11 Cheapest Places In The World To Live On The Beach!
Who doesn’t dream of setting up shop on a long strip of tropical sand somewhere far away? If you’re reading this, you’re probably among the daydreamers imagining days spent on the beach rather than in the office. You may just think that these thoughts are merely that; visions of an unrealistic dream. Well, not anymore. We’ve found you the eleven cheapest places in the world to snatch up some precious beach property. From the South East Asian islands, to northern Africa, to Central America – we’ve got you covered. As the saying goes, “Life’s a beach.” Now, it really can be.
1) Canggu, Bali
For a place as popular as Bali, you may be surprised to see the name on this list. You’d be correct in suspecting that the prices in Bali are on the rise. This is all due in part to favorable location, weather, and overall idyllic lifestyle. However, it’s still cheaper than many other beachside locations. Apartments in the Canggu area, which is north of the tourist hot-spot Kuta, start at $275 and range to almost $500 a month, depending on the neighborhood. Utilities typically run under $100 a month. Local food is cheap, usually costing $5 or less and groceries like fruits, vegetables, and poultry are extremely affordable. This is an ideal place for ocean lovers, particularly surfers, who can enjoy consistent swells all year. Bali in general is also a top-notch dive destination, with some of the world’s best dive sites just minutes away.
2) Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Thailand has long been included on the list of unbelievably beautiful destinations that can be visited on the cheap. Now, you can add it to the list of cheapest places to buy beach property. Koh Phi Phi, particularly, has plenty of bang for your buck, in many ways. First, the scenery on this exotic little island is world-class. Famous scenes from The Beach were filmed here. if it’s good enough for Mr. DiCaprio, it’s good enough for us! Secondly is the very low cost of living. Food, beer, and accommodations fit almost any budget. Therefore, Phi Phi has become such a hot spot for young backpackers. For those looking to settle permanently, a studio apartment runs around $300. Factor in fruits and veggies for under $1/kilo and fully prepared restaurant meals under $5, it’s no wonder more ex-pats are calling Koh Phi Phi home sweet home.
3) Algarve, Portugal
Boasting an annual 300 days of sunshine and low cost of living, what’s not to love about Algarve? Europeans and Americans alike are flocking here for the picturesque shores and reasonable cost of living. Depending on the size, an apartment can be found between $400-$600. Even though Portugal is part of Europe, the cost of groceries, food, drink, and rent don’t reflect this. A nice meal out is under $10 and beer and wine is only a couple of bucks a glass. Owning a car and purchasing gas might be more expensive compared to everything else, but Portugal has efficient and cheap public transportation. Another perk about Algarve is the amount of free and cheap activities. All the museums, castles, and small theaters are under $5 on average. All the beautiful natural scenery, beaches, and walking trails are accessible at no charge.
4) Taghazout, Morocco
Northern Africa probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind when considering beachfront property, and that’s exactly what makes Taghazout such a great find. Situated 30km north of Agadir, a bigger and more popular beach resort city in Morocco, Taghazout is s smaller, more relaxed surfer’s haven. In recent years Morocco has seen advancements in internet (4G) service, and water/electric improvements, drawing the digital nomads and young start-ups to its sandy Atlantic shores. Combine this with a lovely low cost of living and you’ve got yourself a sweet set-up in an exotic paradise. On average, expect to send $400 a month for an apartment near the beach. Spoil yourself with budget-friendly, flavorful Moroccan food. Between the cheap digs, salty ocean air, surfer town vibes, and delicious cuisine, you’ve got everything you need for a happy, peaceful lifestyle.
5) Hoi An, Vietnam
When compared to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An is a less discovered area of Vietnam. This quiet and peaceful coastal town is attracting more attention from ex-pats looking to settle abroad. In Hoi An, you are never far from a secluded strip of white sand and tropical waters. Basic apartments can be found for $250 a month. A fully equipped, two-bedroom house runs between $400 – $500 a month. The cost of food and drink is where Hoi An really shines. You’d rarely have to spend more than $6 for a nice dinner. Breakfast and lunch are easily found for much cheaper. Beer starts at $0.50, and cocktails run around $2 – $3. BONUS: If you decide to purchase property in Hoi An, you’ll be living in the middle of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient, well-preserved trading port dates back to the 15th century.
