Beach getaways at the last minute are often some of the most exciting vacations, and amazing deals can often be found for these trips. Florida, Maine, New Jersey, South Carolina, and California are popular destinations for their gorgeous beaches and attractions, and a spontaneous traveler to any of these places will easily find plenty of adventures.

Cheap last minute beach trips may seem like an oxymoron, but it’s true. When many airlines, hotels, and car rental companies fail to meet their quota they offer dramatically reduced rates to attract customers, and this can quickly become a gold mine of great deals. The opening and closing of the summer season are great times to start looking for some of these last minute beach vacations.

Florida is known for its sandy white beaches and masses of entertainment. Palm trees, sea breeze, it is one of the best beach destinations to visit in the United States, along with Hawaii, in the off-season, as it stays much warmer for a longer period of time, and many of the southern beaches remain sunny and pleasant throughout the entire year.

With its location in the extreme northeast and a reputation for cold weather, Maine may not seem like an ideal place for beach getaways at the last minute, but Maine beaches are among the most charming and diverse, from sands to pebbles to craggy rocks. Spectacular vistas line the coast of this unassuming state, and for anyone seeking peace and quiet on a last minute beach vacation, this is an excellent choice.

Atlantic City in New Jersey is another excellent destination for cheap last minute beach trips, especially if you are already in the area. Throughout the year, many of the resorts along the coast offer special deals and reduced rates to attract visitors to the seaside and entertainment hub of this Little Las Vegas. Imagine seagulls hanging in the salty sea air as you walk along the world-famous Boardwalk that stretches along the coast of Atlantic City, visiting the scores of small shops and casinos, or perhaps you can enjoy a romantic walk through the crashing waves or a picnic with friends on the warm sand. This is a fun place to visit anytime in spring, summer, and fall.

Resorts and hotels span the coast of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offering an array of beach getaways at the last minute. Lovely palms dot the landscape, and entertainment such as mini-golf, a beautiful lake, and nightlife, is abundant at Broadway on the Beach. Driving into the city is one of the most delightful experiences as you cross over the intracoastal waterways and cruise the upscale neighborhoods of Ocean Boulevard. This is truly a fabulous getaway from the everyday.

Southern California is synonymous with sunny shores and palm-lined avenues, and it's also an ideal place for last minute beach vacations. In early spring, walk out on a great pier through the patches of fog rolling in from offshore to watch wave skimmers and surfers, or walk hand-in-hand with someone special and experience the state's stunning beauty. Further inland, visit the legendary Hearst Castle or navigate the foothills and mountains, which boast gorgeous vistas and national parks.

Hundreds of great last minute deals can be found with various airlines, hotels, and car rental companies. Whether you have time for planning or are just looking for cheap last minute beach trips, many destinations are just waiting to be discovered. When you need a break from the everyday, a beach vacation might be just what you're looking for.