There’s either one issue or another if you’re wanting to visit the world’s most beautiful beaches. You know, the stunning beaches that make every “top 10” list and are the select dozen or so that are the most photographed in the history of photography (and now, Instagram).
8 Cheap Retreats on the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches
It’s either (a) this beautiful beach is really so beautiful thanks in large part to the fact that it’s also so isolated, and therefore nearly impossible to get to and/or find place to stay that’s even somewhat nearby.
Or it’s (b) its beauty has been seen and now extremely pricey luxury hotels monopolize its shoreline. Simply speaking: Best of luck visiting this beach without forking over a month’s worth of wages.
But there are some circumstances that fall just outside of both of these options — and we found them. Here we provide you with eight cheap retreats that sit right on the sand of eight of the world’s most famous beaches.
1. Villas of the Galleon on Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Villas of the Galleon’s stellar location on the best part of Seven Mile Beach is definitely the selling point here. The stretch in front of the hotel is spacious, not crowded, and scenic with tropical clear water and white sand. The property offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom units with full kitchens, however the decor is dated, particularly in the bedrooms. It could be worth comparing rates with Plantana Condominiums, where the condos tend to be more modern along with a large ocean-view pool is available.
2. El Nido Cove Resort on El Nido Bay, Philippines
El Nido Cove Resort is a quiet mid-range property best for those looking to spend a couple of semi-unplugged days by the beach. Well, specifically a beach that constantly makes “best of” lists thanks to powdery white sand and dramatic limestone formations on the horizon. Its 20 rooms are tidy and airy, with simple island decor and basic amenities, such as air-conditioning, eco-friendly toiletries and ceiling fans.
3. Cinnamon Bay Campground on Cinnamon Bay, St. John
Cinnamon Bay Campground, is, like its name suggests, a campsite on Cinnamon Bay beach within the Virgin Islands National Park (which means it’s protected against pollution and more). Make no mistake, it is a campground, with bare-bones accommodations, communal bathrooms, cold showers, tons of bugs, without any air-conditioning or cell service. But for travelers prepared to surrender these creature comforts, Cinnamon Bay Campground offers several of St. John’s most affordable beachfront accommodations.
4. Praia Ipanema Hotel on Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro
The Praia Ipanema Hotel is a solid upper-middle-range option with an excellent location at Ipanema Beach, where visitors can discover the beautiful waters the area is famous for. Rooms include small balconies (a real rarity in Rio de Janeiro) and great views, which could also be enjoyed on the tiny rooftop pool or restaurant. Rates are reasonable compared to similar nearby hotels, but visitors may also want to think about the cheaper Mar Ipanema Hotel, which is merely a five-minute walk from the sand.
5. Castle Kiahuna Plantation Beach Bungalows on Po’ipu Beach, Kauai
A 115-unit south shore condo fronting Kauai’s renowned Poipu Beac with limited service and varying decor, though an abundance of open space, the Castle Kiahuna offers a similar experience to Outrigger Kiahuna, which can be part of the same Kaihuna Plantation; both have access to the pool, golf and tennis across the street, but service here doesn’t quite match that at the Outrigger.
6. Phi Phi Long Beach Resort & Villa on Long Beach, Thailand
This mid-range hotel sits on Ko Phi Phi’s Long Beach, among the island’s most stunning stretches of sand. The resort has a small pool and restaurant, however the expense of trips by boat into Ko Phi Phi’s main town, Tonsai, will add up. Rooms and villas are spacious and include satellite TV and air-conditioning — plus many have spectacular views of and immediate access to the beach — and some villas come with a private outdoor plunge pool. Another cheap stay directly on the beach that’s worth considering is Long Beach Chalet.
7. Sunrise Beach Clubs and Villas on Cabbage Beach, Bahamas
Smack dab between Atlantis Resort, Riu, and the One&Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island, this hidden gem offers 26 units ranging in size from one-, two-, three-, four and also five-bedroom options. Decor varies depending on the owner’s taste, but these spacious villas all have fully-equipped kitchens, coffeemakers, sofa beds, and patios at generally great prices. Guests can walk to the aforementioned neighboring resorts for restaurants and nightlife, or rent a car for more island freedom. Lounge chairs are never an issue at one of two pools, try not to miss out on having private access to Cabbage Beach; since the entire stretch of sand is completely public, guests can grab a beer from Archie’s stand and pick the party vibe in front or walk further down for near isolation.
8. Reef Residences on Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
This condo-hotel is really a solid mid-range option on the pricey Turks and Caicos, with 24 spacious — if slightly worn — suites featuring full kitchens, sofa beds, and sprawling patios. Features are sufficient for a small condo property that’s not too pricey — there’s a small pool, health and fitness center, and spa — and it’s just a 100-yard stroll to the beach, a beautiful spot that’s protected by a coral reef (with stunning marine life) just offshore.
Nick & Cindy Davis can assist you in purchasing your own Beachfront home here in the Tampa Bay area. Tampa is known for its area beaches on the Gulf Of Mexico. Remember we are always available at 813-300-7116 or simply click here and we will be in touch with you shortly.