Plan for Great Escapes

Dreaming of a second honeymooon or vacation house by the sea? Check out these expert financial planning tips plus real-life advice from coastal dreamers like you.

4 Budget Beach Escapes

The rustic state park cottage has gone upscale―just in time for deal-seeking travelers.

Brit Huckabay, Writer Larry Bleiberg

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Gulf State Park, Alabama

This park opened 11 upscale three-bed, three-bath cottages. Fill one up and the cost can be less than $32 per person per night. The best part? You’re not roughing it. Furnishings come from Pottery Barn. TVs have built-in DVD/VCR players and satellite service. Plus, no arguing over who gets the top bunk. You’ll only find queen-size beds.