Warm weather is perfect for beach adventures, tropical surroundings, and sea breezes. With summer in the air in many places, a beach vacation seems like the perfect plan to kick back and relax. Whether you’re looking for ecotourism and family fun while traveling with teenagers and kids, a tranquil all-inclusive resort for a couples getaway, or a last-minute booking, there are plenty of budget-friendly travel options.
If you’re planning a Memorial Day getaway, here are some ways to avoid travel woes. According to Expedia’s 2023 Air Travel Hacks report, flights that depart before 3 p.m. are 50% less likely to be canceled, so consider grabbing an early morning coffee and heading to the airport. Another travel tip from the company is to opt for direct flights to reduce the chance of disruptions and other inconveniences.
In the wake of pilot strikes and crowded TSA checkpoints, reports suggest packing lighter. Millions of bags are mishandled every year. If you have a backpack or carry-on for your trip, avoid checked bags when traveling during peak season. Finally, save your itinerary details and download travel apps in advance to receive instant flight notifications and updates in case of any sudden changes.
Travel expert Davey Sutton stopped by TODAY to share some of the best last-minute beach vacations you can book right now, plus travel tips that will save you time, money and stress. TODAY readers can also get an exclusive 10% discount on select Expedia accommodations when they enter the code TODAY10.
This Caribbean gem is one of the top destinations for food, music, and culture. Approximately 3 million Americans visit the Dominican Republic each year. In fact, it’s the most visited place in the Caribbean, and Punta Cana is currently the top international destination, according to data from Expedia. Sutton loves this popular family destination with its beaches and large resorts.
This idyllic tropical paradise has 30 miles of white sand coastline and is considered by many to be the birthplace of the modern all-inclusive resort, making it a great option if you’re looking for some much-needed rest and relaxation.
With adults-only resorts, boutique hotels and all-inclusive hotels for families, Punta Cana is a Caribbean paradise worth exploring.
Caribe Deluxe Princess All Inclusive
Punta Cana has one of the best beaches in the country, and Sutton recommends this resort to experience it. Rates start at $160 per night. This newly renovated resort features a pool, seven restaurants, and nine bars. And with a variety of room styles from deluxe suites to romantic options, it’s perfect for an unforgettable honeymoon or a fun bachelorette party. When you book with Expedia, you’ll get an exclusive 10% discount with code TODAY10.
Jewel Punta Cana
The picturesque and lush beach of Uvero Alto offers enchanting palm trees and more well-being. This resort allows you to get in touch with nature with its freeform pool, uncrowded beach and fine sand floor. It has a variety of restaurants serving French, Asian and seafood cuisines. For those looking for a tranquil stay and great hospitality, this is the perfect beach for you.
Jewel Palm Beach
If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, the tranquil atmosphere of Jewel Palm Beach will rejuvenate you. With breathtaking ocean views and all-inclusive amenities, this resort is perfect for those seeking an oceanfront experience and unlimited libations. Punta Cana’s alluring feature is its crystal blue waters. This resort offers an A+ tropical vacation for kids, couples, and the whole family.
Myrtle Beach’s shell-studded scenery draws many to this East Coast resort, and the destination is one of the most popular family vacation spots in the U.S., with something for everyone. From celebrity-designed golf courses to breathtaking sunsets, Myrtle Beach is home to a host of top breweries, perfect for water activities, seafood, and soaking up the sun.
Besides the beautiful beaches, the boardwalk is lined with arcades, games, specialty shops and an amusement park with the tallest Ferris wheel in the U.S. If these thrilling attractions don’t fill your vacation itinerary, you can also stay at one of the best resorts.
Sand Dunes Resort and Suites
This beachfront hotel, recommended by Sutton, has rooms starting at $193 per night and offers guests free admission to the on-site water park, an arcade, indoor mini golf and a variety of room types for the whole family.
If you love water sports, this resort also offers activities for beach lovers, such as windsurfing, sailing, and parasailing. If you’re looking for activities, you’ll find multiple restaurants, beautiful sandy beaches, and overall convenient facilities. For a limited time, this resort also offers 10% off your trip with coupon code TODAY10.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach Coastal Grand Mall
Whether you’re traveling with the family or on business, this Hilton hotel is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate, with an outdoor pool, business center, complimentary daily breakfast buffet and a beer terrace.
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
This luxury hotel offers proximity, ultimate tranquility, and a coastal ambiance with panoramic views of the marina. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a landscaped pool area, and restaurants are within walking distance. There’s also a private sandy beach nearby. Use code TODAY10 for 10% off.
The historic island of Curaçao is reminiscent of a European city, because it was designed that way. Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean island and its capital, Willemstad, combines European style with a colorful Caribbean vibe.
Curacao is also the “C” of the ABC islands and is the largest of the three. This destination is perfect for couples and solo travelers with plenty of activities to enjoy on land and sea. The vibrant nightlife makes Curacao stand out among other neighboring islands, while immersive dining experiences are just the culinary treat your sophisticated palate needs.
Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort
Stay at this resort for a romantic getaway. Perfect for honeymooners, adventure seekers, or escapists looking for a unique experience. With easy access to the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and warm waters for a refreshing trip, this hotel is the perfect place to explore and relax.
The resort is connected to museums, shopping centers, water activities and other cultural experiences, nearby restaurants serve delicious cuisine and downtown beaches offer art workshops, colorful murals and scenic trails for you to explore.
Konitiki Beach Resort Curacao
If you want to relax by day and party by night, this resort is the perfect choice. The hotel offers a tropical atmosphere, a beach club, and great restaurants and bars. With beachfront dining, charming cottages, and a saltwater pool, you’ll feel like you’re in heaven. Use code TODAY10 to get 10% off.
Lionsdive Beach Resort
This 4-star hotel offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, beach volleyball, and scuba diving. Located on a private beach, you can stroll through the gardens, enjoy Japanese cuisine by the sea, or take a dip in the 50-meter pool. Get 10% off with code TODAY10.
Otter Rock is where surfers, nature lovers, and campers congregate to enjoy the coastline, among other things. This gem of the Pacific Northwest was once home to sea otters and offers some of the most beautiful scenery for photographers. Devil’s Punchbowl is a great place to catch some waves, and cyclists can enjoy the many beautiful views this destination has to offer.
Inn at Otter Crest
Stay next weekend at the Inn at Otter Crest starting at $199 a night. This fantastic location is located on Oregon’s central coast. This condo-style hotel offers a variety of rooms to suit a variety of group sizes and budgets. Each room is individually owned, and some even offer coastal views from their beautifully decorated interiors.
This last minute sale can be combined with a 10% discount when you use the code TODAY10, making it even better value.
Salishan Coastal Lodge
If you’re looking for a peaceful stay in a country setting, Salishan Coastal Lodge is the place to be. It offers hiking trails, a spa with coastal views, a golf course, and a beach. Wine lovers can also enjoy wine tastings in the cellar, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the gorgeous greenery from their balcony. Use code TODAY10 to get 10% off.
