NEW YORK, NY — Nearly three-quarters of Americans say they plan to take at least one beach vacation in 2026, but higher airfare and hotel prices are making some family trips harder to afford.
For travelers looking to stretch a summer budget, several U.S. beach destinations stand out for lower lodging costs and free or low-cost activities.
Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key keep Gulf Coast prices lower
Pensacola Beach and nearby Perdido Key offer sugar-white sand, clear Gulf water and beachside dining without the same price pressure seen in Florida hotspots such as Tampa, Miami, Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale.
Mid-July stays for families of four generally run from about $150 to $400 a night. The area also offers water activities along the Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf, plus the quieter setting many families want.
South Padre Island gives families free activities and summer rates under $250
South Padre Island, Texas, stretches for 34 miles of white beach and averages about 74 degrees year-round, making it one of the most budget-friendly warm-weather escapes on the list.
Many beaches are free or charge only a small entrance fee. Families can also use the Sandcastle Trail, the Laguna Madre Nature Trail and the Port Isabel Lighthouse as low-cost outings. In July, hotel prices range from $155 to $250 per night.
Gulf Shores and Surfside Beach add low-cost Gulf and Atlantic options
Gulf Shores, Alabama, benefits from the state’s lower cost of living, which helps keep travel expenses down. Alabama’s overall costs are about 12% below the U.S. average, according to RentCafe.
Families can visit Gulf State Park, bike or hike, pay $12 for mini-golf, or spend $3 to sightsee from the Gulf State Park Pier. Peak summer stays typically fall between $157 and $360 per night.
Surfside Beach, South Carolina, known as “The Family Beach,” is less than 20 minutes from Myrtle Beach but offers a quieter atmosphere, seven public parks and two miles of shoreline. Rooms for a family of four generally range from $160 to $340 per night.
Seaside and Sleeping Bear Dunes broaden the budget-friendly list
On the West Coast, Seaside, Oregon, offers nearly three miles of beach, a promenade, the Seaside Carousel and nearby trails. Summer stays usually range from $303 to $339 per night.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan rounds out the list with sandy beaches, tall dunes, forests and inland lakes along Lake Michigan. Three-star hotels there typically start at $252 per night.
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