It’s still summer so thinking about the season ending may feel premature. Here in the New York metro area, the summer unofficially ends after Labor Day Weekend. So, you have about a month left to soak in the warm weather and take those last minute vacations. If the summer’s drained your wallet, you might be in the market for a cheap beach vacation.
I’m a frequent traveler and many of those trips were beach destinations. Sometimes it was for a couple’s getaway, and other times for family trips. Whether with your boo, best friends, or family, here are my top recommendations for 8 easy beach vacations to take this summer — many that don’t require a passport for US citizens.
Puerto Rico
Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are located on this tiny island that’s just a three and a half-hour flight away from New York. Americans don’t need a passport, which makes it convenient. If you stay in San Juan like I have many times, there are a variety of beaches to choose from since the commonwealth’s capital city is located on the island’s northeastern coastline.
Unlike other Caribbean destinations, all-inclusive resorts aren’t common in Puerto Rico. But there are tons of great hotel options throughout the island with San Juan having the most choices. My most recent trip was for a family wedding this February, and I stayed at the Caribe Hilton San Juan in Condado with my daughter. It boasts private beach access (which my daughter loved), kid-friendly accommodations, swim-up bars, and balcony rooms with gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean.
But Condado isn’t the only beachside district in San Juan as you can also enjoy beaches dotted along the coastline in the Isla Verde district. Staying in San Juan is convenient since it offers direct access to nightlife, restaurants, and tourist destinations like Old San Juan, the Bacardi factory, and the historic El Morro fort.
For a slower pace with fewer tourists, I highly recommend Luquillo which is about 30 minutes east of San Juan. This is a quieter beachside town with more locals, and beaches that are less crowded. In this region, vacation rentals are more popular than traditional hotels. Those looking to unwind and unplug consider it a must-visit spot.
Planning Your Trip
Maybe you want to hit the beach without breaking the bank. In that case, research your hotels first, no matter where you’re staying in the country, and plan ahead. You might be able to find off-season deals or inexpensive hostels. This helps save a few dollars off of this destination, allowing you to enjoy luxury sights for a cheap beach vacation price.
If you don’t want to rent a car, Ubers are abundant — even from the nearby Luis Muñoz International Airport. If you’re in-town, I highly recommend dining at Santaella. It’s in the heart of San Juan’s nightlife district. Visiting Santaella promises an elevated twist on traditional Puerto Rican dishes that don’t disappoint.
Miami, Florida
With over 1,300 miles of coastline, Florida has the second-most coastline in the US. There are a lot of beaches in the sunshine state, but Miami is one of my favorites. This vibrant city went from a sleepy coastal town to a beach destination with thousands of annual visitors. These tourists descend on South Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and other surrounding areas.
Where To Stay In Miami
I’ve visited Miami countless times, and have always had an amazing trip. My last trip was actually just a few years ago. I stayed at the Kimpton Epic Hotel in the heart of downtown Miami for Winter Music Fest. I highly recommend booking a balcony that overlooks the pools. This way, you’ll get gorgeous views of the surrounding neighborhood, the Miami River, and Biscayne Bay. And balcony access means you can keep the party going into the late hours. The best way to describe this particular trip was, it was a vibe. There were countless day parties occurring across the city, but also at my hotel.
Finding hotels off the beach may lead to a longer commute to your destination. However, they’re an easy trick for making this into a slightly more cheap beach vacation. You can also check out local AirBnBs that offer a cozy spot to stay with a slightly lower price tag.
Plan Your Trip
Miami can definitely be a family trip, and can make for a cheap beach vacation destination – if you plan it right. However, I do associate the nightlife scene and endless day parties as being more catered towards couples and adult groups. Whether you’re simply passing through before embarking on a cruise, or if Miami is your main destination, there’s a lot to do here.
Popular spots like the soon-to-reopen Delano Beach Club and Ocean’s 10 are in South Beach. They’re always busy during the day, so plan accordingly. Although, watch out for the oversized cocktails at Ocean’s 10. You’ll get your money’s worth, but they do pack a punch. When the sun goes down, in-town venues like E11ven are must-sees thanks to the musical lineups.
If you have access to a car and want to get just a little bit outside of the city, there are nearby casinos like Gulfstream Park Casino which offers a mix of horse racing, slots, and more traditional table games. But, this venue is also known for its dining and nightlife offerings including lounges, karaoke, bowling, and a comprehensive concert lineup.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
You need a passport since the Riviera Maya is spread across the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. This is the country’s Caribbean-facing portion of coastline that sits mainly within the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It’s especially attractive for beach travel because of the beautiful white sandy beaches and azure waters. Travelers are probably most familiar with it’s popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Xcaret. You may have also head of the two island towns of Cozumel and Isla Mujeres.
I’m focusing on the Riviera Maya as a whole, here. My reasoning for that is that all of the above places are within an hour of each other and Cancun International Airport. There are plenty of tour operators and transport options that can take you to the towns or historic sites.
I’ve been to most of these locales either as part of a cruise itinerary or for my entire trip — except Isla Mujeres and Xcaret — and had an amazing experience every time. If you’re wondering if Mexico is safe, the answer is yes. As long as you stay in the tourist zones and avoid obviously bad behaviors like flashing money and valuables, you should be fine.
Planning Your Trip – Vacation Clubs
Unlike Puerto Rico, Mexico’s Riviera Maya is dominated by two hotel styles, all-inclusive resorts and vacation clubs. While different, both options encourage purchasing memberships. All-inclusives can be more appealing because for one price. You’ll get access to almost the entire resort including meals, beverages (including alcohol) and most on-site attractions. Extras like water sports and spa visits are an additional charge. Usually the premium on-site restaurants only require a reservation.
