12 Affordable Vacations for Couples on a Budget

From the U.S. to Mexico, these getaways come at a price you'll both love.

Sharing experiences as a couple can make travel more enjoyable, whether it’s your first trip together, a honeymoon, or a babymoon. Sometimes, however, the motivation is there, but the budget doesn't allow for a lavish getaway.

With some strategic planning and calculations, it’s possible to create an affordable vacation. You might look for off-season or less popular destinations, shop for the best airfares on sites like Hopper or Skyscanner, or cities known for great free attractions. It also pays to be flexible on timing or travel days.

Travel experts advise putting together a budget and itinerary to estimate costs for hotels, activities, transportation, food, and other purchases. They also suggest booking a hotel with a kitchen, so you can prepare some of your own meals instead of dining out. Consider all-inclusive hotels, too, but only after evaluating what is actually included and how much you would take advantage of the amenities.

Recognizing that “affordability” is a relative term, we’ve aimed for places in North America where couples can have an enjoyable vacation while staying within the budget they create for themselves. We looked for free or low-cost activities and took into account the availability of less costly lodging. With that in mind, here are some of the most affordable vacations for couples.

Mazatlán, Mexico

Mazatlán offers golden beaches, delicious restaurants, vibrant nightlife, history, a 13-mile seaside promenade, reasonable prices, and lots to do at little or no cost. In the downtown historic district, couples can explore the romantic old square of Plaza Machado, stroll along cobblestone streets, and stop for a drink or ice cream. You could spend an entire day along the Malecón de Mazatlán, browsing souvenir stands, watching cliff divers, or grabbing a snack from one of the vendors. Rooms at the all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán Beach Resort start at less than $200 a night. Plus, guests can access the restaurants and amenities at the upscale Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, including a 16,500-square-foot wellness facility with hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms, spa treatments (available at an additional cost), and fitness classes.

Related: 11 Dream International Vacations That Are Surprisingly Affordable

New York City

You might be surprised to find New York City on a list of affordable vacations, but once you get to the Big Apple, there’s so much to do without spending a dime. While the city has begun cracking down on Airbnbs, you can still find vacation rentals and hotels for around $200 a night. Meals out don't have to be expensive, either. Enjoy an iconic (and affordable) New York bagel breakfast, grab a slice of pizza, or try a hot dog from one of the street stands. Many of NYC’s museums are free or accept a donation for visiting. Couples can also take the subway to Long Island City’s Gantry Plaza State Park, which offers gorgeous views of the NYC skyline, or ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway (about $3 each way) for an aerial view of the city.

Honolulu, Hawaii

If you have your heart set on a vacation in Hawaii, you can manage to arrange one within a limited budget, especially with the help of some airline miles or points. Spending time on the beach and hiking are among the free things to do in Honolulu, as is touring the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the USS Arizona Memorial. Oahu's bus system is an inexpensive and efficient way to explore the island beyond the state capital. Food is a fun part of travel, so look for farmers markets, saimin (noodle soup), poke, and shave ice at local spots. Rooms at The Twin Fin, a surf-inspired beachfront hotel, start at $199, and nightly entertainment includes DJs, live music, stargazing, and more.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Located in northwest Idaho, on the northern shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, this year-round destination is ideal for couples who love the outdoors. Hiking, biking, boating, and visiting wineries and breweries are among the top things to do, in addition to enjoying the gorgeous scenery. Explore the downtown area near the waterfront, browse the boutiques, and stop for a bite at one of the restaurants. Places to stay include hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and campgrounds. The Coeur d’Alene Resort, known for daily scenic cruises plus sunset and dinner sailings, offers rooms starting at around $199.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Sandy shores, warm Gulf of Mexico waters, great food, and lively nightlife make the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area an economical romantic getaway. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or head to The Track Family Fun Park to drive a go-kart, ride a roller coaster, and play some mini golf. You can hop on the Mobile Bay Ferry for less than $10 to enjoy the scenic bay. Choose from more than 200 restaurants, and try the local seafood that includes shrimp, oysters, crab, and snapper. Hotels, resorts, bed-and-breakfasts, and campsites offer many affordable lodging options.

