A Roundup of the Best Affordable Beach Getaways

Monday, February 21st, 2011 at 11:55 am | Alina Tarkhanian

It’s been a long, cold and snowy winter and even though Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring, we’re still in the middle of this bitter season. If you’re sitting at your desk looking out the window at frozen piles of snow and wishing you were sitting on a beach drinking a frozen margarita instead, then we’ve got the answer for you. It’s time to ditch the cold and head for the tropics.

We’ve rounded up a list of the best beach hotels to let loose in and soak up the sun. They’re all affordable, unique and offer tons of amenities that will make you forget where you came from. Oh, and none of our picks our cookie-cutter all-inclusives.

The Harmony Hotel, Nosara, Costa Rica

If you’re a nature lover or adventure junkie, Costa Rica is your perfect destination. Located in the coastal town of Nosara, The Harmony Hotel is right near the Playa Guiones, which has consistent year-round waves. Awaken the inner surfer in you and rent a board for less than $25 a day. The Cocos rooms have a private and secluded patio space where you can relax after a day of catching waves. The open air restaurant is casual and laid-back and serves fresh local, organic food. A great feature of The Harmony Hotel is the juice bar. Try the watermelon and cilantro or the mango, basil and orange. Light snacks like papaya salad or soba noodles are also offered at the juice bar. Immerse yourself in the pura vida (pure life) lifestyle even more by visiting the Healing Center and taking a yoga class or getting a massage.

The Damage: $220/night for a Cocos room, includes a full breakfast and one yoga class per person per stay, plus use of bicycles.

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