Ever tried explaining to a seven-year-old why your family vacation costs more than your monthly mortgage? The blank stare you’ll get is exactly why I’m writing this.
Let’s cut through the nonsense. You don’t need to drain your savings account for quality family time that your kids will actually remember (and not just because of the overpriced resort mascot).
I’ve spent years hunting down cheap family vacations that don’t feel cheap, and I’m about to save you hundreds of research hours and thousands of dollars.
These 10 destinations offer everything from beach paradises to mountain adventures at prices that’ll make you check your calendar to see how soon you can request time off.
But before I reveal the first mind-blowing budget destination, let me warn you about the most common mistake families make when booking…
Mexico and the Caribbean
Cancun on a Budget
Think a Mexican beach getaway will break the bank? Think again! Cancun offers incredible family-friendly resorts that won’t empty your wallet. Many hotels run kids-stay-free promotions during summer and fall, instantly cutting your costs in half.
The real magic happens when you step outside the hotel zone. Local restaurants serve up authentic tacos and quesadillas for a fraction of resort prices. My family of four recently ate like kings for under $30 total!
All-Inclusive Caribbean Deals
Caribbean vacations scream “expensive,” right? Not if you know where to look! Dominican Republic resorts like Punta Cana offer surprisingly affordable all-inclusive packages when you book 3-6 months ahead.
Jamaica’s family resorts drop their prices dramatically during May-June and September-October. We’re talking 40% off peak rates with the same gorgeous beaches and activities.
Puerto Rico: No Passport Required
Flying to Puerto Rico costs about the same as Florida from many US cities, but you get Caribbean vibes without passport hassles. Condado and Isla Verde areas have reasonably priced hotels with kitchenettes to save on meals.
The best part? Free attractions are everywhere. El Yunque rainforest, Old San Juan walking tours, and countless beaches cost nothing but deliver priceless memories. My kids still talk about spotting tiny coquí frogs during our budget-friendly night walk!
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Rivera Maya, Mexico
Splash into Slime-tastic Fun Without Breaking the Bank
Ever dreamed of watching your kids get slimed while you sip a cocktail on a pristine beach? That fantasy vacation actually exists—and it’s more affordable than you’d think!
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts in Punta Cana and Riviera Maya offer that rare unicorn: a luxury family experience that won’t require a second mortgage. With deals starting from $175 per person per night all-inclusive during off-peak seasons, these resorts deliver serious bang for your buck.
What Your Kids Will Flip Over
- Character breakfasts with SpongeBob and friends
- Daily sliming opportunities (yes, THAT green slime)
- Aqua Nick water park access included in your stay
- Club Nick with supervised activities while you sneak off for a massage
Budget-Saving Tips
Book 3-6 months in advance and watch for their famous “Kids Stay Free” promotions that pop up seasonally. Going in May or September can slash prices by up to 40% compared to holiday periods.
The all-inclusive format means no surprise bills—food, drinks, entertainment, and most activities are covered upfront. And unlike many affordable resorts, the food here is actually good! (The parents will appreciate that almost as much as the swim-up bars.)
The Dominican Republic location tends to run about 15% cheaper than the Mexico property, but both offer payment plans if you book directly through their website.
Who knew getting slimed could be so affordable?
Embassy Suites by Hilton Resort, Aruba
Think your family can’t afford a Caribbean vacation? Think again. The Embassy Suites by Hilton Resort in Aruba delivers luxury on a budget that’ll make you do a double-take at your bank statement.
Located on Eagle Beach (consistently rated one of the world’s best beaches), this resort gives you serious bang for your buck. Every room is a spacious suite with a separate living area – perfect when the kids need to crash but you’re not ready for bed.
The best part? The freebies. Every morning, feast on a complimentary full breakfast buffet that’ll save your family around $100 daily. Then each evening, enjoy free drinks and snacks at the manager’s reception. Those savings add up fast.
Kids will flip for the massive pool with waterfalls while you sip something cool from the swim-up bar. The resort sits directly on that postcard-perfect white sand beach with the calmest, clearest water imaginable for little swimmers.
What makes this place a budget winner is Aruba’s consistent climate – it sits outside the hurricane belt, meaning you can book during shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for incredible rates without weather worries.
