When you’re overworked and overstimulated, not much else beats sitting on a beach and watching the waves roll in. In fact, according to Vacasa’s 2024 Summer Travel Trends report, 63 percent of travelers are planning on spending their summer vacation next to a body of water. 

It’s a reset everyone deserves, but not everyone can afford — especially when you start looking at the lineup of the best beach resorts in the U.S. But getting that dose of sun, sand, and surf doesn’t have to include Michelin-starred dining or a stay in a five-star hotel. In fact, there are several beach vacations that can be booked for less than $100 a day. 

We did the legwork to come up with a list of beach vacations that are affordable and awesome. While we’ve excluded the cost of getting there, these trips take into account lodging, activities, and food. Note: This list is for those traveling with a friend or partner so you can share lodging costs and eat in as much as possible.

Panama City Beach, Florida

If you’re heading to Panama City, make sure to visit St. Andrews State Park, which runs along the water and offers that Florida beach vibe with white sand and lots of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. We recommend booking one of the park’s new glamping tents, complete with a queen-size bed and air conditioning. As an added bonus, your nightly rate includes the park entry free and a ferry ride to Shell Island, known for its pristine beaches and water. 

Lodging: $80 a night when splitting the cost with someone (a $7 per night fee for electric is not included in the rate)

Activities: $0 (the ferry to Shell Island is included in your lodging rate)

Food: $12 for a shared pizza at Shore Shack Pizza 

Related: I’ve Lived in Florida for 27 Years — and These Are the Best Affordable Beach Vacations in the State

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic Beach is set along North Carolina’s “Crystal Coast,” an 85-mile stretch that has 56 miles of protected beach. There aren’t many budget options, but the Windjammer Inn is a hidden gem. Although the rooms are simple, everyone gets an oceanfront view and pool access, plus the ocean is just out front. When you’re ready to go beyond the beach, rent a bike and make your way to Fort Macon State Park.

Lodging: $70 a night at the Windjammer Inn when splitting the cost with someone

Activities: $25 for an all-day bike rental from AB Bike & Beach Rentals

Food: $3.50; grab a lunchtime slice at Roma Pizza & Subs

Related: 10 Best Beach Towns in North Carolina, According to Locals

Waldport, Oregon

The wild Oregon coast is the perfect place to be during the height of summer. Because of the Alsea River, there’s water all around, and to the south you’ll find Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site, which has miles of flat, sandy beach.

Just south of the park lies a tiny home community with small, affordable lodging. In addition to a private kitchen, you’ll have access to a greenhouse and common hangout areas. The beach is a five-minute walk away.

Lodging: $47 a night for a tiny home when splitting the cost with someone

Activities: $0; when you’re tired of the beach, hike along the Oregon Coast Trail

Food: $17 for fish and chips from the Oregon Fishmongers food truck

Oceanside, California

Instead of visiting pricey Laguna Beach, head south to the city of Oceanside, which sits right on the water and is a surfer favorite. The biggest perk of this beach vacation is the fact that this Airbnb is close to both Oceanside and Carlsbad, so you have more beaches options. Plus, the Airbnb has off-road parking along with loaner bikes, beach chairs and umbrellas, and surfboards and bodyboards.

Lodging: $55 a night for the Airbnb when splitting the cost with someone

Activities: $0; bike to Mission San Luis Rey or take the boards and beach chairs to the ocean

Food: $18 for a happy hour burger and fries at The Switchboard

Related: 21 Best Beaches in California

South Padre Island, Texas

There are 25 beach access points off the boulevard that runs along South Padre Island, making it easy for everyone to walk to the beach, regardless of where they’re staying. The island also has plenty of beach- and ocean-related activities, including a walking trail that leads to 10 hand-painted, five-foot sea turtles as well as a sandcastle trail that showcases castles sculpted by professional sandcastle artists.

Lodging: $70 a night for two for this family-friendly Airbnb, but the place sleeps eight (and has a private pool)

Activities: $10; drop by the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary to walk the boardwalks, visit the butterfly garden, and check out the gators

Food: $19 for the fried flounder (comes with fries, slaw, and hushpuppies) at Doc’s overlooking the water