As you probably know, on EuroCheapo we keep a full list of cheap hotels in New York. But we thought we help simplify your research for you a bit, so we explored the most popular neighborhoods in Manhattan (and one in Brooklyn!) to find the very best deals in town.

From charming guesthouses to chic hotels with rooftop patios, the New York hotel scene can fall within your budget — if you know where to look.

More tips for NYC
• The full list of cheap hotels in NYC
• Cheapo Guide: Visiting New York on a budget
• How to save on New York City hotels
• 10 easy ways to save on your trip to New York 

The best budget hotels in New York City

We combed through our New York listings to find hotels that offer excellent locations, high ratings from guests, and most importantly, affordable rates. Each also has a little extra something that pushes them to the top. Book in advance to save even more!

HI NYC Hostel

Neighborhood: Upper West Side
Rates from $75

One of the largest hostels in North America, Hostelling International New York is located in a gorgeous building just a few blocks from Central Park on the Upper West Side. If you want to stay in a classic New York neighborhood, it’s hard to beat the location. There are laundry facilities, a kitchen, a TV lounge, and a nice little cafe. When you need a break from the affordable dorm rooms, you can hang out on Manhattan’s largest private outdoor patio.

Read the full review

Join us in swooning over the shared spaces at Pod 39.

Pod 39

Neighborhood: Midtown E-Murray Hill
Rates from $80

With bright, boutique-style rooms and swoon-worthy common spaces, there’s a lot to love about the cheapo-friendly Pod 39 hotel. Just keep in mind that the rooms are called pods for a reason — they can really be a squeeze. Still, the hotel offers an excellent location and plenty of perks. This isn’t the only “pod” hotel on our list of the best budget hotels in New York City, either. Continue on to learn more about another cheapo favorite, Pod 51.
Read the full review

NY Moore Hostel is a welcoming stay just minutes from Manhattan.

NY Moore Hostel

Neighborhood: Williamsburg and Greenpoint
Rates from $90 for a private room; $40 for a dorm bed

Located in a trendy section of Brooklyn, the NY Moore Hostel will wow with win your over with friendly staff and low prices. The cheapest option is sleeping in a dorm but there are three triple rooms with private bathrooms that make an excellent option for families or groups. When you want to relax you can play a game of pool or get some fresh air in the courtyard. Cheapos will be very happy with the fully equipped kitchen where you can make a meal. The subway is only a five-minute walk from the hostel and you can be in Union Square in under 20 minutes.

Read the full review

Pod 51

Neighborhood: Midtown East
Rates from $99 for a single private room

Sure, the rooms — we mean “pods” — are small, but where else can you find boutique-style quality for such a low price this close to the heart of Manhattan? From the comfy beds and free Wi-Fi to the rooftop patio, Pod 51 is everything we love in a New York hotel. Prices spike during the high season but great deals can be found in the winter.
Read the full review

Relax in the clubby lobby of The Jane Hotel.

The Jane Hotel

Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Rates from $109

Have you ever dreamed of living in the West Village? Spend a few days in this charming neighborhood when you book a room at The Jane Hotel. The cheapest rooms feel like snazzy cruise ship pods with bathrooms down the hall. Upgrade to a “Captain’s Cabin” for a little more space and your own bathroom. Ask for one of the free bicycle rentals to ride along the scenic Hudson Greenway right across the street.
Read the full review

You’ll find plenty of interesting and quirky decor pieces during a stay at Carlton Arms Hotel.

Carlton Arms Hotel

Neighborhood: Union Square-Gramercy
Rates from $121

With artistic rooms and a historic building, there’s a lot of quirk and charm at the two-star Carlton Arms Hotel located in Gramercy. Enjoy the eclectic style and cheapo rates, plus you’ll find budget-friendly restaurants and plenty of pubs nearby. Madison Square Park and Flatiron Building are easy to walk to as well.

Read the full review

It’s hard to find a more charming room than those on offer at Harlem Flophouse.

