12 Budget-Friendly Tropical Getaways and Tips To Stretch Your Travel Dollars Further

These cheap tropical vacation destinations prove you don’t need a big budget to enjoy paradise. Imagine relaxing on pristine beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring lush jungles—all without breaking the bank.

From the budget-friendly bungalows of Bali to the vibrant markets and beaches of Thailand, exotic escapes around the world offer affordable options for unforgettable getaways.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these 12 affordable tropical getaways combine breathtaking beauty with prices that won’t hurt your wallet. We have selected these based on great weather year-round and their popularity among travelers.

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

Which budget-friendly tropical spot is calling your name?

Prefer Listening? Here’s the Podcast

Enjoy our articles in audio form, perfect for planning your next getaway or relaxing on the go.

Note: Our podcasts are powered by cutting-edge technology to provide you with high-quality audio versions of our articles.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful tropical island in the heart of the Caribbean. Its fun culture, history, and natural beauty make it hard to beat as a getaway. 

In resort cities such as Punta Cana, you can expect to spend around $175. However, if you vacation outside the resorts, you can spend as little as $52 or less. Meliá Punta Cana Beach offers luxurious rooms and swimming pools for low prices.

Once you’re there, you can vibe to the music and travel between beaches. As for food, the Dominican Republic has a diverse range of flavors that fuses Latin American cuisine with the Caribbean. Go to the highly-rated SBG in Punta Cana for Hispanic cuisine in an elegant setting.

Budget Travel Tips

• Stay in Guesthouses or Hostels: Skip the resorts and find charming guesthouses or budget-friendly hostels in areas like Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata, often starting as low as $20 per night.
• Use Local Transportation: Save money by taking guaguas (local minibuses) or shared taxis instead of renting a car.
• Eat Like a Local: Dine at roadside stands and small local restaurants called comedores to enjoy authentic dishes like mangu and sancocho for just a few dollars.

Read also: Low-Cost Beaches Destinations Worldwide

Costa Rica

Costa Rica may not be the cheapest destination on this list, but it’s still not very expensive. At just around $134 a day, you can enjoy all the nature and beautiful scenery the country offers. 

You’ll find everything from all-inclusive resorts to locally-run hotels and inns. If you’re on a budget, you can travel to backpacker centers and stay in cheaper hostels. 

The country has rainforests with jungle treks and wildlife experiences. It also has tons of pristine beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean Coasts. You’ll find your perfect travel destination no matter what type of traveler you are.

Budget Travel Tips

• Public Transportation: Use buses to travel between cities and towns inexpensively.
• Street Food: Save money while enjoying local favorites like empanadas and churros.
• Free Attractions: Visit stunning waterfalls, like La Fortuna or Llanos de Cortés, many of which have minimal or no entrance fees.

Read also: Cheap Beach Getaways Around the World

Aruba

Aruba is a Caribbean island full of beautiful places and welcoming people. You can expect to spend around $139 a day on this fascinating island. 

Starting in the capital of Oranjestad, you can see historical Dutch forts and colonial architecture. Outside the city are natural landmarks, striking beaches, and endless hiking. 

The island has a rich food culture, and cultural attractions will keep you engaged for your entire trip. It also has affordable resorts and hotels right along the beach. If you’re looking for rich Caribbean culture, good food, and beautiful beaches, this cheap destination is it.

Budget Travel Tips

• Stay in Guesthouses or Hostels: Look for budget-friendly accommodations outside the major tourist areas to save significantly on lodging costs.
• Use Public Transportation: Take advantage of Aruba’s inexpensive and reliable bus system to explore the island instead of renting a car.
• Eat at Local Spots: Dine at food trucks or small eateries to enjoy authentic Aruban dishes like pastechi and keshi yena without spending too much.

Read also: Affordable Beach Destinations Worldwide

Thailand

Thailand is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia that remains one of the cheapest destinations. You can spend around $37 a day for budget options or up to $99 a day at fancier resorts. In the backpacker hub of Koh Samui, a day will cost you around $73. 

The country spans from the border of Malaysia to China and has plenty of diverse offerings to travelers. You can meditate in the mountains of Chiang Mai or take a riverboat through the deltas of Bangkok. Or, you can find yourself lounging on a white sand beach covered in coconut palms. 

You’ll see magnificent temples and natural landscapes no matter where you are. You’ll also experience one of the world’s most renowned food cultures. Bring an appetite and your camera because Thailand is a cheap destination not to miss.

