Finding the perfect beach town for summer rental without breaking the bank is a dream for many. Here are 25 affordable beach towns where you can enjoy sun, sand, and surf without the high costs typically associated with coastal living, including locations in US territories.
25 Beach Towns for Summer Rental
1. Ocean Shores, Washington
- Average Nightly Rate: $150
- Available Rentals: Numerous listings on Airbnb and local rental agencies.
Ocean Shores offers long sandy beaches, dunes, and nearby lakes. It’s a hotspot for cultural activities with museums, festivals, and culinary experiences. The area is perfect for families and individuals looking for a quiet retreat filled with natural beauty and community events.
2. Galveston, Texas
- Average Nightly Rate: $125
- Available Rentals: A variety of budget-friendly options on Vrbo and local rental platforms.
Known for its Southern charm, Galveston Island provides sprawling beaches, a lively nightlife, and continuous energy. The city is popular among Houston residents and offers a mix of historic charm and beach-bum vibes.
3. Cannon Beach, Oregon
- Average Nightly Rate: $180
- Available Rentals: Listings on Airbnb and Booking.com, including cozy cottages and beachfront condos.
This scenic beach town is famous for Haystack Rock and offers a variety of marine life adventures. Despite its beauty, Cannon Beach can be surprisingly budget-friendly, especially during the right time of year.
4. Cape May, New Jersey
- Average Nightly Rate: $200
- Available Rentals: Numerous Victorian homes and modern condos available through Vrbo and local listings.
America’s first oceanside resort town, Cape May is filled with Victorian-era structures and beautiful beaches. It offers a charming, historical atmosphere combined with affordable beach rental options.
5. Ocean City, Maryland
- Average Nightly Rate: $160
- Available Rentals: A wide range of options on Airbnb, including beachfront apartments and houses.
With a 10-mile stretch of beach, Ocean City caters to different preferences, from bustling boardwalk areas to serene spots near Assateague Island. It’s a great choice for an economical beach vacation.
6. Ormond Beach, Florida
- Average Nightly Rate: $140
- Available Rentals: Available through Airbnb and Booking.com, featuring oceanfront inns and budget hotels.
Located just north of Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach is less crowded and offers beautiful beaches and natural attractions like Tomoka State Park. It’s a quieter, more affordable option on Florida’s Atlantic coast.
7. Port Angeles, Washington
- Average Nightly Rate: $170
- Available Rentals: Rentals available on Airbnb and through local real estate listings.
This town offers a gateway to Olympic National Park with its vast hiking trails and beaches. Despite a higher cost of living in some areas, housing and transportation costs are relatively low.
8. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
- Average Nightly Rate: $120
- Available Rentals: Affordable options on Booking.com and local listings.
Part of Mississippi’s “Secret Coast,” Ocean Springs boasts white sandy beaches, a vibrant downtown, and affordable housing. It’s a great spot for those looking for a blend of beach and culture.
9. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
- Average Nightly Rate: $200
- Available Rentals: Various options on Vrbo and Airbnb, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments.
Known for its well-maintained beaches and plethora of activities, Hilton Head Island can be enjoyed on a budget, especially if you plan your visit wisely.
10. Tybee Island, Georgia
- Average Nightly Rate: $160
- Available Rentals: A variety of listings on Airbnb and local rental websites.
This picturesque barrier island is close to historic Savannah and offers wide, sandy beaches and a variety of budget-friendly rental options.
11. Florence, Oregon
- Average Nightly Rate: $150
- Available Rentals: Affordable accommodations on Booking.com and Vrbo.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Florence offers a mix of beaches, sand dunes, and rivers. It’s a popular spot for fishing and crabbing, with plenty of affordable accommodation options.
12. Gearhart, Oregon
- Average Nightly Rate: $140
- Available Rentals: Listings on Airbnb and local platforms.
This small, unhurried beach town is perfect for bike rides, antique shopping, and enjoying pristine beaches. It’s a tranquil, affordable coastal escape.
