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12 Affordable Coastal Escapes That Feel Like a Luxury Vacation

Budget-friendly beach getaways that deliver style, charm, and scenic views.

By Emily Caldwell

Edited by Esther Carlstone

Updated Jan. 8, 2026

Whether you're looking to get away from the winter chill or simply need a change of scenery, a coastal town offers a refreshing escape. While many seaside destinations can be expensive, there are plenty of spots where you can enjoy beaches, charming streets, and scenic views without overspending.

If sun, sand, and a budget-friendly stay are on your mind, these coastal towns fit the bill and make it easy to travel on a budget.

Hollywood, Florida

Located just north of Miami, Hollywood is the perfect all-around coastal getaway that won't break the bank. Visitors can take a stroll down the famous Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, which spans over 2.5 miles, and dip their toes in the sand on one of the many beaches. Many high-end shops in Diplomat Landing add a luxury feel to this vacation spot.

Kayak lists hotels at $216 per night, versus $402 for four-star properties in Miami.

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Huntington Beach, California

Head to Huntington Beach for affordable beachside hotels and plenty of free or low-cost activities, from sunrise strolls to pier walks or bike rides. Nearby Newport Beach offers high-end shopping at Fashion Island.

Named one of Golf Digest's World's Greatest Golf Destinations, the area is home to standout courses like Meadowlark Golf Club. On average, a hotel in Huntington Beach costs about $232 per night, according to Kayak. Compared to nearby Santa Monica's average of around $400 to $500 per night for nice hotels, it's far more affordable.

Pensacola, Florida

Situated in the Northwest portion of Florida, Pensacola offers white beaches that mimic a Caribbean vacation. The city boasts several beautiful budget-friendly hotels and an adorable historic town to shop, dine, and explore.

The best part? Visiting Pensacola Beach is free, giving you a day in the sun and sand at no cost. For a relaxing stay, stop by Still Waters Day & Medical Spa, a top-rated spot for affordable skincare treatments. Kayak estimates the average hotel night in Pensacola at just $109 — nearly $30 less than nearby Destin's $138 average.

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Cape May, New Jersey

Seeking quiet luxury and a peaceful getaway? Check out Cape May, known for its charming, small-town feel. In addition to serene, postcard-worthy beaches, shoppers can enjoy a stroll along Washington Street Mall to explore boutique shops and excellent dining options.

Lean into the town's old-world charm with a stay at an elegant bed-and-breakfast like the Queen Victoria Inn. The average hotel cost in Cape May is $238 a night, according to Kayak.

Vero Beach, Florida

Vero Beach delivers an elegant vibe without the high prices found in many Florida hotspots. Four-star hotels tend to be more affordable than those in Miami, and beach access and parking are often complimentary or reasonably priced.

When it's time to unwind, treat yourself to an ocean-inspired massage or facial at the popular White Orchid Spa. According to Kayak, the average hotel night in Vero Beach is around $153 per night. This is less than half of an average hotel night in West Palm Beach, FL, averaging around $367 per night.

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Often overlooked, Sunset Beach is a quiet seaside town in the southern part of the state known for its calm beaches and protected natural spaces.

With free shoreline access, low-cost water activities, and scenic trails, it offers the kind of peaceful, well-kept setting travelers usually associate with far more expensive destinations. A hotel night in Sunset Beach is about $125 per night, on average, compared to $155 per night in Myrtle Beach.

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Gulf Shores, Alabama

Florida and California always steal the show – but don't forget about Alabama for an under-the-radar coastal escape. Gulf Shores pairs white sand beaches and outdoor spaces with hotel prices that average about $124 nightly. In comparison, a stay in major cities like New Orleans averages around $167 per night.

Tybee Island, Georgia

If you want to stay in Savannah but don't want to pay the hefty prices, consider Tybee Island instead. In addition to the picture-perfect beaches, visitors can check out the iconic lighthouse and explore great dining options at a fraction of the price. Places like Hotel Tybee even offer direct beach access.

The most budget-friendly month to visit Tybee Island is February, with average hotel night rates of only $68 per night, which is a steal compared to Savannah's average of approximately $167 per night.

Lincoln City, Oregon

Enjoy scenic waterfront views without the steep price tags of larger cities like Seattle and Portland. When it's time to slow down, spa lovers can book a relaxing treatment at one of the town's many high-end spas.

There are also more than seven miles of white sandy beaches to explore. Hotel nights in Lincoln City are quite affordable, starting at only $42 per night during low season, while larger cities like Seattle average $152 at the same time.

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Port Townsend, Washington

The historic town of Port Townsend will have you feeling like you're on a movie set. Here, visitors can enjoy small-town walkability and admire the town's historic Victorian architecture. Boutique lodging adds to the luxe coastal feel, often at a lower cost than other major Pacific Northwest destinations.

Per Kayak, Tuesdays offer the best value with average hotel nights of around $139 per night. In comparison, an average hotel night in Seattle runs nearly $218 per night.

Gulfport Beach, Mississippi

Gulfport Beach offers a stretch of inviting beaches, including the popular Jones Park Beach, many of which are free or low-cost. Affordable hotels and vacation rentals make it a budget-friendly coastal getaway, and local seafood spots let visitors enjoy fresh fare without overspending.

Kayak estimates the average hotel night in Gulfport Beach at $96 per night. Other major nearby cities cost significantly more per night, such as cities like New Orleans, which average around $167 per night.

La Jolla, California

Escape to the relaxed "California vibe" of La Jolla, a San Diego town famed for its stunning oceanfront villas. While living here can be pricey, a short visit is accessible and full of low-cost activities, from exploring the popular La Jolla Cove to strolling the free Coast Walk Trail.

Golfers can tackle the world-class Torrey Pines Golf Course, while foodies can savor a diverse dining scene that includes several Michelin-starred restaurants. La Jolla hotels average $182 nightly, well below Carlsbad's $269.

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Bottom line

You don't need a massive budget to get away from freezing temperatures, snow, and ice this winter. From Hollywood Beach Boardwalk to Huntington Beach, these destinations capture the best of the coast without the steep costs.

As you plan your next trip, be sure to research free and low-cost activities in each city and explore available senior travel discounts to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

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Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

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