Harlem Flophouse

Neighborhood: Upper West Side & Harlem
Rates from $154

We can’t get enough of the charming rooms in the Harlem Flophouse, a hotel in a beautiful brownstone in Harlem. Rooms take on the names of Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, Chester Himes, Corky Hale or Nat King Cole and sport decor from all over the world. Gorgeous and ornate fireplaces add to the ambiance. There’s an extra special touch we appreciate: the Harlem Flophouse publishes its own neighborhood guide, so guests can live like locals.

Read the full review

It’s easy to love the location of Leo House on 23rd Street.

Leo House

Neighborhood: Chelsea
Rates from $159

Looking for something different than your average chain hotel? Leo House fits the bill with simple but clean rooms in an amazing location in the heart of Chelsea. Since it’s run by a Catholic non-profit organization, you can expect crosses and religious decor throughout the building. Rooms come with Wi-Fi and your choice of a shared or private bathroom. Enjoy a break from the city in the peaceful garden or the on-site chapel.
Read the full review

Photo credits: Booking.com

More budget New York hotel options

Looking for even more deals on a hotel in the Big Apple? Search all of our listings for budget hotels in New York.

The post The best budget hotels in New York for 2024 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Brooklyn, with its iconic Brooklyn Bridge and seemingly endless options for cool, laid-back food, drink and entertainment, is a great option. You’re bound to find some incredible deals on accommodation here, too, and you can still access Manhattan quickly and cheaply via the subway.

To narrow down your choices of affordable hotels in this borough, we chose some of our favorite budget hotels in Brooklyn, specifically in the popular neighborhoods of Williamsburg, Greenpoint and Downtown Brooklyn, to add to our New York guide.

So choose your hotel and read up on our New York tips to have a fun Big Apple trip like a true Cheapo.

NY Moore Hostel offers great deals and a youthful, spirited ambiance.

NY Moore Hostel

Neighborhood: Williamsburg and Greenpoint
179 Moore Street
Beds starting at $40 a night

With a spirited vibe, the NY Moore Hostel will warmly welcome you to New York and situate you just a short walk to the subway into Manhattan.

Rooms here feature playful murals and artworks as well as vibrant pops of color. The grab bag of furnishings feel a bit collegiate, but fun. You can save money and make friends by grabbing a bed or reserve a private room that sleeps up to three people.

You’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay: free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a library, a game room. Breakfast isn’t available, but you’ll find something delicious in the neighborhood.

Book a cheapo stay at NY Moore Hostel.

Rooms at NU Hotel benefit from trendy decor and city views.

NU Hotel

Neighborhood: Downtown Brooklyn
85 Smith Street
Doubles starting at $114 a night

The lovely three-star NU Hotel in Downtown Brooklyn is conveniently close to the subway.

Each room features a sleek design and plenty of amenities: free Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations, satellite radio and a 24-hour gym. Nearly every room benefits from city views, too.

The hotel also has extras like private workstations for business travelers and an on-site bar with a great tapas menu. The hotel also offers its guests free bike rentals to explore the city.

Breakfast is included in the room rate.

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, NU Hotel has a room for you.

From lobby to guestroom, The Box House Hotel welcomes visitors with attractive, industrial chic decor.

The Box House Hotel

Neighborhood: Williamsburg & Greenpoint
77 Box Street
Doubles starting at $185 a night

The industrial chic, three-star Box House Hotel is tucked into a converted factory building just a short walk to the nearest subway station.

From the lounge areas to the guestrooms, the building’s history lends extra charm to the hotel. Rooms feature attractive decor and benefit from NYC views. The spotless marble bathrooms feel luxurious, and the studio hotel rooms also include full kitchens. If you can splurge, some rooms have balconies available. The hotel also has a gym, a sauna and a business center.

Breakfast is served daily for an additional $19, or you can venture into the neighborhood and stop at a cafe.

Live luxe on a budget by booking a room at the Box House Hotel.

Looking for more cheap accommodations in this borough? Check out all budget hotels in Brooklyn.

