Best Budget-Friendly Beach Vacation Spots On The East Coast
By ALI SHARMAN
This idyllic island, just 18 miles from Savannah, Georgia, has five beautiful beaches with clear, warm waters. North Beach is a local favorite close to the city.
Tybee Island
The soft sands and gentle waves of South Beach are popular with families and those looking for a more vibrant beach scene, thanks to its proximity to the pier and pavilion.
Tybee Island has miles of nature trails and wide paths to spot some of the 211 local species of birds, dolphins, and turtles, with bike rentals starting at $12 a day.
About an hour's drive from Orlando, Cocoa Beach is an excellent base for visiting Florida's beaches, parks, and attractions, like Walt Disney World.
Cocoa Beach
On Florida's Space Coast, watch rocket launches for free from the oceanfront Alan Shepard Park, historic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, or Space View Park.
This area has less expensive accommodations and miles of white sand, wild dunes, and boardwalks. The new trolley is $1.50 for adults, while kids under five ride for free.
Budget-friendly North Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is laid-back with uncrowded beaches and affordable vacation rentals, but it is packed with things to do.
North Myrtle Beach
Children will love the games at Lulu's Beach Arcade or the free playground and turtle ponds at McLean Park, while grown-ups will love the $15 tasting sessions at Duplin Winery.
Admission is free year-round at the Grand Strand's Heritage Shores Natural Park, a large oceanfront nature reserve with boardwalks, observation decks, and miles of walking paths.
This charming town in Delaware has a classic feel with old-fashioned stores, a mile-long boardwalk, and free concerts, movies, and live performances at the Bandstand.
Rehoboth Beach
Enjoy maritime forests, dunes, and wetlands in nearby Cape Henlopen State Park with free bike rentals. You can also cycle, walk, swim, and picnic at Silver Lake at no cost.
With miles of pristine beaches, this small, quirky Florida island has a rich history featuring explorers, pirates, wealthy Victorians, and eight different flags.
Amelia Island
Free maps are available for a self-guided tour of the Fernandina Historic District to view homes, churches, and businesses that date back over 400 years.
Fort Clinch State Park has hiking trails, wide sandy beaches, and one of the best-preserved 19th-century forts in the U.S. — entry is just $6 for cars or $2 for bikes.