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As gas prices and the cost of living remain stubbornly high, many families will be forced to tighten their belts when it comes to their upcoming summer vacations. An increasing number of families are opting for budget-friendly alternatives, trading the glitz and glamor of expensive resorts for the simple pleasures offered by more cost-effective destinations.

FamilyDestinationsGuide.com ran a survey of 3,000 families to find out which affordable destinations they would most like to visit in 2023.

“’Affordable’ does not mean ‘inferior or ‘second-rate’” points out Rose Ackermann, of FamilyDestinationsGuide.com. “The budget-friendly travel sphere is bursting with choices, offering everything from breathtaking outdoor experiences to cultural immersion, charming local accommodations, and gastronomical delights that won’t break the bank.”

The results revealed a general swing away from the more expensive resorts to be found in the likes of Hawaii or Florida, with some interesting results.

#1

In top spot came New York’s Long Beach. Situated on a picturesque barrier island, this coastal town offers a wealth of activities and attractions that are budget-friendly and enjoyable for all ages. Families can find affordable accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, providing comfortable and cost-effective options for their stay. One of the main draws of Long Beach is its beautiful sandy beach, which offers free access for all visitors. Families can spend their days sunbathing, swimming, and playing in the surf without incurring any additional costs. The town also boasts a lively boardwalk, where families can enjoy free concerts, movie nights, and a range of affordable dining options.

#2

Following close behind in second position was another New York favorite, particularly among locals – Coney Island. This iconic beachfront area is known for its lively atmosphere, amusement parks, and family-friendly activities that won’t break the bank. Families can enjoy the affordable thrill of riding roller coasters and playing 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 indulge in affordable treats like hot dogs and ice cream from the local vendors. Coney Island also hosts free events and performances during the summer months, providing entertainment for all ages.

#3

Surfside Beach in South Carolina made up the top 3. It offers a variety of affordable lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, ensuring that families can find comfortable accommodations that fit their budget. Additionally, Surfside Beach is known for its beautiful sandy shores and offers free public beach access, providing families with the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles without any additional costs. The beach also offers affordable opportunities for water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

#4

In fourth place came Oak Island, in North Carolina. Located along the picturesque Brunswick Islands, this charming coastal town offers a range of family-friendly activities and attractions. Families can find affordable accommodations, including cozy beachfront cottages, budget-friendly hotels, and affordable vacation rentals, ensuring a comfortable and cost-effective stay. Oak Island boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches, and the town offers affordable attractions like the Oak Island Lighthouse, where families can climb to the top for breathtaking views, and the Oak Island Nature Center, which offers educational exhibits and nature programs for all ages.

#5

And rounding up the top 5 came Galveston in Texas. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and family-friendly experiences that won’t strain the budget. Families can enjoy free access to the expansive Galveston Island Beach, where they can swim and play beach games. There are a variety of attractions like Moody Gardens, which offers affordable admission and features a variety of exhibits, including an aquarium, a rainforest pyramid, and a discovery museum. Galveston also hosts affordable events and festivals throughout the year, including live music performances, food festivals, and holiday celebrations.

6. Asbury Park, New Jersey
7. Prescott, Arizona
8. Crystal Beach, Texas
9. Topsail Beach, North Carolina
10. Bell Buckle, Tennessee

Louisiana had 4 affordable vacation destinations that were voted among America’s most popular:

#62

Covington (LA) emerged in 62nd postion overall. This charming town is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor beauty, and family-friendly experiences that won’t break the bank. Families can explore the picturesque Bogue Falaya Park, which offers free admission and features walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The Covington Farmers Market provides affordable access to local produce, artisanal goods, and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for families to enjoy. Covington is also home to the Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery, offering affordable admission to see and learn about alligators and other reptiles. Additionally, families can take a short drive to the nearby Fontainebleau State Park, where they can enjoy affordable camping, hiking, and bird-watching opportunities.

#72

In 72nd place, Cypremort Point is an affordable vacation destination that families can enjoy without straining their budget. This coastal community is known for its natural beauty, serene beaches, and family-friendly experiences that won’t break the bank. Families can enjoy free access to the sandy Cypremort Point State Park Beach, where they can swim, sunbathe, and have picnics with a view of the Gulf of Mexico. The area is also renowned for its fishing opportunities, with affordable options for pier fishing or renting a boat to explore the nearby Vermilion Bay. Families can take leisurely walks along the nature trails of the state park and spot various bird species and wildlife. Additionally, the area is known for its affordable Cajun cuisine, allowing families to indulge in local flavors without straining their budget.

#95

Lake Charles placed in 95th positon. This vibrant city is known for its unique blend of Cajun culture, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly experiences that won’t strain the budget. Families can enjoy affordable outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking on the scenic lakes and waterways. Lake Charles is also home to several parks and nature trails where families can picnic, hike, and observe local wildlife. The city offers affordable attractions like the Children’s Museum, where kids can learn and play in an interactive environment. Families can explore the local history and culture by visiting affordable museums and historic sites, such as the Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center. Lake Charles hosts affordable events and festivals throughout the year, including music concerts, food festivals, and Mardi Gras celebrations.

#146

And Cameron placed in 146th positon overall. The area is also known for its abundant fishing opportunities, allowing families to enjoy affordable angling adventures. History enthusiasts can visit the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, which offers free admission and educational exhibits about the area’s rich ecosystem. Cameron offers a range of affordable accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and cozy vacation rentals.

Infographic showing the top 175 affordable family destinations for Summer 2023

“Choosing an affordable destination doesn’t mean sacrificing the quality of your family’s vacation. On the contrary, it opens up an opportunity to focus on what truly matters: shared experiences, discovery, and quality time together. By seeking out these budget-friendly options, families not only ease their financial strain but also find a sense of adventure in exploring lesser-known locales that might offer richer cultural exchanges, natural beauty, and unique experiences” says Ms Ackermann.