This article looks at 5 cheap alternatives to Aruba for a vacation. If you wish to view our detailed introduction highlighting the benefits of vacations and what to expect when visiting Aruba, you may check out 15 Cheap Alternatives to Aruba.
5. Bonaire
IM Score: 31
Another Caribbean Island, Bonaire, is tailor-made for those interested in a strictly beachside vacation. The island’s beaches feature incredible scuba diving spots due to the fact that its coasts conceal exquisite coral reefs and diverse marine life beneath their waters. Moreover, since it receives fewer tourists, most of the island’s natural beauty remains intact to this day. There are also plenty of trails that lead into the mainland where tourists can immerse themselves within the rich culture of Bonaire. Its capital city, Kralendijk, has a vibrant community that has been influenced by Caribbean, Latin-American, and Dutch cultures.
4. Mexico
IM Score: 31
Whilst Cancun and Cabo feature as Mexico’s premium beach vacation destinations, the beach town of Sayulita is the one where you can get the most value for your buck. As soon as you set foot in this town, you find yourself immersed in the Bohemian charm. Sayulita hosts stunning beaches where you can enjoy activities such as surfing amongst enthusiasts from all over the world. The streets offer delicious Mexican street cuisine and traditional craftwork. Moreover, beachside bars and bonfires ensure that you remain entertained throughout the night, also providing spots to groove with the town’s best DJs.
3. Malta
IM Score: 33
One of the most breathtaking destinations in the Mediterranean, Malta has managed to stay under the radar when it comes to beach vacation destinations. It is an all-season archipelago, with islands that offer both scenic beauty and history. The Gozo Island, once home to the famous Azure Window before its unfitting collapse, is the country’s most popular tourist destination. The islands of Malta offer travelers a chance to enjoy pristine beaches, ancient megalithic structures, and marvels including underwater caves, secret coves, and even shipwrecks.
2. Greece
IM Score: 33
Crete, the largest island of Greece, offers excursions to travelers of all budgets. Out of all the islands in the Mediterranean, it is the one that offers the most diversity in terms of activities and price points. Depending on your budget, you can easily find comfortable 3-star accommodation at a reasonable price. Moreover, the island offers a range of free and cheap excursions. Areas such as the Samaria Gorge, Balos Lagoon, and Elafonissi beach are accessible to all vacationers. Moreover, the island also houses the Minoan Palace, an ancient structure dating back 4000 years.
1. Puerto Rico
IM Score: 35
Securing the number 1 spot on our list, the cheapest alternative to Aruba is San Juan, Puerto Rico. Much like Crete, San Juan ticks all the boxes for a beach vacation. Moreover, its proximity to the US enables it to be the most feasible option for a budget-friendly vacation. In comparison to other Hispanic destinations such as Mexico and Costa Rica, Puerto Rico offers a similarly delicious cuisine at a fraction of the price. San Juan has an incredibly diverse terrain, from beaches to tropical rainforests and waterfalls, allowing it to offer an extremely comprehensive scenic experience. Moreover, apart from being the birthplace of Salsa, Puerto Rico is renowned for its revelry. Beachfront bars, street concerts, and clubs tend to be packed till sunrise, a true testament to the dynamic nightlife of the area. Puerto Rico is also home to colonial-era landmarks, thus offering a comprehensive vacation experience.
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