• Poll identifies the top 175 affordable family vacation destinations this summer. 

• Georgia has 4 destinations that made the list.

• Infographic showing the most popular budget-friendly destinations for 2023.

As gas prices and the cost of living remain stubbornly high, many families will be forced to tighten their belts when it comes to their upcoming summer vacations. An increasing number of families are opting for budget-friendly alternatives, trading the glitz and glamor of expensive resorts for the simple pleasures offered by more cost-effective destinations.

FamilyDestinationsGuide.com ran a survey of 3,000 families to find out which affordable destinations they would most like to visit in 2023. 

“'Affordable’ does not mean ‘inferior or ‘second-rate’” points out Rose Ackermann, of FamilyDestinationsGuide.com. “The budget-friendly travel sphere is bursting with choices, offering everything from breathtaking outdoor experiences to cultural immersion, charming local accommodations, and gastronomical delights that won't break the bank.”

The results revealed a general swing away from the more expensive resorts to be found in the likes of Hawaii or Florida, with some interesting results.

#1

In top spot came New York’s Long Beach. Situated on a picturesque barrier island, this coastal town offers a wealth of activities and attractions that are budget-friendly and enjoyable for all ages. Families can find affordable accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, providing comfortable and cost-effective options for their stay. One of the main draws of Long Beach is its beautiful sandy beach, which offers free access for all visitors. Families can spend their days sunbathing, swimming, and playing in the surf without incurring any additional costs. The town also boasts a lively boardwalk, where families can enjoy free concerts, movie nights, and a range of affordable dining options.

#2

Following close behind in second position was another New York favorite, particularly among locals – Coney Island. This iconic beachfront area is known for its lively atmosphere, amusement parks, and family-friendly activities that won't break the bank. Families can enjoy the affordable thrill of riding roller coasters and playing games at Luna Park, which offers a variety of ticket options to suit different budgets. The Coney Island Boardwalk provides free access to the beach, where families can swim, sunbathe, and indulge in affordable treats like hot dogs and ice cream from the local vendors. Coney Island also hosts free events and performances during the summer months, providing entertainment for all ages.

#3

Surfside Beach in South Carolina made up the top 3. It offers a variety of affordable lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, ensuring that families can find comfortable accommodations that fit their budget. Additionally, Surfside Beach is known for its beautiful sandy shores and offers free public beach access, providing families with the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles without any additional costs. The beach also offers affordable opportunities for water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

#4

In fourth place came Oak Island, in North Carolina. Located along the picturesque Brunswick Islands, this charming coastal town offers a range of family-friendly activities and attractions. Families can find affordable accommodations, including cozy beachfront cottages, budget-friendly hotels, and affordable vacation rentals, ensuring a comfortable and cost-effective stay. Oak Island boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches, and the town offers affordable attractions like the Oak Island Lighthouse, where families can climb to the top for breathtaking views, and the Oak Island Nature Center, which offers educational exhibits and nature programs for all ages.

#5

And rounding up the top 5 came Galveston in Texas. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and family-friendly experiences that won't strain the budget. Families can enjoy free access to the expansive Galveston Island Beach, where they can swim and play beach games. There are a variety of attractions like Moody Gardens, which offers affordable admission and features a variety of exhibits, including an aquarium, a rainforest pyramid, and a discovery museum. Galveston also hosts affordable events and festivals throughout the year, including live music performances, food festivals, and holiday celebrations.

6. Asbury Park, New Jersey
7. Prescott, Arizona
8. Crystal Beach, Texas
9. Topsail Beach, North Carolina
10. Bell Buckle, Tennessee

Georgia had 4 affordable vacation destinations that were voted among America's most popular:

#20

Dahlonega (GA) emerged in 20th postion overall. This historic town is known for its charming downtown, outdoor beauty, and family-friendly experiences that won't strain the budget. Families can explore the picturesque Dahlonega Square, where they can enjoy free events and festivals, browse local shops, and sample affordable Southern cuisine. The area is also famous for its gold mining history, and families can visit the Consolidated Gold Mine for an affordable tour and the opportunity to try their luck at gold panning. The nearby Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site offers affordable admission and provides insights into the region's gold rush era. 

#34

In 34th place, Madison is an affordable vacation destination that families can enjoy without straining their budget. Families can find affordable accommodations, including cozy bed and breakfasts, family-friendly hotels, and vacation rentals, ensuring a comfortable and cost-effective stay. Madison's historic district, known for its beautifully preserved antebellum homes and historic sites, offers affordable or free self-guided walking tours, allowing families to immerse themselves in the town's history and architecture without any additional costs. Families can explore affordable attractions like the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, which hosts art exhibits, concerts, and workshops for all ages. The town's natural surroundings, including state parks and scenic trails, offer free or low-cost opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

#60

Blue Ridge placed in 60th positon. This picturesque mountain town offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions without straining the budget. Families can explore the stunning Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, offering affordable rides through the scenic countryside. They can also enjoy free or low-cost activities such as hiking the family-friendly trails at nearby Chattahoochee National Forest or picnicking by the serene waters of Lake Blue Ridge. The charming downtown area features affordable dining options, unique boutiques, and antique shops.

#91

And Warm Springs placed in 91st positon overall. Firstly, the town offers a range of affordable lodging options, including budget-friendly hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, ensuring that families can find comfortable accommodations that fit their budget. Additionally, Warm Springs is known for its natural hot springs, providing families with an affordable and rejuvenating experience. Families can visit the historic Warm Springs Pools, which offer affordable admission rates and the opportunity to soak in the mineral-rich waters. Moreover, the town is home to the Little White House, the former retreat of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which offers affordable guided tours and educational exhibits. Families can learn about the history of the president and his impact on the country. 

Infographic showing the top 175 affordable family destinations for Summer 2023

"Choosing an affordable destination doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your family's vacation. On the contrary, it opens up an opportunity to focus on what truly matters: shared experiences, discovery, and quality time together. By seeking out these budget-friendly options, families not only ease their financial strain but also find a sense of adventure in exploring lesser-known locales that might offer richer cultural exchanges, natural beauty, and unique experiences" says Ms Ackermann. 

For more information visit Family Destinations Guide