6) Veraguas, Panama
Owning beach property in this Central American country will keep things easy-breezy in terms of setting up shop permanently. Panama has one of the most relaxed systems for ex-pats who want to become citizens. It’s also a great place to retire, with cheap accommodations, top-notch health care, and plenty of senior discounts. Veraguas, 3-hours outside of Panama City, is the place to invest in now. Depending on location, you can find apartments here between $500-$800/month. This may sound expensive compared to some other places on this list, however there are plenty more positives to counteract it. Other perks include the strong and unwavering economy, the ability to use the U.S. dollar as currency (no need to worry about losing money on the exchange rate!), and very little crime against foreigners and tourists. Add it up, and the sum is first world benefits with third world cost of living.
7) Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
If you’re looking for cheap beach property in the Caribbean, look no further than the Dominican Republic. An increasing number of ex-pats are discovering Las Terrenas, a small fishing village on the brink of expansion. Even though the ex-pat community here is growing by the minute, this town has still managed to hold onto its beauty and charm. If you want to rent, one-bedroom apartments start between $300-$500/month. If you want to build your own home from scratch, beachfront land is selling for $40 per square meter. Utilities will run you about $50/month. Not bad at all. Produce is cheap, beer is a couple bucks, and even a nice dinner out is roughly $30 for two. White-sand beaches and proximity to the U.S. round up the reasons why this is an ideal location to own a piece of land.
8) Rocha, Uruguay
It isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind when thinking of world-class beach property. However, Uruguay is a popular place for other South Americans to snatch up seaside deals. Americans are catching on and the coastal areas of this country are starting to grow. Now is the time to lay claim to a piece of land in Rocha, a province still relatively undiscovered by the masses. This area has the most beach front property in all of Uruguay. Not to mention, the beaches are lovely and untouched by development. Plus, it’s a great place to surf. Buying a new, modern 2-bedroom home near the beach will run you under $100,000. As a renter, you’ll find 2-bedroom places between $450-$600 a month. Everything here is cheaper when compared to more popular resort towns like Punta Del Este. Simple life at a slow pace is what Uruguay is all about.
9) Boracay, Philippines
As one of the Philippines’ many islands, Boracay is a great place spend days filled with windsurfing or kitesurfing, and nights filled with beach bars and inexpensive beer. This island has the quintessential palm trees, white-sand beaches, and ocean-front beach bars and restaurants. It differs from other places on this list due to its blend of small island vibe with big city conveniences. On the island you will find Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Subway, and plenty of resorts and guesthouses. Some say it’s on the overdeveloped side, but there are many benefits to living here. Renting a small apartment here will run you $300-$400 a month. Eating out is consistent with many other South East Asian countries, costing anywhere from $2-$8. The local beer, San Miguel, starts at $1. Another great thing about Boracay is it makes accessing the rest of the Philippines a quick hop, skip, and a jump!
10) Salinas, Ecuador
On the west coast of Ecuador is Salinas, a surfer’s haven, a beach bum’s dream, and your wallet’s best friend. Salinas is often described as the South American version of Miami, without the sky-high prices. The rugged coastline is reminiscent of Southern California, only less developed. Ecuador has authentic villages, big cities, the Andes Mountains, the world-famous Galapagos Islands, and so much more. No matter what tickles your fancy, you’re bound to find it here. All this variety makes it a great place to settle for those with an adventurous spirit. Indulge in a steak dinner for $6 or less. Grab a made-to-order ceviche from one of the street stalls for a couple of bucks. Renters can find decent apartments between $350-$450 in the city center. Those looking to buy can purchase brand new condos starting at $130,000. Utilities run well under $100. Get in while you can!
11) Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
There’s no question that Costa Rica is a well-traveled country. Surfers, nature-lovers and eco-tourists, all flock to Costa Rica. It’s also a common place for ex-pats to snag gorgeous beachside property. Unfortunately, its popularity has resulted in a rise in prices and development, especially on the Pacific Coast. That’s why the area to look now is on the Caribbean coast. Places like Puerto Viejo maintain the true Pura Vida lifestyle for which Costa Rica has become famous. It has also managed to maintain the cheap real estate prices. Rent a 2-bedorom condo in a gated community near the beach for $600 a month. Looking for something more permanent? Purchase your very own jungle-home within walking distance of the beach for just $90,000. A weekly supply of fresh produce and poultry can be bought at the local markets for under $50. This is laid-back living at its finest (and cheapest).
Source: www.smarttravel.tips
