11 ideas for a cheap beach holiday

1. Malta

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £511pp

Price change since June: -19.7%

If you’re looking to book a cheap beach holiday soon, look no further than the magical Mediterranean haven of Malta. The average price of a holiday departing over the next six months is a remarkably enticing £511 per person, according to our July data. This is a significant drop from the June average (19.7% to be exact), so there’s every reason to visit this diminutive archipelago with a one-of-a-kind culture.

What sets Malta apart from many European beach destinations is its dramatically rugged coastline, beautifully accentuated by crystal-clear waters and ancient structures. There is an endless selection of all-inclusive resorts across the main island and Gozo, its smaller sister island that’s criss-crossed with fabulous oceanside hiking trails and dotted with tranquil bays.

The main island is dotted with architectural marvels, from the UNESCO-listed capital city, Valletta, and the lively seaside town of St. Julian's. Mellieħa, with its long, sandy beach, is another popular base.

2. Zante, Greece

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £586pp

Price change since June: -9.5%

Zante is also among the cheapest beach destinations right now, after a notable 9.5% drop in average price when we reviewed our July data in comparison to June. The average seven-night package holiday comes in at £586 per person, which is a very tempting baseline for a Greek island escape.

While the island has a reputation for its lively nightlife, it has a quiet side too if you’re looking to escape the crowds. Families could book breaks in Tsilivi on the island’s northeast coast for pristine sands and sparkling turquoise sea. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained here, from a water park and mini golf to Greek tavernas to relax in as the sun sets.

Stunning Navagio Beach may be the island’s postcard star but it gets busy, especially in peak season. So, try Gerakas Beach on the Vasilikos peninsula instead, which is a turtle nesting location and protected as part of the National Marine Park.

3. Kefalonia, Greece

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £595pp

Price change since June: -8.7%

The Greek islands are representing fantastic value at the moment, with Kefalonia making it two from our top three cheapest beach destinations in August. Per person averages for seven-night package deals departing in the next six months are under £600 here too.

A diverse range of beaches from the wild to the well-trodden, delicious cuisine and cheap-as-chips coastal towns are standard here, and adventurous explorers will have plenty to discover along the seaside.

Start your bargain hunt in the south of the island, where resorts such as Lassi, Svoronata and Skala have a wide range of self-catering apartments and budget hotels. They’re great bases for a beach-hopping holiday too, so hire a car and you can visit the sandy stretches at Makris Gialos, Kaminia and Skala.

Adventurous travellers might prefer to stay in the north to discover more of Kefalonia’s best beaches. Some, like Fteri and Dafnoudi, can only be accessed by foot or boat but are worth the effort.

4. Dalaman area, Turkey

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £607pp

Price change since June: -1.9%

As ever, the Dalaman area is teeming with value-for-money beach breaks this summer and it appears on this list again in August. Prices dropped 1.9% in July, and on average, you’ll pay just over £600 per person for seven nights.

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is home to major resort towns such as Fethiye, Marmaris and Olu Deniz, and its combination of killer looks and affordable accommodation makes it a top choice for a great value beach break.

So, what can you expect? Known for its pine-clad mountains, clear blue seas and Blue Flag beaches, towns range from clubbing hotspots to romantic fishing villages. Pick the vibe that suits you.

Beaches worthy of a shout-out include those at Olu Deniz (you’ll have great views of the ocean and the paragliders descending from the summit of nearby Mount Babadağ) and Icmeler Beach, which has the advantage of being just 15 minutes from Marmaris.

5. Corfu, Greece

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £614pp

Price change since June: -3.2%

Greek island lovers are spoilt for choice at the moment. Corfu makes it three from the top five cheapest beach escapes this month following a 3.2% drop in price. £614 per person is not bad at all for a week in one of Europe’s most coveted summer destinations.

Just off Greece’s north-west coast, the island is renowned for its turquoise waters, UNESCO-listed old town and unique food culture. Venetian, French and British influence are evident in slow-braised meat dishes, fresh seafood and herb-heavy stews served at welcoming tavernas overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Unsurprisingly, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. The steep, wooded cliffs provide a striking backdrop for Paleokastritsa Beach, a launchpad for boat trips to the mesmerising Blue Caves, while the double cove of Porto Timoni offers excellent snorkelling.

There are fantastic resorts in all corners of the island, ranging from peaceful bliss to party-centric. Kassiopi and Arillas are idyllic examples of the former while thronging Kavos is very much the latter.

6. Fuerteventura, Spain

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £618pp

Price change since June: -0.5%

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute summer break, an autumn getaway or winter sun, Fuerteventura can deliver the dreamy weather you’re seeking. Prices for seven-night holidays departing over the next six months remained largely stable in July and now average £618 per person, so pick your date and revel in the year-round sun.

What’s more, Fuerteventura is regarded by many as the Canary Island with the best beaches. So, get those flipflops and suncream ready.

The island’s coastline is a magnet for thrill-seekers so you can burn off excess energy (and enjoy some free fun) by scrambling up Corralejo’s sand dunes, or by hiring a paddleboard to explore its coastline from the water.

