Cheap tropical vacation spots are found between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer, a belt that encircles the entire globe and provides some of the most romantic destinations and exotic locations for cheap trips. There are cheap island vacation destinations on thousands of islands, large and small, where you can enjoy cheap South Pacific vacations, cheap tropical getaways in the Caribbean, and laid-back beach bungalows on the beaches of Phuket Island in Thailand.

For United States visitors, the most popular cheap tropical vacation spots are in the Caribbean and the Hawaiian Islands. Some islands, like Anguilla, are particularly known for their large percentage of exclusive luxury vacation properties, and virtually all islands have a least some luxury hotels. But virtually all can also provide cheap island vacation destinations for those on a budget. Almost all have cheap hotels, affordable all inclusive resorts, vacation rentals that make economic sense for families and small groups, and charming bed and breakfasts that provide authentic cultural exchanges. Try Jamaica as a wedding destination and the ideal spot for romantic honeymoons, or look to the Dominican Republic if you want the widest choice of inexpensive all inclusive resorts. The Cayman Islands and Bahamas also have a variety of affordable lodging.

Cheap tropical getaways in the Western Hemisphere include the mainland of Mexico and the all the Central America countries. One of the emerging cheap tropical vacation spots is Roatan Island off Honduras, which offers beautiful beaches and excellent scuba diving vacations. While Costa Rica has become a more and more popular retirement destination for Americans (thereby driving up prices), there are still bargains to be had both for real estate purchase and shorter holidays. The cost of goods and services throughout this region is quite low, so traveling around, dining, and shopping are all good buys.

A low cost of living is the hallmark of most destinations in the tropics. Cheap tropical getaways in Malaysia might be the most exotic, yet affordable, for families. It is more westernized than places like Cambodia or Zanzibar of the coast of Tanzania, has a wide variety of cuisine (a plus for picky children), water most everywhere is potable, and transportation options are convenient. There are also numerous attractions that will keep everyone thoroughly occupied. You will find the glittering metropolis of Kuala Lumpur with its signature Petronas Twin Towers (one of the tallest buildings in the world), pristine beaches like those on Langkawi Island, and jungles like the lush Borneo Rainforest.

Cheap island vacation destinations can also be found on the Hawaiian Islands, and after the Caribbean this is the most popular spot for Americans. Oahu offers the widest selection of cheap accommodation possibilities, but you will find inexpensive places on all the islands. Go to Kauai if you want the best camping in the islands. Look for the Na Pali Coast State Park, Waimea Canyon, and Haena Beach Park. Elsewhere in the South Pacific, you can find the Australia coast from Sydney to Cairns has very good bargains, good transportation, and many hostel and modestly priced vacation rentals.