12 Affordable Summer Vacation Spots In the Pacific Northwest

For those looking for incredible getaways on a budget that do not sacrifice the views, amenities, and attractions, look no further than the Pacific Northwest. The boundless Pacific Northwest region, from its gorgeous coast to the mountain and desert ranges, offers a vast choice of affordable escapes. Choose a new adventure that is easy on the wallet yet boasts nature galore and plenty of small towns to enjoy the local pace and lifestyle without the jacked-up prices. With so many places just outside of Seattle and other metropolises, visitors will not break the bank when traveling to these destinations!

Alvord Desert, Oregon

This perfect desert-scape in Oregon is not all desert but a unique compilation of landscapes along an unpaved road. From dramatic gorges to crisp mountain lakes and alpine-reminiscent forests, this stunning wilderness area is one of the last unexplored in the Pacific Northwest, as well as crowd-free and dirt-cheaply affordable. Aside from a small fee to enjoy the hot springs, there's no cost associated with visiting the area, so pack up your gear, fill up on gas, and take off for the perfect Southeast Oregon itinerary.

The checkerboard-cracked earth feels alien on a drive along its flattened piece of crumpled paper scenery ahead and mirage-inducing sights to both sides, like the scenic Steens Mountain Loop in Frenchglen, converging with the Malheur Wetlands. Alvord Hot Spring Oasis at the desert playa's edge in the foothills is perfect to soak in views, reaping health benefits, and relaxing like never before in your life. Alvord Desert Playa is the perfect off-the-beaten-path Adventureland with free camping for a full sensory immersion with no reservations required.

Coos Bay, Oregon

Conveniently located along Oregon’s magnificent Adventure Coast, Coos Bay has plenty of comfortable accommodations for every budget, just steps away from the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Shore Acres State Park. Get out and explore these massive dunes and sandy beaches surrounding the small town, which has a botanical garden perched on a cliff above the Pacific Ocean. The beautiful small town in the sea's embrace has something for everyone on an affordable getaway and a whole outdoorsy heaven to get one-on-one with nature, which doesn't have to cost a thing.

From fishing, clamming, wildlife, and bird watching to whale watching, biking, and riding the dunes, there's also Sunset Bay State Park's beach, which is relaxing anytime from morning until sunset amid sea cliffs. Formerly called Marshfield, with a rich history in shipbuilding and lumber production, it is now a seaside destination for family getaways with attractions for all. Check out Coos Bay's refreshed downtown scene of antiques, gift shops, a theater, and plentiful places for coffee, dining, and drinks by the bay. Learn more about the past at the Coos History Museum, in a lovely Art Deco former post office building filled with local and regional artists' works.

Copalis Beach, Washington

The North Beach town of Copalis Beach is an affordable destination along the aptly named subdivision of Haven-by-the-Sea, some five miles north of Ocean Shores. Visit to end the summer season on a high note, with experiences for every group and a taste of pursuit. You will be primed for scenic ventures through the natural wonderland of the 364-acre Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park at the river's mouth on the ocean, with 8,316 feet of shoreline comprising a lovely beach and low dunes. With the new bridge, you can even find affordable beachside housing to settle in the tiny coastal community between the Copalis River and the ocean.

The Connor Creek Bridge at the end of Heath Road off State Highway 109 offers easy foot access over Connor Creek, which recently shifted north about four miles and cut off beach access in town. Visit Copalis Beach for a beach getaway like no other to feast cheaply on razor clams, a century-old business here at the end of the world’s largest razor clam bed, and the free outdoors. There's fishing, beachcombing, and hiking, while the charming Iron Springs Resort offers oceanside cabins near the many hiking trails around the beach.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake National Park is a popular outdoor escape in a state full of natural wonders and one of its most dramatic. Established in 1902, the park protects Crater Lake and the unique habitat around it, housing fifteen different coniferous species of plants like ponderosa pines and white bark pines. Take a hike along various trails with wildlife like black bears, elk, mountain lions, and spotted owls that shy away from humans, or visit the park simply for the unmissable, extraordinary beauty of the lake.

