6 Affordable Springtime Getaways
Spring is here and with the sun shining and the warm weather on the way in it’s time to say “see ya” to winter home hibernation and hit the road for sunburn, sand and ice cold beverages. Here are 6 destinations for a quick springtime trip that won’t break the bank.
Daytona Beach, FL
This northeast Florida beach town has long been heralded as the ultimate party spot for spring breakers and speed racing, but over the years that reputation for fast cars and fast living has slowly been turned towards family appeal with Disney World and other parks nearby. Daytona has got the beach and the nightlife, but best of all–the prices for lodging and restaurants are cheap, cheap cheap, making it the perfect spring getaway without the splurge.
Puerto Rico
To avoid mass tourism and rambunctious college kids, check out this small Caribbean U.S. territory that offers the ocean and warm temperatures, as well as a dose of tropical culture at low prices. From Miami it’s less than a three-hour flight and it’s affordable to rent small beach bungalows and find other great travel packages. Savor the local cuisine and enjoy the spicy nightlife for a spring getaway different from the norm.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach is another great east coast option for those looking to get some sun on their skin and sand under their toes without going broke. There is a little something for everyone, from squeaky-clean beaches to a variety of golf courses and multiple amusement parks for children. Munch on some fresh seafood and have a rowdy night out at Hard Rock Café and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville.
Biloxi, MS
For southern charm, sugar sands and cool Gulf Coast breezes flock to Biloxi for some springtime fun in the sun. If you like to gamble, numerous casinos line the beach or take a stroll though the historic Beauvoir grounds and go back in time to the Civil War Era. Hurricane Katrina devastated the area, but that hasn’t stopped Biloxi from picking itself back up. Local restaurants and businesses are on the mend and with the warm gulf nearby, you’ll get all the beach weather you could possibly want.
South Padre Island, TX
Travel to the wide, sandy beaches of this Texas coastline, and you won’t be disappointed because sunshine and beach are only a small piece of what South Padre Isle. has to offer. Explore this funky town with shops, restaurants and other businesses that scream character, and there are plenty of day activities to keep you busy. Take a dolphin-watching excursion, sign up for a deep-sea fishing trip or try your hand at kite boarding to make the most of your spring.
Dominical, Costa Rica
Sure, purchasing a flight might be a little pricy, but once you arrive in Dominical, food, fun and accommodation is more than affordable. Dominical is perfect if you are looking for a mix of the beach and rainforest minus tourism and dirty city streets. This quaint town is all about laid back beach living. Hike the rainforest, check out nearby waterfalls and rent a surfboard or hang on the beach and get to know the locals while enjoying some fresh ceviche.