Pro tip: Book a room with kitchen facilities and hit the local grocery store. Making just a few meals in your suite can save hundreds compared to restaurant dining for every meal.
SLS Playa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico
Think Cancun is just for spring breakers with trust funds? Think again. SLS Playa Mujeres is the family vacation gem you haven’t heard about yet.
Affordable Luxury
This resort nails the sweet spot between luxury and affordability. You’re getting those Instagram-worthy white sand beaches and crystal waters without emptying your savings account. Most families score incredible deals in the $200-300 per night range for accommodations that would cost double elsewhere.
Kid-Friendly Paradise
Your kids will be begging to come back next year. The resort features:
- A massive water park with slides for all ages
- Supervised kids’ club with Mexican-inspired activities
- Teen lounge with video games and age-appropriate hangout spaces
Food That Won’t Break The Bank
The all-inclusive dining options mean you’re not constantly reaching for your wallet. And we’re not talking about sad buffet food either – their restaurants serve authentic Mexican cuisine alongside kid-friendly options that go beyond the usual chicken nuggets.
Money-Saving Tips
Book during May or November for rock-bottom rates (we’re talking 40% less than peak season). The weather’s still perfect, but you’ll dodge the holiday crowds and premium pricing.
Bonus: many packages include airport transfers, which saves another $100+ for your family of four.
The beach at Playa Mujeres is calmer than Cancun’s hotel zone, perfect for little swimmers while still giving you that postcard-perfect Caribbean experience.
Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas
Wait, Atlantis on a budget? Yep, you read that right. This iconic Bahamas resort isn’t just for the rich and famous anymore.
Finding Deals at Paradise Island
The trick to experiencing Atlantis without emptying your savings account is timing. Travel during September to mid-December (hurricane season, but travel insurance helps) and you’ll see prices drop by 30-40%.
Book their “Value” category rooms – they’re perfectly comfortable and give you access to all the same amenities as the fancy suites. The Beach Tower specifically offers the best bang for your buck.
Family-Friendly Activities That Won’t Break the Bank
Once you’re there, the Aquaventure water park is included with your stay – that’s 141 acres of slides, rivers, and pools your kids can enjoy without additional fees. The marine habitats are also free to explore, featuring 14 lagoons and over 50,000 aquatic animals.
Pack lunches from nearby grocery stores instead of eating at the resort restaurants every day. Many rooms have mini-fridges perfect for storing sandwich supplies and snacks.
Travel Hacker Tips
Sign up for Atlantis emails months before your planned trip. They regularly send flash sales and promotions that can save hundreds.
Consider booking through Costco Travel if you’re a member – they often include resort credits and other perks that offset the cost.
Remember, the memories of sliding down the Mayan Temple with your kids will far outweigh the temporary budget strain!
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic
Looking for an all-inclusive that won’t drain your savings? Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda might be the hidden gem you’ve been missing.
A True Budget-Friendly Paradise
This Dominican Republic resort flies under the radar compared to Punta Cana spots, which means better prices and fewer crowds. The math is simple: you pay once and get everything – food, drinks, activities, and even childcare through their amazing Mini Club Med program (ages 4-17).
Most families don’t realize that what seems pricey upfront saves a ton compared to paying separately for meals, entertainment, and activities at other “cheaper” resorts.
Family-Friendly Without Compromise
The resort is divided into four villages, with the Explorer Cove section specifically designed for families. Kids go crazy for:
- Dedicated family pools
- The treetop adventure course
- Archery lessons
- Mini tennis courts
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
Parents love that kids can join supervised activities while they sneak off for adult time (hello, oceanfront yoga classes!).
Insider Tip
Book during shoulder season (May/June or September/October) for rates up to 40% lower than peak winter months. A family of four can often score a 5-night package under $3,000 total – pretty impressive for a premium all-inclusive experience where you don’t have to reach for your wallet once you arrive.
Beaches Resorts & Spa, Negril, Jamaica and Turks & Caicos
Paradise Without Breaking the Bank
Stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and all-inclusive luxury that won’t drain your savings account? Yes, please! Beaches Resorts in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos delivers five-star family experiences at surprisingly affordable rates when you catch their seasonal promotions.
