Santa Barbara, California

While this beach town has a reputation for high-end luxury, stick to a budget by focusing on the city's parks, botanical gardens, and beach. Walk or bike the boardwalk and stroll legendary State Street, where great food and drinks can be found at reasonable prices.

The Museum of Contemporary Art is free, and other museums offer free days. Seek out budget hotel options like Castillo Inn at the Beach and the Franciscan Inn.