Cheapest Beach Holidays – How to Find Sun, Sand and Savings
Dreaming of a beach break but worried about the price? You’re not alone. The good news is that a great seaside escape can cost far less than you think. Below you’ll find the best low‑cost beach spots for 2025 and a handful of practical tricks to stretch every pound.
Top Budget Beach Destinations in 2025
First, pick a place where the sand is cheap. Here are five spots that consistently rank as the cheapest beach destinations:
- Algarve, Portugal – Long stretches of golden sand, cheap guesthouses and cheap eats. Flights from the UK often drop below £50.
- Budva, Montenegro – Small, lively town with affordable apartments and low‑cost restaurants. Summer rates stay under €30 per night.
- Sunny Beach, Bulgaria – All‑inclusive resorts start at €200 for a week. Public transport and food markets keep daily spend low.
- Corfu, Greece – Off‑season deals in May and September give you beach access for under £150 total.
- Malaga Coast, Spain – Plenty of budget hotels, cheap tapas bars and direct low‑cost flights from many UK airports.
All these places have good Wi‑Fi, plenty of activities, and the sand is soft enough to make you forget the price tag.
Money‑Saving Tips for a Cheap Beach Break
Choosing a cheap spot is only half the battle. Use these tips to keep the costs down while you enjoy the waves:
- Book flights on the cheapest days – Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually have the lowest fares. Set price alerts on a few travel sites and grab the dip as soon as you see it.
- Stay in hostels or vacation rentals – Shared kitchens let you cook your own meals. A simple pasta or local market salad can beat restaurant prices by miles.
- Travel off‑peak – Early June or late September give you sun without the summer price surge. The water is still warm enough for a swim.
- Use local transport – Buses and trams are cheaper than taxis. Many beach towns have free shuttles from the main train station.
- Free activities – Beach volleyball, snorkeling with your own gear, and sunset walks cost nothing. Look for free city tours or local festivals.
Another quick win is to pack a reusable water bottle. Buying bottled water on the beach can add up fast, and most places have refill stations.
Finally, keep an eye on exchange rates. A small shift can turn a €25 dinner into a much cheaper £20 meal. Use a no‑fee card and pay in the local currency to avoid hidden charges.
Planning a cheap beach holiday doesn’t mean you sacrifice comfort. With the right destination and a few smart moves, you can enjoy sun, surf and sand without breaking the bank. Ready to book? Grab a cheap flight, pack your swimsuit, and start counting down the days to your affordable seaside escape.