What makes these spots budget-friendly gold? The upfront pricing covers everything from gourmet meals to water sports to Sesame Street character breakfasts. No sneaky extra charges to blow your vacation budget halfway through your trip.
Kids will go wild for the massive water parks while teens hang at their exclusive lounges. Meanwhile, you can actually relax with a tropical drink knowing the little ones are having the time of their lives with certified nannies at the kids’ clubs.
Pro tip: Book during shoulder season (late April to early June or November) when rates drop by up to 45%. Sign up for their email list for flash sales that sometimes include “kids stay free” deals that can save families hundreds.
The Jamaica property tends to run slightly cheaper than Turks & Caicos, but both offer incredible value considering what you get. Watch for air-inclusive packages that bundle flights with your stay – often cheaper than booking separately.
A family of four can enjoy a 5-night stay for under $3,500 during promotion periods. Considering you won’t spend an extra dime on food, entertainment or activities, that’s a Caribbean bargain you can’t ignore.
Grand Velas Resort, Los Cabos, Mexico
Wait, what? A cheap vacation at Grand Velas Los Cabos? Have I got my wires crossed?
Truth bomb: Grand Velas isn’t typically what budget travelers have in mind when planning cheap family getaways. This ultra-luxury resort is actually one of Mexico’s most premium all-inclusive properties.
But here’s the secret most travel agents won’t tell you – Grand Velas occasionally runs incredible family promotions that transform this seemingly out-of-reach paradise into a surprisingly affordable splurge.
During their low season (typically May-June and September-October), rates can drop dramatically. Add in their periodic “kids stay free” promotions and suddenly you’re looking at a luxury experience at mid-range prices.
What makes this place worth the splurge? Try three-tiered infinity pools overlooking the Sea of Cortez, a kids’ club that’ll make adults jealous, and five gourmet restaurants included in your stay. The family suites are massive at 1,100+ square feet – practically apartments!
Pro tip: Book directly through their website and mention any special occasions. The staff here goes above and beyond for celebrations, often throwing in extras that make the experience even more valuable.
No, it’s not the cheapest option on this list. But when you calculate what you’d spend at a mid-range resort after adding all the extras, Grand Velas’ all-inclusive luxury might just turn out to be the better deal.
New England Cozy
New England might not be the first place that comes to mind for budget travel, but this charming region offers incredible family vacation value if you know where to look.
Coastal Maine Magic
Skip the crowded beaches of Cape Cod and head to Maine’s coastline instead. Towns like Old Orchard Beach offer miles of sandy shores without the premium price tag. Rent a cabin or cottage for under $150 per night during shoulder season (May or September), and you’ll get all the coastal charm at half the cost.
The kids will go crazy for Palace Playland, New England’s only beachfront amusement park, where you can buy ride tickets individually instead of expensive day passes. Pack a cooler with lunch to enjoy on the beach and save a bundle.
Vermont Farm Stays
Why book an expensive resort when your family can experience a working farm vacation? Vermont farm stays typically cost $125-175 per night and include unique experiences like collecting eggs and feeding animals.
Liberty Hill Farm in Rochester offers cozy accommodations plus home-cooked breakfasts and dinners included in your stay. The kids get hands-on farm experiences while you enjoy the gorgeous countryside without spending a fortune.
New Hampshire Outdoor Adventures
The White Mountains deliver big adventure without the big price tag. Book a cabin at a state park campground for as little as $25-65 per night, then explore free hiking trails leading to spectacular waterfalls and mountain views.
The Kancamagus Highway scenic drive costs nothing but gas, and spots like Diana’s Baths provide natural water fun that beats any overpriced water park. For rainy days, check out the SEE Science Center in Manchester where admission is just $9 per person.
Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME
Nestled along the pristine shores of Kezar Lake, Quisisana Resort is a hidden gem for families looking to escape without breaking the bank. This all-inclusive Maine resort offers something rare these days – incredible value in a breathtaking setting.
Ever stayed somewhere that feels like summer camp for the whole family? That’s Quisisana. Kids run free on the sprawling grounds while parents actually get to relax. The best part? The resort includes three meals daily in their rates, so you won’t face those surprise food bills that typically derail vacation budgets.
