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You may be thinking that the words “budget hotel” and “beach vacation” don’t go together… and for the most part, you’re right. Some of the finer hotels and resorts on the coast come with a hefty price tag, and some of the lower priced hotels are sadly lacking in quality. Luckily, there are some great deals to be found, as long as you take time to research. Every hotel on this list has rooms priced well under $200, and they’re all wonderful places to stay.

La Jolla Inn, 110 Prospect Street, La Jolla

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San Diego’s stunning La Jolla area certainly isn’t known for its affordable accommodations, but the La Jolla Inn, which sits steps from the ocean, has standard rooms that average around $165 per night. The rooms are comfortable, the location is perfect, and the sun deck offers a beautiful place to spend a lazy afternoon. Whispering Sands Beach is just across the street.

Best Western Plus Beach Resort, Abrego Street, Monterey 

Photo credit: Best Western Plus Beach ResortPhoto Best Western Plus Beach Resort

$134 will get you a room at the beautiful Best Western in Monterey, and that includes free parking and a free breakfast every morning. They also have an outdoor pool and hot tub.

Sea Breeze Motel, 100 Rockaway Beach, Pacifica

Photo credit: Alex Simpson

With rooms starting at $129, this no-frills vintage beachside motel in Pacifica is a total bargain. The main draw of Sea Breeze is the onsite restaurant and lounge, Nick’s, which looks like something out of an old movie and serves some surprisingly delicious seafood. Rockaway Beach is right outside your door.

Ocean Pacific Lodge, 301 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz

Photo credit: Ocean Pacific Lodge

For as low as $74 per night (for the special web rate), you can stay blocks from the beach at Santa Cruz. This place has all the necessary amenities like WiFi, a pool and a complimentary breakfast at a fraction of the cost of some of the other hotels in the area.

Crystal Cove Beach Cottages, Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove Beach Cottages

Crystal Cove does have beach cottages available for under $200, but a better option would be to go with a small group and get a large $245 cottage that sleeps seven. You can also stay in a dorm-style private room cottage for even less, which is a great option for the traveler on a budget. These retro cottages feel like going back in time in the best way, but don’t plan on a last-minute trip –they sell out up to seven months in advance.

Newport Channel Inn, 6030 W. Coast Highway, Newport

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Rooms at the Newport Channel Inn, which has been selected by TripAdvisor as the Top Value rated hotel in Newport Beach, cost just $124. They’re equipped with microwaves, mini fridges and coffee pots for your convenience, and they’ll even loan you towels to use at nearby West Newport Beach.

Hotel Current, 5325 E Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach

Photo credit: Hotel CurrentPhoto credit: Hotel Current

Rates start at $125 at this modern eco-friendly Long Beach hotel, which has a relaxing pool complete with cozy cabanas. The hotel even offers a complimentary airport shuttle to guests who fly in.

Still need more options to consider? Then check out our follow up article with even more affordable beach hotels in California.