10 Of The Best Bargain Beach Breaks

With snow starting to fall and the last remains of Christmas being taken down, it is the prime time to beat the winter blues and start thinking about the summer ahead! If you have over-stretched the budget during the festive season, and are looking for a holiday that all the family can enjoy, without breaking the bank, then HI has some fantastic beach breaks ideal for families, couples and groups on a budget, some of which are brand new for 2013!

Kyrenia, Cyprus
With breath-taking views of the mountains and the stunning Mediterranean coastline, our Barehill Holiday Village Hostel in Kyrenia is the ideal place to go for an unforgettable summer beach break. Just a two minute walk from the gorgeous Golden Bay beach, and five minutes from the famous activity orientated Escape Beach, the hostel is in the prime location to enjoy what the beautiful area has to offer. Guests can opt to stay in hotel-style apartments, family villas or deluxe bungalows, all of which are well equipped with air conditioning, a television and a self-catering kitchen, in addition to furnished terraces with either panoramic mountain or stunning sea views. Prices start from £24.54 for a double room with en-suite, per night.

Zadar, Croatia
Formerly part of Yugoslavia, the Republic of Croatia is now an independent nation that retains enormous charm and beauty. Boasting some of the most outstanding beaches of the Adriatic Sea, this small country but enchanting country offers a wealth of places to see. Our Hostel Zadar is situated opposite the marina, with easy access to the nearby beaches in addition to other local attractions such as the Kornati Islands National Park. With a variety of room types on offer, such as double, family and multi-share rooms, this is a great alternative budget beach break which has something for every member of the family. Prices start from £11.99 per night, per person.

Azores S.Maria, Portugal
Our brand new Azores S.Maria hostel is located on Santa Maria Island, just off the coast of Portugal. The island is primarily known for its sandy white beaches, dry warm weather and the picturesque port ‘Vila Do Porto’, which is a fantastic place to explore, offering activities and attractions for all the family. The hostel itself not only is in the prime location to enjoy what the island has to offer, but it also has its very own pool, terrace and bar. Family, double, single and multi-share rooms are available, prices start from £24.89 (for a double room, per night) including breakfast. Self-catering facilities are also available.

Areia Branca, Portugal
Situated in Areia Branca, Portugal, this hostel is more commonly (and suitably) named ‘White Sands’, due to its fantastic beach location. The hostel can organise surfing, body boarding, archery, abseiling and snorkelling upon request, and with a variety of cafes and bars located within close proximity, there really is something for everyone. Family, double, single and multi-share rooms are available, prices start from £8.83 per night.

Kaikoura, New Zealand
Kaikoura is renowned for its abundance of water activities, and is popular year after year with animal lovers, who can take a walk along the beach to experience the fur seal colonies in their natural habitat, or take a marine cruise, which sets off nearby. Our Kaikoura YHA Hostel in New Zealand, located directly on the beachfront, maintains a glass exterior, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning surroundings in their full glory. The hostel itself is ideal for families, groups and couples, who want a relaxing, but unforgettable beach holiday. Prices start from £17.44 per night.

Egmond, Netherlands
Recently re-opened after a complete refurbishment in 2012, our stylish Stayokay Egmond Hostel is located just a stone’s throw away from the beach and the Kennemer Dunes. The coastal town is very popular with families and couples, as it offers beautiful scenery, gorgeous beaches and activities to suit guests of all ages. The hostel itself has a very relaxed atmosphere, with en-suite rooms, sun drenched terraces and a cosy bar area with freshly prepared meals every day. Double en-suite rooms are priced at £65.73 per night, breakfast and Wi-Fi included.