Activities for Every Family Member
The lake is your playground here. Families can kayak, canoe, swim, or fish without spending an extra dime. The resort provides all equipment – no nickel-and-diming here.
There’s a unique twist to this place too. Quisisana doubles as a music resort, with staff members who are actually talented performing arts students. Your kids will be amazed when their sailing instructor performs in that night’s musical performance!
Affordable Luxury
The cabins aren’t fancy, but they’re clean, comfortable and literally steps from the lake. You’re paying for location and experience, not marble bathrooms.
The resort operates seasonally (June-September), making it perfect for summer family getaways. Prices start around $220 per adult per night with significant discounts for children – a steal considering all meals and activities are included.
Book early though. Families return year after year, and spots disappear faster than ice cream on a hot summer day.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT
Vermont’s Best Kept Secret
Ever heard about a place where your kids get their own smugglers’ camp while you hit the slopes? That’s Smugglers’ Notch for you – a wallet-friendly mountain escape that won’t make your credit card weep.
Located in the gorgeous Green Mountains, this resort offers incredible bang for your buck year-round. During winter, you’ll find three interconnected mountains with 78 trails perfect for everyone from wobbly first-timers to black diamond daredevils.
Summer at “Smuggs” (as the locals call it) transforms into a playground with eight heated pools, four waterslides, and tons of hiking trails right outside your door.
What really sets this place apart is their award-winning kids’ programs. While your little ones are treasure hunting or learning to ski with certified instructors, you can actually enjoy that vacation you paid for!
Their condo-style accommodations come with fully equipped kitchens – a massive money-saver when traveling with hungry kids. Cook breakfast in your PJs and pack lunches for trail adventures instead of dropping $100+ daily at restaurants.
They also run fantastic package deals that bundle lodging, activities, and even ski lessons at significant discounts. Their “FamilyFest” packages during slower seasons can save you up to 50% off regular rates.
The best part? Everything’s walkable or accessible via free shuttle, so you won’t waste money on rental cars or rideshares once you arrive.
Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA
Looking for a Cape Cod vacation that won’t destroy your budget? Ocean Edge Resort in Brewster is your answer. This hidden gem offers families the perfect mix of New England charm and resort amenities without the astronomical price tag.
Incredible Value for Cape Cod
The resort features spacious villa accommodations with full kitchens – a game-changer for families looking to save on dining costs. Cook breakfast in your pajamas, pack picnic lunches, and still enjoy the occasional restaurant meal without blowing your vacation fund.
Beach Access Without Premium Prices
The private beach access is worth its weight in gold. While other Cape Cod destinations charge premium rates for waterfront properties, Ocean Edge gives you those stunning Bay views and sandy shores at surprisingly reasonable rates, especially during shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October).
Kid-Friendly Amenities
Your kids will be too busy having fun to notice you’re saving money:
- Five swimming pools (both indoor and outdoor)
- Complimentary kids’ activities program
- Bike rentals for the nearby Cape Cod Rail Trail
- Basketball and tennis courts
Money-Saving Tip
Book a mid-week stay during shoulder season and save up to 30% compared to weekend summer rates. The weather’s still fantastic, but the crowds and prices are dramatically reduced.
The resort’s “Family Fun Package” often includes meal credits and activity passes, stretching your dollar even further. Who says you can’t enjoy a slice of Cape Cod luxury on a budget?
Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME
Looking for a New England getaway that won’t drain your savings account? Sebasco Harbor Resort in Maine might just be your family’s next favorite spot.
Hidden Gem on the Maine Coast
This charming oceanfront resort offers that quintessential Maine experience without the premium price tag. Nestled on 550 acres of woodland, gardens, and rocky coastline, Sebasco gives your family room to breathe and explore.
Most families don’t realize they can score oceanfront accommodations here for about 30-40% less than the big-name coastal resorts just an hour south. The best part? Kids under 12 often stay free with parents.
Activities Without Add-on Fees
What makes Sebasco truly budget-friendly is all the included activities:
- Saltwater swimming pool overlooking the harbor
- Kayaks and paddleboards for guest use
- Guided nature walks
- Kids’ club activities during summer months
- Evening campfires with s’mores
Their “Family Fun Package” bundles accommodations with meals and activities, making it easier to stick to your vacation budget without constant nickel-and-diming.
