12 Budget-Friendly Beach Destinations in the Caribbean To Live

If you are looking for a beach destination to relocate to, the Caribbean is a great option to consider. For starters, you will be spoiled for beautiful beach towns to choose from, and you will easily find something that will support budget living.

Imagine being on a budget but waking up to beautiful beaches, watching sunsets over the sea, swimming and surfing any time of the week, soaking in the soothing sands of the crashing waves, or being able to hop on a boat and explore the next island at your convenience – all at a fraction of Europe’s and America’s major cities. That is a dream you get to live by moving to these 12 budget-friendly beach destinations in the Caribbean.

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Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

The historic city of Puerto Plata offers an authentic Caribbean vibe at a fraction of the cost of other islands. Its natural scenery is stunning, from the golden sands of Playa Dorada to the mountain rainforests of the Cordillera Septentrional range. Moreover, the outdoor activities seem endless, whether you want to go hiking, boating, horseback riding, or zip lining.

Rest assured, the cost of living in Puerto Plata is a fraction of what you might expect in other Caribbean destinations. Rent here is incredibly affordable, with spacious apartments available for less than $500 a month. The cost of daily living, including utilities and food, is also significantly lower.

And let’s not forget the vibrant nightlife and music scene that make Puerto Plata an exciting and affordable place to live. You’ll never run out of bars, clubs, and entertainment joints along the Malecón de Puerto Plata.

Corozal, Belize

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Paradise on a budget, anyone? Choose Corozal for an authentic Belizean experience without high costs. The cost of living here is up to 58.4% lower than in the U.S. mainland, with rentals under $500 a month and fresh local produce that won’t break the bank.

The town has a lovely seaside promenade lined with coconut palms, where you can watch the sunset and spot dolphins in the turquoise waters of Corozal Bay. Just south of town, the Cerros Maya archaeological site features ancient Mayan ruins in a jungle setting.

Corozal’s proximity to Mexico also provides opportunities for inexpensive day trips and medical care across the border.

San Nicolaas, Aruba

For budget-conscious beach bums looking to escape the crowds, San Nicolaas offers a slice of paradise without breaking the bank. Here, you can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, or trying out new watersports. And at night, you can dine on fresh-caught seafood under the stars.

Rent an apartment outside the city center for under $400 a month and enjoy the quiet beach life. Baby Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and kiteboarding. You may even spot some tropical fish while snorkeling in the shallow turquoise waters.

Later in the evening, grab a drink at one of the beach bars that stay open late into the night. You will love the slow pace of life and affordable living costs of Aruba’s second-largest city.

Varadero, Cuba

With over 20 kilometers of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Varadero is a beach lover’s paradise. Its relaxed vibes, warm weather, and laid-back lifestyle may tempt you to stay longer than expected.

Accommodation in Varadero won’t break the bank. You can find beachfront hotels and resorts for under $100 a night, especially if you travel in the off-season. The town has a decent selection of privately owned restaurants and bars along the coast where you can grab a cold drink or fresh seafood for only a few dollars.

Transport around Varadero is also budget-friendly. The town is easy to explore by bike, and bike rentals cost only a couple of dollars per day.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Boasting a small population and minimal development, Ambergris Caye maintains a peaceful charm that island life is meant to have. Anyone dreaming of an uncomplicated existence surrounded by natural beauty will find their slice of paradise on this island.

A study by International Living shows that a couple can live comfortably with a monthly budget of $2,900. The rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,200.

That aside, the natural surroundings, outdoor activities, and perfect weather provide an enviable beach lifestyle. Take a golf cart or bike to explore the island, go bird watching, or visit ancient Mayan ruins hidden in the jungle. Relax at a beach bar with a Belikin beer and some fresh ceviche or grilled lobster when the sun goes down.

Negril, Jamaica

Negril is a laid-back beach town on Jamaica’s west coast known for pristine white sands and turquoise waters. The vibe here is ultra-relaxed, and the pace is slow, making it an ideal spot to unwind. It’s also home to the world-famous Seven Mile Beach. The shore offers breathtaking sunsets and numerous water activities, including snorkeling and diving, often at pocket-friendly prices.