If it’s simply relaxation you’re after, there are endless beaches to choose from. Watch the kids paddle at family-friendly Playa El Castillo, snorkel at Playa de la Concha which is known for its powdery white sands, or wander the unspoilt and spectacular Playa de Cofete, fringed by the Jandia mountains, sampling fresh fish from the beach bar.

7. Costa Blanca, Spain

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £630pp

Price change since June: -2.2%

The Costa Blanca saw prices fall by 2.2% in July, earning it a place among the cheapest beach destinations right now. Averaging £630 per person, holidays here are as affordable as they are enjoyable.

This glorious stretch of Spanish coastline is renowned for delivering ultimate sun, sea and sand experiences at bargain prices. Benidorm’s urban beach, where fine golden sand gives way to booming bars, is perhaps the most recognisable - and lively - resort, but there are further crowning jewels.

The picturesque old town and tantalising waterfront seafood scene of Alicante makes it a huge draw for Brits. Calpe and Torrevieja also blend the pleasures of beautiful sandy beaches and diverse evening entertainment, while an hour inland, Murcia restaurants serve up some of Spain’s best tapas on charming culture-rich streets.

La Manga is the place to stay for a more upmarket trip. It’s a favourite of famous footballers and celebrities, with top-class golf courses and tennis and padel facilities.

8. Algarve, Portugal

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £633pp

Price change since June: +5.8%

Keeping its place in our top 11 this month, Portugal’s most southern region, the Algarve, is still a winner to book with prices sitting at just £633 per person, despite a 5.8% increase.

The sun-kissed stretch will woo you with its golden beaches, towering cliffs and world-class golf resorts. Albufeira is a popular spot to stay thanks to its cobbled old town, blonde Praia dos Pescadores beach and nightlife strip. Lagos, meanwhile, is a relaxed town that families love thanks to the dolphin-spotting trips that leave from its marina, the sheltered Meia Praia beach and 17th-century Ponta da Bandeira Fort.

If you’re after somewhere laid-back, head to the working fishing village of Alvor for lounging, cycling, surfing and excellent seafood.

9. Tenerife, Spain

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £651pp

Price change since June: 10.9%

When it comes to good value beach breaks, the Canary Islands have long been a top choice – as is shown by three of our top 11 beach destinations being here. Known for their year-round good weather, proximity to the UK – at just over a four-hour flight – and family-friendly feel, it’s not hard to see why they’re a British holiday staple.

Despite prices rising 10.9% since June, a break in the sun in Tenerife is still affordable.

Whether travelling as a family, friend group or a couple, choice is the name of the game when it comes to Tenerife. With scores of hotels in every style, from the high-end to the budget-friendly, you’ll find your perfect match.

The warmest temperatures – and therefore the most resort towns – are in the south of the island, and you’re likely to spend most of your days on the beaches of Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje. This is a volcanic island, so sands are generally a little darker with deeper waters, though there are protected bays lined by beach bars and stores along the most popular strips.

Further down the coast, Los Gigantes is a little quieter, with luxury hotels and pretty village centres.

10. Costa del Sol, Spain

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £665pp

Price change since June: -6.6%

The Costa del Sol also offers brilliant bang for your buck if you’re dreaming of a holiday to mainland Spain and the Costa Blanca isn’t for you. Holiday prices have fallen here too, with a 6.6% drop seeing the seven-night average now £665 per person.

Head to the southern coast of Andalusia, to a stretch of Mediterranean coastline fabled for its golden sands, luxury beach clubs and flashy marinas. With destinations such as Malaga, Marbella, Nerja and more to choose from, there’s affordable options as well as the glamour.

As for where to base yourself, Malaga is the obvious option. Even within the region, it still stands out as one of Europe’s most popular cheap beach destinations, though families tend to prefer more chilled-out towns like Torremolinos and Fuengirola.

11. Gran Canaria, Spain

Average price for a seven-night holiday: £673pp

Price change since June: +2.1%

Gran Canaria holiday prices may have risen very slightly since June, but an average of £673 per person remains reasonable value and places the island at the end of our cheap beach breaks list.

Despite prices rising 8% since May, a break in the sun is still affordable. The island’s combination of regular flights from the UK, alongside a large array of hotels, keep prices here competitive.

From the cliff-backed unspoilt sands of Güi Güi to the yellow sands of capital Las Palmas’ city beach Las Canteras, you could easily spend your entire Gran Canaria holiday on the beach. And why not?

If you do bore of the shore, head inland. With laurel forests and volcanic mountain peaks, Gran Canaria isn’t known as a ‘miniature continent’ for nothing.

*Please note: The research analysed the top 20 most searched-for destinations on TravelSupermarket in July 2026. Prices are the average per person cost of a seven-night holiday based on clicks in July for holidays over the next six months. All board types and UK departure points were included. Percentage changes are based on the price difference between holidays clicked on in June and those clicked on in May. See further insights on our TravelSupermarket Holiday Hotlist.