Fort Worth, Texas

Around a half-hour drive from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Fort Worth is a fast-growing city known for its Western culture, now preserved in the Stockyards National Historic District. Explore the streets that once were home to the cattle trade, and learn about the area’s past with a walking tour. Don't miss the cattle drive when the Fort Worth Herd of longhorns passes by with drovers who are available to answer questions. Shops, saloons, restaurants, rodeo events at Cowtown Coliseum, and music and dancing at famed Billy Bob's Texas provide plenty to see and do. Stay at the Kimpton Harper Hotel for under $200 a night, and check out the upscale Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection on Mule Alley for a beverage in the outdoor Backyard lounge.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

If beautiful beaches, great food, and history are what you're after, consider visiting Puerto Rico — no passport needed. Explore street art for free, or visit museums with low-cost admission fees like Museo de Las Americas or Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico. At El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rain forest in the U.S. National Forest System, you can hike to a waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful surroundings. Then, spend some time in Old San Juan, where you can visit 16th-century fortresses, watch street performers along the Paseo de la Princesa promenade, or go salsa dancing at cocktail bars like La Factoría. Instead of an expensive resort, look into locally owned boutique hotels or glamping sites. Taxis and Uber are available to get you around the San Juan area, so you don't have to spend on a rental car.

Palm Springs, California

The desert of Greater Palm Springs is a year-round destination, though hot summers often have visitors heading for pools or air-conditioned venues. No problem, there are many of both, plus plenty to do without spending a lot. Visit art galleries along Palm Canyon Drive in the city of Palm Springs, take a self-guided tour of the midcentury architecture or celebrity homes, and hike past rock formations and palm trees on the trails in Indian Canyons. The Palm Springs area has plenty of budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. About an hour's drive away, Joshua Tree National Park features stunning rock formations, native vegetation, cacti, and romantic stargazing opportunities.

St. Petersburg and Clearwater, Florida

Known for its white-sand beaches and warm waters, this area is a great choice for an affordable vacation, especially if the goal is sunshine, swimming, and water sports. There’s plenty to experience after sunset as well, from restaurants to clubs to dive bars. Stroll around town to view the more than 600 murals or join a street art tour. The Dalí Museum is set in a unique building on the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront and offers discounted tickets on Thursdays after 5 p.m. And with a variety of places to stay, including B&Bs, the area has lodging options for almost any budget.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital, with its many free monuments and museums, can be an affordable destination. The Smithsonian museums are free to visit, and there’s something for every couple's interest, from space travel and technology to art and natural history. Just remember to apply for passes in advance. Touring the White House is also free but requires you to request a reservation at least 21 days in advance. The public transit system, including its easy-to-navigate Metro, offers a convenient, low-cost way to get around. For an affordable meal, head to a fast-casual spot like chef José Andrés' vegetarian restaurant Beefsteak or try the famous chili half-smoke at historic chain Ben's Chili Bowl. Hotels in the capital might be pricey, but staying in nearby Alexandria, Virginia, can save you some money and allow you to explore another charming city.

Toronto, Canada

This pedestrian-friendly city is known for its diversity, reflected in its vibrant culture and food scenes. Stroll down the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District, which features art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques housed in restored industrial buildings, grab a bite to eat at St. Lawrence Market, or check out Stackt, a shipping container market with pop-up shops, a microbrewery, and special events. Take advantage of the extensive public transportation network or get around on two wheels with Bike Share. You can easily find a hotel room for less than $200 a night, especially if you visit outside of the busy summer season.

Related: The Perfect 3-day Weekend in Toronto

Yosemite National Park, California

Home to granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoias, and incredible wildlife, Yosemite is one of the most beautiful national parks in the U.S. The budget-friendly vacation destination is a paradise for hikers and photographers, and many trails stay open in the winter. Save on dining and enjoy picnic lunches with views of Yosemite’s wonders. Affordable lodging ranges from camping to cabins, either inside the park or nearby. Even if you don’t stay at the classic Ahwahnee hotel, be sure to stop in to see the decor, art, and architecture of this historic property.

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