Vacation Like the Rich in 5 Places That Feel Like the Bahamas

It’s summer, and that means it’s time to hit the beach — preferably the Bahamas. But, according to Trip.com, the average Bahamas vacation cost for a family of four is about $630 per day. That’s a lot of money !

However, there are lots of places where you can hit the beach for less. It’s true: You can have a stunning sunny summer trip without spending your entire savings account. Win-win!

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Here are five gorgeous beachy locales that are like the Bahamas, so you can vacay like the rich and famous — but at a fraction of the cost.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is like a mini Bahamas right next off of the Mexico coast — and it’s a lot cheaper, too. According to Budget Your Trip, a week in Cozumel will set two people back $1,486 — and you can add one or two kids to that for a small extra fee.

It’s got spectacular beaches and so much to do, including snorkeling, scuba and swimming with the turtles.

What’s cool:

• The beaches are super pretty with soft sand.
• You can go snorkeling and see the colorful fish of the Caribbean Sea.
• There are old Mayan ruins to explore.

Why it’s cheaper:

• It’s easier to get to from the U.S. than the Bahamas.
• Hotels often have good deals.
• Food and fun activities cost less.

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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Imagine a place with beaches so nice they look fake — that’s Punta Cana! It’s like a real-life paradise. And the price is pretty dreamy, too! According to Budget Your Trip, a one week trip to the Dominican Republic for two people costs, on average, just $2,049.

What’s cool:

• Miles of amazing — and we mean amazing — beaches.
• Lots of hotels where everything’s included — even food!
• You can go zip-lining or see whales. Heck, why not both?

Why it’s cheaper:

• Flights can be less expensive.
• All-inclusive hotels save you money on food.
• Lots of hotels to choose from, so you can find good deals.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is far away, but it’s like stepping into a magical tropical world. And everything’s super cheap once you get there! In fact, according to Budget Your Trip, a one week trip to Koh Samui for two people costs, on average, $770! A major deal.

What’s cool:

• The beaches look like they’re from a movie.
• You can see elephants and amazing waterfalls.
• The food is delicious and inexpensive.

Why it’s cheaper:

• Everything — from food to entertainment — costs way less than in the Bahamas.
• Even fancy hotels are cheaper.
• You can eat amazing food without spending much.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is like a little piece of the Caribbean that’s actually part of the United States. It’s got beautiful beaches and a cool mix of cultures — plus, it’s cheaper than the Bahamas. Budget Your Trip informs us that a one week trip to Puerto Rico for two people costs, on average, $3,048 — that’s not as cheap as some of the other places on the list, but it’s still a much better deal than the Bahamas.

What’s cool:

• Picturesque beaches with clear blue water.
• You can explore a rainforest and see fascinating animals.
• The cities are filled with colorful old buildings that are perfect for exploring.

Why it’s cheaper:

• You don’t need a passport if you’re from the U.S.
• Flights can be cheaper than to the Bahamas.
• There are lots of inexpensive places to stay — make sure to check our their thriving apartment rental scene, too.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is like a faraway dream world with beaches, jungles and historic temples. It’s wildly beautiful and way cheaper than the Bahamas — in fact, according to Budget Your Trip, a one week trip to Bali for two people costs, on average, $999. That’s a major deal.

What’s cool:

• Beaches with soft sand and warm water.
• You can see monkeys in the jungle.
• There are amazing temples and rice fields.

Why it’s cheaper:

• Hotels and food are inexpensive — and the food is incredibly fresh and flavorful!
• You can get unique souvenirs without spending much.
• If you want to splurge on five-star accommodations, it’s relatively cheap.

Tips To Save Even More Money

• Go when it’s not super busy: Prices are lower when fewer people are visiting.
• Look for deals that include your flight and hotel together.
• Try local food instead of always eating at your hotel.
• Plan your trip early to get better prices.
• Be flexible about when you travel — sometimes it’s cheaper to fly on certain days.

Remember, you don’t need to be rich to have an amazing beach vacation. These places are just as cool as the Bahamas, but they cost way less. You can build sandcastles, swim in clear blue water and pretend you’re a movie star on vacation — all without draining your bank accounts. Happy vacationing!

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : Vacation Like the Rich in 5 Places That Feel Like the Bahamas