8 AFFORDABLE GULF COAST BEACHES WITH SERIOUS SUMMER SIZZLE

Posted On 17 May 2016

When it comes to Gulf Coast beaches, iconic Florida shores like Destin, Siesta Key and Panama City often steal the spotlight from neighboring destinations. Don’t be fooled; the Panhandle might be winning the popularity contest, but lesser-known beaches in Alabama, Mississippi and Texas have the same white sand, gentle surf and warm water.

The only real difference? All eight of these vacation spots—some familiar names, others hidden gems—boast smaller crowds and more affordable accommodations.

If you plan on visiting one of the beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast, save a few extra dollars by booking a colorful condo or waterfront cottage through TripAdvisor Vacation Rentals. Whether you want a private dock or a spacious deck with incredible views of the coastline, you’ll find properties steps away from the water with amenities like pools, hot tubs and fully stocked kitchens perfect for frying up the catch of the day.

There’s a reason so many people return to the Gulf year after year; you might come for the views, the fishing or the balmy weather, but you’ll be back because no other coast quite compares. If you’re searching for a place to start an annual beach house tradition, look no further than these charming communities.

1. BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

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AVG Weekly Rate*: $1,085

A postcard-perfect destination with spectacular views of the Gulf, Biloxi is known for its small-town charm and Southern hospitality. It has the soft, white sand and scenic views you’ll find at some of the coast’s more familiar beaches—just without the noisy crowds and shortage of parking spots. Take full advantage of the area’s amazing sunrises and awesome tide pools with an early morning shell hunt, then head to historic Biloxi Lighthouse for a tour (only available early in the day, since this 1848 landmark has no air conditioning).

Reviewers Recommend: Ship Island, located 11 miles south of Biloxi (a 50-minute ferry trip). “I grew up in Florida, but this is one of the most pristine beaches you will ever find,” one reviewer writes.“On the ride out to the island, we saw porpoises swimming alongside the boat. The whole experience was just wonderful.”

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https://www.tripadvisor.com/VacationRentalsBlog/2016/05/17/affordable-gulf-coast-beaches-summer-sizzle/