Live the Life of Luxury on a Budget

We all like a little luxury now and again and what better way to indulge than by leaving behind the demands of daily life and going on a beach break! To help you discover where you should be heading next, Booking.com has created a list of dreamy beach destinations and the cheapest time of year to visit.

Whether you want to fill your days with activities or simply lounge on the sand soaking up vitamin D, there’s an affordable beach holiday to suit all needs. We know it can seem like an affordable luxury escape is out of the question…. But this handy little list will make you think again!

Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia - January

Seminyak is a dream for travellers who want the beach experience but also want the opportunity to stay outside of resorts and immerse themselves in a more secluded atmosphere. Easily the most fashionable part of Bali, Seminyak has a wealth of boutique shops, spas and art to accompany its beautiful beaches. While there are plenty of villas to choose from, we recommend Villas Sabbia due to its proximity to the beach and relaxed vibe. If you’re travelling on a budget, try Seminyak in the fourth week of January. Although it’s technically winter, the average temperature is still 26°C and prices are 59% cheaper than in summer.

Ao Nang Beach, Thailand – May

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular budget beach destinations and it’s not hard to see why! Thai beaches are all beautiful but Ao Nang epitomises serenity, allowing travellers to relax in calm bays enclosed by cliffs. Stay in Railay Village Resort and Spa for the ultimate relaxing experience, ending each day in a private villa with an on-site restaurant and spa. For the best deals throughout Ao Nang we recommend going in the second week of May, with average prices 61% cheaper than they are in the most expensive week of the year.

Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia – June

Gold Coast is a quick 3-hour flight from NZ, making it an extremely accessible and affordable destination. The most celebrated area is Surfers Paradise, known for its eclectic energy and bustling beaches, a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment. Gold Coast offers a unique opportunity to have an entire holiday experience within one destination, offering shopping and dining alongside beaches, amusement parks and beachfront markets. If you want to stay right on the beach we recommend Burleigh Beach Tower Resort, or venture a little further to relax away from the action at Ruffles Lodge and Spa. The first week of June brings sunny and dry weather, but most importantly a 50% reduction on the compared to the most expensive week of the year.

Playa de las Americas, Canary Islands, Spain – June

If you’re looking for somewhere lively to spend your beach break, Playa de las Americas is the place to be. Whether you’re spending the day at Siam water park, hitting the Los Christianos Beach bars or taking the plunge at Aqua-Marina dive center, you’ll never run out of things to do. The most affordable time to go is the first week of June, with prices 55% cheaper than peak weeks. Unsure where to stay in such a bustling spot? Try Europe Villa Cortes GL for the perfect retreat after a long day, with luxurious rooms and all the amenities you could wish for.

Boracay, Philippines – December

Boracay is a small island in the central Philippines, famous for its crowd-pleasing beaches and resorts. While White Beach is the tourist hub of the island, boasting views straight out of a postcard, those seeking a quieter experience will love Diniwid Beach. The most affordable time to go to Boracay is early December when prices reach as low as 50% of what they are during peak season. For luxury accommodation on a budget we recommend Monaco Suites de Boracay, offering stunning views of the southeast coast from an outdoor infinity pool.