The post New York City: New budget hotels in Brooklyn appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

From the bustling crowds and bright lights during the holidays to a crisp autumn stroll through Central Park, New York has something to offer no matter what time of year you come.

That said, it’s still important for budget travelers to think about timing before you lock down the dates on your calendar.

Visiting New York on a budget:

• 10 Easy ways to save on your trip to the Big Apple
• Best cheap eats near Times Square
• 10 Best cheap hotels in New York City

When is the best time to visit New York?

We’ve written about what’s the best neighborhood in New York for your trip and how to save on your NYC hotel. Now it’s time to talk about timing!

We take a look at all four seasons to present the pros and cons of each, so you can help decide what might be the best season for you. We even provide a few hotel recommendations along the way to make the most of your New York City visit.

Summer: Hot temperatures and free events

Summer in New York City can be a bit of a challenge depending on your tolerance of prices and humidity. Hotel rates can soar as high as the temperatures as millions of visitors come to the Big Apple on their summer vacation. However, it’s a wonderful time of year to get out on the water to see the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park or sit on the top level of a double-decker bus tour. Many locals also head out of the city, so sometimes neighborhoods can feel quieter than normal.

One of the best reasons for budget travelers to come during summer is all of the free events. Almost every night of the week, you can find concerts, movie screenings, and festivals taking place in all five boroughs. The summer kicks off with the Pride Parade and the fun doesn’t let up until Labor Day with the West Indian Day Parade. You can catch a free concert at Summerstage or show at Shakespeare in the Park. Head to the waterfront to watch a fabulous fireworks show on July 4th.

Related: 6 Under-the-radar (and free) parks to explore in New York City

NYC hotel picks for summer: The Ridge Hotel and HI NYC Hostel

Fall: Perfect weather

As much as we love summer, fall is when New York hits its peak. Much like the brilliant foliage in Central Park, this time of year is a sight to behold. The theater and music scene really heats up (especially around Times Square and the Theater District) with a new crop of Broadway shows, museum exhibits, and concerts. And then there’s the weather. With the humidity of summer giving way to comfortable temperatures (think jeans and a sweater), you won’t have to worry about walking around drenched in sweat. If you can find a good hotel price in September or October, book it right away!

Plus, you’ll be around for fun city traditions like the NYC Marathon, the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

NYC hotel picks for fall: Carlton Arms Hotel and Leo House

Washington Square Park after a snow storm. Photo: Craig Nelson

Winter: Colder but cheaper

Brrrrr… don’t even think about visiting New York in the winter unless you don’t mind wearing a puffy jacket most of the time. On the plus side, Cheapos may want to come in January or February when prices at hotels are at their lowest. Hotels that might cost $250 in the peak season can fall to $100 or less. And with fewer visitors, the streets and attractions are a lot quieter. If you get cold, there are many cozy places to hunker down for a great meal or a warm drink, like at these Irish pubs.

The weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s are extremely popular, but for good reason, because the lights and energy of the city are hard to resist. If you can score a deal on a hotel room, you can brave the crowds to see the Rockefeller Center tree and famous holiday windows along Fifth Avenue for an unforgettable holiday experience.

NYC hotel picks for winter: Chelsea Inn and Pod 39

The High Line in the spring. Photo: Paul

Spring: Early bird catches the worm

Watching New Yorkers emerge from their winter cocoons is a highlight of the spring season. At the first sign of warm weather, people head to lovely green spaces like Washington Square Park or grab a table at an outdoor cafe to soak in the sun. The weather can be unpredictable — cold and rainy one day and beautiful the next — so just come prepared with an umbrella in hand.

Seeing the greenery starting to bloom on The High Line is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Head to the Bronx for the Yankees or Queens for the Mets to catch an early season baseball game when tickets are easier to get (and cheaper). Finding a good price on a hotel is easier in early spring before rates start creeping up as May and June approaches.