The snow and rain-fed Crater Lake is the purest lake in the United States, as well as its deepest. It boasts a deep blue hue with see-through waters in an alpine setting with magnificent views all around from atop the Cascade Range. The incredible features are a magnet for artists, photographers, geologists, and anyone who appreciates beauty, striking even the most unfazed. You can rim this lake, created after a collapsed Mount Mazama volcano, via a scenic drive around, or boat out to the cinder cone-shaped Wizard Island near the western edge.

Issaquah, Washington

The small town of Issaquah, some 30 minutes west of downtown Seattle, is a whole other world to quickly get away from the city without breaking the bank. Find it tucked scenically at the base of the Cascade Mountain Range for all-level hiking along the foothills and up the slopes. Issaquah embraces both the Tiger Mountain State Forest and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, making it a top outdoorsy choice in the Pacific Northwest. Take the steep Poo Poo Point Trail with spicy views atop, or head to Lake Sammamish State Park with a beach for all your summertime dreams realized.

Enjoy sunny days of boating, stand-up paddle boarding, or relaxing at the sights with no worries in mind. The wonderful town keeps on giving with a historic central area, steps away from the best hiking trails through parks, and places to delight your taste buds post-activities. Visit the Cougar Mountain Zoo with your family and say hello to the Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery. The Boehm’s Will Candies and the historic Triple XXX Root Beer Drive-in Restaurant are guilty pleasure compliments to your perfect weekend getaway in the state, made even more memorable.

Kalaloch and Ruby Beach, Washington

This convenient escape from Seattle is one of the most rewarding and cheap summertime destinations in the state. Get away from the city in under four hours to a whole other atmosphere with outdoor experiences to enrich your summertime collection of memories. The protected area of Kalaloch along the coast opens up into the Pacific waters with a scenic Ruby Beach, which is wonderful for fun, family strolls, and relaxation.

The other side of town faces part of Olympic National Park, so there’s never a dull moment. Choose the Kalaloch Lodge, Lake Quinault Lodge with a restaurant, or set base at an NPS campground and relish in the remote feel. Explore the pristine nature on all sides without crowds with activities like kite running along the sands, tide pools at Ruby Beach, and a cool tree cave in Kalaloch. Visit the beautiful Quinault Rainforest, a short drive away, with great hiking trails and the most spectacular foliage in the fall.

Lake Chelan, Washington

The crystal-clear, glacier-fed Lake Chelan in central Washington is some 180 miles northeast of Seattle. Enjoy recreation and relaxation along the 50-mile-long lake, one of the clearest lakes in the United States, reaching 1,486 feet in depth. There are wonderful rental condos, while the small town of Chelan features a water park, go-karts, and a dozen golf courses nearby. Visit the northern neighbor of Manson for vineyard strolls and winery tastings, as well as shopping and dining, while Stehekin, with no road access further north, is best for hiking like the Pacific Crest Trail.

Lake Chelan is a wonderful destination to explore the outdoors, with countless family-friendly activities for all tastes and budgets. With many affordable summertime lodging opportunities, you can set base at Lake Chelan State Park with campsites, cabins, and RV parks, where even the kid-friendly resort offers stays for just $150 a night. Visit Blueberry Hills Farms to stock up on delicious vitamins at per-pound prices, including blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, peaches, and strawberries. With prices ranging around two dollars per pound, you better come with an empty truck and itchy hands for picking.

Lakedale, Washington

The small town between Friday and Roche Harbor is your ticket to all the scenery without the "tourist surcharge." It is a great base for all the best of San Juan Island, including eateries like Duck Soup Inn, Downriggers by the ferry dock, and fine dining just a short drive away. Get coffee at Crows Nest Coffee Shoppe and find groceries at Kings Market for DIY meals at Lakedale, with a mid-day ice cream break at the Saturday market in Roche Harbor by the docks. Choose from the Lake House, Log Cabins, Canvas cabins, or cottages, or rough it out at an RV hookup or a campsite.

Lakedale is one of the state's newly uncovered family vacation ideas to get away to the San Juan Islands on a budget, with stays for every type of traveler in the heart of nature where one activity blends into the next. From exploring the island with whale watching and roaming its lavender fields to the nearby, lush vineyards with wineries to unwind with a glass, there's something to fill up every minute of your stay. The new Yurt Village, over 82 acres with three freshwater lakes, provides all guests with personal hot tubs, boat and fishing rentals, and fun family activities like tie-dyeing t-shirts.