Budget-Friendly Dining Options
You won’t be trapped with expensive resort dining. The Ledges Pub serves kid-friendly options at reasonable prices, and many accommodations include kitchenettes. The nearby town of Bath offers even more affordable eating options for day trips.
My favorite money-saving hack? Book during their shoulder season (May-June or September) when rates drop by nearly 40% but the weather’s still perfect for exploring tidepools and hiking coastal trails.
The Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport, ME
Tucked away in the charming coastal town of Kennebunkport, The Nonantum Resort offers families an unbelievably affordable New England getaway that won’t drain your wallet.
This hidden gem combines old-world charm with modern amenities at prices that’ll make you do a double-take. Seriously, I checked their family packages three times because I couldn’t believe the deal.
Their seasonal family packages often include complimentary breakfast (a huge money-saver when traveling with hungry kids) and activities that keep the little ones engaged without extra costs. During summer months, kids can participate in the resort’s Tidal Pool Club, exploring Maine’s fascinating coastal ecosystem without spending an extra dime.
The resort sits just a short walk from Dock Square, where you can window shop or grab ice cream without the pressure to spend big. Their rooms are spacious enough for families, many featuring stunning water views that make you feel like you’re splurging when you’re actually saving.
What makes Nonantum truly special is their staff’s dedication to family experiences. They’ll point you toward free local attractions and beaches where your kids can build sandcastles while you relax with that book you’ve been meaning to finish.
For families wanting a taste of quintessential New England without the typical coastal premium pricing, The Nonantum Resort delivers a vacation experience that feels luxurious while remaining refreshingly affordable.
Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT
Looking for a mountain escape that won’t break the bank? Tucked away in the picturesque town of Stowe, Vermont, Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge offers families an affordable retreat that’s surprisingly wallet-friendly.
Cozy Accommodations with a Modern Twist
The recently renovated rooms strike that perfect balance between rustic charm and modern comfort. Kids will love the bunk bed options in family suites, while parents appreciate the kitchenettes that help cut down on restaurant costs. Pack some groceries, make simple breakfasts in your room, and save those dollars for adventures instead!
Year-Round Affordable Activities
Summer visitors get complimentary mountain bikes to explore the renowned Cady Hill Forest trails right outside your door. In winter, the lodge offers discounted lift tickets to nearby Stowe Mountain Resort – a huge saving for families looking to hit the slopes.
Free Family Perks
Who doesn’t love freebies? The lodge includes complimentary s’mores kits for evening bonfire gatherings where kids naturally make vacation friends while parents relax. Their “adventure backpacks” come loaded with binoculars, field guides, and scavenger hunt lists – keeping the little ones entertained without spending an extra dime.
Budget-Friendly Dining Nearby
Skip the tourist traps and ask the super-friendly staff about local hidden gems. The nearby Piecasso offers “Kids Eat Free” nights, and the lodge’s partnership with local farm stands gets you fresh produce at resident prices.
With rooms often dipping below $150/night during shoulder seasons, this Vermont gem delivers big mountain memories without the intimidating price tag.
California Dreamin’
California is the classic bucket-list destination, but guess what? You don’t need movie-star money to enjoy its sunshine and stunning landscapes with your family.
Affordable SoCal Adventures
Skip the pricey theme park tickets and head straight to the beaches. Huntington Beach offers free family fun with its wide shores and legendary surf culture. Pack a picnic, bring some sand toys, and you’ve got a day that’ll cost you almost nothing while creating priceless memories.
For accommodations, check out the budget-friendly hotel chains in Anaheim or consider vacation rentals in less touristy areas like Ventura County. Staying just 15-20 minutes away from major attractions can literally save you hundreds.
Northern California on a Budget
The redwoods don’t charge admission fees to amaze your kids! Redwood National and State Parks offer some of the most breathtaking natural wonders for just the cost of getting there. Junior Ranger programs keep the little ones engaged while you all soak in those ancient trees.
In San Francisco, skip the expensive tours and ride the iconic cable cars ($8 for adults, kids under 4 ride free). Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, explore free museum days, and picnic at Golden Gate Park.
