2016's 11 Most Budget-Friendly Beach Destinations in the U.S.
All are great picks for a sandy getaway that won't wipe out your bank account.
— -- intro: Ugh, winter has finally set in. So now we're desperately planning a beach getaway for 2016 -- preferably as soon as possible. And while we were (pretty) good this year, so were our friends and family, which means we may have blown a significant portion of our vacation budget on gifts. But vacationing is one of our top priorities (and should be one of yours too). So we did a ton of research to create this epic list of the 11 most budget-friendly beach destinations in the U.S. Staying stateside saves you money on travel regardless, and these locales go a step further with value-packed hotels, inexpensive activities, and cheap dining options. Some are primed and ready for your spring break; others are best suited for a summer getaway. All are great picks for a sandy getaway that won't wipe out your bank account -- so you can wipe out on the beach worry-free.
quicklist: 1title: 1. Pensacola, Floridatext: Although the temps here are a little chilly for a March spring break, Pensacola is a top budget beach getaway anytime from April (when average highs are in the mid to upper 70s) to October (with July highs hovering at a toasty 90 degrees). Numerous airlines service the Pensacola International Airport, and the white-sand beaches are lined with affordable hotels and restaurants. Unique features include numerous sunken ships for divers, and air shows by the Blue Angels, an elite crew of jet-fighter pilots.
Value Hotel Pick: Hampton Inn Pensacola Beachmedia: 36318266
quicklist: 2title: 2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolinatext: By May, Myrtle Beach will be one of the best options for a budget beach getaway in the U.S. The destination offers visitors one-of-a-kind nightlife, more than 100 golf courses, and 60 miles of sandy shoreline -- all at affordable prices. Flying there doesn't put a huge burden on the wallet, and it's an easy enough drive from cities such as Charleston, Charlotte, and Augusta. This locale may be known to get a bit jam-packed during summer high season, but hotels account for this with massive pools and water park complexes, as well as plenty of meeting spaces and large rooms. In fact, many properties feature condo-style accommodations with kitchens and living rooms.
Value Hotel Pick: Value Hotel Pick: Patricia Grand Resort Hotelmedia: 36318315
quicklist: 3title: 3. Puerto Ricotext: Though it has a tropical, Caribbean vibe, Puerto Rico is a U.S. commonwealth and therefore flights to the island from the mainland are often inexpensive, especially when compared to those to nearby islands such as Turks and Caicos and the BVI. In Puerto Rico, huge malls, golf courses, and casinos meet tropical rainforests and beautiful white-sand beaches, while well-preserved 15th-century Spanish forts loom over charming towns with colorful colonial buildings. Prices are similar to those in the U.S., and the hotel offerings are varied, from luxury resorts, to government-sponsored inns, to chain hotels. So no matter your style (party-centric or laid-back) or budget (sky-high or tight), you'll find a great beach retreat. Plus, it has beach weather year-round!
Value Hotel Pick: San Juan Water Beach Club Hotelmedia: 36318415
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