Lake Wenatchee State Park, Washington

This park, divided into two parts by the Wenatchee River, has double the fun, sights, and opportunities. Start on the south side with its roped-off swimming beach, perfect for families, as well as kayak and paddleboard rentals for the active. Continue the Pacific Northwest vacation in the quiet surroundings of the beach along the north side. Its less crowded and undeveloped, pristine sands and environs offer four miles of mellow hikes and bike rides along the flat, woodchip-lined trails. Return in six months for the quintessential winter camping experience with cross-country skiing, snow hikes, or snowshoeing through the park.

Fill up at the 59er Diner with a 1950s theme at the turnoff from Highway 2, or visit the nearby town of Leavenworth, a worthy European scene for a day trip, with Munchen Haus for brats, sausages, pretzels, and drinks. Camp in the park with easy access to Leavenworth and Stevens Pass on both sides, or choose a rental or hotel in Plain or Leavenworth. The park has great summertime weather compared to other similar places in the state, and the campground is equipped with bathrooms, showers, playgrounds, and trees for hammocks to relax in the shade.

Mount Rainier, Washington

Visit Mt. Rainier for a day trip or a weekend-long getaway when in Washington State—a bucket list item for all outdoor fans. This national park is a definitive Pacific Northwest vacation destination with the most scenic things to do in the country, like a hike up the beautiful Mount Rainier mountain. The quintessential Washington area has something for everyone, including lakes, rivers, fire pits, and lookouts all close to the surrounding mountains and striking waterfalls.

Enjoy all-level family hikes with rewarding views, like the popular Comet Falls waterfall trail to the stunning 380-foot cascade, great in any kind of weather. The Grove Of The Patriarchs Loop is an easy one along a path through gigantic trees with stunning river views, excellent for beginners. The Skyline Trail with prime mountain vistas is the most popular in the park—another Pacific Northwest family vacation idea where you can mingle with other groups. Hiking Mount Rainier is the most popular among active people who make the journey just to summit the peak.

Oceanside, Oregon

Oceanside is a must-visit destination on a budget for some of the state's most wondrous tide pools along the Oregon coast. Enjoy easy access to the central location and the remote vibe away from civilization to get up close and personal with nature along the quiet and pristine beaches. Let the little ones splash in the shallows as you sunbathe and relax with your friends, or try clamming together and cooking your dinner over a beach fire on a memorable family evening.

Find tons of kid-friendly day trips like the beachfront Pelican Brewery in Pacific City, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, or the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Head up the coast towards Astoria, with sunny sand strips along the way, including the beautiful Cannon Beach, worthy of a day trip alone to explore and relax near Haystack Rock. Choose a stay in or around Oceanside, like the welcoming beachfront cabin or condo at Happy Camp Hideaway or at the nearby Netarts Bay.

Walla Walla, Washington

Find the small, vibrant town along the most fertile agricultural region in the country amid farms with vast fields of wheat, asparagus, strawberries, and Walla Walla-renowned sweet onions. Walla Walla will give you ten times more of what it takes from you during the best summertime getaway, including priceless memories. Home to the most charming Washington State downtown area, Walla Walla is a destination that knows how to take care of new faces and loyal followers without hiking up prices for its best services and quality products.

Stroll along Main Street, voted one of the country's most beautiful, with other tree-lined streets to peruse in the shade among a funky mix of local businesses. Get your fill of the small town respite you've been dreaming of through boutiques, vintage shops, and bookstores, as well as cafes, tasting rooms, and restaurants, to browse and window shop for days. Seek art throughout the galleries, public art displays, and seasonal farmers markets for a local lifestyle. Mingle at the outdoor concerts or drive out to the Walla Walla wine country, which comprises over 120 wineries.

 Conclusion

Many may have already completed their bucket-list dreams for the summer. But perhaps folks need another quick escape that is cost-friendly. The Pacific Northwest knows no bounds for cheap summertime getaways to really relax and end the summer with a bang. Choose easy access to the warranted beachscape, a small town, a state park, and more that will effortlessly evoke many memorable summertime adventures.