Sometimes, you let yourself dream of the ultimate beach vacation. Then you wake up, run the numbers, and try to forget you had those costly dreams. Don’t give up just yet. Though certain coastal destinations worldwide tend to be the most expensive, many other beach cities offer lower prices and better value.
Even better, these beaches are just as beautiful and often offer much more relaxing vibes. Here are some amazing coastal destinations around the world that won’t cost a fortune but will make your beach vacation dreams come true.
1. Palawan, Philippines
Savvy travelers with experience venturing through Southeast Asia have known about the Philippines’ affordability for some time. Palawan may be your best bet for a next-level tropical beach trip that feels extravagant without costing way extra. From snorkeling at colorful coral reefs and historic World War II-era wrecks to exploring the gorgeous beaches and lagoons of El Nido, Palawan is full of amazing treasures awaiting your discovery.
2. Goa, India
India is another Asian country that always offers exceptional value, and the southern state of Goa offers some of India’s most phenomenal natural scenery. Keep heading south for some of Goa’s most pristine beaches, such as Palolem and Butterfly Beach.
Whenever you feel like changing things up and exploring more on dry land, Cotigao’s wildlife sanctuary is the perfect jungle escape. Here, you can spot animals like civets, gaurs, pangolins, leopards, and monkeys.
3. Cairns, Queensland, Australia
While major cities like Sydney and Melbourne have great beaches during the summer season, they can get a bit cool during winter. Meanwhile, up north, Cairns is perfect for an Australian-style warm winter getaway.
Although the city of Cairns itself may not have great beaches, it’s an easy launchpad to incredible beach areas like Green Island and Kuranda. In addition, Cairns is where you want to go to see one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef.
4. Lombok, Indonesia
Bali may be Indonesia’s most famous tropical paradise island. But for an island escape that’s just as fulfilling and much more affordable, try the nearby island of Lombok instead. This island has everything from Indonesia’s second-tallest volcano (Gunung Rinjani) to the magnificent Air Terjun Sindang Gila waterfall. And it’s within easy boating distance from the lovely and festive Gili Islands.
5. Vanua Levu, Fiji
Over the years, the South Pacific islands have gained a reputation as a destination for luxury travelers seeking the most deluxe five-star versions of everything. For a South Pacific getaway that is much easier on your wallet, try Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu.
Here, you will find plenty of the coconut palm-lined white sand beaches of your dreams, as well as dive sites like Rainbow Reef and Namena Marine Reserve with incredible coral reefs. In addition, there are plenty of tasty and authentic local cheap eats to explore.
6. Ko Wai and Bang Saphan Yai, Thailand
Thailand is another Southeast Asian hotspot for travelers seeking exotic beach experiences. For something special that’s still incredibly affordable, skip the crowds at Phuket and try Ko Wai and Bang Saphan Yai instead. Ko Wai has some lovely white sand beaches, as well as budget-friendly beach huts and guesthouses. In the nearby town of Bang Saphan Yai, you can enjoy some of the world’s most amazing sunsets.
7. Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Tanzania
The island of Unguja may truly be Tanzania’s coastal crown jewel with its soft sand beaches, marvelous coral reefs, gorgeous tropical fish, and ample opportunities to kick back and enjoy the ultimate island life. Unguja is also surprisingly affordable, so you don’t have to feel guilty booking a trip here.
8. Isla Barú, Colombia
All too often, South America is overlooked regarding tropical beach vacations. Although Isla Barú may only be about 29 miles away from the bustling city of Cartagena, its signature Playa Blanca (or White Beach) looks and feels a world away with its white sands and crystal clear water.
Playa Blanca can sometimes get crowded, so keep that in mind. Also, you can take an easy day trip to the nearby Rosario Islands for even more beachfront beauty with fewer crowds.
9. Corfu, Greece
The Greek Mediterranean islands of Santorini and Mykonos may be more famous, but for something more off the beaten path and less expensive, you can always make your way to the equally beautiful island of Corfu near the Albanian border.
Not only will you find exceptional beaches to enjoy, but you can also spend your days exploring some of Greece’s most impressive ancient archaeological sites, as well as grand palaces like Achilleion and Casa Parlante.
10. Penang, Malaysia
Nestled on Malaysia’s northwestern coast, Penang has some of the country’s finest beaches. It also sports some magnificent colonial-era architecture at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, not to mention its verdant jungles and fishing villages in the countryside. From a wealth of fascinating museums to the world’s longest waterslide at Escape Penang, it’s easy to be as high-brow or lo-fi as you want in Penang.
11. St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
When folks think of marvelous Mediterranean beach destinations, they usually dream of places like St. Tropez and Capri. St. Paul’s Bay is worth a visit for something different and affordable. It has its own lovely white sand beaches and gorgeous, bright blue water, and it’s an easy trek from here to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, an incredible day trip that simply has to be seen to be believed.
12. Essaouira, Morocco
Though cities like Marrakech tend to draw in more crowds, don’t overlook Morocco’s marvelous Atlantic coastal city of Essaouira. Head to the Medina of Essaouira—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—for a calmer version of Marrakech’s famed market, and check out the fishing boats for some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere. At the same time, Essaouira’s long stretch of golden sand is perfect for all kinds of activities on land and at sea.