Budget Travel Tips

• Use Sleeper Trains: Travel long distances on overnight trains to save on both transportation and accommodation costs. Sleeper tickets are affordable and often very comfortable.
• Visit Local Markets: Shop at markets like Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar or Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market for souvenirs, clothes, and local snacks at bargain prices.
• Explore Free Attractions: Many temples, such as Wat Lok Moli in Chiang Mai, have free or minimal entrance fees, making it easy to experience Thailand’s rich culture on a budget.

Read also: Cheap Beach Destinations in May

Brazil

Brazil is a South American country that has plenty to offer travelers on a budget. You can expect to spend as little as $87 a day for a tropical beach getaway. 

The country is massive, with tropical rainforests, mountains, plains, and endless coastlines. You’ll also enjoy a rich culture that’s hard not to love. Brazil will keep you engaged throughout your vacation, from samba music to capoeira. 

🏨Explore all your hotel options here

You’ll have the choice between beach resorts and tropical islands or some of the most famous forests in the world. From the Amazon Rainforest to the waterfalls of Iguaçu, you’ll find plenty of striking places to see.

Budget Travel Tips

• Travel by Bus: Brazil’s extensive bus network is an affordable way to travel between cities and even across regions. Opt for overnight buses to save on accommodation costs.
• Stay in Pousadas: Book small, family-run guesthouses called pousadas for affordable, cozy accommodations that often include breakfast.
• Visit Free Beaches and Parks: Explore Brazil’s public beaches, such as Copacabana and Ipanema in Rio, or visit free attractions like Tijuca National Park for hiking and stunning views.

Read also: Inexpensive Places for Digital Nomads

Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the best countries in the world for budget travelers looking for tropical beaches and cultural attractions. You can expect to spend around $71 a day throughout the country. 

Bali is the most famous destination in Indonesia for travelers. You can enjoy gorgeous black sand beaches, temples, and tropical landscapes. 

On the island of Java, you’ll find historical temples, ruins, and towering volcanoes. See the sunrise at Borobudur or travel to the coffee farms of Eastern Java. No matter what you’re looking for, Indonesia will deliver.

Budget Travel Tips

• Use Scooters for Transportation: Renting a scooter is an affordable and convenient way to explore islands like Bali or Lombok, often costing as little as $5 per day.
• Eat at Warungs: Dine at small, family-run eateries called warungs to enjoy authentic Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng or mie goreng for just $1-$3 per meal.
• Stay in Budget Homestays: Opt for locally-run homestays or hostels, which offer comfortable accommodations and a chance to experience local hospitality for as little as $10 per night.

Read also: Stunning Islands Around the World

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Mexico is a North American country with plenty of tropical getaways. You can plan to spend around $124 a day or less in many locations. 

From the beaches of Tulum to the ruins of Chichen Itza, the Yucatan Peninsula is home to endless experiences. If you want all-inclusive resorts, head to Playa del Carmen and Cancun. For culture and laid-back vibes, don’t miss Merida. 

Some of the best beaches in North America are located throughout the peninsula. It also has a rich food culture that foodies around the world love. If you value good food, historical sights, and awe-inspiring beaches, there really is no place like it.

Budget Travel Tips

• Take ADO Buses: Use Mexico’s affordable and comfortable ADO bus network to travel between cities in the Yucatan Peninsula instead of renting a car.
• Explore Cenotes for Cheap: Visit cenotes (natural sinkholes) like Cenote Ik Kil or Gran Cenote, which often have low entrance fees and offer unique swimming experiences.
• Eat Street Tacos: Skip expensive restaurants and enjoy authentic Mexican street food, especially tacos al pastor, for as little as $1-$2 each at local stands.

Read also: Underrated Tropical Gems

Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most beautiful countries in Asia, with lush forests, beautiful beaches, and rich culture and history. You can expect to spend around $57 a day or less in this paradise.

You can race around temples and historic sights in its capital, Ho Chi Minh City. Then, sit down for the meal of your life at a local restaurant. You can watch live music and sample street food at night on Nguyen Hue Street. 

You can visit hidden beaches with lush offshore islands on the country’s coast. When you’re done lounging on the beaches, take a tour through the forests, caves, and natural wonders that cover the entire country.

Budget Travel Tips

• Travel by Sleeper Bus or Train: Vietnam’s sleeper buses and trains are an affordable and efficient way to travel long distances while saving on overnight accommodation costs.
• Eat at Local Markets: Enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha at street vendors and market stalls for just $1-$3 per meal.
• Book Budget Tours for Attractions: Join group tours to explore famous sites like Ha Long Bay or the Cu Chi Tunnels at a fraction of the cost of private tours.

