For some couples, exploring a new city is an exciting adventure in their relationship. For others, relaxing on the beach is just what they need to build a deeper bond. No matter what they’re looking for, vacations offer couples the opportunity to spice up their relationship away from the distractions and stresses of everyday life. But when you’re on a tight budget, finding a cheap vacation spot can be stressful.
With flights, accommodation and excursions, the cost of a vacation can add up. To make planning easier, we’ve rounded up the best cheap vacation destinations for couples. Whether you’re looking for action-packed fun with your partner, peace and relaxation, or just need a change of scenery, these destinations offer couples a lovely escape without breaking the bank.
Honolulu, Hawaii
This cosmopolitan capital has something for everyone. From affordable dining at local farmers markets to beautiful beach views, Honolulu is perfect for couples. Home to the majority of Hawaii’s native population, the city oozes authenticity and cultural experiences. For couples who enjoy exploring, Honolulu offers numerous attractions and ancient sites, including a stretch of world-famous Waikīkī Beach and ʻIolani Palace. A reliable public transit system (TheBus) makes outings easy and affordable for couples.
Things to do: Visit Waikīkī Beach, hike Lē’ahi (Diamond Head), or enjoy art and nightlife in Downtown Honolulu. Take time to sample local food and eclectic shops in the Kapahulu neighborhood. Learn about history at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific or Kapi’olani Park, or visit Hanaiakamalama (Queen Emma’s Summer Palace).
Accommodation: Queen Kapiolani Hotel, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa, Vive Hotel Waikiki
Palm Springs, California
With sunny weather nearly year-round, Palm Springs is a relaxing, fun vacation destination for couples. There are several canyons to hike, unique art galleries and boutiques. The desert views and hot springs provide a tranquil atmosphere where couples can be in their own world. The public rail system makes it easy to get to the other eight surrounding cities in the greater Palm Springs area.
Things to do: Get involved with art at the Palm Springs Art Museum. You can also visit the Palm Springs Windmill Tours or the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Take the Palm Springs Ariel Tramway and immerse yourself in nature with Tahquitz Canyon, Coachella Valley Preserve or Murray Canyon Trail.
Accommodations: Best Western Plus Las Bristas Hotel, Caliente Tropics Hotel, Mahala Palm Springs
Mazatlan, Mexico
Mazatlán is a beautiful tropical getaway and is known as the “Pearl of the Pacific.” Couples can call cheap taxis and arrange transportation to Historic Centerthe old town of Mazatlán or free parks and historical sites. Travelers also have several Mexican art galleries and shops at their disposal. For those looking for an action-packed experience, Mazatlán offers ziplines and beach tours at minimal cost.
Activities: Party in the nightlife and entertainment in Zone Dorada or have fun at Playa Brujas. Don’t miss the historic site of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception or the gardens of Plaza Machado. There is also Playa Olas Atlas or attractions in Malecón, Historic Center (Old Mazatlan)
Accommodation options: Hotel Playa Mazatlan, Costa de Oro Beach Hotel, El Cid Granada Hotel
San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is a vibrant, romantic destination perfect for any couple who enjoys tropical nature and great food. A budget-friendly vacation spot, the city offers hiking through rainforests, salsa dancing experiences, and a wide variety of colorful historical sites. Stroll through Old San Juan and take in the beauty of the architecture. Or grab a paddleboard and relax with a yoga class on the water. When the sun goes down, enjoy the music and dance until the sun comes up.
Things to do: Explore Old San Juan and the historic Castillo de San Cristobal site. Couples will find plenty to see at The Poet’s Passage art galleries. Couples can also get active by hiking through the El Yunque rainforest and waterfall or walking down Calle de la Fortaleza. If you’re in the mood for clubbing, be sure to explore the bars and clubs of La Factoria’s nightlife.
Accommodation options: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Rainforest, Golf & Beach Resort, The Royal Sonesta San Juan, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Juan
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
A scenic and affordable vacation destination with exciting experiences, Coeur d’Alene offers a variety of attractions for couples. If you’re interested in arts and culture, you can enjoy free or discounted movie theaters, museums, art galleries and dinner theaters year-round. Hop on a bike and explore one of six different trails with beautiful water and landscape views. On weekends, enjoy the flea market before heading to Wallace, Idaho, a historic town with beautiful architecture.
