The poll identified 175 affordable family vacation spots for this summer; New York had four destinations on the list.
Families will be forced to tighten their belts for the upcoming summer holidays due to high gasoline prices and the cost of living. More and more families are opting for affordable alternatives, ditching the glitz and glamor of pricey resorts for the simple pleasures more cost-effective destinations offer.
FamilyDestinationsGuide.com A survey of 3,000 households was conducted to find out which affordable destinations they would most like to visit in 2023.
“”Affordable doesn’t mean “bad” or “second-rate”’” notes Rose Ackermann of FamilyDestinationsGuide.com.The affordable travel field is full of options, everything from amazing outdoor experiences to cultural immersion, charming local accommodation and affordable food“.
The results showed that people were generally forgoing more expensive resorts like Hawaii or Florida, with some interesting results.
#1
Topping the list is Long Beach, New York. Nestled on a picturesque barrier island, this coastal town offers a wealth of activities and attractions at affordable prices for all ages. Families can find affordable accommodations including hotels, motels and vacation rentals that offer comfortable and cost-effective options for their stay. One of the main attractions of Long Beach is its beautiful sandy beach, which is free for all visitors. Families can sunbathe, swim and surf at no extra cost. The town also has a lively boardwalk where families can enjoy free concerts, movie nights and a range of affordable dining options.
#2
Coming in at number two is another New York favorite, especially among locals — Coney Island. This iconic seaside area is known for its lively vibe, amusement parks and affordable family activities. Families can enjoy the thrills of roller coaster rides and games at Luna Park, which offers a variety of ticket options to suit different budgets. The Coney Island Boardwalk provides free access to the beach, where families can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy goodies like affordable hot dogs and ice cream from local vendors. Coney Island also hosts free events and shows during the summer to keep all ages entertained.
#3
Surfside Beach, South Carolina, rounded out the top three. A variety of affordable accommodation options, including hotels, motels and vacation rentals, ensure families can find a comfortable stay that fits their budget. Plus, Surfside Beach is known for its beautiful sands and offers free public beach access, offering families the perfect setting to sunbathe, swim and build sandcastles at no extra cost. The beach also offers affordable water sports opportunities such as surfing, paddle boarding and kayaking.
#4
In fourth place is Oak Island, North Carolina. Located along the picturesque Brunswick Islands, this charming coastal town offers an array of family-friendly activities and attractions. Families can find affordable accommodations, including cozy beachside cottages, budget hotels and affordable vacation rentals, ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay. Oak Island has miles of pristine sandy beaches, and there are affordable attractions in town like the Oak Island Lighthouse (families can climb to the top for stunning views), and the Oak Island Nature Center (which offers educational exhibits for all ages) and nature projects).
#5
Galveston, Texas rounded out the top five. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant vibe, and family-friendly experiences that won’t break the budget. Families get free access to the expansive Galveston Island Beach for swimming and sand games. Attractions such as Moody Gardens offer affordable admission and exhibits including the Aquarium, Rainforest Pyramids and Discovery Museum. Galveston also hosts affordable events and festivals throughout the year, including live music, food festivals and holiday celebrations.
6. Asbury Park, New Jersey
7. Prescott, Arizona
8. Crystal Beach, Texas
9. Topsail Beach, North Carolina
10. Tennessee Bell Buckle
New York 2 more affordable resorts were named America’s Favorite Vacation Destinations:
Chapter 84
Rockaway Beach (NY) was ranked 53rd overall. To start, the region offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, including hotels, motels and vacation rentals, ensuring families can find a comfortable stay that fits their budget. Plus, Rockaway Beach has miles of beautiful coastline that are free to use, allowing families to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without paying any extra fees. Families can swim all day, build sandcastles, or just relax on the beach. Plus, Rockaway Beach offers families an array of affordable activities and attractions. Families can explore the boardwalk, filled with affordable restaurants, shops and entertainment for all ages. There are also several parks and playgrounds in the area, perfect for family picnics and outdoor fun.Additionally, Rockaway Beach hosts a variety of free or low-cost events and festivals throughout the year, providing families with fun and cultural experiences without breaking the budget
Chapter 127
Ranked No. 127, Fire Island is an affordable vacation spot where families can have fun without breaking the budget. This picturesque barrier island is known for its pristine beaches, charming neighborhoods, and family-friendly experiences that won’t break the bank. Families enjoy free access to the beautiful sandy beaches of the Fire Island National Seashore, where they can swim, build sandcastles and relax in the sun. Families can rent affordable bikes and cruise along the scenic byways that meander through the island, stopping at quaint towns and nature trails along the way. Fire Island offers affordable dining options, including casual seafood shacks and family-friendly restaurants where the family can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. The island hosts affordable events throughout the summer, including outdoor concerts, art performances and family-oriented festivals.
An infographic showing the 175 most affordable family destinations for summer 2023
“Choosing an affordable destination doesn’t mean sacrificing the quality of your family’s vacation. Instead, it offers an opportunity to focus on what really matters: shared experiences, discoveries, and quality time together.By finding these affordable options, families can not only relieve financial stress, but also find a sense of adventure in exploring lesser-known places that may offer greater cultural exchange, natural beauty and unique experiences’ said Ms Ackerman.
