Escape in Style: How to Plan a Chic Coastal Getaway on Any Budget

From Amalfi to Charleston, Here’s How to Travel Like a Tastemaker Without Overspending

Picture this: crisp linen dresses, clinking glasses on a sun-washed terrace, and salty breezes stirring gauzy curtains in your boutique hotel room.

That dreamy scene doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

At Bleu Lemonade Living™, we believe everyone deserves a slice of the coast—whether it’s a luxurious Amalfi escape or a budget-conscious beach trip to Charleston. With the right planning, a splash of creativity, and a few insider tips, you can enjoy a beautifully styled vacation that feels high-end at any price point.

Let’s dive into how to plan your next chic coastal getaway, no matter what’s in your wallet.

Step 1: Choose the Right Coastal Destination for Your Vibe

Not all beach towns are created equal—and that’s a good thing. Your perfect coastal escape starts with knowing what kind of experience you crave.

Budget-Luxe Picks

These are destinations where your dollar stretches but the style stays strong:

Charleston, South Carolina – Cobblestone charm meets seaside serenity, with budget B&Bs and walkable neighborhoods.
Algarve, Portugal – Mediterranean beauty and fresh seafood at a fraction of French Riviera prices.
Tulum, Mexico – Boho-chic with eco-resorts and stylish hostels near white sand beaches.

Upscale Coastal Icons

Save or splurge—these destinations offer unforgettable elegance:

Santorini, Greece – Blue domes and golden hour views; opt for Oia splurge nights + Fira budget stays.
Amalfi Coast, Italy – Cliffside drama, lemon groves, and beach clubs; balance with Positano day trips.
Maui, Hawaii – Waterfalls and wellness retreats; try shoulder season rates and vacation rentals.

→ Ready to explore? Browse our Curated Beach Itineraries by destination and budget level.

Step 2: Travel Chic Without Overspending

Style and budget can coexist. Here’s how.

Flights

Use tools like Google Flights Explore and Hopper to find coastal routes at seasonal lows.

Pro Tip: “Book midweek and fly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays,” advises Scott Keyes, founder of Going.com.¹
Bonus: Consider train routes or ferry options for scenic arrivals at destinations like Amalfi or Cinque Terre.

Lodging

Design-forward hostels (like Selina or Poshtel) now offer Instagram-worthy spaces under $100/night.
Vacation rentals with coastal charm and kitchenettes help you save on meals.
Mid-range boutique hotels offer great shoulder-season rates—think May and September for Europe.

Décor Tip: Bring a little getaway back home by styling your guest room like a beach retreat—think white cotton bedding, driftwood frames, and sea glass accents.

Step 3: Dine Like a Local, Not Like a Tourist

Avoid restaurants within 3 blocks of a major tourist attraction.
Choose markets, local bakeries, and coastal food trucks.
Cooking classes often double as a meal and a cultural experience.

“Traveling is one of the best ways to discover new ingredients and flavors,” says Ina Garten, celebrity chef and coastal entertainer.²

For budget travelers, shop at local markets and enjoy seaside picnics—think fresh fruit, cheese, and a view.

Step 4: Pack Light, Dress Right

Looking chic on vacation doesn’t require a massive suitcase.

Bleu Lemonade Living™ Capsule Packing Tips:

Neutral tones (white, navy, flax) + 2 color accents (lemon yellow, ocean teal)
Lightweight fabrics like linen and gauze
A statement beach hat and chic flats
One day-to-night dress and a silk scarf (double as a sarong or hair tie)

Style Hack: Renting designer pieces via services like Rent the Runway for travel helps you look luxe without the commitment.

Step 5: Curate Your Chic Experiences

What makes a trip feel luxurious often isn’t the cost—it’s the attention to detail.

Small-Splurge Experiences to Prioritize:

A single night in a boutique hotel with a killer view
Private boat or sunset sail shared with a few others
A spa day pass or open-air massage
Wine tasting at a local vineyard

Example: On our Santorini Soft Luxury Itinerary, we recommend three budget nights in Fira paired with one splurge night in a cave suite overlooking the caldera.

Step 6: Travel Seasonally Smart

Avoiding peak season is the easiest way to elevate your getaway while lowering costs.

Europe: Late April to early June, or September
US Coastlines: May or early October (great weather, fewer crowds)
Tropical Destinations: Travel just before or after rainy seasons—bonus: lush landscapes and discounts!

As Travel + Leisure notes, “Shoulder season gives you luxury perks—like upgraded rooms and early check-ins—often for half the price.”³

Bonus: Bring the Coast Home With You

Once you’re home, don’t let the vacation end. Style your space with coastal elements inspired by your trip.

Shop our affiliate collections:

[Coastal Calm Decor: Inspired by Charleston]
[Mediterranean Moments: Amalfi Tableware + Tiles]
[Santorini Blues: Home Accents That Spark Joy]

Whether it’s a lemon-printed pillow, a shell garland, or a pastel-toned vase, your space can feel like a mini vacation every day.

Final Takeaway

Chic doesn’t have to mean expensive. With smart planning, stylish touches, and a sense of curiosity, your next coastal escape can be effortlessly elegant and surprisingly affordable.

Start dreaming, packing, and decorating—because the world is waiting.

👉 [Download our Free Coastal Getaway Planning Toolkit]
👉 [Browse Our Custom Itineraries for Every Budget]

Bibliography

Keyes, S. (2023). The Ultimate Guide to Cheap Flights. Going.com Travel Blog.
Garten, I. (2022). Modern Comfort Food. Clarkson Potter.
Travel + Leisure. (2024). “How Shoulder Season Travel Can Save You Hundreds.” T+L Digital.

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