10 Best Budget Beach Destinations Around The World

Discover the 10 cheapest beach destinations to vacation in around the world without breaking the bank.

Whether you're looking for somewhere to relax in peace, surf with friends, or enjoy a little nightlife by the water, there are still plenty of cheap beach destinations that deliver. From Southeast Asia to Central America and even hidden spots in Europe, here's a list of the 10 cheapest beach towns and coastal getaways where you can soak up the sun without spending a fortune.

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is one of Vietnam’s most affordable beach cities and it’s ideal for travelers who want tropical weather, white sand, and low daily costs. You'll find basic hotel rooms for under $15 a night, and even nicer guesthouses often cost less than $25. The city’s long coastline is lined with public beaches that are free and easy to access, and street food is available on every corner—banh mi sandwiches and noodle soups often cost less than $2. Beyond the beach, there’s great snorkeling and diving near offshore islands like Hon Mun, and the seafood markets offer some of the freshest (and cheapest) grilled fish you'll ever try. Nha Trang is popular with locals and international travelers alike, but it still manages to stay budget-friendly year-round.

Goa, India

Goa is one of those rare places where you can stretch your budget without giving up any of the fun. This part of India offers everything from laid-back beaches to party scenes, depending on which area you choose. Arambol and Palolem are great for relaxing, while Baga and Anjuna are known for their nightlife. Basic beach huts and guesthouses can be found for under $10 a night, and it’s easy to find fresh seafood curries and Indian meals for just a couple of dollars. Many travelers stay for weeks (or even months) because living here is so affordable, and you can rent scooters for cheap to explore the coast on your own terms. Goa’s combination of low prices, warm waters, and easy-going vibes makes it one of the best budget beach vacations in the world.

Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Sihanoukville has changed a lot over the years, but it still remains one of the cheapest beach destinations in Cambodia if you look in the right spots. While parts of the city are now full of new development, nearby beaches like Otres Beach offer a more relaxed and affordable vibe. Budget hotels and hostels can cost as little as $10–$15 per night, and food is very affordable with local dishes like amok or fried noodles costing less than $3. You can hop on a ferry to nearby islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, where the beaches are even cleaner, quieter, and more budget-friendly. These islands are perfect if you’re after that classic beach paradise feel—think hammocks, soft white sand, and clear blue water, all without the high price tag.

Zihuatanejo, Mexico

Zihuatanejo is one of Mexico’s most underrated beach towns, and it offers the perfect mix of affordability, charm, and natural beauty. Located on the Pacific Coast, it’s quieter and cheaper than more famous destinations like Cancún or Cabo. Playa La Ropa is the main beach and it's great for swimming, paddleboarding, or just enjoying the view with a cold drink in hand. Budget hotels and simple beach bungalows can often be booked for around $20–$30 per night, and street tacos or casual beachfront meals usually cost less than $5. The town still has a local feel, with friendly vendors, colorful markets, and fresh seafood straight off the boats. If you're looking for a low-cost Mexico beach trip without the crowds, this is one to seriously consider.

Bocas del Toro, Panama

Bocas del Toro is a group of Caribbean islands off the coast of Panama that’s a favorite with budget travelers. It’s easy to find places to stay for under $20 a night, especially on Isla Colón, which is the main island. From there, you can catch cheap water taxis to nearby beaches and islands where the sand is soft, the water is crystal clear, and the pace of life slows down. This is a great destination for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just relaxing by the ocean without spending too much. Meals are affordable, and local cafes and beach bars often have great deals on seafood and drinks. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes barefoot beach towns with a mix of nature and nightlife, Bocas del Toro delivers big without the big prices.

Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Bali has been a top travel spot for years, and while some areas have gotten pricey, Canggu still has a ton of budget-friendly options. It's especially popular with surfers and digital nomads because of the fast Wi-Fi, cheap villas, and endless cafes. You can book a room in a guesthouse for $15 to $25 per night and eat like a king for just a few dollars. Warungs (local restaurants) serve up nasi goreng and satay for under $3, and there are plenty of smoothie bowls and coffees for the Instagram crowd. Canggu also has amazing sunsets, yoga classes, and scooter rentals that make it easy to explore the coast. If you’re looking for a beach town that has a mix of energy and chill, with a price tag that still makes sense, Canggu is a great choice.

Taghazout, Morocco

Taghazout is a small surf village on Morocco’s Atlantic coast that’s known for its laid-back vibe and cheap beach living. This place attracts surfers from all over the world because of its consistent waves, but it also works perfectly for anyone looking for a quiet beach escape. Accommodations are super affordable—surf camps and guesthouses often include food and start around $25 per night. Meals at local cafes are usually less than $5, and Moroccan mint tea is served pretty much everywhere. The weather is sunny year-round, and even in peak season, it’s much cheaper than popular Mediterranean spots. It’s also a great place to slow down, relax, and enjoy the ocean without the usual beach resort scene.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur is a beach town on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast that’s famous for its sunsets, surf, and social vibe. It’s one of the most affordable beach spots in Central America, with rooms available for $20 and meals for less than $4. It’s also known for its Sunday Funday pool crawl, which draws backpackers and travelers from around the world. But even if partying isn’t your thing, the surrounding beaches like Playa Maderas offer quieter experiences with the same low prices. San Juan del Sur strikes a nice balance between being lively and laid-back, and it’s easy to stick to a tight budget here. If you're traveling through Central America, this is one beach town that’s definitely worth a stop.

Ksamil, Albania

Ksamil is one of the best-kept secrets in Europe when it comes to cheap beach destinations. Located in southern Albania, it has crystal-clear waters that look like the Caribbean, but everything here is a fraction of the cost. In the summer, it’s a favorite for Balkan locals, but it’s still way cheaper than anywhere else in Europe with similar views. Guesthouses start around $25 per night, and seafood pasta or grilled octopus can be found for under $10. The beaches are small but beautiful, with soft sand and calm water that’s great for swimming. For travelers looking to explore Europe without breaking the bank, Ksamil is one of the most affordable beach spots out there.

Las Peñitas, Nicaragua

Las Peñitas is a quiet beach village near the city of León, Nicaragua. It’s ideal for travelers who want a peaceful place to relax without spending much. You can find budget hostels and eco-lodges for $10–$20 a night, and many are right on the beach. The waves make it a great spot for surfing, and the sunsets are incredible almost every night.

There aren’t many tourists here compared to other beach towns, which helps keep the prices low and the atmosphere peaceful. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood and traditional Nicaraguan dishes at prices that won’t stress your budget. If you're looking for a beach escape where you can totally unwind and live simply, Las Peñitas is hard to beat.

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