Read also: Must-Visit Tropical Destinations

The Philippines

The Philippines is a budget-friendly Asian country with plenty to offer tourists. You can expect to spend around $74 a day in most beachside resort areas. 

There are thousands of islands to choose from, each offering something unique for visitors. The country is home to endless natural wonders and a fun and welcoming culture. 

If you love diving and snorkeling, you’ll find plenty of destinations within the islands worth seeing. Massive whale sharks and magnetic coral reefs surround its national parks and protected wildlife zones. For nature lovers, a few tropical destinations are more impactful.

Budget Travel Tips

• Island-Hop on Public Ferries: Skip expensive chartered boats and use local ferries to travel between islands like Cebu, Bohol, and Palawan for a fraction of the cost.
• Stay in Budget Inns or Homestays: Choose simple accommodations like inns or homestays to experience local hospitality for as little as $15-$25 per night.
• Dine at Carinderias: Eat at small roadside eateries called carinderias, where you can enjoy local Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lechon kawali for just a few dollars.

Read also: Hidden Island Destinations

Colombia

Colombia is a South American country with plenty to offer tourists on a budget. You’ll spend around $48 a day in most locations, with even cheaper options if you time your visit right. 

The country has culturally rich cities like Bogtoa and Medellin, each with its own vibes and sights. From world-famous museums such as Bogota’s Gold Museum to natural landmarks such as Peñol, you’ll find plenty to experience. 

For the ultimate tropical experience, head to the coast of Cartagena. Here, you’ll stay in a luxurious resort by the beach and explore the old walled city on foot. Dance for hours at a local club at night before sampling endless street food by the beach.

Budget Travel Tips

• Travel by Local Buses: Use Colombia’s affordable bus system to travel between cities or explore nearby towns like Guatapé or Salento.
• Stay in Hostels or Boutique Hotels: Colombia has an abundance of hostels and budget-friendly boutique hotels, many of which offer private rooms starting at $10-$20 per night.
• Try Menu del Día Meals: Look for menu del día (menu of the day) options at local restaurants, offering a full meal with soup, main course, drink, and dessert for as little as $3-$5.

Read also: Top Beaches Around the Globe

Malaysia

Malaysia is a beautiful Southeast Asian country with endless opportunities for tourists. At just $37 a day, you can enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. 

Outside of its capital of Kuala Lumpur, you’ll discover hidden beaches and natural landmarks that rival anywhere else. Surrounding the country are offshore islands with tropical white sand beaches and reefs. 

If you love culture and good food, Malaysia delivers. It has a world-famous cuisine that’s packed with flavor. You can dine cheaply at some of the world’s best restaurants. When you’re fueled up, head to its famous architectural sights and natural monuments for an experience of a lifetime. 

Budget Travel Tips

• Take Advantage of Public Transit: Use Malaysia’s affordable and efficient public transit system, like trains and buses, to travel between cities and attractions for as little as $1-$2 per trip.
• Eat at Hawker Stalls: Malaysia’s hawker stalls serve iconic dishes like nasi lemak, char kway teow, and laksa at prices as low as $1-$3 per plate.
• Visit Free Attractions: Explore free or low-cost attractions like the Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, and Penang’s street art, which offer cultural and natural wonders without a high price tag.

Read also: World’s Most Beautiful Beaches

Tanzania

Tanzania is an African nation full of amazing things for travelers. From tropical beaches to historical cities such as Zanzibar, you’ll find plenty of culture and beauty. 

Expect to spend around $108 a day in most tourist destinations. This price will get you a beautiful place to stay and all the amenities you need. 

You’ll visit some of the richest natural habitats in the world and see rare species of plants and animals. You can also visit the famous mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro. For nature lovers, there’s no better destination.

Budget Travel Tips

• Join Group Safaris: Save on safari costs by joining a group rather than booking a private tour. Many operators offer shared trips to Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater at more affordable rates.
• Use Local Transport: Travel between cities or regions on dala-dalas (shared minibuses) or long-distance buses to save money while experiencing local life.
• Eat Local Dishes: Dine at small eateries or food stalls where you can enjoy authentic Tanzanian meals like ugali, chapati, or nyama choma for a fraction of the cost of tourist restaurants.

Read also: Cost-Effective All-Inclusive Escapes

Pin It Now, Read It Later

World

Beach Destinations

---

Get Your Daily Travel Inspiration

Follow Us

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Mail
• TikTok
• Pinterest