The U.S. Beach Destinations to Book While Everyone’s Canceling Europe

You’ve probably noticed that airfare is a bit more expensive this summer. In fact, it’s more than a bit. They’ve gone up a whopping 20% according to Reuters. The publication also reports that international bookings have fallen by 25%, with many putting off purchasing their flights in hopes that they’ll drop. At this point, that’s unlikely to happen. The season is now just around the corner, and airfare continues to rise. 

The 2026 Deloitte Summer Travel Survey revealed that only 45% of Americans have made summer travel plans—the lowest figure in six years. The biggest drop came from the middle-income bracket ($100k–$199k), down from 45% last year to 37%.

If you’re one of the many who were hoping to head to Europe but can’t stomach paying an arm and a leg for airfare, the better news is that you can still scratch that “European-beach itch,” if you know where to book. There are quite a few U.S. beach destinations that have a European feel—book these now while everyone else is canceling their trips to Europe.

Offering around 32 miles of continuous powder white sands that sparkle under the sun, while lapped by water in surreal hues of brilliant blues and greens, it’s hard to beat Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Spanning Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, you’ll have multiple options for an idyllic beach escape. Gulf Shores, particularly the main public beach, offers a lively, wide stretch of sandy shores and an array of amenities. There are lifeguard-staffed swimming areas, picnic pavilions, and beach bars, while shops and restaurants are just a short distance away. 

For a more secluded feel, head to Gulf State Park, where you can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere with roughly 3.5 miles of unspoiled white sands and opportunities for activities in and on the water. Plus, wildlife enthusiasts can watch for bald eagles, tortoises, and alligators. 

If you were craving the Mediterranean, consider Santa Catalina Island. Located about 20 miles off the Southern California coast, it’s often referred to as a “mini Italy) with a climate similar to the Mediterranean. Just an hour’s ferry ride from the mainland, it’s an idyllic European-like escape that offers some of the best snorkeling in the continental U.S. You’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches as well, from the more lively Avalon and South Beach to the tranquil Emerald Bay and Shark Harbor beaches. 

As a US territory, there’s no passport necessary for Americans to enjoy the exotic vibe, historic charms, and spectacular beaches of San Juan. It’s a short (and generally inexpensive) non-stop flight from many cities on the East Coast, including Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, New York, and Philadelphia. Visitors can stroll cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings in Old San Juan, while the small, urban beach of Playita del Condado is only a few minutes away. Just outside the city limits is one of the best beaches to spend the day (within easy reach of town): Isla Verde, with soft, white sands and calm turquoise water for swimming.