Negril’s cliffs add a dramatic touch to the town’s landscape. These rugged cliffs provide spectacular ocean views and are popular spots for cliff diving and sunset watching.

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One key reason Negril is so attractive to those seeking a budget-friendly Caribbean lifestyle is its affordability. Renting a house or apartment in this town is cheaper than in more commercialized Caribbean destinations.

Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia

This little town has all the ingredients for an idyllic island life without the hefty price tag.

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Vieux Fort’s average cost of living is $1,191, which is way lower than seaside towns of its caliber. This town’s natural surroundings inspire an active lifestyle in the great outdoors.

You can watch fishermen haul in the day’s catch along the shores of Vieux Fort Bay as you enjoy a Piton beer at a beachfront bar. That aside, the weekly market is a social hub where farmers sell tropical fruits and spices for pennies on the dollar.

Anse des Sables, Rudy John Beach Park, Anse Mamin, and Laborie are some of the most irresistible beaches.

Galibi, Suriname

Galibi is a secluded beach destination ideal for a budget-friendly Caribbean escape. You can rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for as low as $540 and live below the $1,000 mark monthly.

Its long shoreline and lush rainforest surroundings offer a peaceful setting to unwind. You can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the soft white sands.

When the sun sets, grab your flashlight, and you might spot leatherback sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Galibi Nature Reserve has a stunning east-facing beach that offers magnificent sunrises.

The Amerindian village of Galibi is home to the Carib people, one of the indigenous groups in Suriname. Experience their culture by visiting the local handicraft market to buy woven baskets and wood carvings.

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

By choosing an off-the-beaten-path destination like Cabo Rojo, you can make your beachfront dream a reality in Puerto Rico without breaking the bank. Cabo Rojo is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to trade the flashy resorts and high-rises for a sleepy beach town surrounded by natural beauty.

Rental costs in Cabo Rojo are affordable, especially compared to San Juan. A one-bedroom apartment costs an average of $272 a month.

Outdoor activities abound, from hiking in the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge to sunbathing on Playa Sucia. Whale watching, kayaking, and birding are leisure activities you can pursue during your stay.

Lastly, the municipality has a vibrant food scene featuring roadside kiosks selling ponchos (Puerto Rican skewers) and fresh-caught lobster. You can save a lot by cooking at home or eating from these roadside food kiosks.

Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic

The natural beauty, low cost of living, and active expat social scene make Las Terrenas an alluring seaside town for retirement or a long-term escape from the daily grind.

According to Numbeo, rent for a basic one-bedroom apartment is around $450 per month. That aside, fresh seafood and produce are cheap and plentiful. You’ll find numerous casual beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal for under $10.

The natural scenery in Las Terrenas is stunning. It’s located on the Samaná Peninsula, with secluded beaches, coconut groves, and the El Limon waterfall nearby. You can also go whale watching, take surfing lessons, go snorkeling, or just relax in a beachfront cabana with a book during your free time.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay encapsulates the Caribbean dream. Once you settle in this city, you may never want to leave. First, it has a vibrant food scene with many fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Jamaican specialties like jerk chicken and rice with peas.

Outdoor activities opportunities are also plentiful, from snorkeling coral reefs to hiking in the Blue Mountains. Excursions to nearby Ocho Rios and Negril allow you to experience more of the natural beauty of this island paradise.

Additionally, the weather is warm all year round, so you can enjoy the beach whenever the mood strikes. Speaking of beaches, some of Montego Bay’s favorite spots include Doctor’s Cave, Cornwall, Walter Fletcher, Puerto Seco, and Dead End.

Rent and living costs in Montego Bay are budget-friendly. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for $311 monthly.

Portsmouth, Dominica

Portsmouth is another tropical beach getaway that won’t hurt your wallet. Whether you want to move permanently or spend an extended holiday, your money will go much further here.

Rental prices in Portsmouth are refreshingly budget-friendly, with decent one-bedroom apartments available for as low as $511 per month. Of course, luxury villas or beachfront homes will cost more but are still a fraction of the prices elsewhere in the Caribbean.

Spare some time and explore Cabrits National Park, spanning over 1,300 acres. You can discover the park’s tropical forest and wetlands by hiking. Better yet, spend the day lounging on the powder-soft sands of Coconut Beach.