NYC Hotel picks for spring: The Jane Hotel and Pod 51 Hotel

Dates to watch out for

Before you start planning your trip, make sure you are aware that there are certain times of year when it is almost impossible to find a good deal on a hotel. The holiday season is always busy and expensive in New York, especially on New Year’s Eve. But we have found decent prices for hotels over Thanksgiving and Christmas in the past. You should also keep an eye on the calendar for big events like Tribeca Film Festival, NY Fashion Week, and the US Open when rates can go through the roof. Check the NYC Official Guide website for a list of all annual events.

When do you love to visit New York City?

If you have a specific strategy to save money or just love visiting during a certain season, share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below.

The post The best time to visit New York City on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Before you get your tickets, just note that vaccinations and masks will be required for all audience members (read more on Broadway.org).

Once you picked out the shows that you want to catch, we can help you find cheap hotels near Broadway theaters in New York City.

Related:
• 6 Clean and central hotels in New York city for under $100
• 5 Super cheap hotels in Manhattan
• 7 ways to save on Broadway tickets

Our favorite cheap hotels near Broadway theaters

We’ve come up with four hotel options all located just steps from the bright lights and action of Times Square and the Theater District. In fact, our cheapest picks offer a night’s rest for much less than the price of an average Broadway ticket. These rates start under $125 per night for a double room, and during the offseason, you can find rooms for $99 and up.

Now, on with the show!

A sleek and small room at Yotel Times Square.

Yotel Times Square

Rooms start at $226
Tenth Avenue (between W. 41st and 42nd Streets)
Close to: Majestic Theatre, Richard Rodgers Theatre, John Golden Theatre, Broadhurst Theatre

Located along iconic 42nd Street just west of Times Square, this popular hotel offers up modern style at a good price. The rooms are small but modern with slick white furnishings and lots of tech amenities like smart TVs, very fast Wi-Fi, and rain showers. Some rooms also offer vibrant views over the city.

Read the full review.

The lovely lobby of St. James Hotel is just off of Times Square.

Hotel St. James

W. 45th Street (Between 6th and 7th Avenues)
Rooms from $200
Close to: Lyceum Theatre, Palace Theatre, Belasco Theatre

This two-star spot is a rare breed in New York City — a family-run hotel with reasonable rates for this part of town. As one of the best deals near Times Square, guests shouldn’t expect luxury. But the simple rooms and sparkling clean bathrooms are well worth the price. The sitting lounge in the back of the hotel is a nice place to flip through your guidebook before heading out for the day.

Read the full review.

Kasa the Duffy Times Square

W. 46th Street (Between 9th and 10th Avenues)
Rooms from $217
Close to: Walter Kerr Theatre, Music Box Theatre, Shubert Theatre, Gershwin Theatre

Tucked away on a nice-looking street not far from Time’s Square, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms in a historic townhouse. Without a check-in desk (they send you an entry code), the experience is more like staying in your very own New York apartment. Walk out your door and you can explore the exciting streets of Hell’s Kitchen.

Read the full review.

A renovated room at the Hotel Edison puts you just steps from your Broadway show!

Hotel Edison

W. 47th Street (Between Broadway and 8th Avenues)
Rooms from $240
Close to: Brooks Atkinson Theatre, Barrymore Theatre, Longacre Theatre, Richard Rodgers Theatre

Smack dab in the heart of the Theater District, this three-star hotel has been hosting Broadway fans since 1931. The hotel underwent a complete renovation in recent years that resulted in sleek rooms that kept the Art Deco charm but raised the prices. The C.O. Bigelow bath amenities add a touch of New York history and the on-site bar, The Rum House, is a fun spot with live jazz music.

Read the full review.

Photo credits: Booking.com.

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Located in beautiful San Diego, California, La Jolla has a lot to offer budget travelers looking to save on a beach vacation. Best of all, the weather here is ideal year-round with temperatures almost always warm. Just pack a jacket if 60°F winters bother you.

Interested in exploring more beaches nearby? Check out our guide to the best beaches along the West Coast.