Hidden Value Spots
California’s Central Coast is the sweet spot for budget travelers. Places like Morro Bay and Pismo Beach offer affordable motels, fresh seafood markets (way cheaper than restaurants), and miles of coastline for tidepooling and shell collecting.
Pro tip: Visit during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) when prices drop but the weather’s still gorgeous. Your wallet and your Instagram feed will thank you.
The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa, Oceanside, CA
California Coastal Luxury on a Budget
Ever heard of Oceanside? It’s that hidden gem along California’s coast where you can enjoy luxury without emptying your wallet. The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa is perfect for families who want that upscale beach experience without the typical price tag.
Rooms with a View (That Won’t Break the Bank)
The family suites here give you plenty of space to spread out, with separate living areas where the kids can crash while you enjoy some quiet time. Many rooms offer stunning ocean views – honestly, waking up to the sound of waves is worth every penny.
Activities for Everyone
The resort boasts a gorgeous pool deck where parents can relax while keeping an eye on the kids splashing around. When you’re ready to venture out, the beach is literally steps away – no car needed! Grab the complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas and make a day of it.
Budget-Friendly Dining Options
While the resort has fantastic dining options, you can save big by hitting up the local fish taco stands or bringing snacks for beach picnics. The resort’s off-season packages often include food credits or kids-eat-free promotions.
Timing is Everything
Visit during shoulder season (September-October or April-May) when rates drop dramatically but the weather’s still perfect. Midweek stays can save you up to 30% compared to weekend rates – that’s money you can spend on ice cream runs and souvenir shopping!
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles isn’t just for the rich and famous. You might think a family trip to LA would drain your bank account faster than a Hollywood divorce settlement, but you’d be shocked at how budget-friendly it can be.
Free Beach Fun
Skip the pricey theme parks for a day and hit the gorgeous public beaches. Venice Beach offers free entertainment with street performers, while Santa Monica’s shoreline provides hours of sandcastle-building fun that won’t cost you a dime.
Affordable Attractions
Griffith Observatory? Totally free. The stunning views of the city and interactive exhibits will amaze kids of all ages. The La Brea Tar Pits charge just $15 for adults and $7 for kids to see real prehistoric fossils.
Wallet-Friendly Accommodations
Stay slightly outside the tourist zones in places like Burbank or Pasadena. Many hotels offer family suites with kitchenettes under $150/night, letting you cook some meals instead of eating out for every single bite.
Transportation Hacks
Rent a car for just the days you need to visit spread-out attractions. Otherwise, LA’s metro system costs a fraction of Uber rides and reaches most major spots. A 7-day pass runs about $25 per person – way cheaper than daily rideshares.
Food Savings
The city’s food truck scene isn’t just trendy – it’s affordable! Score amazing tacos for $2 each or gourmet grilled cheese for $6. Grand Central Market downtown offers incredible food variety without restaurant markups.
San Diego, CA
Think San Diego is just for the big spenders? Think again. This sunny SoCal gem offers tons of affordable family fun without emptying your wallet.
Beach Days That Cost Nothing
The beaches here are completely free and absolutely magnificent. La Jolla Cove lets kids explore tide pools teeming with sea creatures, while Coronado Beach’s sparkling sand (it literally glitters!) provides hours of entertainment. Pack a picnic lunch, some beach toys, and you’ve got a full day of fun for basically the cost of sunscreen.
Balboa Park: Culture on a Budget
Most people don’t realize that many of Balboa Park’s 17 museums offer free admission days each month. The stunning grounds with gardens, playgrounds, and street performers cost absolutely nothing to enjoy. My kids could spend hours watching the giant koi fish in the lily pond!
Affordable Accommodations
Skip the pricey oceanfront resorts and check out family-friendly hotels in Mission Valley or Old Town. They’re typically 30-40% cheaper and just a short drive to all attractions. Many offer free breakfast and shuttle services too.
Money-Saving Tip
Grab a Go San Diego Pass if you’re hitting multiple attractions. It bundles admission to the Zoo, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND and more for up to 60% off regular prices. We saved nearly $400 on our last trip using this hack!
Honestly, San Diego might be the most wallet-friendly coastal vacation in California. The perfect weather means year-round outdoor activities that cost little to nothing.
Monterey, CA
