Top 10 Budget Getaways

Don't pass up that vacation because of high gas prices. We'll show you the best restaurants and hotels to fit your particular budget at these popular destinations.

#1 Outer Banks, NC

Boat shoes or flip-flops? We say both. The communities of Beaufort, Morehead City and Atlantic Beach join to create a jumping-off point for the southern tip of the Outer Banks. Who wants to jump, though, considering that within a 30-minute radius you can be strolling a harbor boardwalk or kicking back in your beach chair? This is a great place to spend an early-summer weekend.

Where to Stay: Blackbeard's Lodge
A pirate theme abounds at this Outer Banks classic. Check in at a boat-front desk under a statue of Blackbeard himself. 111 Back Rd, Ocracoke; 800-892-5314.

Where to Eat: Cox's
You may have a little wait for breakfast at Cox's in Morehead City, where locals crowd the booths and tables daily. Nothing fancy here (just about everything is less than $5), but if you're looking for bacon and eggs served all day, you're in the right place. 4109 Arendell St, Morehead City; 252-726-6961.

#2 Tybee Island, GA

This little strip of land just 18 miles east of Savannah boasts natural charm that few beaches have preserved. As soon as you cross the Lazaretto Creek Bridge leading to Tybee Island, you'll feel your cares slip away and your spirits rise.

Where to Stay: Ocean Plaza Beach Resort & Conference Center
This is the island's largest and only full service hotel with guest room renovations completed spring 2006. 15th and Oceanfront; 912-786-7777, 800-215-6370.

Where to Eat: Sunrise Restaurant
This restaurant serves omelets and big plates of hashbrowns. Open for breakfast and lunch daily. 1511 Butler Ave; 912-786-7473.

#3 Baltimore, MD

There's a reason they call Baltimore Charm City. It's quirky and eclectic, yet it's still a great place to bring a family. History and character wait around every corner. What's more, the city's sights and sounds get a firm hold on your soul – from the Domino Sugar sign shimmering in the Inner Harbor to the singing of the National Anthem at Camden Yards.

"Baltimore is very laid-back, very forgiving," says Molly Foyle, a recent transplant from Washington, D.C. "It's like this city gets excited about eccentricity."

Where to Stay: Brookshire Suites
Large rooms, complimentary hot breakfast, and a great location make this a find for families. It's located one block from the Inner Harbor. 120 E Lombard St; 410-625-1300.

Where to Eat: Vaccaro's Italian Pastry Shop
If you have a sweet tooth, Vaccaro's is nirvana. This Little Italy bakery serves a vast array of sweets from cannolli to authentic Italian gelato. Go on Monday night from 6 to 9 pm for the all-you-can-eat dessert and coffee special. Open daily. 222 Albemarle St; 410-685-4905.