Plan your next trip to one of these affordable beach towns!
Life’s a beach! Or, at least, we wish it were, right? We’ve all fantasized about dropping everything and going on vacation to a laid-back beach town.
But when I think of all the renowned beach towns in the US, like the Hamptons, Malibu, Miami, and Hilton Head, among many others, I get snapped right back into reality pretty fast! That’s why I went on the hunt.
And it turns out: Your beach-town dream may not be as out of reach as you might think. In fact, our beautiful country is home to many affordable beach towns with stunning stretches of coastline that won’t require you to spend your life savings.
And even though these towns might not have the international reputation as others in the country, that’s actually why they’re so sought after! They fly below the radar and keep costs low.
Life on a beach is alluring. Just think about all those long days on the water, sun-kissed skin, and dining at delicious restaurants.
So it turns out you CAN live your beach dream on a budget! What are we waiting for? Check out the 8 most affordable beach towns in the US!… And let me know at the end which one was your favorite.
Coos Bay, Oregon
This relaxing town on the Oregon coast offers sprawling nature, sandy beaches, and a historic downtown full of galleries, restaurants, museums, and much more.
This is a perfect, affordable beach town for anyone from adventure seekers to those looking to explore a culture-rich beach town. Plus, you’ll only be within 3 hours’ driving distance of one of the country’s most beautiful national parks: Crater Lake.
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
If you’re looking for some peace and quiet and are looking for a smaller beach town, Fort Walton Beach is an amazing option. This Gulf Coast town is one of the most affordable options in the Sunshine State, so I couldn’t pass it up as one of my favorite affordable beach towns.
Given a crime rate of 5.6 points below the nation’s average and the number of activities, Fort Walton Beach is an amazing option for families, too. There’s truly no shortage of things to see and do here. You can take the family to aquariums and zoos. Plus, you can take advantage of the local water parks.
You can even enjoy the vibrant shopping district that houses local restaurants, retailers, and much more. If you happen to be an adventure seeker, though, you’ll love the ecotourism activities, but fishing trips, museums, and other activities always make for a more relaxing time.
And let’s not forget the miles upon miles of calm, unspoiled beaches you can visit every day of your trip. Honestly, there are just too many activities to list. So you’ll have to go and see for yourself!
Swansboro, North Carolina
Swansboro should definitely be on your radar if you’re looking to book your next vacation in an affordable beach town. This charming small town’s cost of living is measured at 13.7% below the US average, yet it still boasts stunning beaches that you won’t want to miss!
If you’re looking for an adventure, go to Bear Island, where you can explore Hammocks Beach State Park. It’s home to natural wonders and unspoiled beaches. Camping is available here too if that’s something you’re interested in.
Locals enjoy spending time kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and hiking. And, of course, you’ll love the endless amount of beach days you can take in this relaxing paradise! When you’re not spending time on the beach, check out the local shops and a large variety of restaurants.
Padre Island, Texas
Padre Island is a genuine adventurer’s paradise! It offers some of the most budget-friendly prices as far as beach towns in the US go, making it an affordable beach town to explore that’s truly unmatched. Here, you’ll find warm temperatures, unlimited sunshine, and plenty of activities that cater to a wide array of interests.
Whether you’re looking to lounge on the beach or prefer a little more action, you’ll find endless miles worth of places to go and see. Plus, with its stunning scenery and laid-back atmosphere, you won’t have any problem enjoying some much-needed downtime during your vacation here.
Crescent City, California
Surf’s up in Crescent City! It’s an idyllic and affordable beach town where the mountains meet rocky shores. I highly recommend this option if you’re a nature lover looking for a wide range of activities. But it’s also perfect for those looking for a less populated coastal town in California.
Are you a surfer? Then, you’ll find a wide range of waves that are suited for anyone from beginner levels to advanced surfers, making it a fantastic place to learn or improve your skills. And if you’re looking for more relaxing water activities, don’t worry!
These waters are excellent for tide-pooling or paddleboarding. There are even many miles of biking and hiking trails that offer out-of-this-world views of the coast and access to the magical Redwoods Forest.
Long Beach, Washington
Long Beach was a no-brainer for my list of affordable beach towns in the United States. This adorable place is perfect for nature lovers who are looking for quiet solitude, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a place for outgoing extroverts!
Even though there’s lots of natural space to explore, you’ll also find a close-knit community here. And given the affordability and setting, it’s no surprise that many people flock here for vacations.
You’ll get to enjoy around over 25 miles of stunning beach to explore or sunbathe on. And since you’re already here, don’t forget to walk down the boardwalk to see quaint stores, free museums, and competitive kites flying.
Roger’s City, Michigan
My favorite affordable beach town is probably Roger’s City, Michigan. This charming place truly has it all: surrounding natural attractions and parks, many miles of clean beaches, and a deluxe location on Lake Huron.
Conveniently situated on Heritage Route 23, this affordable beach town boasts historic landmarks, clean beaches, and plenty of bonding time with Mother Nature.
When here, you’ll be able to spend some time fishing, explore many miles of trails, and you can rest assured that the gorgeous beach is always a few miles within reach.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is probably one of the best-kept secrets among affordable beach towns in our country. Situated on the beautiful Alabama coastline, this area is full of adventure for beachgoers who are a bit more adventurous.
It boasts miles upon miles of enchanting white sand beaches, and its infinite choices of activities makes it an unbeatable destination for anyone looking for fun at a budget-friendly price.
Not only does this fantastic place provide a great mix of relaxation and adventure, but it also won’t break the bank! With its reasonable lodgings, this best-in-class beach town will rejuvenate you from a hectic life in the big city.
So whether it’s a weekend getaway with friends or a week-long vacation with family, Gulf Shores will surely be a memorable experience at an unbeatable price. Just remember to pack that sunscreen!
So what do you think about all of these fantastic affordable beach town options? Be sure to leave a comment to share your thoughts with me.
Meanwhile, if you liked this article, I highly recommend also reading: 14 Most Charming Small Towns in the US