What to do at La Jolla Cove

One of the things I love most about La Jolla are the sea lions and seals! You have to take care to not get too close, but it’s amazing to watch the marine life bask in the sunshine and play with one another. Best of all for cheapos, it’s completely free to watch these creatures thrive in their natural habitat.

La Jolla Cove is also, as its name implies, a cove, which makes for great exploring. The cove is safe enough to traverse for beginners and kids but still feels adventurous. You can also snorkel here. Stop by the tide pools to watch smaller marine life like crabs and fish — you’ll have the best experience from December through March.

Exploring the cove is completely free. Photo: Paige Bennett

Affordable restaurants in La Jolla

San Diego is a hot spot for Mexican food, fresh fare and wine. Duke’s La Jolla is a popular local spot where you can get fresh fish and traditional burgers and salads plus beer, wine, cocktails and mocktails. If you’re in the area for Taco Tuesday, you’ll get deals on tacos and margaritas, too. Cove House offers seasonal menus, so you know you’re always enjoying something fresh. Stop by for brunch for crab egg’s benedict, or grab grilled fish tacos. Are you a beer-drinker? Stop by Karl Strauss Brewing Company for beers and grub focused on sustainability.

A sunset view over the Pacific Ocean as spotted from Inn by the Sea. Photo: Booking.com

Budget Hotels in La Jolla

Beach Haven Inn

Double rooms starting at $99

Just a block from the beach, the Beach Haven Inn is a safe and affordable bet. Rooms include full kitchens, so you can save money by whipping up something at your home base. Don’t feel like cooking? The nearby boardwalk features 3 miles of restaurants. Crystal Pier is also nearby, and the cove is a few miles away.

Residence Inn La Jolla

Double rooms starting at $110

Positioned further from the beach but still in a great location, Residence Inn La Jolla offers sunny suites complete with kitchens, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included for free. The Birch Aquarium is close by, and La Jolla Cove is only 2.5 miles from the inn.

Inn by the Sea

Double rooms starting at $129

You can walk to the cove from the charming Inn by the Sea. Simple, blue-and-yellow rooms are air conditioned and include free Wi-Fi, TVs and balconies or patios. Be sure to book in advance to get the best rates.

Big windows means big view! Photo: Booking.com

La Jolla Cove Suites

Double rooms starting at $142

You can’t get closer to La Jolla Cove than the beachfront La Jolla Cove Suites. Such a premium location comes at a price, but booking ahead of time (and considering off-season travel, although the weather is perfect all the time!) can make this hotel an affordable option. Rooms are sleek and modern with amenities including flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and ocean-facing balconies.

The post Budget travel guide to La Jolla Cove appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Zuma is tucked into the coastline near Malibu. Many people head straight for Malibu, where you can expect crowds and astronomical parking fees — if you can even find a parking spot. But Zuma is quieter, more secluded. And parking is definitely more affordable. With fewer crowds, you’ll also enjoy cleaner beaches and more space to stretch out.

Zuma Beach parking fees are typically around $8 a day. I’ve spent nearly $20 in the off-season at Malibu, for comparison.

Interested in other West Coast adventures? Check out this post on the best beaches in the western U.S.

What to do in Zuma Beach

There are a few must-see things when you are in the area. First and foremost, Zuma Beach is in an area popular for whale watching. Head to nearby Point Dume for the best chance at spotting whales for free, although you can also book boat tours for a closer look. The whales migrate from the north to Mexico for the winter (and back again in the spring), so you are most likely to see them from December to May.

You also must — and I really mean MUST — get up early enough to catch what may just be the best sunrise of your life. Everyone raves about West Coast sunsets, but from my experience, the winter sunrises are some of the most incredible performances of the sky you’ll ever witness. Each day is different, one day might display the brightest golden hour, while other days burst in pinks and deep purples.

In non-pandemic times, I also recommend the Malibu Wine Safaris. This is more of a splurge, but you’ll get to do a wine tasting, tour the vineyards and see many animals. During the pandemic, you can still book smaller parties and tours.

