If you’re craving some sea and sand, there are many affordable tropical places you can go to and enjoy a beautiful paradise. Not only are these spots spellbinding and kind to your wallet, but many of them are also cheap travel destinations all year round.
While some destinations, like the Caribbean islands, are relatively close to the continental US, there are others that are further out.
Don’t worry, though; there are lots of ways to save on plane tickets and find yourself halfway around the world on a stretch of fine sand. From the lovely, pristine, secluded beaches of Bonaire to the balmy beaches of Thailand, these affordable tropical places deliver big without costing a fortune.
So, it’s time to pack up those flip-flops and swimsuit and hit the road for some sunny paradise without splurging your savings. Here are some affordable tropical places to visit on vacation!
1. Malaysia
While you’ll have to hop on a longer flight to see Malaysia’s sunkissed shores, it’s definitely worth the trip. The country comprises a total of 878 islands that make up the archipelago, and gorgeous beaches in Malaysia are—not surprisingly—everywhere.
This is among the most affordable tropical places to visit, and there are plenty of white sand beaches with turquoise water, a rich history, local architecture, and many incredible resorts.
Plus, the food is excellent, the Malaysian people are famously friendly, and you can find lovely accommodation for cheap. Some of the best spots are Pangkor Island, Batu Ferringhi, and Rawa Island.
2. Curacao
As one of the most popular summer destinations, Curacao is a beachside paradise you need to see for yourself to understand why. The best part? It’s also one of the most affordable tropical places.
The beaches look like something out of a postcard, and you’ll find delicious food, cheery, colorful buildings, and lots of opportunities to explore the underwater world. So whether you’re looking for a remote accommodation removed from the crowds, a full-service beach with top-notch amenities, or something in between, there’s a beach waiting for you on Curacao.
Some of the best spots include Playa Lagun, Blue Bay, and Mambo Beach.
3. Dominican Republic
Next on our list of affordable tropical places is the Dominican Republic. Check out this travel destination for sugary beaches, lovely balmy waters, and stunning Caribbean Sea sunsets.
The island is home to some of the most popular white sands at Saona Island and Punta Cana, offering fascinating sun and sand escapes plus perfect conditions for water sport enthusiasts from scuba diving to surfing.
The country is full of reasonably priced all-inclusive resorts for every style and taste, tons to explore beyond the beach, and backpacker-style hotels and accommodations. The Damajagua hidden waterfalls are particularly lovely.
Your camera is a must in a place like this! Here’s one that instantly prints out your pictures!
4. Bonaire
The often-overlooked sister island of Curacao, Bonaire, is more famous for its spectacular diving than its air of exclusivity. This fantastic island is a gorgeous Caribbean hotspot where you can save some money while exploring the best marine life in the area.
With fewer obvious tourist trap shopping malls, many more wide-open spaces, an ideal climate, few major brand-name resorts, and a geographic position that tends to shelter the island from the harsh Atlantic hurricanes, Bonaire offers tourists the ultimate opportunity to really take a break from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life and recharge with Mother Nature. Plus, it is one of the most affordable tropical places!
Some of the best spots include Lac Bay, Te Amo Beach, and Bonaire National Marine Park.
5. Colombia
Next on our list of affordable tropical places is Colombia. Its coast soaks up the sunshine all year round, thanks to the country’s privileged geographical position and tropical climate.
The country has some of the most spectacular topography on the planet, including ski-high Andean towns, incredible green spaces, and gorgeous beaches.
Colombia borders two seas, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and boasts lots of clear, warm water, fine sand beaches, and a tropical vibe that’s pretty hard to beat.
The most popular spots are Playa Blanca, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park.
Pro tip: Learn basic Spanish to explore more off-the-beaten-path beaches.
6. Mexico
Mexico is a country full of unique discoveries, natural beauty, exciting history, and exotic diversity. It’s also one of the most affordable tropical places, so you may want to add it to your travel bucket list.
From bustling, breathtaking Playa del Carmen to lesser-known spots like Zihuatanejo, Mexico is a stunning place to visit if you’re looking to save some money. Moreover, it’s super easy to get to.
There’s some amazing snorkeling and scuba diving, miles of white beaches, and accommodations for every style and taste. Plus, the food is delicious, the local people are friendly, and there are plenty of things to check out on a vacation.
Keep reading to discover other affordable tropical places!
7. Nicaragua
Next on our list of affordable tropical places is Nicaragua, a postcard-worthy destination that reminds us of simpler past travel times. Lined with emerald-green coasts and lovely, old-school fishing villages, it’s a spot where you can surf almost empty lineups as if you were still in the 1970s.
The Central American nation of Nicaragua is a wonderful alternative to more expensive tropical places, and you’ll find the same spectacular nature there, too.
The Corn Islands are tremendously fascinating; they are full of idyllic scenery and offer some great sunsets. Some of the best spots include San Juan del Sur, Big Corn, and Little Corn.
8. Malta
If you want to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean on a budget, you should give Malta a try. This country is one of those spectacular archipelagos around the world, with delectable cuisines and varying natural reserves.
This gorgeous nation strikes the right balance between tropical charm and European sophistication, and you can find plenty of reasonable accommodations, delicious food, and a friendly atmosphere there.
As one of the most affordable tropical places with stunning scenery and warm weather, it’s no wonder that so many people choose to spend their vacations here. Some of the best spots include Golde Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Comino Island.
9. The Philippines
No doubt you’ve seen photos of the palm-tree-lined beaches and stunningly beautiful turquoise water of the Philippines. For spectacular beaches, delicious food, and friendly people, it’s got to be the Philippines, one of the most affordable tropical places to visit on a summer vacation.
This Southeast Asian nation boasts more than 7,000 islands, secluded jungle waterfalls, miles of coastline, and extraordinary marine life. Explore and enjoy the stunning Palawan archipelago, have a cocktail at the floating bamboo Kawayan bar on Pamalican Island, or visit the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood in Manila.
Most people in the Philippines speak English, so you’re unlikely to encounter anyone who can’t speak at least a little of it.
10. Thailand
Last but not least on our list of affordable tropical places is Thailand. Often called the “Land of Smiles,” the country is rich in heritage and culture. This idyllic spot has its fair share of islands on the Andaman and Gulf coasts, gorgeous small towns, and bustling bigger cities like Pattaya, with lots of great things to do and see.
No matter where you choose to go, there’s never a stunning beach with crystal-clear water too far away. The best part? The country is famously inexpensive, and even $150 in Thailand goes quite far.
Plus, there are many spas and wellness centers scattered around the island, so you can indulge yourself with relaxing massages.
If you liked our article on affordable tropical places, you may also want to read The 6 Most Sociable and Friendly Cities in the World.
