monica, San Diego or Los Angeles,” Zach said. .
She highlighted the many activities available, saying: “It includes 10 miles of uninterrupted sand and offers everything from surfing, cycling, paddle boarding and kayaking to volleyball tournaments, skateboard competitions, seaside dining and romantic sunsets by the bonfire. »
And this destination won't break the bank. “With vacation rentals costing around $120 per night, Huntington Beach is a budget-friendly and fascinating travel destination to visit any time of year,” Zach said.
All-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean
For those looking for an international tropical getaway, Zach suggested the Caribbean as an affordable option, especially when choosing an all-inclusive resort. “Whether you are looking for a romantic trip as a couple or some quality time with the family, Caribbean resorts such as Iberostar Dominicaine in Punta Cana, BlueBay Villas Doradas in Puerto Plata or Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo in Las Terrenas offer excellent service and some pleasure. sporting activities and breathtaking views for all tastes for as little as $200 per night for two people,” she said.
“The price for all of these amenities can go as low as $160 per couple per night during less busy months and with affordable dates during shoulder seasons,” Zach added. “A tropical vacation in the Caribbean can, in fact, be much cheaper than you might expect if you're aiming for less expensive islands like 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 could be the perfect destination. It's “an incredible tropical destination for an affordable beach vacation, with a warm climate and rich culture, just a five to eight hour flight from the United States,” 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 unspoiled beaches, bohemian vibe and many things to see and do in the surroundings, especially if you are a fan of water sports. keen. Puerto Escondido offers you everything from snorkeling and swimming among marine life, to watching dolphins in their natural habitat, to trying sport fishing, to releasing newborn turtles, to lessons from surfing, to exploring nearby beaches, like Huatulco and Carrizalillo Bay.
Zach also recommended affordable accommodations in the area. “Located near the wide, long Zicatela Beach, a wonderfully quiet seaside area, Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel is one of many affordable 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 offers a terrace and bar, as well as evening entertainment and room service for just $85 per night for a double room,” a- she declared.
Florida Keys
For a tropical island getaway closer to home, Caroline Teel, editor-in-chief of Smarter travel, 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 are like an exotic vacation, without the passport requirements and big budgets, she said.
Teel suggested a scenic road trip to reach the Keys. “Take a cheap flight to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, then take one of the most scenic drives in America to the Florida Keys,” she said.
She also advised you where to stay based on the desired ambiance. “Head south to Key West for a party atmosphere or stop at 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
Have you ever seen a rocket take off while on vacation? Well, get ready to experience the magic this summer. Peter Cranis, executive director of Space Coast Visitor Centershared that Florida's Space Coast, located about 45 minutes from Orlando, is full of picturesque oceanfront sunrises and delicious food, and you can watch rocket launches right into space.
“Rocket launches take place year-round on the Space Coast, and this unique experience is completely free,” Cranis said.
If rocket launches aren't your thing, there are plenty of beach activities to keep you busy. “You don't have to leave the country to experience vibrant bioluminescent waters! Immerse yourself in the magic of nature and ride a transparent 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 important sea turtle nesting areas in the United States,” Cranis added. “Visitors have the rare opportunity to watch these ancient creatures come ashore to lay their eggs or watch hatchlings head out to sea.”
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This article was originally published on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024 That Look Like a Luxury Beach Vacation