Vacation clubs are different because they’re like traditional hotels with lots of amenities. You can have immersive experiences like all-inclusives, but must pay on-site for all meals, drinks, excursions, and spa services. Both formats counter that they’re not offering timeshares because non-members can book stays at any of the included properties under day rates. But upon arrival, non-members are almost immediately encouraged to attend a short presentation in exchange for either excursion tickets or some type of gift.
If you’re interested in vacation clubs, I enjoyed the Westin LagunaMar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa in Cancun which boasts private beach access and authentic ancient Mayan ruins on the grounds. I’m not a member, but I loved that these were one and two-bedroom suites with a full kitchen, in-room laundry, and balconies designed for couples, families, or group travel. There were multiple on-site restaurants with world class food, an amazing mixologist and sommelier that curates their drink menus, a fantastic spa, and fun activities for kids and families — including mini golf.
All Inclusive Clubs And Resorts
Personally, I prefer all-inclusives because of the flat price and the option to book adults-only, family-friendly, or adults-only zones within family-friendly resorts. Likewise, I don’t have to leave the resort for food or activities if I don’t want to. Now that I’m a bit older and I’m not as pressed to party hard every night, I prefer Playa Del Carmen which is more laid back than Cancun — the main party city in the Riviera Maya.
I’ve been to Playa del Carmen twice and loved it. For a true adults-only experience, I enjoyed The Reef 28 which is more of a boutique resort. It doesn’t have direct beach access since it sits a block back from the beach, but it has three on-site restaurants, rooftop pools, several bars throughout (including a lobby bar), and a spa. And it doesn’t hurt that you’re immediately greeted with a welcome mimosa upon arrival.
For true beach access, I recommend the Ocean Riviera Paradise El Beso in Playa del Carmen. This is a more traditional all-inclusive resort complex that’s family-friendly but has the “El Beso” dedicated adults-only wing (which I highly recommend). There are nine on-site restaurants, countless bars (including swim up ones) and pools, a kid’s club and dedicated splash pool for little ones, a nightclub, and nightly live entertainment.
Santa Monica, California
If Florida is the East Coast’s top beach option, California is that girl for the West Coast. There are a lot of options along the state’s 840 miles of coastline. But if you’re in Los Angeles and up for the drive, go to Santa Monica. Located just west of Downtown Los Angeles and not far from LAX (if traffic isn’t too bad), this place is home to an iconic pier that’s the true end of the storied Route 66.
Santa Monica offers more than just pretty sand and ocean views. It’s rated as one of the best beaches in the state. The historic Santa Monica Pier is a true destination with the Pacific Park amusement park, shops, restaurants, muscle parks, playgrounds, and interesting characters to people watch. Pacific Park is great for family trips and reminds me of Seaside Heights and Atlantic City in New Jersey that have similar concepts.
Santa Monica is a separate town from Los Angeles — where I usually stay. The Hilton Checkers is great and central to Downtown LA. This historic hotel is just off Pershing Square and within a quick drive of Little Tokyo, the Staples Center, and other popular attractions. It’s also within walking distance of Bottega Louie, a decadent restaurant with an in-house bakery that makes some of the best macarons I’ve ever had.
If a little driving doesn’t scare you, the Portofino Hotel and Marina in Redondo Beach (south of LAX) is idyllic and doesn’t even feel like you’re near LA. This historic hotel debuted in 1962 and was the final stop in the inaugural 1971 Cannonball Run race.
Honorable Mention Beach Trips
It’s impossible to write an exhaustive list of all of the best beach trips you can take this summer. But here are a few more inspirational options to consider. These can be cheap beach vacations or all-out luxury locales, depending on how you spin it.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
As a current Jersey girl, I can’t write a beach story and ignore the original “America’s Playground.” Founded in 1870, Atlantic City’s boardwalk is the oldest in the nation, stretches five miles, and offers beach access. Like Santa Monica, it has plenty of attractions including a mini amusement park. If you visit in August, Atlantic City hosts an air show where daring pilots, including the Blue Angels, take to the sky.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
You’ll need a passport, but Punta Cana is a popular Caribbean destination in the Dominican Republic with plenty of all-inclusive options. Like Mexico, prepare for membership pitches. But the expansive resorts, warm breezes, abundant mamajuana, and friendly people are inviting.
Chicago, Illinois
This is a head scratcher if you’re not from the midwest. Luckily, I’m a native Hoosier. I know that Chicago and Northern Indiana have beaches surrounding Lake Michigan. If you’re visiting Chicago, choose from 24 beaches. A cheap beach vacation doesn’t have to be bound to the ocean!
Seattle, Washington
Alki Beach is a popular spot in Seattle with gorgeous views of the skyline. In the summer, it’s hot enough to sunbathe in this cheap beach vacation spot. But brace yourself if you want to take a dip — the water usually doesn’t go past 56 degrees Fahrenheit.
Which Beach is Right for You?
Cheap beach vacation spots can include city spots, idyllic tropical retreats, and everything in between. But the right one depends on the type of vacation you’re trying to plan. If you prefer metropolitan areas, then city-adjacent beaches in Miami, Santa Monica, Atlantic City, and even Chicago make sense. But if you want to unplug, the Riviera Maya and Punta Cana are welcome retreats for the senses.
