10 Budget-Friendly Beach Towns on the East Coast to Visit This Summer

Looking for a summer escape that won’t empty your wallet? These 10 East Coast beach towns deliver sun, sand, and savings in all the right ways. From laid-back boardwalks to scenic shorelines, each destination offers charm, affordability, and classic beach vibes without high-end resort prices. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family-friendly getaway, or a solo recharge, these coastal gems combine budget-friendly lodging, free beach access, and walkable attractions. Pack your swimsuit and skip the overpriced hotspots these breezy escapes are calling.

1. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach packs serious charm and value into one of Delaware’s most beloved coastal towns. With a free public beach, classic wooden boardwalk, and an artsy downtown, it’s perfect for couples or families looking for a fun yet affordable summer retreat. Grab fries from Thrasher’s, browse local shops, or catch a live band at the Bandstand all without breaking the bank. Lodging ranges from budget inns to cozy B&Bs, and nearby state parks offer trails and peaceful picnicking just minutes from the surf.

2. Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Old Orchard Beach is a throwback to nostalgic summer fun, complete with a seven-mile sandy beach, classic amusement pier, and wallet-friendly seafood shacks. Lodging options span family-run motels to budget-friendly rentals near the beach. You can enjoy low-cost activities like swimming, sunbathing, or grabbing a slice of pier pizza while the sea breeze rolls in. The vintage charm and relaxed pace make it an ideal spot for couples or families who want an affordable New England beach getaway.

3. Tybee Island, Georgia

Just 20 minutes from Savannah, Tybee Island offers an affordable coastal escape with wide beaches, palm trees, and a laid-back vibe. Accommodations include budget hotels and cozy vacation rentals, many within walking distance of the sand. Spend your day lounging by the ocean, visiting the historic lighthouse, or kayaking through salt marshes no luxury price tag required. Tybee’s low-key charm, warm waters, and Southern hospitality make it a top summer pick for couples on a budget.

4. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May blends Victorian beauty with beachside fun and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Summer visitors can enjoy the free public beach (with a low-cost tag system), affordable bike rentals, and daily strolls past gingerbread-trimmed houses. Grab ice cream on the Washington Street Mall or picnic in a seaside park. Budget-friendly inns and motels dot the area, especially if you book early. With romance, history, and surf all rolled into one, Cape May is a timeless, cost-effective escape.

5. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Funky and free-spirited, Folly Beach is Charleston’s laid-back neighbor, perfect for couples or groups seeking beach fun on a budget. Affordable rentals and small motels line the island, while food trucks and local diners keep dining costs low. Spend your days surfing, walking the fishing pier, or catching live music in town all with easy beach access and minimal fuss. Folly’s easygoing vibe and scenic beauty make it a go-to for anyone looking to relax without overspending.

6. Narragansett, Rhode Island

Narragansett is a lucky find for affordable East Coast beach vacations. With clean, scenic beaches, free seaside parks, and local seafood joints, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to pricier New England spots. You’ll find summer cottages, small inns, and university-adjacent lodging that offer offbeat charm and low rates. Hike the nearby Black Point Trail, enjoy ocean views from the seawall, or dig into clam cakes with your toes in the sand. For couples or families, Narragansett delivers peaceful summer vibes on a dime.

7. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City offers a classic beach-town experience with 10 miles of free public beaches, a lively boardwalk, and endless low-cost fun. From cheap eats like boardwalk fries and funnel cake to free summer concerts and fireworks, it’s a budget traveler’s dream. Accommodations range from no-frills motels to value hotels just steps from the beach. Enjoy mini-golf, bike rides, or sunrise strolls by the sea without burning through your budget. Ocean City is Maryland’s ultimate wallet-friendly seaside escape.

8. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach combines Southern charm with crystal-clear water and budget-friendly access to sand and surf. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a scenic summer spot without resort prices. Affordable lodging options, casual eateries, and free public beach access make it easy to stick to your budget. Rent paddleboards, walk the loop, or watch the sunset from the pier. This laid-back, clean beach town offers a stress-free coastal vibe that’s perfect for a relaxing and affordable summer break.

9. Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

Hampton Beach proves you don’t have to head south for an affordable beach escape. This New Hampshire favorite offers free concerts, fireworks, and a lively boardwalk scene all summer long. Public beach access is free, and food options include low-cost favorites like fried dough and lobster rolls. Stay at one of the many budget motels near the shore or grab a rental with friends. Whether you’re catching a sunrise over the Atlantic or enjoying a local beach festival, Hampton delivers summer fun on a budget.

10. St. Augustine Beach, Florida

St. Augustine Beach offers a unique blend of history, charm, and coastal beauty all at prices that won’t make you flinch. Located just outside the nation’s oldest city, it features wide, walkable beaches, free pier access, and plenty of affordable dining. Budget accommodations are easy to find, especially if you book early or travel midweek. Explore historic sites during the day, then wind down with an oceanfront sunset. It’s a romantic, culturally rich beach destination that proves Florida fun doesn’t have to be expensive.