Tropical fruits, colorful drinks, and picturesque sunsets all underscore the rest and relaxation that vacationers expect of island getaways. Escaping the stress of everyday life without breaking the bank just takes a little planning and investigation. From finding a good price for San Jose airport parking to saving on plane tickets and lodging, you can enjoy the following island getaways without sacrificing your retirement funds.
HawaiiYou’re probably asking, “Why include Hawaii in a list of affordableisland getaways?” It’s true that Hawaii can get a bit pricey, numbering somewhere in several thousand dollars per head. However, with some planning and forethought you should be able to enjoy what Hawaii has to offer without burning through all your savings. An added tip: good planning actually goes a long way to help save money on any vacation, from booking the hotel to reserving your spot at the Oakland airport long-term parking lot.
First, you’ll have to cross “island hopping” off your to-do list. Traveling island to island will cost you extra. Fortunately, each of Hawaii’s main islands offers a wealth of luxury and activities for visitors. The more popular islands include:
- The Big Island: Larger than all of the other islands combined, the Big Island is home to a vast array of climate zones, from snowy mountains to sandy beaches. Visitors are greeted by waterfalls, botanical gardens, rainforests, and one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
- Maui: The second largest Hawaiian island, Maui is home to some of the best beaches in the world. You can expect fantastic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and whale-watching opportunities every winter.
- Oahu: Home to the state capital, Oahu is actually the most populous of the islands. Oahu is filled with a diverse natural and cultural mix of modern art and entertainment.
The Outer BanksA 200-mile chain of barrier islands, the Outer Banks is just off the coast of North Carolina and are actually accessible by freeway. These islands were stamped into history on December 17, 1903 when the Wright brothers first took flight at the Kill Devil Hills near Kitty Hawk. The Wright Brothers National Monument commemorates the siblings and their revolutionary flights.
Of course, you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy all that the Outer Banks has to offer. If you’re looking for sunny, sandy beaches, the Outer Banks has you covered. For amateur and veteran anglers, the Outer Banks is home to large populations of marlin, sailfish, and tuna. The sandy dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park make for great scenery, and the islands’ high winds create excellent sailing, hang gliding, and windsurfing opportunities.
The U.S. Virgin IslandsKnown as America’s Caribbean Paradise, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a territory owned by the United States but are geographically part of the Virgin Islands. Technicalities aside, the U.S. Virgin Islands present a wonderful glimpse into Caribbean culture and history. The area consists mainly of three islands—St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—and each offer something different, from lavish luxuries to pristine beaches to sugar cane plantations and rum distilleries.
What are you waiting for? Reserve your plane tickets and LAX airport parking spot, hunt around online for deals on hotels, and get packing!
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