7 Affordable Destinations On The Pacfic Coast For Budget Travelers
Ah, the Pacific Coast; everyone thinks it is all private beaches, $25 margaritas, and hotels where the price of a room is equal to your monthly rent. Well, surprise! There are small towns along the coast that will barely cost you a thing, and they are more than just spots on the map with scenic views. Sure, the Pacific is famous for Malibu and “Surfs up!” and yes, its coastline is one of the most desired vacation destinations in the world. Not to mention the jaw-dropping cliffs formed by millions of years of erosion, but just because other people feel the need to spend $5,000 on a week-long trip all for the social media flex does not mean you have to follow the trend. These seven hidden gems along the Pacific offer everything from affordable seafood to budget hotels by the beach, and one thing is certain: you will be too busy hiking around volcanoes and dodging giant waves to even notice how cheap your trip really is.
Astoria, Oregon
Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, this town has much that sets it apart from other quaint seaside towns. While small, the city’s heart beats with history, especially maritime tales from the early days of American exploration. The Astoria Column, a 125-foot tower, provides panoramic views of both the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, and best of all, it is free to visit. Budget-friendly motels, like the Astoria Riverwalk Inn, keep your wallet in check while you explore. Bowpicker Fish & Chips serves up some of the freshest seafood in town without the hefty price tag.
While in town, spend some time at the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, just thirteen minutes from town, where you can enjoy a slice of history, all while having fun outdoors. Local events, especially the Astoria Regatta held since 1894, offer plenty of entertainment, from parades to waterfront activities, all without busting your budget. Between the history, fresh food, and captivating views, Astoria provides everything a traveler could want, and at a price that is right.
Eureka, California
Eureka is the gift that keeps on giving without the buyer's remorse. With a mix of Victorian elegance and laid-back coastal life, it is perfect for those seeking to enjoy national history and nature on a budget. Known for its historic architecture, Eureka’s Old Town is a walking museum of Victorian design that will leave your camera glued to your hand and possibly overheating. The Carson Mansion, now a private club but still an architectural marvel, is one of the most beautiful sights in town. Budget-conscious travelers can find great deals at the Red Lion Hotel Eureka, and Humboldt Transit Authority keeps getting around easy and affordable.
If you are into outdoor exploration, less than an hour from town, Redwoods National Park is a great option for a day trip spent in the great outdoors, offering some of the world’s largest trees, and you will not spend a penny to wander through them. The Eureka Main Street District regularly hosts markets and events, like the Art Alive event held every first Saturday of the month, to promote local creativity, adding a touch of local life to your stay.
Coos Bay, Oregon
Up the coast in Oregon, you will find a gem of a town with a rich maritime history and loads of outdoor charm. Once a lumber town, Coos Bay is now an affordable coastal stop where nature lovers and history buffs flock every year. Visit Shore Acres State Park for views of the rugged coastline and seasonal floral displays that cost you nothing but time. Local favorites, like Coney Station, are a great place to grab some food and spend an evening getting to know the regulars.
Coos Bay has a solid transit system, so getting around to all the town's many offerings is possible without costly Uber fees. At the Edgewater Inn, you can book an inexpensive hotel room that is right on the water, adding a special twist to your stay that would often cost the same amount in larger, more popular cities. The Coos History Museum and Coos Art Museum can connect you even deeper with the spirit of the area and of the people who have called it home over the generations. Additionally, there are few places in this town where you can not access its spectacular waterfront, making the town of Coos Bay ideal for those looking for a quiet spot to fish.
Crescent City, California
This is a town that truly makes an excellent destination for anyone wanting to stretch their travel budget while still soaking up the best of the Pacific Coast. This town keeps it low-key while giving visitors access to some of the tallest trees on Earth. The nearby Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is an affordable outdoor playground for hikers and nature lovers that happens to be one of only two state parks in California that offer a Federal Access Pass discount. So, if frequenting the nation's beautiful parks is a passion of yours, this is the town for you.
Meanwhile, Pebble Beach is the perfect spot for a no-cost beach day. For those who love fresh seafood without the hefty price, Fisherman’s Restaurant delivers tasty options without a shocking bill. Oceanfront Lodge is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering rooms with views of the ocean for under $100. Lastly, the town has a strong sense of community and togetherness that you have to experience to believe, particularly during events like the free Sea Cruise Car Show.
Port Townsend, Washington
Port Townsend is a small town that is packed full of excursions for anyone looking for historical intrigue and outdoor fun, all without burning a hole in your wallet. Known for its well-preserved Victorian homes, this town will allow you to capture some great photos for your social media page, where antique filters will make the appearance of the homes really pop. If you are a fan of coastal hikes, Fort Worden State Park gives you access to beaches and trails at no cost. Not to mention, the park is also equipped with picnic tables and grills, so you will have everything you need for a full day spent in the great outdoors.
The Monarch Hotel keeps accommodations affordable, with rooms starting at as low as $120, and Jefferson Transit helps visitors get around while saving money for great food and more town attractions. Grab a meal at the Fountain Café, a beloved French restaurant, or Bayview Restaurant with great waterfront views so you can enjoy your meal in style. A great time of year to visit the town is in September during the Port Townsend Film Festival. Although ticket costs are $125, its value is over $300, and spread across four days, it is a steal. Plus, it is a non-profit film festival that helps aspiring filmmakers.
Lincoln City, Oregon
Lincoln City can best be described as a hidden gem along the Pacific Coast, where affordable beach activities are abundant, and it is a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter coastal retreat. Spend the day beachcombing, flying a kite, or simply enjoying the sand. This also means your main pastime during your time in this town is completely free. For those who want a mix of nature and relaxation, Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area offers easy access to outdoor adventures without the high cost. It is also a camper's paradise with twenty-eight full hook-up spots with cable TV.
When hunger strikes, head to the WildFlower Grill, where you can enjoy amazing food for breakfast and lunch without the hefty price tag. For dinner, head to Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill, which has great options for budget travelers and for those who are looking to splurge a little on an unforgettable meal. The Siletz Bay Beachfront Hotel by OYO Lincoln City is a budget-friendly option with suits you can book for less than $100, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the beach and ocean views from their rooms without spending a fortune. Do not forget the annual Finders Keepers event, where you can hunt for glass floats along the beach, another fun and free activity that is great for children.
Bandon, Oregon
The town of Bandon might not have a huge population, but it has enough spirit to make any coastal lover feel right at home. With affordable accommodations like the La Kris Inn, where you can get a cozy room for as low as $85 per night, staying here will not cost you an arm and a leg. If you want to get around, Dial-A-Ride, provided by the Coos County Area Transit District, can take you anywhere you need to go in town. All you have to do is give them one day's notice. When it is time to eat, make a stop at The Wheelhouse Restaurant, where fresh seafood and classic American dishes await, without sending you into a panic when you get the bill.
Bandon Beach’s coastal rock formations alone are enough to fill your camera roll. However, try not to miss the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge for free birdwatching and nature walks. Finally, history buffs will appreciate the town’s resilience. Bandon rose from the ashes of a 1936 fire to become the coastal beauty it is today.
So, there you have it, small towns along the Pacific Coast that you can visit confidently, knowing that when it is over, a glimpse at your bank account will not leave you in tears. These places prove you do not need to blow your life savings to enjoy a coastal escape. Whether it is walking among towering trees in Oregon, eating seafood that does not cost more than your entire meal plan, or staying in a cozy hotel where the only thing “overpriced” is the local clam chowder, these towns have it all. You will leave with your pockets intact, but your heart will be a little heavier from all the fun you will have. do not worry; it is just the weight of the good memories.