Things to do: Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience in downtown Coeur d’Alene or at the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theater. Find your next unique find at the Coeur d’Alene Flea Market. Hiking enthusiasts can try the Hiawatha Biking Trail or the North Idaho Centennial Trail. In the winter, don’t miss the Coeur d’Alene Outdoor Ice Skating Rink. Plus, extend your vacation with a trip to Wallace, Idaho or Kayak Coeur d’Alene.
Accommodations: Lake Village Lodge, Triple Play Resort Hotel & Suites, The McFarland Inn Bed and Breakfast
Jamaica
A popular budget vacation destination for couples, Jamaica offers a variety of unique water-based experiences, including lagoons, waterfalls, and of course, beautiful beaches. At the market, you can buy handmade clothing, accessories, and jewelry cheaply. If you’re interested in local culture, hike up Blue Mountain and experience indigenous Rastafarian villages. Wherever you go, there are inexpensive dining options serving authentic cuisine.
Things to do: Immerse yourself in history at the Trench Town & Culture Yard Museum, the Bob Marley Museum and Mausoleum, or the Rose Hall Great House Heritage Site. Explore the Two Sisters Cave and the Great River Bay Caves. Couples can also enjoy rafting on the Rio Grande or hiking at Dunn’s River Falls.
Accommodation: Tensing Pen Resort, Westender Inn, Travellers Beach Resort
Toronto, Canada
For couples who love exploring city life, Toronto is the perfect place for a city break. With towering skyscrapers, beautiful architecture, and 400 acres of waterfront parks, couples can enjoy a cheap vacation full of relaxing walks and views. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, take a trip to the world-famous Niagara Falls. For a bit more privacy and adventure, couples can take an inexpensive, 15-minute ferry to the Toronto Islands. The three interconnected islands are the ultimate romantic oasis.
Activities: High Park, Toronto Islands, CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, Distillery District, sightseeing at Harbourfront Centre, shopping at Kensington Market, Hockey Hall of Fame Museum, Niagara Falls
Accommodation options: The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel Toronto, Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto, Chelsea Hotel Toronto
Phuket, Thailand
For couples who love the tropics, Phuket offers a budget-friendly vacation spot with white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and limestone cliffs. Couples can enjoy free tours of Promthep Cape, the Big Buddha Monument, Nai Harn Beach, and the historic Mueang Phuket district. With a variety of natural wonders and historical sites, couples will enjoy unique sightseeing experiences time and time again. For relaxation, couples can enjoy boat tours and local Thai massage and spa experiences.
Things to do: There is so much to do in Phuket, Thailand. Take the Phi Phi Islands Tour, discover the Sea Cave in Phang Nga Bay or join the Phuket City Tour. For a bit of luxury, visit the Phuket Spas. Spend an afternoon at the idyllic Kata Noi Beach, Nai Harn Beach or Promthep Cape. For a touch of culture, visit Wat Chalong Temple
Accommodation: Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, Amatara Welleisure Resort, Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort
Fort Worth, Texas
For those looking for a budget-friendly vacation in a southern sanctuary, Fort Worth has several free attractions. Couples can take a relaxing stroll through the Fort Worth Water Gardens or the Downtown Murals. They can catch a glimpse of traditional ranching at the Stockyards Station, then head to Sundance Square for food and shopping. There’s a free streetcar downtown, making it easy to travel from place to place. With a diverse selection of free museums and galleries, this is the perfect way for couples to experience a romantic getaway with plenty of southern charm.
Things to Do: Downtown Fort Worth, Stockyards National Historic District, Water Gardens, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Sid Richardson Museum, The Shops at Clearfork, Bureau of Engraving and Printing (aka The Money Factory)
Accommodation: Aloft Fort Worth Downtown, Omni Fort Worth Hotel, Hilton Fort Worth
Grenada
Offering a range of experiences for relaxation and adventure, Grenada is an ideal budget getaway for couples. In just one day and for under $100, you can visit Grenada’s chocolate factory, Concord Falls and the rum distillery. If you’re up for some underwater fun, the island offers a glimpse into marine life on snorkeling tours. Couples can enjoy a free visit to Grenada’s marketplace with local vendors and handcrafted goods, La Sagesse Nature Center, Grand Anse Beach or the colorful architecture of the St. George neighborhood.
Activities: For a nature experience, visit Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve. Couples can shop at Grenada’s Market Square. There are plenty of attractions to see in St. George’s, Concord Waterfall or Belmont Estate. Don’t forget the Grenada Chocolate Company, River Antoine Rum Distillery and Spice Plantation Tours.
Accommodation: True Blue Bay Boutique Resort, Royalton Grenada, Radisson Grenada Beach Resort