When it is open, Malibu Wines is a fun (and delicious) tour to consider. Photo: Paige Bennett

Affordable restaurants in Zuma Beach

I have two must-stop places for dining near Zuma Beach. The first is Neptune’s Net, a popular spot for motorcyclists and Adam Sandler — yes, the actor. Neptune’s Net offers incredibly fresh seafood and a few options for plant-based diners. During COVID-19, Neptune’s Net is only open via drive-thru, but it is located directly across from the beach. The restaurant’s clam chowder also rivals anything you’d find on the East Coast. Prices are reasonable, to boot.

Don’t miss the clam chowder at this Malibu staple. Photo: Elizabeth Albert

Another popular spot in this area is Malibu Farm. There are two Malibu Farm locations, one is a full-service restaurant at the start of the Malibu Beach pier, and the other is a cafe at the end of the pier. Locals eat this up, and this is also said to be a popular spot for celebrity sightings. (If you do see a celeb on your trip, play it cool like the locals do!) At $16 for a bowl of yogurt, fruit and granola, this isn’t exactly a budget pick, but if you want to rub elbows with L.A.’s elite, this is the spot for you.

Budget hotels in Malibu

Malibu is notoriously expensive to visit, especially when it comes to hotels. Here is one option that won’t break the bank (meaning rooms around $200). Please keep in mind that this area is definitely hard to get around without a car, so the best budget hotels are a short drive from the beach.

Motel rooms feature simple style, mini-fridges and boxed water. Photo: Booking.com

The M Malibu

Just a few steps from the beach, this is one of the few cheap-ish options in the area. We love the free parking and you can stroll to the Malibu Pier in about 10 minutes. Rooms are simple but decorated with cheery splashes of color, and the small outdoor pool is a nice bonus. Some rooms even feature partial ocean views!

Search more than 30 hotels in Malibu.

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Exploring more of the western U.S.? Here’s our guide to the best West Coast beaches.

What to do at Redondo Beach

Redondo Beach is great if you’re looking for a no-frills destination. First and foremost, just enjoy the clean, uncrowded beach! You can also walk along the pier to take in the views, with ocean on one side and mountains on the opposite side. Fishing is free, or pole rentals and bait are available along with kayak and paddleboard rentals. You can also visit Veteran’s Park, a massive local park, where you can picnic, jog, or just soak in the sunshine. On Thursdays, stop by the farmers market at the park for delicious local produce.

A huge, warm churro? Yes, please! Photo: Paige Bennett

Affordable restaurants in Redondo Beach

As soon as you have arrived, head straight for Churros Pier Bakery at the pier. Here, you’ll find huge, foot-long churros for cheap, but make sure you have cash, as this is a cash-only establishment. Paired with caramel, strawberry, or chocolate sauce, these churros are a must.

Aside from the churros, there are several dining options along the pier. Oriental Breeze offers affordable sushi and other Japanese fare. Old Tony’s has fresh seafood dishes and cocktails. For delicious, fresh local Thai cuisine, visit The Shrimp Lover, or indulge in tacos by the beach at El Cinco de Mayo.

Take in salty ocean breezes at Grandview Inn. Photo: Booking.com

Budget hotels in Redondo Beach

Ready to book your stay? Here are some surprisingly affordable hotel options in the Redondo Beach area.

Seaside Motel

Double rooms starting at $99

Located just 10 minutes from LAX, the Seaside Motel is an unassuming option with easy access to the beach via car (a 5-minute drive on a good traffic day), bike or public transit. Rooms offer basic amenities like fridges, TVs and Wi-Fi, plus enough room to stretch out.

Grandview Inn

Double rooms starting at $119

With a modern design and beachfront access, the Grandview Inn is a solid bet if you plan to hit the beach from sunrise to sunset. Rooms are sleek and spacious with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and movie rentals and fridges. Rates tend to fluctuate, so book well ahead if possible; for a bit extra, you can score a room with ocean views, too.

