12 Cheap Coastal Getaways Within a Day’s Drive of Major U.S. Cities

Some beach towns don’t just offer ocean views; they offer a full escape without wrecking your wallet. These places are close enough for a weekend trip, affordable enough to return to often, and charming enough to feel like a true getaway. Whether you’re craving a quiet boardwalk, rugged coastal cliffs, or warm Gulf waters, these budget-friendly spots are easy to reach and hard to forget. Here’s where couples are rediscovering the coast, without overspending to enjoy it.

1. Virginia Beach, Virginia

What makes Virginia Beach so accessible is its ability to offer an oceanfront experience without the premium price tag of other East Coast hotspots. It’s within reach of Washington D.C., Raleigh, and Richmond, making it a natural choice for a weekend or quick getaway. The boardwalk stretches three miles and stays lively with live music, bike rentals, and open-air cafés. Lodging near the beach is competitively priced, especially in shoulder seasons like spring and early fall.

2. San Diego, California

San Diego’s laid-back coastal energy comes with a bonus: it’s far less hectic and generally cheaper than neighboring Los Angeles. From Coronado’s gentle beaches to the family-friendly shores of La Jolla and Mission Beach, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Parking is easier, budget motels exist even near the beach, and public transit like the trolley helps keep costs down while getting around the city. It’s ideal for couples coming from inland SoCal cities like Riverside or Palm Springs.

3. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach isn’t your typical sun-and-sand destination, but that’s exactly what makes it so unforgettable. With the iconic Haystack Rock rising from the Pacific, it’s more about scenic walks and cozy fire pits than tanning. It’s less than two hours from Portland, making it a favorite escape for urban couples craving sea air and natural drama. Lodging here runs cheaper in the cooler months, and the charm of local cafés and quiet beaches makes it feel miles away from daily life.

4. Jacksonville Beach, Florida

Just minutes from downtown Jacksonville, this beach town offers easy ocean access without the high prices of places like Miami or Key West. The shoreline is wide and uncrowded, and the vibe leans relaxed rather than party-heavy. Hotels and motels offer decent weekend rates, and seafood shacks like Safe Harbor serve up fresh fish at fair prices. For couples in the Southeast, it’s an ideal drive-to destination that delivers all the essentials: sun, salt, and space to breathe.

5. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores manages to offer the powdery white sands and warm Gulf waters of Florida, but with noticeably lower costs. It’s a favorite for couples coming from cities like Birmingham, Atlanta, or New Orleans. Condos and budget hotels are plentiful, and the area’s many state parks and nature preserves provide low-cost ways to explore beyond the beach. If you time your trip right, you can even catch off-season rental deals with ocean views for half the typical price.

6. Ventura, California

Ventura offers the kind of California beach town experience that feels unfiltered, less curated, more real. It’s just over an hour from Los Angeles, yet prices for accommodations and meals are generally much lower. Surfers and sunset seekers gravitate toward its quiet beaches, and nearby Channel Islands National Park adds a layer of adventure for couples into kayaking or wildlife watching. Add in taco trucks, pier strolls, and charming vintage shops, and it all starts to click.

7. Ocean Pines, Maryland

For those who love the idea of Ocean City but not its crowds or high-season prices, Ocean Pines offers a quieter retreat just a short drive away. With rental homes, small inns, and affordable eats, it’s a popular pick for couples coming from the D.C. and Baltimore area. You still get access to the beach, plus golf courses, marinas, and walking trails. It’s perfect if you want coastal relaxation without constantly being shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers.

8. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach is one of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets for couples seeking a relaxed beach vibe on a budget. It’s easily reached from Philly, D.C., and Baltimore, yet it retains a small-town feel. The boardwalk is lined with old-school eateries, saltwater taffy stands, and casual seafood spots that won’t break the bank. Accommodations range from classic motels to beach cottages, and many places offer deals in spring or after Labor Day. It’s equal parts cozy and coastal.

9. Bethany Beach, Delaware

If you want a peaceful getaway but still want to be close to Rehoboth’s action, Bethany Beach fits the bill. This town leans more toward quiet strolls and family-run eateries than big crowds and nightlife. The beach itself is clean and family-friendly, and you can often find lodging at lower prices than the more popular towns nearby. Couples who enjoy long beach walks, sunrise views, and local shops will feel right at home here, especially in the less hectic shoulder seasons.

10. Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head offers everything you’d expect from North Carolina’s Outer Banks: wild dunes, open beaches, and a sky that stretches forever. It’s within driving distance of Raleigh, Norfolk, and Richmond, and despite its growing popularity, it’s still possible to find budget-friendly motels and vacation rentals. Jockey’s Ridge State Park adds some low-cost adventure with sandboarding and hiking, and the seafood here is as fresh as it is fairly priced. It’s perfect for laid-back road trippers.

11. St. Simons Island, Georgia

St. Simons strikes that rare balance of feeling upscale but not unattainably so. It’s a favorite for couples driving from Atlanta, Savannah, or Jacksonville. While some parts cater to luxury travelers, there are plenty of modestly priced inns and rentals tucked just off the main drag. You get beautiful beaches, moss-draped oaks, and easy bike trails through historic areas. And because it doesn’t draw the massive crowds of other Georgia coast spots, you keep that peaceful getaway feeling.

12. Fort Pierce, Florida

Fort Pierce stands out because it hasn’t turned into a glitzy resort town. It holds onto that “Old Florida” feel, laid-back, unpretentious, and friendly. It’s a smart choice for couples driving in from Orlando or West Palm Beach who want coast without chaos. Hutchinson Island offers peaceful beaches, and local museums and the downtown farmers market add character. Hotel prices remain reasonable, especially midweek or in the off-season. It’s the kind of place where stress just melts away.