The Best Budget-Friendly Beaches to Escape the Heat This 4th of July

ByMercedes Diane Griffin Forbes

As the temperatures rise this summer, what better way to cool off than to head to the beach? Travel experts have analyzed the prices of ice cream, soft drinks, and beer at 35 popular US beaches to reveal the best and most budget-friendly options for this July 4th.

Looking for the cheapest option? Driftwood Beach in Jekyll Island, GA takes the cake with a serving of ice cream for only $1.00 and ice-cold drinks starting at $2.48. But it’s not just the prices that make this beach a must-visit. The abundance of driftwood gives the beach a unique and unconventional charm that sets it apart from traditional beach destinations and makes it a luxury travel experience.

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, consider Coligny Beach in Hilton Head, SC. With top-notch amenities like showers, Wi-Fi connectivity, and beach rentals, Coligny Beach offers a more luxurious escape. And while ice cream may be a bit pricey at around $4.10 per portion, cold drinks at restaurants come at a better deal with soft drinks at around $1.86 and a pint of beer for $2.25.

DG Speaks - Travel - photo so a lady sitting on the beach relaxing under a yellow umbrella
The Best Beaches to Escape the Heat This Summer

For those seeking a tropical getaway, Playa de Isla Verde in San Juan, Puerto Rico offers sunshine and low-priced amenities like soft drinks for less than $2.00. With golden sands and crystal-clear waters, visitors can enjoy exhilarating water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

But what about the west coast? While many Pacific coast beaches were researched, Cannon Beach in Oregon takes the prize for the best beach to cool off this summer. With its stunning coastal landscapes and dramatic sea stacks, Cannon Beach is a sight to behold. And with ice cream around $2.96, it won’t break the bank.

Of course, not all beaches are created equal in terms of price. Smathers Beach in Key West, FL takes the title for the most expensive beach to visit, with a single serving of ice cream costing around $4.00 and ice-cold beverages ranging from $3.77 for a soda to $7.00 for a local brand beer. And while the beach may be beautiful to watch, frequent algal blooms have left it with a less-than-stellar rating of 4.2 stars on Google reviews.

Whether you’re looking for affordable beaches or stunning natural beauty, there are plenty of options to choose from. From Driftwood Beach to Playa de Isla Verde, these beaches offer a mix of affordability, amenities, and natural beauty for a perfect summer vacation.