Chill out by the pool at Redondo Beach Hotel. Photo: Booking.com

The Redondo Beach Hotel

Double rooms starting at $149

Just a short walk to the pier and a plethora of restaurants, the inviting Redondo Beach Hotel includes extras like a hot tub, heated pool and fitness center, although you could just walk out the front door and swim, soak or run along the beach. Either way, you’ll enjoy this hotel’s modern, comfortable rooms; check when booking to grab a room with marina or city views.

The post Budget travel guide to Redondo Beach appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Exploring more of the coastline? Be sure to visit our guide to the best West Coast beaches.

Things to do at Rialto Beach

Rialto Beach is in the famous Olympic National Park (so you’ll need to pay the national park fee), which means there is an abundance of nature for you to explore. Be cautious in and near the aggressive waters here, but the views of this rocky beach are not to be missed. Make sure to find your way to Hole-in-the-Wall, a stunning trail that ends in a massive rock archway. In the winter months, temperatures in the Pacific Northwest can be particularly chilly and wet, so be sure to pack accordingly. The Hoh Rain Forest is also close by if you need a break from the beach.

Affordable restaurants in Rialto Beach

Three Rivers Resort Restaurant offers famous burgers and seafood at impressively low prices to fuel you after a day of adventure. The West End Taproom is another popular option if you need to quench your thirst with an ice-cold beer; there’s an extensive beer and wine menu plus snacks like paninis if you need something to munch on.

A cozy queen room at Forks Motel. Photo: Booking.com

Budget hotels in Rialto Beach

Stay in nearby Forks, Washington for the best rates.

Dew Drop Inn

Double rooms starting at $93

The warm and welcoming Dew Drop Inn features standard hotel décor with plenty of amenities, including TVs, coffee makers, in-room seating areas, free Wi-Fi and even balconies and patios. The beach is about a 20-minute drive from the inn, which is near Forks, Washington and plenty of great hiking spots.

Forks Motel

Double rooms starting at $93

Also near Forks and 20 minutes from Rialto Beach, Forks Motel offers low rates for its simple hotel rooms. The amenities include TVs, free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. There’s a seasonal swimming pool and lovely garden on-site.

Pacific Inn Motel

Double rooms starting at $99

The comfy Pacific Inn Motel, a 20-minute drive from the beach, includes basic amenities like private bathrooms, TVs, and air conditioning. Some rooms feature a standard hotel style, while others are outfitted in posters and red-and-black color schemes in a nod to the Twilight saga, a book and movie series that takes place in Forks, Washington, where the hotel is located.

The post Budget travel guide to Rialto Beach in Washington State appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Located in Southwestern Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach is great for athletic types who love to move when they’re out in the sun. So run, don’t walk, to book a stay for the best rates!

Other affordable beach destinations to explore on the West Coast:

• Zuma Beach
• Rialto Beach
• La Jolla Cove
• Redondo Beach

Looking for a slower-paced stay along the coast? Here’s our budget travel guide to the best West Coast beaches.

What to do at Manhattan Beach, California

With some of the gnarliest waves along the coast, you’ll see a lot of surfers catching the waves. If you love to surf, test the waters yourself, or just admire those practicing this sport. The Manhattan Beach Pier is more simplistic than the piers you’ll find in Santa Monica or Redondo, but it still offers great fishing opportunities.

The Strand is a walking and bike path along the beach, which makes it much easier to run and take in the views compared to running in the sand. Manhattan Beach is believed to be where beach volleyball originated, so don’t hesitate to play a game or two. This is an incredibly active community, so you can also join yoga classes or other fitness classes right on the beach.

During non-COVID-19 times, you can also explore the free Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier.

Walk, jog, run, or bike along The Strand. Photo: Peter Woodman

Affordable restaurants in Manhattan Beach, California

Move over, IHOP. Uncle Bill’s Pancake House is the place to go for breakfast by the beach, and it is one of the more affordable options in this affluent area. Customize your own Cream’wich at the ever-popular Manhattan Beach Creamery, and finish your day with farm-to-table, artisanal dishes at Manhattan Beach Post, and sip cocktails with a view or enjoy a dinner for four for just $50 at zinc@shade.

