Already dreaming of your days on the beach this summer once we are allowed to travel again?  So are we!  Heading for a vacation at the beach is perfect for almost anyone – family vacations, romantic getaways, a long weekend with some friends, or even a solo-vacation! You can spend your days with your toes in the sand or opt for more adventure and go snorkeling and surfing.

In honor of our upcoming summer vacations, here’s a list from Travel + Leisurethat covers the best beach vacations on a budget.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

We’ve all heard that Miami,Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beachare the go-to beach destinations in Florida, but this beach town is way more affordable. Plus, you’ll experience smaller crowds and experience life in an authentic beach town.

Lauderdale-by-the-sea is hidden on the east coast, sandwiched between Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. When you’re here, make sure to visit the pier and walk through Anglin’s square, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, and gelato shops.

Gold Beach, Oregon-Vacation 

Gold Beach is the perfect (and cheaper) alternative to the popular Oregon beach Canon Beach. You’ll find crowd-free beaches, ocean kayaking, jet boat tours, fishing, and tidepooling.

Try to visit between March and May, which is the prime time to see northbound pods of migrating gray whales as they pass through these waters.

Islamorada, Florida

Although it’s only 20 miles long, this tiny island located in the Florida Keyshas plenty to offer its visitors. Choosing a smaller, lesser-known island like this can help keep the cash in your wallet compared to the popular islands.

Here, you can explore Indian Key, an 11-acre historic state park that has the remains of an 1800’s shipwreck. You can also head to Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park to see an exposed coral reef and take a self-guided nature trail hike.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina-Vacation 

This fun beach is bursting with fun-filled activities for the whole family. Known as the mini-golf capital of the world, this beach town has more than 50 themed miniature golf courses.

Aside from mini-golf, you can explore the pier at Myrtle Beach State Park, shop at Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market, and explore the shops and restaurants in Market Common.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Only about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, you’ll find that this beach destination has plenty to do without the price. The beach is 5 miles long, with several separate beaches. It makes for a perfect vacation spot.  Visit Savannah and Tybee Island in one great trip.

The North Beach is perfect for bird and ship watching. Head to Mid Beach if you’re looking for seashells and shark teeth, and South Beach is the place to be for volleyball and dolphin-spotting. Back River is a more secluded beach that has a fishing pier and picture perfect views of Little Tybee.

Plus, you can find plenty of free parks, playgrounds, and hiking trails. During the summer, the City of Tybee hosts free movies in the park. Just bring a blanket and some snacks, and relax!

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