Five budget-friendly beach destinations South Africans need to visit

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A beach holiday doesn’t have to cost a fortune! While luxury island resorts may be out of reach, there are plenty of stunning, budget-friendly beach destinations around the world where South Africans can enjoy sun, sand, and sea without breaking the bank. Here are five affordable beach destinations worth considering…

1. Madagascar – Nosy Be

Nosy Iranja in Nosy Be, Madagascar. Image: canva

Nosy Be is an island paradise off the coast of Madagascar, with some of the most stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of wildlife. It’s also much cheaper than many Indian Ocean island destinations like Mauritius or the Seychelles! Nosy Be has budget-friendly guesthouses, affordable local seafood, and activities like snorkelling, diving, and hiking

Budget tip:

Book flights in advance to secure cheaper airfare, as direct flights from South Africa can be pricey.

2. Vietnam – Da Nang & Hoi An

budget-friendly beaches — Beach in Da Nang. Image: canva

Vietnam’s central coast is home to some of the most beautiful and affordable beaches in Southeast Asia. Da Nang’s My Khe Beach and the nearby town of Hoi An offer golden sands, warm waters, and a relaxed vibe. Vietnam is generally known for being extremely budget-friendly, with low-cost accommodations and cheap but delicious food.

Budget tip:

Eat at local food stalls instead of tourist restaurants, and use the affordable Grab app for transport instead of taxis.

3. The Philippines – Palawan

The Philippines is a paradise for beach lovers, and Palawan is one of its most stunning yet budget-friendly islands. El Nido and Coron are known for their crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and affordable island-hopping tours. Unlike luxury destinations in the Maldives, Palawan offers similar breathtaking scenery at a fraction of the cost.

Budget tip:

Book domestic flights in advance for the best rates, and take shared island-hopping tours instead of private charters.

4. Mexico – Tulum

Riviera Maya Beach in Tulum, Mexico. Image: canva

For South Africans looking to explore beyond Africa and Asia, Tulum in Mexico offers an affordable beach escape with a mix of history, culture, and Caribbean charm. While Cancun can be pricey, Tulum has a range of budget accommodations, cheap taco stands, and beautiful beaches that are free to enjoy.

Budget tip:

Use colectivos (shared taxis) instead of private cabs and eat at local taco stands rather than expensive beachfront restaurants.

5. Albania – Ksamil and The Albanian Riviera

If you’re looking for a European beach destination that won’t empty your wallet, Albania is an incredible alternative to expensive hotspots like Italy or Greece. The beaches in Ksamil and along the Albanian Riviera boast clear blue waters, charming villages, and low-cost accommodations.