3 family beach vacations that won’t break the bank

If you want to take your family to the beach this summer but are low on cash, consider these close to home options that are offer lots of family fun — from golf to kayaking — for a reasonable price. Save more by making the drive instead of flying and you’ll have a budget friendly getaway.

Don Carter State Park: Georgia's newest state park is the perfect destination for a non-traditional beach vacation. Located on the north end of 38,000-acre Lake Lanier, the park boasts a range of activities for water lovers such as fishing, boating, lake swimming on the large sand beach and more. Two bedroom cabins on the hillside start at $200 per night. Or opt for RV or tent camping. Parking is $5.  Visit the website for additional details at www.gastateparks.org/DonCarter.

Holiday Inn Resort at Jekyll Island: The newest beachfront resort on Jekyll Island is the result of a $22 million re-build. Families can enjoy a range of amenities such as beachfront activities, a fitness center featuring state of the art equipment, a Kid's Club with an on-site activity director and fun room and more. Try the Holiday Inn Resort's Turtle Package which includes room, resort charge, GA Sea Turtle Center tickets, bike rental, daily breakfast and a "turtle-safe" flashlight for guests to take on their own nighttime turtle walks. Rates for the package start at $189 per night.