The swanky Hotel Hermosa is near both Manhattan and Hermosa Beaches. Photo: Booking.com

Budget hotels in Manhattan Beach, California

There are multiple options for Cheapos to sleep easy in Manhattan Beach and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our top choices with rates under $150.

Seahorse Inn

Double rooms starting at $95

The sleepy Seahorse Inn is a quiet, modest spot that includes an on-site restaurant and a location just a mile from the Manhattan Beach pier. Simple rooms feature light wood furnishings and floral bedspreads; amenities are more contemporary and include flat-screen TVs, fridges, free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms.

The Belamar

Double rooms starting at $133

The Belamar boasts modern, minimalist rooms outfitted with stylish décor and handy amenities like free Wi-Fi, coffee machines and fridges. The hotel also includes a restaurant that dishes up organic fare. It’s not the closest to the beach, you’ll need to drive or catch a bus, but the lower rates and proximity to not just Manhattan but multiple beaches make it worthwhile.

The spacious and sunny outdoor patio at Hotel Hermosa. Photo: Booking.com

Hotel Hermosa

Double rooms starting at $139

Near Manhattan and Hermosa Beaches, Hotel Hermosa offers stylish hotel rooms plus an on-site yoga facility, a heated pool and a fire pit. Check when booking to choose a room with city, courtyard or beach views, depending on your preference.

The post Budget travel guide to Manhattan Beach, California appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If you love the beach as much as I do, you might wonder which beaches along the “best coast” are worth your while.

Truthfully, you’ll find a little bit of happiness no matter what beach you visit, but we’re sharing a few favorites.

Related: Search for cheap hotels in Los Angeles

A guide to the best beaches on the West Coast

As the pandemic drags on, escaping to nature is really one of the safest and most exhilarating ways to break up the monotony of each day. So before you hop in the car and travel to the West Coast, here are the best West Coast beaches to consider adding to your itinerary.

Note: Please be aware of all local and national guidelines for traveling before making the trip. Stay safe!

Zuma Beach

When people think of West Coast beaches, Malibu likely comes to mind with its iconic pier and celebrity homes. As such, the area can get crowded and pricey. Luckily, more secluded spots like Zuma Beach offer the same excellent views and soothing ocean breezes but with a cheaper price tag for things like parking and dining.

Check out our Zuma Beach article for what to see, do and eat plus a few spots on where to stay in the area.

Redondo Beach is south of Santa Monica and not far from LAX. Photo: Paige Bennett

Redondo Beach

While its pier is not quite as festive as nearby Santa Monica’s pier, Redondo Beach is a gem with a spotless shoreline, mountain views, a nearby park and fresh, foot-long churros for cheap. What’s not to love? Read our budget guide for tips on traveling to Redondo Beach.

Exploring the cove is completely free. Photo: Paige Bennett

La Jolla Cove

Located in San Diego, California, La Jolla Cove offers free street parking, perfect year-round temperatures, and free sights of seals and sea lions basking in the sun. Sound intriguing? Plan your trip with our La Jolla budget travel guide.

Walk, jog, run, or bike along The Strand. Photo: Peter Woodman

Manhattan Beach

Gnarly waves, a peaceful pier, and beach volleyball are the name of the game at Manhattan Beach in southern California. Do as the locals do with our budget travel guide to Manhattan Beach, an athlete’s paradise.

You’ll need to pay the Olympic National Park access fee to reach Rialto Beach. Photo: Olympic National Park

Rialto Beach

Let’s head up the coast to scenic Washington, where you’ll find the misty, picturesque Rialto Beach. Find out how to access this beach, what to see, where to eat, and of course, where to rest your head after long days of exploring with our Rialto Beach travel guide.

The post Budget tips for the best West Coast beaches appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.