5 Budget Beach Getaways With Flights Under $500 for July 4
As the U.S. gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday on July 4 (a celebration known as America 250 in most circles by now), travel bugs might be looking to get away from home to spend some fun in the sun.
According to a recent Dollar Flight Club report, heading down south for a beach vacation doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Here are five amazing destinations would-be vacationers should consider if they’re looking to spend Independence Day with their feet in the sand and not a worry in the world. Just make sure to book accommodations and drink/dining packages alongside your airfare.
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San Juan, Puerto Rico
You won’t even need a passport for this one. San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico, and flights hover around the $126 mark for July 4 departures (economy, round trip).
Whether it’s the absolutely stunning beaches -- travel writer Jessica Chapel singled out Playa Avione, Ocean Park Beach and Parque del Indio as particular standouts -- or the beautiful architecture and Mediterranean food, there’s something for everyone in San Juan.
Chapel suggested the James Beard-nominated Identidad Cocktail Bar, “where every cocktail is meticulously crafted and tastes like a love letter to the island’s spirit.”
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Coming in at a value price of $260 return fare, a trip to Puerto Vallarta -- which enjoys 360 sunny days each year, according to the official tourism website -- could banish the summertime blues from nearly anyone.
Families might enjoy a beach vacation centered around Boca de Tomates, popular with families and with the promise of live (and lively!) music on weekends, as well as a bevy of affordable and casual eateries on the northern side. If swimming and sunbathing are No. 1 and No. 2 on your vacay to-do list, Playa de Oro is probably the best option. And the iconic Los Muertos beach could be the not-so-hidden gem to cap off your trip!
Cancun, Mexico
The Condé Nast Traveler’s Caitlin Morton included Playa Mujeres on her list of the best beaches in Mexico, and it’ll set you back just $267, on average, to book a return trip to this popular vacation spot.
Described by Morton as popular at times but also boasting “postcard-perfect stretches of white sand and turquoise water” alongside a recommendation to stay at the Excellent Playa Mujeres (adults only), this beach appears the perfect match for those seeking a dream destination.
If you’re committed to visiting Cancun, a visit to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a necessary excursion.
Nassau, Bahamas
A round-trip economy fare to Nassau is priced at just a hair above $300 ($312 on average, to be precise) but promises a variety of beaches, restaurant options, and night life activities to keep you moving well into the wee hours.
The general consensus arrived at from various vacationers’ forums suggests that the party-hard crowd might enjoy a quick trip to Junkanoo Beach – or the bordering Margaritaville (after all, it’s 5 o’ clock somewhere, right?) if you’d prefer a bit more exclusive access to the beach and pool.
A quick taxi trip of about 10 minutes or so could bring those seeking a quieter experience to Cabbage Beach or Cable Beach, which also come recommended by travelers.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
On the hunt for a Red Stripe, a plate of jerk chicken, a comfy chair somewhere on a breezy shoreline, and total relaxation? Montego Bay might have all of that in store and more for just $350 in airfare.
Doctor’s Cave Beach is conveniently located and comes highly recommended by family travel blogger Marisa of The Daydream Diaries -- with “gorgeous” being a repeated descriptor. If you want to step free of the beach, there’s plenty to do: Visit a Rastafarian village, hit up a ziplining tour, or take part in a rum tasting if you’re feeling up to the challenge.
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This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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