13. South Padre Island, Texas
- Average Nightly Rate: $130
- Available Rentals: Beachfront condos and family-friendly homes on Vrbo and Airbnb.
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere post-spring break, South Padre Island offers 34 miles of beach and numerous budget-friendly rental.
14. Hilo, Hawaii
- Average Nightly Rate: $180
- Available Rentals: Listings on Airbnb and Booking.com.
While Hawaii is generally expensive, Hilo on the Big Island breaks the mold with its low cost of living and rich cultural experiences, despite the risks associated with its location.
15. Coos Bay, Oregon
- Average Nightly Rate: $145
- Available Rentals: Various options on Vrbo and local real estate listings.
A haven for adventurers, Coos Bay is known for its dramatic coastal views and outdoor activities. It remains affordable due to its less-developed infrastructure.
16. Pensacola, Florida
- Average Nightly Rate: $135
- Available Rentals: Affordable beachfront condos and homes on Airbnb.
Pensacola offers affordable housing, low property taxes, and beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. It’s a charming, budget-friendly beach town.
17. Osage Beach, Missouri
- Average Nightly Rate: $110
- Available Rentals: Family-friendly resorts and lakefront cabins on Vrbo.
For those preferring lakes over oceans, Osage Beach offers a great beach experience at the Lake of the Ozarks, complete with boating, golfing, and family-friendly resorts.
18. Essex, Massachusetts
- Average Nightly Rate: $160
- Available Rentals: Charming New England cottages and inns on Airbnb.
This New England beach town is known for its antiques, pristine beaches, and charming small-town vibe. It’s an affordable summer getaway with lots to explore.
19. Wellfleet, Massachusetts
- Average Nightly Rate: $170
- Available Rentals: Quintessential New England vacation rentals on Vrbo.
Located on Cape Cod, Wellfleet is dominated by the Cape Cod National Seashore and offers a serene beach experience with affordable rentals.
20. Long Beach, Washington
- Average Nightly Rate: $140
- Available Rentals: Beachfront homes and budget-friendly hotels on Airbnb.
Known for its vast sandy beaches and annual events, Long Beach provides a peaceful and affordable beach vacation destination.
21. San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Average Nightly Rate: $120
- Available Rentals: Various options on Airbnb and Booking.com.
The capital city of Puerto Rico, San Juan offers vibrant culture, historic sites, and beautiful beaches. The city’s rich history and affordable rentals make it a top choice for budget travelers.
22. St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Average Nightly Rate: $150
- Available Rentals: Listings on Vrbo and local rental platforms.
St. Croix features pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests. It’s an affordable Caribbean destination with a relaxed vibe and numerous water activities .
23. Pago Pago, American Samoa
- Average Nightly Rate: $100
- Available Rentals: Budget-friendly accommodations on local listings.
Pago Pago offers stunning volcanic landscapes, rich Samoan culture, and beautiful beaches. It’s one of the most affordable Pacific Island destinations .
24. Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands
- Average Nightly Rate: $130
- Available Rentals: Options on Airbnb and local listings.
Saipan is known for its crystal-clear waters, World War II historical sites, and vibrant coral reefs. It offers affordable beachside living with plenty of outdoor activities .
25. Tumon, Guam
- Average Nightly Rate: $140
- Available Rentals: Various listings on Airbnb and Booking.com.
Tumon is the main tourist hub of Guam, offering beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and a variety of dining options. It’s an affordable tropical getaway with all the amenities of a major tourist destination.
Exploring affordable beach towns for summer rentals can be a rewarding experience, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure without straining your budget. From the cultural richness of San Juan, Puerto Rico, to the serene landscapes of Ocean Shores, Washington, these destinations provide a variety of experiences to suit every traveler’s taste.
Whether you prefer the historical charm of Cape May, New Jersey, or the tropical allure of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, there is an affordable beach town waiting to offer you unforgettable summer memories.
By choosing one of these 25 budget-friendly destinations, you can enjoy beautiful beaches, vibrant communities, and numerous activities, all while keeping your expenses in check. Happy travels!
